Jordi Alba, the former Valencia player who currently plays for Inter Miami, recently spoke to the media after a training session with the American team competing in the Club World Cup. When asked about a potential return to Valencia, Alba expressed, "I haven't thought about it. I wish them all the best from afar," the defender from L'Hospitalet stated.
Reflecting on his visits to Mestalla after leaving Valencia to join FC Barcelona, Alba mentioned, "They were not good experiences because I expected something else." Despite this, he emphasized his fondness for both the club and the fans, saying, "They treated me well when I was there," highlighting his positive memories with Valencia.
Alba sought to dispel any doubts about his time at Valencia by stating, "Although it's true that many people may question it, I hold a great deal of affection for the club. It's the club that gave me everything to succeed in football. It gave me the opportunity to play in La Liga," Alba emphasized.
Having joined Valencia's youth ranks in 2007 and progressing through the Juvenile team and Valencia Mestalla, Alba made his first-team debut in the 2008/09 season. After a loan spell with Nàstic de Tarragona in the Segunda Division to gain professional experience, Alba returned to Valencia for the 2009/10 season. His La Liga debut came on September 13th that year against Real Valladolid under the management of Unai Emery. Alba spent three seasons with the Valencia first team before moving to Barcelona in the summer of 2012, reminiscing fondly about his time there in his recent media interactions.
While Alba's career has taken him to various clubs, including Barcelona and now Inter Miami, he shared sentiments of gratitude towards Valencia for nurturing his talent and kick-starting his professional journey. Despite the affection he holds for the club, it seems unlikely that Alba will make a return to his former team any time soon, as he focuses on his current commitments with Inter Miami and cherishes the memories of his past successes with Valencia.
Touching on the topic of a potential 'last dance' scenario at Valencia, Alba remains open to the idea but maintains his primary focus on his current endeavors, stating, "I haven't considered that 'last dance,' but I always wish them the best." As he continues to make his mark in the world of football with Inter Miami, Alba's reflections on his time at Valencia offer insights into the deep-rooted connections players form with the clubs that shape their careers.
As Alba competes in the Club World Cup with Inter Miami, his experience and perspective provide a glimpse into the complex dynamics between players, clubs, and fans in modern football. While the prospect of a return to Valencia may remain uncertain, his admiration for the club and its role in his development as a player stand as a testament to the deep-seated bonds forged in the world of professional football.
