The Spanish defender has shared his enthusiasm about competing in the CWC, asserting that despite his age, his passion for football is just as strong
Alba maintains same competitive drive despite advancing ageSpanish veteran eager to guide teammatesFormer Barcelona star appreciates Miami's welcoming environmentWatch every FIFA Club World Cup game free on DAZNStream nowGetty Images SportWHAT HAPPENED
Inter Miami defender Jordi Alba says he’s excited to participate in the inaugural 32-team Club World Cup, emphasizing that his passion for football remains strong at age 36. are part of the expanded tournament, and Alba expressed his eagerness to compete on a global stage despite his veteran status.
“I feel the same excitement and desire as always, but I’m aware of how tough it’ll be,” Alba told FIFA.com. "I’ve been lucky enough to play for Barcelona alongside some of the best players in the world, and I know how hard it is to compete against the top teams.
“I’m now at Inter Miami, but my love and passion for the game haven’t faded. I hope we can be serious contenders, but most importantly, that we enjoy the ride, because most of our players have never experienced this kind of tournament before. And this is a huge opportunity for us players, for everyone at the club, and for our fans.”
The World Cup-winning full-back also touched upon his time at the club and admitted that he’s very happy with his move to Miami as the club has looked after him from the day he arrived.
“The club has really looked after me right since Day 1. My family also feels very much at home here, and I still have that hunger to compete and to keep winning," Alba said. "As a club, I hope we manage to achieve so much of what we’ve set out to do. I may be 36 years old, but the desire is still there, and that’ll be the case until the day I decide to hang up my boots."
He added, “As long as my body holds up, and I still have the same mindset as I do now, I’ll continue to fight to achieve every goal I set myself and, this year, that’s with Inter Miami.”
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The Barcelona legend also touched upon the tournament being played in the United States and admitted to being excited at the prospect of playing there, as it would be special.
“It’s exciting for the United States and for the fans here to get to experience such a high-calibre competition. I’ve had the great fortune of being able to play in similar competitions, and they’re special events to be involved in. This tournament is unlike others I’ve experienced, and that makes it all the more special. I’m really looking forward to the action getting started and to seeing all the teams over here,” Alba said.
“It’s a special competition. First and foremost, we hope that our own fans back us all the way, that we make them proud and that we can prove that we’re genuine challengers, but I’m sure that the fans of all teams are going to be captivated by the tournament and will have a great time.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Alba's veteran presence brings crucial tournament experience to an Inter Miami squad preparing for their first global club competition. As part of the contingent of former Barcelona stars now with , including Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suárez, Alba's championship pedigree will be instrumental in guiding teammates through the pressures of facing international powerhouses.
Getty Images SportWHAT’S NEXT?
Inter Miami begin their FIFA Club World Cup campaign on June 14 against Egyptian side Al Ahly at Hard Rock Stadium, followed by matches against FC Porto on June 19 in Atlanta and Brazilian side Palmeiras on June 23 back in Miami.