Inter Miami defender Jordi Alba is set to step aside from international duty with Spain.
His decision has been triggered by the complications of travelling from his home in the United States to Europe following his move from Barcelona to Inter Miami this summer.
The 34-year-old informed Spain manager Luis de la Fuente of his decision earlier this month.
Alba’s choice to take a step back from the national team is not related to the dispute surrounding Spanish football association (RFEF president) Luis Rubiales.
Alba stepping away from Spain duty means Inter Miami will now have him available for its games during the international break, with MLS not pausing the league for international fixtures.
Tata Martino confirmed on Sunday that Lionel Messi will miss “at least” three games with the club this season while playing for Argentina’s national team.
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Alba has been capped 93 times by Spain after making his senior debut against Scotland in October 2011.
He was part of Spain’s Euro 2012-winning squad and scored in the 4-0 victory over Italy in the final.
Alba captained Spain to their 2023 Nations League triumph in June following a penalty shootout victory over Croatia.
The defender joined Inter Miami in July after 11 years at Camp Nou, reuniting with former Barcelona team-mates Messi and Sergio Busquets.
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(Photo: Lars Baron/Getty Images)
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