Barcelona legend Jordi Alba has disclosed that Aston Villa boss Unai Emery played a big part in transforming his career.

The Spaniard announced earlier this month that he intends to retire at the end of the 2025 MLS season in December.

Speaking with Sport, Alba, who plays under Emery at Valencia, admitted he has Emery to thank for the career he ended up having.

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“That change of position, everything he did to help me, it was the most important step in my career.

“I didn’t want to play as a full-back. All my life I’d played as an attacking midfielder or winger.

“But it was Unai Emery who decided. We talked about it many times: I didn’t want to play there. But thanks to that change, I’ve been able to earn a living and have a successful career.”