Lionel Messi has penned an emotional tribute to fellow Barcelona legend Jordi Alba after the Blaugrana terminated the defender’s contract.

On Wednesday, Barcelona announced that the La Liga champions had mutually reached an agreement to terminate Alba’s contract.

Alba will leave Barcelona at the end of the season and will be at Camp Nou on Sunday to say goodbye to the club’s fans.

In an emotional video on his social media, Alba acknowledged his imminent exit from Barcelona, expressing gratitude to the Catalan club and its fans.

Reacting, Messi, a long-time companion of Alba both on and off the field, said the Spaniard was more than a teammate to him.

The Paris Saint-Germain forward wrote on Instagram: “You were more than a teammate, a true accomplice on the court… And how nice it is also to be able to enjoy how well we get along personally.

“You know that I always wish you the best and also your family; hopefully, your new stage will continue to bring you many successes and joys. Thanks for everything, Jordi.”

Alba joined Barcelona in 2012 from Valencia.