Dream ending for Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets
The curtain has come down on the careers of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets in the best possible way, as they have won a final and lifted a trophy before hanging up their boots. Both former blaugranes starred in the 3-1 MLS Cup win against the WhiteCaps, a golden farewell and perfect epilogue to careers that left their mark on FC Barcelona, and football both in Spain and worldwide.
Seeing Alba and Busquets leaving the pitch for the final time will likely have been very moving for FC Barcelona fans. Two players who came through La Masia, two captains who understood what playing for the badge meant more than anyone. Busquets with this elegance in midfield and Alba with his constant driving runs up the left wrote memorable chapters in the recent history of FC Barcelona. Trophies, victories and unforgettable moments that now form part of the collective memory of the Club.
This final game brings an end to almost two decades of top level football, as well as a style and talent known the world over. Alba and Busquets are leaving professional football, but their legacy on the pitch, in the dressing room and in the hearts of all FC Barcelona fans will remain forever.
Messi, Suárez and Mascherano also present at the farewell
Three other blaugranes were also present at the final. Lionel Messi continues to add to his unbelievable winning record, lifting trophy number 48 and was alongside his long-time teammates during their unforgettable night. The Argentinian helped make the final a shared celebration of all they have enjoyed together. Luis Suárez, another member of the most prolific generation of FC Barcelona was also there to enjoy the special game and the coach of the team was Javier Mascherano, an understated leader while he was at Barça, and now on the bench for a farewell that brought together friendship, talent and great memories.