Why Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba didn't play against Celta Vigo

Barcelona may be intent on bringing Lionel Messi back to Catalonia, but a number of first team stars won't get to play alongside the Argentine should he return to Camp Nou.

Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, two long-time teammates of the great Argentine, will not be donning Barça colours in 2023/24. Their departures have already been announced and while they played roles of alternating importance in the La Liga title triumph, neither were involved when Xavi's side were beaten at Celta Vigo on Sunday.

Messi played 567 games alongside Busquets while at Barça together and another 345 with Alba, but neither will be around to welcome him home if the move does happen.

Here's why the pair weren't involved in Barça's final game of the season.

Why didn't Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba play against Celta Vigo?

Neither club captain Busquets nor Alba were named in the matchday squad for Barcelona's final game of the 2022/23 season away at Celta Vigo. The champions lost 2-1 after blossoming young midfielder Gabri Veiga scored twice for the hosts.

While there hasn't been an official explanation as to why neither veteran was involved on Sunday, the pair had already said their farewells to the club's home support following their final home game of the season against Mallorca the previous weekend.

Alba and Busquets started the contest before receiving standing ovations as they were substituted in the second half. An official ceremony was held for Busquets' departure on Wednesday at Camp Nou with the player's teammates in attendance.

After the club had given the captain such a massive send-off, it wouldn't have made much sense for the player to line up in a meaningless game at the weekend.

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Who are Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba going to sign for this summer?

Busquets and Alba are leaving Barcelona as free agents this summer following the expiration of their respective deals.

Both players are poised to garner plenty of suitors despite their age, although it's unclear where either could end up. Saudi Arabia has been mentioned as a possibility, but Alba could yet remain in Europe and very close to home. Atletico Madrid has been touted as a possible destination for the left-back.

Alba is also said to have received offers from Inter Milan, Benfica, and MLS. As for Busquets, he's less likely to stay in Europe, with Inter Miami keen to bring him over to the US.

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