Dani Alves announces his departure from Barcelona

Dani Alves wanted a new contract to boost his chances of making the Brazilian squad for this year’s World Cup in Qatar. However, the Brazilian defender will not stay at Barcelona as the club decided not to offer him a contract extension.

The 39-year-old’s current contract expires at the end of the month, but he has asked for a new one that would run until at least the end of the year. The defender had hoped that continuing at Camp Nou would allow him to make the Brazil squad for November’s World Cup.

He confirmed on Instagram that he will leave Barcelona at the end of the month when his contract expires.

The right-back signed a free transfer deal with Barcelona last November after his contract with Sao Paulo expired. During his second engagement at Barcelona, Alves appeared in seventeen matches, scoring one goal and setting up four others.

The experienced star was a great asset to the team, mainly due to his experience.

Alves posted a message on Instagram, part of which read: Dear Culés. Now it’s time to say goodbye.“

“I would like to thank all the staff for the opportunity they gave me to return to Barcelona and to wear this beautiful jersey again, they don’t even know how happy I am!“

“I hope Barcelona will not miss my craziness and daily happiness. I hope that those who stay at the club will change the history of this beautiful club, I wish it with all my heart.”

Alves’ departure suggests Barcelona are likely to sign Cesar Azpilicueta from Chelsea.

Source: FC Barcelona, Fabrizio Romano