Jordi Alba: I hope Lopetegui can keep his job Champions League - Barcelona Good relationship between the two

The Real Madrid crisis has led to various rumours regarding Julen Lopetegui's future, but Barcelona left-back Jordi Alba has wished the Spaniard well and hopes he can stay at Los Blancos.

The 29-year-old praised his former coach from the Spanish national team, confirming the close relationship between the two.

"People make decisions and he would have wanted to finish the World Cup and sign for Real Madrid," he told a press conference.

"There were decisions from the president of the Spanish football federation and [his sacking] was a blow for everyone.

"I have a great relationship with him, he helped me a lot personally.

"I hope he can keep his job.

"[Although] I didn't like the club that he went to, I hope he stays a long time because he deserves it.

"He sacrifices himself for every team and I wish him well."

Alba went on to talk about the game against Inter and Lionel Messi's absence due to injury.

"We have collected six points, the same as Inter, but we want to be group leaders," he added.

"They are a difficult opponent to beat and have been doing things.

"Hopefully we show our best face, although Messi's absence is very important for us.

"He makes everyone better and he is a key player.

"He is different from the rest, as he can solve matches and now it's time to grit our teeth and know that we have to win as a great team.

"I trust that the team will come together and we will take the games forward.

"We are much better with Messi and this is known by everybody."

The Blaugrana are set to host the Italians on Wednesday at 21:00 CEST.