Jordi Alba Bids Tearful Goodbye to Football After Giving Everything to the Beautiful Game
Inter Miami defender and Barcelona icon Jordi Alba has declared his intention to retire following the conclusion of the current Major League Soccer campaign, creating waves across the football community.
The 36-year-old had signed a fresh deal in May that would have kept him at Miami until the 2027 season. However, five months later, Alba has chosen to call time on his playing career, as he shared in a heartfelt message on social media.
"The moment has arrived to conclude a chapter that holds deep significance in my life," Alba stated. "I have chosen to end my professional playing days when this season concludes."
"I make this decision with full certainty, tranquility and joy. I believe I have traveled this journey with maximum dedication and now feels like the perfect moment to begin a fresh chapter while ending the current one on the highest note possible."
Alba has featured in 44 matches across all tournaments for Inter Miami in 2025, netting seven times and providing 11 assists while remaining among MLS's elite fullbacks. Alba follows the example of longtime colleague Sergio Busquets, who similarly announced his retirement not long ago.
Jordi Alba Concludes Illustrious Playing Days
The dynamic left-back began his professional journey with Valencia in 2009. Three years on, he had become one of Spain's premier left-backs and contributed to the nation's second straight European title triumph in summer 2012.
His childhood team then pursued him that same summer. Alba, who originally came through La Masia's youth system, returned to Barcelona, where he cemented his status as among the world's finest left-backs during his ten-year tenure with the Catalan giants.
He subsequently followed his dear friend Lionel Messi to Florida, signing with Inter Miami in 2023. Despite his advancing years, he quickly established himself as one of the league's standout performers and was instrumental in the Herons capturing the Leagues Cup and their historic 2024 MLS campaign.
Now, following 22 major honors, Alba will conclude his playing story, leaving behind a trophy-laden heritage.
"Today, I end this chapter with the knowledge that I have committed everything. Football has been, remains and will forever be a fundamental element of my existence. Thank you, football. Thank you for all of it."