Jordi Alba Reveals the Real Reason Behind His Stunning Retirement Bombshell at Inter Miami
Although he secured a contract extension in May running until 2027, Inter Miami's Jordi Alba made an unexpected retirement announcement this week, following his former teammate Sergio Busquets in stepping away from professional soccer.
The 36-year-old will conclude his career when the current MLS campaign ends, which could be as early as November 9 if Miami exits in the opening round of the MLS Cup Playoffs, or potentially as late as December 6 if they advance to the MLS Cup final. However, this surprising reversal wasn't a simple choice for the 2010 World Cup champion.
"It's accurate that I extended my contract in May, but those discussions began much earlier, and while the period from May to now in October hasn't been lengthy, this is a choice I've been contemplating and developing over time," Alba shared with media in Spanish on Friday, noting he informed the organization and his teammates several weeks prior.
"Clearly, I remain in good physical condition, but I've considered all factors and believe this is the most genuine, most appropriate decision, and it's also one I reached independently," he explained. "Well, it evolved, just as you would, because any person can change their perspective from day to day."
The left-back initially arrived at Inter Miami in 2023, reuniting with Sergio Busquets and Lionel Messi, with Luis Suárez later joining the squad in 2024.
Alba contributed to the team's 2023 Leagues Cup victory and 2024 Supporters' Shield triumph—establishing an MLS regular season record with 74 points. Across his 95 matches in all competitions, Alba recorded 14 goals and 28 assists.
Prior to his stint with the Herons, Alba secured six La Liga championships and the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona, plus the World Cup and European Championship representing Spain.
Mascherano Not Shocked by Alba Decision
For Javier Mascherano, Alba's head coach and former Barcelona colleague, the announcement wasn't surprising.
"Expressing a desire to retire in this manner doesn't require reaching a point where injuries become frequent or playing time diminishes significantly," Mascherano commented, having ended his own playing career in 2020. "He's completely certain, and clearly understands he could continue for another year or two. He wishes to retire and begin a different chapter in his life, which is entirely understandable.
"These are personal choices, and everyone handles them differently. The key point, I emphasize again, is that he's approaching this very naturally."
With Alba and Busquets preparing to retire, Miami enters a transitional period. Messi and Suárez both lack contracts beyond this season, and the sole superstar secured for 2026 is Rodrigo De Paul, who is expected to assume Designated Player status following the 2025 campaign.
Before entering the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs, Miami has two remaining regular-season matches: hosting Atlanta United on Saturday, and visiting Nashville SC on October 18.