Sergio Busquets Announces When He'll Hang Up His Boots at Inter Miami
Inter Miami's central midfielder Sergio Busquets is anticipated to conclude his professional football career at the end of this season, based on reports emerging from Spain.
The iconic Spanish holding midfielder cemented his reputation as one of contemporary football's finest players throughout 15 successful seasons at Barcelona. Selected from the club's reserve squad by Pep Guardiola—his childhood hero—Busquets was integrated into what many consider the most successful midfield partnership in football history, forming a perfect combination with Andrés Iniesta and Xavi Hernández.
Following merely three practice sessions with the senior squad, Busquets had already impressed Barcelona's superstar. Lionel Messi approached Guardiola and declared: "This player appeals to me. When challenges arise, he will step up."
The duo would share 13 seasons together in Catalonia before reuniting in Miami two seasons ago. Busquets quickly became an essential starter in South Beach, contributing to Miami's inaugural trophy victory with the 2023 Leagues Cup in only his seventh match wearing pink.
Busquets logged more playing time than any other field player as Miami captured the 2024 Supporters' Shield but battled illness when the playoffs commenced. The influential midfielder could only manage a brief substitute appearance as Atlanta United eliminated the Herons in the opening round.
The 37-year-old has continued as a regular in Javier Mascherano's lineup this season, occasionally wearing the captain's armband during Messi's absence, though Busquets seems to be approaching the conclusion of his professional journey.
According to a report initially highlighted by Spanish journalist Naco García and confirmed by AS, Busquets is projected to retire once Miami completes their final match of 2025. If the Herons progress through the playoffs to MLS Cup, that would prolong his tenure until December 6.
Reports indicated that Busquets contemplated retirement following this year's Leagues Cup. Nevertheless, it would have represented an inappropriate conclusion to an illustrious career given the unfortunate incidents that followed Miami's 3–0 loss to Seattle Sounders in the championship match, which saw Busquets seemingly confronting 20-year-old Obed Vargas.
Busquets' campaign could still conclude in disappointment or triumph this season, but his position among legendary midfielders remains unquestionable.
Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi expressed the respect that Busquets commands well beyond his prime years. "We pivotes [defensive midfielders] face the misfortune that perhaps we don't receive recognition, but if you comprehend football, you understand Busquets' worth," he shared with The Guardian. "We've become so accustomed to his excellence that we don't always value him properly. He's established such high standards that pivotes are now expected to perform tasks we weren't previously."
While Messi may continue in Miami, Busquets' potential retirement would create a significant gap to address.