On Tuesday, Oct. 7, star Inter Miami left back Jordi Alba announced that he will be retiring at the end of the Major League Soccer season.
This announcement comes just weeks after midfielder Sergio Busquets revealed a similar plan to leave the team after the playoffs later this year.
Alba had signed a contract extension in May to stay in South Florida until the end of 2027.
“The time has come to close a meaningful chapter in my life,” Alba said in an Instagram post. “I do so with complete conviction… I feel I’ve walked this path with every ounce of passion I had, and now it’s just the right moment to open a new chapter and close the previous one with the best possible feeling.”
The 36-year-old Spaniard was born in the province of Barcelona where he began his career in 1998. After seven years of playing in the youth ranks, he was let go by FC Barcelona for being too small.
Transitioning into his professional career, Alba would later make his name known at Valencia CF where he stayed for three years until returning to Barcelona in 2012. For the next 11 years, he would go on to win 18 trophies with the Spanish club, including six La Liga titles and the 2015 UEFA Champions League Final alongside current teammates Messi, Busquets, and Luis Suárez.
The left-back joined Inter Miami in July of 2023 shortly after former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi and Busquets had signed their contracts with the club.
Since the defender’s move to Inter Miami, he has helped the young club win two titles: the Leagues Cup in 2023 and the Supporters’ Shield in 2024.
Owner of Inter Miami CF, Jorge Mas, made a statement praising Alba and his contributions since joining the team.
“Jordi has been an exceptional addition to Inter Miami and one of the standout players in Major League Soccer over these two seasons,” Mas said. “Those that know me know that family is the most important part of my life, and Jordi will forever be part of our Inter Miami family.”
Considered one of the best fullbacks of his generation, Alba’s career will conclude with Miami in the MLS post-season playoffs, which begin on Oct. 22.
He still has one more trophy to fight for until then.
“I’m very happy with my time at Inter Miami and truly grateful for the support of the fans and for having been part of the team’s successes, sharing special moments in the club’s growth,” the defender stated. “Now my goal is to finish the season in the best possible way, giving my all in the playoffs.”
