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Jordi Alba, widely regarded as one of the best left-backs of his generation, has announced he will retire from professional football at the conclusion of the current Major League Soccer (MLS) season with Inter Miami CF. The news, revealed by the player on his social media accounts, marks the end of a decorated career that spanned nearly two decades and saw the Spanish defender achieve monumental success at both the club and international levels.
The 36-year-old made the announcement via a video, expressing his decision with “complete conviction, with peace and with happiness,” feeling it was the “right moment to open a new chapter” after walking his professional path with “every ounce of passion.” His retirement follows that of long-time club and international teammate Sergio Busquets, who announced his departure from the professional game just weeks prior, making Alba the second former Barcelona star at Inter Miami to hang up his boots this season.
A Career Defined by Pace and Partnership
Alba’s career is most famously associated with his time at FC Barcelona, which he called “the club of my life.” He spent 11 unforgettable years at the Catalan club from 2012 to 2023, where his explosive pace, technical skill, and attacking prowess redefined the role of a modern full-back.
During his tenure at Barça, Alba forged an iconic and near-telepathic partnership with Lionel Messi, a connection that yielded countless goals and assists and was one of the most effective attacking duos in modern football. This partnership was briefly rekindled when Alba joined Inter Miami in July 2023, following Messi’s move to the MLS club.
His trophy cabinet at Barcelona is staggering, including:
- 5 La Liga titles
- 5 Copa del Rey trophies
- The 2014-15 UEFA Champions League
- A Club World Cup
He also previously rose to prominence with Valencia CF, where he made his La Liga debut. In total, the left-back participated in approximately 700 professional club games, contributing over 50 goals and more than 130 assists.
Success on the International Stage
Alba’s international career with the Spain National Team (La Roja) was equally illustrious. He earned 93 caps between 2011 and 2023, scoring nine goals. His most notable achievements with the national side include:
- Winning the 2012 UEFA European Championship.
- Captaining the squad to win the 2022-23 UEFA Nations League.
He represented Spain in multiple World Cups and European Championships throughout his tenure.
Final Chapter in Miami
Despite having signed a multi-year contract extension with Inter Miami just months before his retirement announcement, Alba decided to conclude his career at the end of the 2025 MLS season, which will be capped by the MLS Cup playoffs. Since joining the club in 2023, he has been an integral part of their success, helping the club secure the 2024 Supporters’ Shield.
As the curtain closes on his professional playing days, Jordi Alba leaves behind a legacy as a relentless, world-class defender whose attacking influence changed the game.
