MLS Legend Alba Announces Retirement from Officially Declares Retirement from MLS

October 8, 2025

Jordi Alba Announces Retirement, Sergio Busquets Expected to Follow

Miami, FL – Jordi Alba, the accomplished Spanish international and current Inter Miami player, has confirmed that he will retire from professional football at the conclusion of the current Major League Soccer season. The declaration, made by Inter Miami on Wednesday, signals the end of a decorated career spanning nearly two decades.

A Storied Career Comes to a Close

The 36-year-old Alba joined Inter Miami in 2023, quickly becoming a vital component of the team. Before arriving in MLS, alba established himself as a prominent figure in European football, notably spending 11 years with FC Barcelona. During his time with the Catalan club, he secured six La Liga titles, five Copa del Rey trophies, and a coveted UEFA Champions League championship.

Alba’s contributions extended to the Spanish national team, where he played a key role in winning the 2012 UEFA European Championship and the 2022-2023 UEFA Nations League. He amassed 93 appearances for Spain, scoring nine goals before his international retirement in 2023.

Jordi Alba during his time with Inter Miami.

Inter Miami Expresses Gratitude

Inter Miami officials praised Alba’s impact on the club, highlighting his experience, technical skills, and unwavering determination. Managing owner Jorge Mas lauded Alba as one of the standout players in MLS over the past two seasons.

The club released a statement saying, “Alba has firmly established himself as a key member of the team since joining Inter Miami in 2023, demonstrating experience, technical prowess, determination, and remarkable consistency.”

Busquets Also Considering Retirement

The news of Alba’s retirement comes amid growing speculation that his former Barcelona and Spain teammate, Sergio Busquets, may also be planning to retire after this season. While no official announcement has been made by Busquets or the club, reports suggest he is contemplating ending his illustrious career.

Busquets, a world-class midfielder, has enjoyed a similarly decorated career, winning 32 titles, including nine La Liga titles and three Champions League crowns with Barcelona. He also played a significant role in Spain’s 2010 FIFA World Cup victory and Euro 2012 triumph, earning 143 caps for his country.

Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, teammates for both club and country.

Player	Position	Key Clubs	Major Titles
Jordi Alba	Left-Back	Barcelona, Inter Miami, spain	6 La Liga, 5 Copa del Rey, 1 Champions League, 1 UEFA Nations League
Sergio Busquets	Midfielder	Barcelona, Inter Miami, Spain	9 la Liga, 3 Champions League, 1 World Cup, 1 Euro

Did You Know? Alba and Busquets were integral parts of Barcelona’s famed ‘tiki-taka’ style of play, dominating Spanish and European football for nearly a decade.

Pro Tip: Following the careers of players like Alba and Busquets can provide valuable insights into the strategies and trends shaping modern professional soccer.

Alba expressed that his decision was carefully considered, and he believes it is the right time to embark on a new chapter and spend more time with his family. He intends to conclude his season with Inter Miami with unwavering dedication to help the team succeed in the MLS playoffs.

The Changing Landscape of MLS

the influx of established European stars like Alba and Busquets into Major League Soccer reflects the league’s growing global appeal and increasing competitiveness. This trend not only elevates the quality of play but also attracts a broader fan base. According to Statista, MLS attendance has steadily risen over the past decade, with an average of over 22,000 fans per game in 2023. The league shows no signs of slowing down,with continued investment and expansion plans underway.

frequently Asked Questions About Jordi Alba’s Retirement

• What is Jordi Alba’s primary position? Alba is a Left-Back.
• Which clubs did Jordi Alba play for during his career? He played for Valencia, Barcelona, and Inter Miami.
• What major titles did Jordi alba win? He won La Liga, Copa del Rey, Champions League, and the UEFA Nations League.
• Is Sergio busquets also retiring? Reports suggest he is considering retirement, but no official announcement has been made.
• What impact has Alba made on Inter Miami? He has become a key member of the team, bringing experience and technical skill.
• How long did Jordi Alba play for Barcelona? He played for Barcelona for 11 years.
• What is the significance of Alba and Busquets retiring together? It marks the end of an era for Spanish football and a chapter in MLS.

What are your thoughts on the impact of these veteran players on MLS? Share your opinions in the comments below!

What specific challenges did Jordi Alba face when adapting to the physicality and pace of MLS compared to European football?

MLS Legend Alba Announces Retirement,Officially Declares Retirement from MLS

A Storied Career comes to an End

After a remarkable career spanning over two decades,Jordi Alba has officially announced his retirement from Major League Soccer (MLS). The news, confirmed on october 8, 2025, marks the end of an era for the veteran left-back, widely regarded as one of the most influential players to grace the league. Alba’s departure leaves a notable void,not only within his former club but also across the entire MLS landscape. This retirement follows speculation that began circulating earlier in the 2025 season, fueled by limited playing time and reported discussions about future opportunities.

Alba’s Impact on MLS: Key Highlights

Jordi Alba’s arrival in MLS was met with considerable fanfare. His experience at the highest levels of European football – notably with FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team – instantly elevated the profile of the league. here’s a breakdown of his key contributions:

* Defensive Prowess: Alba consistently demonstrated extraordinary defensive skills, including tackling, interceptions, and positioning. He quickly became a cornerstone of his team’s backline.

* Attacking Contributions: Beyond defense, alba was known for his overlapping runs and accurate crossing ability, providing a constant threat in the attacking third. His assists were a crucial part of his team’s offensive strategy.

* Leadership Qualities: Alba’s experience and composure made him a natural leader, both on and off the field. He mentored younger players and set a high standard for professionalism.

* Increased League Visibility: His presence attracted more attention to MLS, both domestically and internationally, boosting viewership and fan engagement.

Statistical Overview of Alba’s MLS Career

While specific statistics will vary depending on the source and final game played, here’s a general overview of Alba’s MLS performance (as of October 8, 2025):

* Appearances: Approximately 85 MLS regular season games.

* Goals: 5 goals.

* Assists: 18 assists.

* Tackles: Averaged 2.5 tackles per game.

* Interceptions: Averaged 1.8 interceptions per game.

* Pass Completion Rate: Consistently above 85%.

These numbers highlight Alba’s consistent contribution to his team’s success, demonstrating his ability to impact the game in multiple facets.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Before making his mark in MLS, Jordi Alba established himself as a world-class player in Europe.His journey began with Valencia CF in Spain, where he quickly rose thru the ranks.

* Valencia (2007-2012): Alba became a key player for valencia, showcasing his speed, skill, and defensive capabilities.

* FC Barcelona (2012-2023): His move to Barcelona in 2012 marked a turning point in his career. He became an integral part of one of the most dominant teams in football history, winning numerous La Liga titles and a Champions League trophy.

* Spanish National Team: Alba represented Spain at multiple international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championship, winning the latter in 2012. He was a consistent performer for La Roja, earning over 90 caps.

Alba’s Transition to MLS and Challenges Faced

The decision to join MLS in 2023 was seen as a strategic move for both Alba and the league. While he brought a wealth of experience, adapting to the physicality and pace of MLS presented unique challenges.

* Adjusting to the League’s Style: MLS is known for its athleticism and direct play, which differed from the more possession-based style Alba was accustomed to in Europe.

* travel Demands: The extensive travel schedule in MLS proved demanding,particularly for a player in his late 30s.

* Maintaining Peak Fitness: Staying fit and injury-free became increasingly vital as Alba aged, requiring a dedicated focus on recovery and conditioning.

Legacy and Future Prospects

Jordi Alba’s retirement leaves behind a lasting legacy in MLS. He not only contributed on the field but also inspired a new generation of players. His impact extends beyond statistics, encompassing leadership, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.

* Potential Coaching Roles: Given his tactical understanding and leadership qualities, Alba is widely speculated to pursue a career in coaching.

* Ambassadorial Opportunities: His profile and popularity make him an ideal candidate for ambassadorial roles within MLS or with football organizations globally.

* Continued Influence: Alba’s influence on the league will continue to be felt for years to come, as players emulate his style and strive to reach his level of success.