Left-back Jordi Alba has officially announced his retirement following the 2025 season, concluding a remarkable career spanning more than two decades. A Barcelona legend and a key figure at Inter Miami, Alba leaves a lasting mark both at club and international levels. His departure signals the end of a golden era in football, leaving an unforgettable legacy for fans around the world.
Alba Sets Retirement Date
At 36, legendary left-back Jordi Alba has decided to retire from professional football after the conclusion of the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season. Although he signed a contract extension with Inter Miami in May 2025, which was expected to keep him at the club until 2027, Alba made the surprising decision to step away after only a few months.
On social media, Alba shared an emotional message:
“It is time to close a very meaningful chapter in my life. I do this with peace and happiness, knowing I gave everything I had. Now is the right moment to start a new chapter while closing the old one with full emotions.”
This announcement has stunned fans in both the United States and Spain. Alba’s retirement marks the departure of one of the finest left-backs in modern football, following close on the heels of his longtime teammate Sergio Busquets, who recently retired, creating a significant turning point for Inter Miami and Barcelona supporters.
Outstanding Performance Until the End
Even at 36, Jordi Alba maintained top-level performance throughout the 2025 season. He played 44 matches across all competitions, scoring 7 goals and providing 11 assists for Inter Miami. These impressive statistics highlight his enduring speed, wing play, and defensive reliability.
Experts consider Alba one of the top performers in MLS during the 2025 season. His influence on Inter Miami’s left flank, contributing both defensively and offensively, has been crucial. Alba’s retirement leaves a major gap for the club as they aim for international competitions and rebuild their squad in the coming seasons.
Alba’s decision to retire also follows the trend of former Barcelona stalwarts like Sergio Busquets, closing a chapter that began in La Masia and extended to the Spanish national team.
Jordi Alba’s Illustrious Journey
Starting at Valencia: Jordi Alba began his professional career at Valencia in 2009. Quickly establishing himself with exceptional defensive skills, pace, and attacking support from the left, Alba became one of Spain’s most promising young defenders, attracting attention from top clubs.
Conquering Spain and Europe: After helping Spain win Euro 2012, Alba joined Barcelona, the club where he had grown up in La Masia. Over more than a decade at Camp Nou, he won more than 22 major trophies, including La Liga titles, UEFA Champions League, Copa del Rey, and international club competitions.
Alba’s overlapping runs, precise crosses, and seamless coordination with Lionel Messi and teammates made him a complete left-back, excelling both defensively and offensively. He became an emblem of Barcelona and a source of pride for generations of La Masia graduates.
MLS with Inter Miami: In 2023, Alba followed Messi to the United States, joining Inter Miami. Despite being 34, he quickly adapted to a new footballing environment and became a key player, helping the club win the 2024 Leagues Cup. Alongside Messi and Busquets, Alba contributed to a historic 2024 MLS season, elevating the league’s profile and establishing Inter Miami as a globally recognized club.
Career Achievements
- Spain National Team: Euro 2012 champion, multiple FIFA World Cup participations
- Barcelona: Over 22 major trophies including La Liga, Copa del Rey, UEFA Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup
- Inter Miami: 2024 Leagues Cup champion
- Individual Honors: Numerous awards recognizing his excellence as a left-back in La Liga and MLS
These accolades highlight Alba’s significant contributions at both club and international levels, cementing his reputation as one of the world’s premier left-backs for over a decade.
Emotional Farewell
In his farewell message, Jordi Alba said:
“Today, I close this chapter with the belief that I gave everything. Football has been, is, and will always be an essential part of my life. Thank you, football. Thank you for everything.”
Alba’s words go beyond a retirement announcement—they are a declaration of love for football, the sport that has accompanied him for over 20 years. Fans of Barcelona, Inter Miami, and global football enthusiasts will remember Alba as a complete left-back, known for his speed, relentless work ethic, and loyalty to his clubs—a true icon.
Legacy Left Behind
Jordi Alba’s departure marks the end of Barcelona’s golden era, especially the Messi–Alba–Busquets era at Camp Nou. His legacy extends beyond trophies and statistics, reflecting his fighting spirit, flawless teamwork, and professionalism.
At Inter Miami, Alba leaves a mark through leadership, mentoring young defenders, and raising the team’s overall quality, inspiring new players entering MLS.
Global Impact:
- In Spain: Alba is a symbol of elite football, a complete left-back, and a long-serving national team player.
- In the U.S.: He helped raise the profile of MLS, contributing to professional football development in America.
- For young players: Alba exemplifies perseverance, technical skill, and dedication.
While his absence will be felt on the field, his influence and example will continue to inspire generations of footballers.
Conclusion
Jordi Alba is not only a legendary left-back for Barcelona and Inter Miami but also a symbol of loyalty, professionalism, and passion for football. His retirement after the 2025 MLS season closes a remarkable 20-plus-year journey, leaving a lasting legacy for clubs, national teams, and fans worldwide.
Alba’s career reminds us that football is not only about goals and trophies but also about passion, teamwork, and unwavering dedication—values that will endure in the hearts of fans forever.