Former Spain and Barcelona left-back Jordi Alba has announced he will retire from professional football at the end of the current Major League Soccer (MLS) season. The 36-year-old made the announcement via a heartfelt video on Instagram, marking the end of a glittering career that has spanned nearly two decades and seen him lift some of the sport’s most coveted trophies.
Alba, who joined Inter Miami in 2023, will hang up his boots after completing the MLS play-offs later this year. The veteran defender joined the American club alongside his former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suarez, helping turn Miami into one of the league’s most-watched teams.
A Decorated Career at Barcelona
Born in L’Hospitalet, near Barcelona, Jordi Alba rose through the ranks at La Masia before initially leaving the club to gain experience with Valencia. His performances there earned him a return to Camp Nou in 2012 — a move that marked the beginning of a legendary spell in the Catalan capital.
Over 11 seasons at Barcelona, Alba established himself as one of the best attacking full-backs of his generation. Renowned for his pace, overlapping runs, and connection with Lionel Messi, he was a key part of one of the most dominant club sides in football history.
During his time with Barcelona, Alba won six La Liga titles, five Copa del Rey trophies, and one UEFA Champions League title in 2015. He also lifted four Spanish Super Cups, one FIFA Club World Cup, and one UEFA Super Cup.
In total, he made more than 450 appearances for the club, scoring 27 goals and providing over 100 assists — remarkable numbers for a defender.
Success on the International Stage
Alba’s impact extended well beyond his club career. He was a key member of Spain’s golden generation that dominated international football in the late 2000s and early 2010s.
He made his senior debut for La Roja in 2011 and quickly became the team’s first-choice left-back. His standout moment came at Euro 2012, where he scored in the final against Italy to help Spain secure their second consecutive European Championship title.
In total, Alba earned 93 caps for Spain before retiring from international football in 2023. He also represented his country at two World Cups and three European Championships.
A Final Chapter in Miami
In 2023, Alba joined Inter Miami, reuniting with Messi and Busquets under the ambitious ownership of David Beckham. His arrival added experience and defensive stability to a squad built to compete at the top of MLS.
Despite battling fitness issues earlier in the campaign, Alba played a crucial role in helping Miami qualify for the play-offs, where he will now look to end his career on a high.
In his retirement announcement, Alba reflected on his journey with gratitude and pride.
“The time has come to close a truly meaningful chapter in my life,” he said. “I’ve decided to bring my professional football career to an end at the conclusion of this season. I do so with complete conviction, with peace, and with happiness.”
Tributes from Teammates and Fans
Tributes poured in from across the football world following his announcement. Lionel Messi, his longtime teammate, commented: “What a journey, brother. You deserve every bit of respect for what you’ve achieved. Enjoy what’s next.”
Barcelona also issued a statement praising Alba’s contribution, describing him as “a player who embodied the spirit of the club both on and off the pitch.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Jordi Alba’s retirement will mark the end of an era for one of football’s finest modern full-backs. From his electric partnership with Messi at Barcelona to his international success with Spain, his career has been defined by consistency, quality, and a relentless drive to win.
As he prepares for his final matches with Inter Miami, Alba leaves behind a legacy built on passion, loyalty, and excellence — a fitting farewell to a player who gave everything to the game.
