Mansion Sports – A wave of emotion swept through the football world as Jordi Alba, the legendary left-back of FC Barcelona and current player for Inter Miami CF, officially confirmed that he will retire at the conclusion of the 2025 Major League Soccer season. 

His decision marks the end of an illustrious career defined by remarkable speed, technical precision, and extraordinary contributions at both club and international levels.

A Surprising Decision Despite a Long-Term Contract

At 36 years old, Alba had only recently signed a new contract with Inter Miami in May, which was set to keep him at the club until 2027. However, just five months later, he chose to conclude his professional playing career earlier than expected.

“The time has come to close a very meaningful chapter in my life,” Alba wrote in a heartfelt message on social media. 

“I have decided to end my professional career at the end of this season. I make this decision with full conviction, calmness, and happiness, knowing I’ve lived this journey with everything I had. Now is the right time to open a new chapter and close the old one with the best possible feeling.”

Throughout the 2025 season, Alba made 44 appearances across all competitions, recording seven goals and 11 assists. Despite his age, he remained one of the most productive and influential left-backs in the league. 

His retirement comes shortly after the announcement from his longtime friend and teammate Sergio Busquets, who also decided to hang up his boots.

From Valencia to the World Stage with Barcelona and Spain

Jordi Alba’s professional journey began in 2009 when he made his debut with Valencia CF. Within a short period, he rose to prominence as one of Spain’s most promising left-backs. 

His breakthrough came in 2012 when he played a pivotal role in helping Spain national football team lift the UEFA Euro 2012 trophy, marking La Roja’s second consecutive major tournament triumph.

That same summer became a turning point in his career when Barcelona, the club where he had developed as a youth player at La Masia, brought him back to Camp Nou. At Barcelona, Alba evolved into one of the defining modern left-backs of his era. 

His blistering pace, attacking instinct, and exceptional chemistry with Lionel Messi made him a central figure in the club’s golden generation.

A New Chapter in America and Success with Inter Miami

In 2023, Alba made a bold move by joining Inter Miami, following in the footsteps of Messi and Busquets. Despite arriving at the age of 34, he quickly established himself as a key player in MLS. 

His contributions helped the club capture the Leagues Cup and achieve a historic 2024 MLS season.

Beyond his on-field performances, Alba became a mentor and leader in the dressing room, guiding younger players and helping to shape the team’s identity.

His leadership, combined with the presence of Messi and Busquets, formed the core of Inter Miami’s rise as a competitive force in American soccer.

The Legacy of a True Legend

Jordi Alba’s career legacy is defined by 22 major trophies, including six La Liga titles, one UEFA Champions League title, and a European Championship with Spain. 

These achievements cement his status as one of the most accomplished left-backs in modern football history.

“Today, I close this chapter knowing I have given everything. Football has been, is, and always will be a fundamental part of my life. Thank you, football, for everything,” Alba said in his farewell message.

His retirement signifies not only the end of a brilliant individual career but also leaves behind a lasting legacy of dedication, professionalism, and love for the game. 

The football world bids farewell to one of the greatest left-backs of his generation — a true icon of both Barcelona and Spanish football.