Bad news for Messi: Jordi Alba announces retirement months after extending contract with Inter Miami

Inter Miami were shaken Tuesday by Jordi Alba’s surprising announcement that he will retire from soccer once the current 2025 Major League Soccer season concludes. In doing so, the left-back follows in the footsteps of Sergio Busquets and leaves Lionel Messi’s team.

“The time has come to close a truly meaningful chapter in my life. I’ve decided to bring my professional football career to an end at the conclusion of this season,” Jordi Alba began in a video posted Tuesday on his official Instagram account. “I do so with complete conviction, with peace, and with happiness. Because I feel I’ve walked this path with every ounce of passion I had and now is the right moment to open a new chapter and close the previous one with the best possible feeling.”

The Spanish star then reflected on all the clubs he has played for since childhood, sharing what he learned at each stop along the way. “Football has given me absolutely everything. Thank you to all my teammates, coaches, staff members, club workers, and opponents who pushed me to give my very best. I want to express my special gratitude to the clubs that have shaped my life,” Jordi added.