OFFICIAL: Legendary Jordi Alba announces retirement

Jordi Alba has formally announced his retirement at the season’s end, closing a journey of more than two decades of competition and 11 glorious years with Barcelona and Spain’s national squad.

Veteran defender Jordi Alba, one of Barcelona’s greatest icons, has officially confirmed he will retire after this season when his contract with Inter Miami expires. The Spanish player shared the news on his personal Instagram, marking the end of more than twenty years competing at the highest level.

Joining Inter Miami in the summer of 2023 after leaving Barcelona, Alba formed a “legendary” trio with Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets at the MLS club. Although no longer at his peak, the 36-year-old left-back impressed with his intelligent play, relentless wing runs, and strong connection with Messi during attacks.

Before moving to the United States, Jordi Alba spent most of his career wearing Barcelona’s colors. He joined the Camp Nou side from Valencia in 2012 and quickly established himself as one of the world’s best left-backs, known for his speed, attacking support, and excellent coordination with Messi on the left flank.

Over 11 years at Barcelona, Alba played a total of 459 matches, scored 27 goals, and provided over 90 assists. Alongside the Catalan club, he won prestigious titles including La Liga, Copa del Rey, the Spanish Super Cup, the Champions League, and the FIFA Club World Cup, securing his place in the club’s history as one of the most successful defenders.

Following Alba, his close teammate Sergio Busquets will also retire at the end of the season, leaving Messi as the sole active star from the legendary trio that once dominated European football.

Jordi Alba closes the golden generation of Barcelona, the players who created the club’s glorious era in Spanish football. For fans, Alba was not only a talented defender but also a symbol of dedication, always giving his all for the Barca jersey.

Jordi Alba will leave the pitch after more than 20 years in professional football, leaving behind the brilliant legacy of one of the best left-backs of his generation.