Jordi Alba Announces Retirement from Professional Football After Storied Career

Jordi Alba has announced his retirement from professional football, confirming he will conclude his playing career at the end of the current Major League Soccer (MLS) season with Inter Miami CF. At 36, Alba shared the news through a heartfelt video titled "Thank you football, thank you for so much," expressing his decision to retire with "absolute conviction, fullness, and happiness," signaling a well-considered transition to a new life phase where he can dedicate more time to his family (90883).

Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Alba has been an essential player, scoring 14 goals and providing 38 assists, contributing significantly to the club’s identity and recent achievements, such as winning the Leagues Cup and the Supporters’ Shield. Jorge Mas, Managing Owner of Inter Miami CF, praised Alba as an exceptional addition to the team and one of Major League Soccer's standout players over the past two seasons, highlighting his professionalism and offensive contributions (90880).

Alba's illustrious career began at Valencia CF, where he debuted in LaLiga during the 2009-2010 season and played 110 official matches. He rose to prominence after joining FC Barcelona in 2012, where he won multiple titles, including six La Liga championships and one Champions League. Internationally, Alba proudly represented the Spanish national team, earning over 90 caps, scoring nine goals, and helping Spain secure the Euro 2012 title—where he scored in the final—and the Nations League trophy (90875, 90877).

His retirement announcement closely mirrored that of former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets, with both players leaving FC Barcelona around the same time and reuniting with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami before their retirements (90877).

Throughout his statement, Alba expressed gratitude towards the clubs that shaped his journey and dedicated his career to his family, notably crediting his parents, brother, wife, and three children for their unwavering support. He reflected on his career with joy and satisfaction and affirmed that football will always be an essential part of his life (90883).

Jordi Alba aims to finish his final season strongly with Inter Miami in the MLS playoffs, closing a decorated career that spanned over two decades and garnered more than 20 titles across club and country.