Messi, Neymar, Suárez pay tribute to retiring Alba
Inter Miami’s veteran left-back Jordi Alba has announced his retirement from professional football at the conclusion of the 2025 Major League Soccer season. The Spanish defender revealed his decision via a personal video on Instagram, closing a distinguished career that included successful spells at Barcelona and Inter Miami. Alba, 35, will retire after a run that saw him form a potent partnership with Lionel Messi, contributing significantly to the successes of both clubs.
Alba joined Inter Miami in the summer of 2023, reuniting with Messi after years together at Barcelona. During their time in Spain, the duo helped secure five LaLiga titles, one UEFA Champions League trophy, and five Copa del Rey trophies. Their partnership continued in MLS, where they were integral to Inter Miami’s victories in the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, the latter setting a new league record for points in a single season.
In his tribute, Messi expressed deep admiration for Alba’s contribution, saying the field would feel unusual without him: “Thanks to you, Jordi. I am going to miss you a lot. After many things together, it’s going to feel strange to look to my left and not see you there.” Messi highlighted Alba’s creativity, noting, “It’s crazy how many assists you’ve given me over all these years. Who is going to give me those passes from behind now?”
Over their careers, Alba has provided Messi with 33 assists, ranking as one of the Argentine’s top collaborators behind Luis Suárez (60), Dani Alves (42), and Andrés Iniesta (37). Alba’s tactical intelligence, pace, and ability to deliver precise crosses and passes made him a vital component on the left flank in both Barcelona’s and Inter Miami’s tactical setups.
The news of Alba’s retirement comes shortly after Sergio Busquets also announced his retirement, signaling the end of an era for Inter Miami’s Spanish core. While Messi’s current contract expires at the end of 2025, sources indicate the Argentine will soon sign a multi-year extension, remaining in South Florida beyond next season.
Tributes to Alba poured in from current and former teammates alike. Luis Suárez, now Alba’s Miami colleague, described him as “a crack” and wished him well for the next chapter. Neymar, a former Barcelona teammate, offered a warm farewell, calling Alba “huge” and sending his best wishes.
Alba’s retirement marks the conclusion of a career defined by tactical awareness, composure under pressure, and unyielding work rate. For Inter Miami, it signals a transition period but also underlines the importance of their experienced Spanish veterans who helped elevate the club’s status in MLS. For Alba, it is a fitting moment to close a career decorated with silverware and lasting professional partnerships, particularly with one of the game’s all-time greats.