Jordi Alba, one of the finest left-backs of his generation, has announced he will retire from professional football at the end of Inter Miami's MLS season. The decision comes as a surprise given the 36-year-old signed a multi-year contract extension with the club in May, a deal that was set to run through to the end of the 2027 season.
In a video posted to Instagram, Alba said: 'The time has come to close a truly meaningful chapter of my life. I do so with complete conviction, with peace, and with happiness. I feel I’ve walked this path with every ounce of passion I had.' His announcement follows that of former Barcelona team-mate Sergio Busquets, who also said in September he would retire at the end of the current campaign.
Standing 5ft 7in, Alba was renowned for his pace, technical ability and telepathic understanding with Lionel Messi. Over 700 professional club appearances, he scored 51 goals and provided 135 assists – an impressive return for a left-back. He won five La Liga titles, five Copas del Rey, the 2014-15 Champions League and the Club World Cup with Barcelona, and the 2024 Supporters' Shield with Inter Miami.
Alba earned 93 caps for Spain between 2011 and 2023, scoring nine goals, and was part of the squad that won Euro 2012. He also represented his country at the 2014, 2018 and 2022 World Cups, and the 2016 and 2020 European Championships.
