Messi Reflects on Jordi Alba’s Sudden Retirement at Inter Miami

Messi Reacts to Jordi Alba’s Unexpected Announcement

Lionel Messi, the Inter Miami superstar, has been left stunned by Jordi Alba’s decision to retire at the end of the 2025 MLS season. The news came as a shock, especially since Alba had not previously discussed his intentions with teammates. Messi, who has shared a unique football journey with Alba and Sergio Busquets both at Barcelona and Inter Miami, described the announcement as “very strange” and admits it marks the end of a remarkable era.

Inter Miami Trio’s Last Dance Ends Early

Messi, Alba, and Busquets reunited in Florida in 2023, bringing the chemistry and winning mentality that defined their Barcelona years. While Messi anticipated Busquets’ retirement—having often spoken about the possibility—Alba’s decision took him by surprise. “With Busi, we’d been talking about it more, and he’d already been analyzing it and talking about it. But with Jordi, it was from one day to the next; we weren’t expecting it,” Messi told reporters during a recent trip to Barcelona.

Emotional Farewell for Messi and His Friends

Jordi Alba, now 36, chose to hang up his boots without warning, just as Inter Miami chases the 2025 MLS Cup. Messi admitted that sharing this American adventure with two of his closest friends had made the transition from Barcelona all the more special. “It’s a shame because beyond what we enjoyed on the pitch, we’re also friends. We started this challenge of coming to Miami together from the beginning,” Messi shared. He acknowledged the inevitable passing of time, saying, “We’re from the same generation, we did our whole careers together, and being able to share the last few years together was very nice.”

Messi, Alba, and Busquets: A Shared Legacy from Barcelona to Miami

The trio’s on-field connection traces back to their formative days at La Masia. Alba, the first to join Barcelona’s famed academy in 1998, was soon joined by Messi in 2000 and Busquets in 2005. Their journeys, filled with trophies and glory at Barcelona, continued in the United States, where they helped transform Inter Miami into one of the league’s most formidable sides. With a Leagues Cup and Supporters’ Shield already secured, the team’s story could reach new heights if they capture the MLS Cup before Alba and Busquets depart.

Messi’s Future: No Retirement Plans Yet

While his longtime partners are stepping away, Messi has reaffirmed his commitment to the game. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner recently signed a contract extension keeping him at Inter Miami until 2028, which will see him playing past his 41st birthday. “I’m happy with how these years have gone, and on the field, as long as I can and feel good physically, I’m going to keep doing it the same way,” Messi said. He remains motivated to compete and win, only considering retirement when he no longer enjoys playing or feels physically unable to perform.

What Jordi Alba’s Departure Means for Inter Miami

Messi’s words highlight the significant impact Alba and Busquets have had beyond their contributions on the pitch. Their leadership and friendship helped lay the foundation for Inter Miami’s rapid rise and created an environment where Messi felt at home. As Alba prepares for his final matches, the team will look to make the most of their time together and send their retiring stars off on a high note.

Looking Ahead: Messi’s Legacy and Inter Miami’s Future

Alba’s departure not only signals the end of a legendary partnership but also ushers in a new era for Inter Miami. Messi’s continued presence ensures the club remains ambitious, attracting global attention and top talent. The legacy of Messi, Alba, and Busquets will be felt for years, as their impact shapes the next generation of talent in Miami and beyond.

Opinion: A Bittersweet Farewell Marks a New Chapter

Jordi Alba’s sudden retirement is a powerful reminder of how quickly eras end in football. For Messi, losing a trusted teammate and close friend is surely bittersweet, yet it also presents an opportunity for new partnerships and leadership to emerge. Inter Miami fans will remember this trio’s impact, but with Messi’s enduring passion, the club’s future remains bright. For more news, visit for more news.