Overview
- Alba, 36, announced via a social media video that he will end his career at the conclusion of Inter Miami’s 2025 MLS campaign, reversing a May extension that ran through 2027.
- Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas praised Alba’s impact in a club statement, and the decision followed a retirement ceremony for Sergio Busquets days earlier.
- The left-back departs with six LaLiga titles, five Copa del Rey trophies, a Champions League crown, Euro 2012 and the 2023 Nations League, plus 93 Spain caps.
- Lionel Messi led tributes on Instagram, saying it will feel strange not to see Alba on his left and joking about who will supply those trademark passes.
- Roster planning is already under way, with reports linking Miami to free agent Sergio Reguilón for left-back and separate reporting indicating Messi is expected to sign a multi-year extension as the club heads into the playoffs.