After joining <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter-miami/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Inter Miami</a> in the 2023-24 season, Jordi Alba became a key player for the team. At 36 years old, he managed to remain the undisputed left back, despite competition from younger players. He has not only been a key part of the defensive line, but also a key part of the offense. Despite this, Jordi recently announced his retirement at the end of the season, prompting <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lionel Messi</a> to leave a heartfelt comment on his post.



On his Instagram profile, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/jordi-alba/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jordi Alba</a> posted a video announcing his retirement at the end of the season with Inter Miami, with the caption “Thank you soccer, thank you for so much.” Lionel Messi was quick to react, “Thank you, Jordi. I’m going to miss you a lot. After so many things together, it’s going to be strange to look to my left and not see you there… It’s crazy how many assists you gave me over all these years… Who’s going to give me the back passes now???”.



Throughout his career, Jordi Alba has established himself as one of Lionel Messi’s most effective partners, with the duo contributing to an impressive 48 goals together. Their connection transcended mere statistics, however, as their intuitive on-field understanding consistently generated scoring opportunities in every match. This synergy undoubtedly ranks him among the most formidable teammates in Messi’s career.



Jordi Alba has cemented his legacy at Inter Miami since joining as a veteran presence. Over 95 appearances, the Spanish full-back has tallied 14 goals and 28 assists, showcasing his extraordinary influence on the pitch. As the Herons advance in the 2025 MLS Playoffs, Alba’s contributions could help steer them toward their first-ever MLS Cup triumph, marking a milestone in franchise history.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20251007_WST_595463_jordi-alba-trophy-1200x675_da6be9df.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="jordi alba trophy" class="wp-image-595470" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Jordi Alba of Spain poses for a photograph with the UEFA Nations League trophy.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Jordi Alba leaves a long-lasting legacy in soccer history following his retirement</h2>



Over an illustrious 18-year career, Jordi Alba has carved out a legacy as one of the premier left-backs in Spanish soccer. Initially beginning his career as a left winger, he found his true calling at Valencia CF, where his transformation into a left-back drew the attention of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/barcelona/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FC Barcelona</a>. In 2012, the Catalan giants—where Alba had trained as a youth—brought him back to the fold, cementing his status as one of the most significant players in their storied history.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/how-many-trophies-has-jordi-alba-won-complete-trophy-list-with-barcelona-inter-miami-and-spain/"></div>


Upon joining Barcelona, Alba swiftly cemented his status as one of Lionel Messi’s most reliable teammates. His consistent performances earned him a permanent spot in the starting lineup for over a decade. During his decorated tenure, he clinched 20 major titles with both Barcelona and the Spanish national team. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in securing Inter Miami’s first two championships, bringing his professional title count to 22.

Lionel Messi breaks silence after Inter Miami’s Jordi Alba announces his professional retirement

Bad news for Messi: Jordi Alba announces retirement months after extending contract with Inter Miami

Sergio Busquets reveals post-retirement plans as he sets final goals with Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami

Lionel Messi breaks silence after Inter Miami’s Jordi Alba announces his professional retirement - World Soccer Talk

destacadas

Since joining <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-madrid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Real Madrid</a> in 2019, Rodrygo Goes has become one of the team’s standout players. By the age of 24, he has already won two UEFA Champions League titles, playing a vital role in both victories. However, Kylian Mbappe’s arrival has seen him shift to the sidelines, which has fueled rumors of a potential move away. In response, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/rodrygo/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rodrygo</a> quickly broke his silence to clarify his position on the matter.



“Every summer it’s the same thing. (The press) says I’m leaving, that I have offers… I’m sure I have offers because there always are, I’m not going to lie about that. But I’ve always made it clear that I want to continue succeeding here (Real Madrid) even more than I already have, more than just winning two Champions Leagues, which is a lot at my age, but I want to win more. I’ve always said: As long as Madrid wants me, I’ll be here,” Rodrygo Goes said, via Diario AS.



Since the 2025-26 season began, Rodrygo Goes has found himself with limited opportunities at Real Madrid, starting just twice while Franco Mastantuono and Brahim Diaz have taken key roles. In eight games, he has contributed only two assists and hasn’t found the back of the net, casting doubt on his future with the team. Despite his desire to stay, his position on the roster remains uncertain.



<h2>Rodrygo Goes must overcome major competition for a place at Real Madrid</h2>



Unlike previous seasons, Xabi Alonso has assigned Rodrygo Goes a new role in the offense. Though his playing time has been limited, the 24-year-old star now has the opportunity to shine in his favored position, on the left wing. This change places him in direct competition with Vinicius Jr., which makes securing playing time challenging.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20251007_WST_595405_rodrygo-vini-1200x675_6b66c7e6.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="Real Madrid&apos;s Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo Goes" class="wp-image-582238" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes celebrate after Real Madrid’s goal vs. Manchester City in a 2023 Champions League match.</figcaption></figure>



Although Rodrygo has excelled as one of Real Madrid’s top right wingers, his natural affinity lies on the left—a position that once captivated elite clubs. Yet, Vinicius, a global standout, cemented his status as a premier left winger and a key leader during the team’s UEFA Champions League victory. For that reason, Goes faces a huge task: Earning himself a left winger spot in Xabi Alonso’s roster as Franco Mastantuono and Brahim Diaz already fill the right winger spot.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/not-vinicius-rodrygo-nor-endrick-star-faces-last-season-at-real-madrid-as-club-makes-final-decision-on-his-future/"></div>


Previous the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, head coach Xabi Alonso emphasized Rodrygo Goes’ pivotal role in his strategy. Despite limited playing time so far, the Brazilian star could become increasingly prominent as the season unfolds. The 24-year-old star faces immense pressure to capitalize on every moment on the pitch.

Rodrygo Goes finally breaks silence on his potential departure from Real Madrid

Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi? Former Real Madrid and PSG teammate Keylor Navas weighs in

Real Madrid star Federico Valverde addresses rumors of tension with coach Xabi Alonso: ‘I don’t hide’

Rodrygo Goes finally breaks silence on his potential departure from Real Madrid - World Soccer Talk

Following a turbulent season, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/ac-milan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AC Milan</a> took a bold step by appointing the seasoned Massimiliano Allegri as head coach. Under his leadership, the team has stabilized, suffering just one defeat in its first seven league matches. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/christian-pulisic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Christian Pulisic</a> has emerged as a pivotal figure. Although he missed a crucial penalty in the previous game, the team legend Alessandro Nesta quickly praised his significant contributions to the squad.



AC Milan legend Alessandro Nesta passionately praised Christian Pulisic for his significant impact on the team, skillfully brushing aside recent criticism. “Who in Italy has a player like Pulisic? He’s very strong, impressive: he can play wide, behind the striker, or in the box. He offers a lot of options and provides goals, assists, and runs. You can’t ask for more,” he said, via Gazzetta dello Sport.



Since the start of the 2025-26 <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/serie-a/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Serie A</a> season, Christian Pulisic has emerged as AC Milan’s key player, scoring four goals and providing two assists in just six games. His stellar performance has made him both the team’s top scorer and assist leader. However, the 27-year-old recently faced backlash for missing a crucial penalty against Juventus, leading to fans criticism.



Christian Pulisic has revitalized his career at AC Milan, becoming an indispensable player for every coach. After several lackluster seasons, the USMNT star now showcases his talent on a grand stage. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/video-milan-fans-reward-christian-pulisic-with-september-mvp-after-stellar-performances-his-numbers-prove-the-point/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">His standout performances earned him the title of MVP for September</a>, proving his tremendous value to the team.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20251007_WST_595353_christian-pulisic-ac-milan-juventus-1200x675_fc98e648.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="Christian Pulisic of AC Milan misses a penalty during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and AC Milan at Allianz Stadium on October 5, 2025 in Turin, Italy." class="wp-image-595201" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Christian Pulisic misses a penalty during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and AC Milan.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Christian Pulisic’s stunning resurgence at AC Milan is turning heads</h2>



Christian Pulisic burst onto the scene in 2016 with a stunning performance at Borussia Dortmund, quickly establishing himself as a promising talent. In 2019, Chelsea invested $73.1 million in him, hoping he’d fill the void left by Eden Hazard. Unfortunately, this period marked a slump in his form. However, his transfer to AC Milan has elevated him to his peak performance.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/christian-pulisic-makes-honest-admission-about-luka-modrics-impact-on-his-family-and-career-at-ac-milan/"></div>


His arrival at AC Milan stirred controversy, with fans skeptical of his impact. Yet, the 27-year-old quickly emerged as a team leader, posting career-best statistics. Before joining the Italian side, his standout season emerged at Chelsea featuring nine goals. Now, he is delivered back-to-back seasons surpassing ten goals, while also playing a crucial role in the team’s creative dynamics.

Christian Pulisic’s penalty miss didn’t stop this AC Milan legend Alessandro Nesta from praising him

Coach Allegri makes final decision on AC Milan’s penalty taker after Christian Pulisic’s miss vs. Juventus

Mauricio Pochettino sends strong message to Christian Pulisic about USMNT role after top form at AC Milan

Christian Pulisic earns major praise from AC Milan legend Alessandro Nesta despite his penalty miss - World Soccer Talk

Christian Pulisic earns major praise from AC Milan legend Alessandro Nesta despite his penalty miss

Daniel Villar Pardo is a trilingual journalist fluent in Spanish, English, and French. He specializes in soccer tactical analysis, providing real-time coverage of major events like the FIFA World Cup, MLS, LaLiga, UEFA Champions League, and Premier League. In addition, Daniel has extensive experience in photojournalism and has covered prestigious events such as Copa América, LaLiga, Liga Betplay Dimayor, Conmebol World Cup Qualifiers, and Liga Endesa. His ability to report across multiple languages enriches his coverage, making complex sports narratives accessible to a diverse global audience.

Daniel Villar Pardo

experience

education

interests

latest articles by daniel villar pardo

News

Lionel Messi breaks silence after Inter Miami’s Jordi Alba announces his professional retirement

News

Rodrygo Goes finally breaks silence on his potential departure from Real Madrid

News

Christian Pulisic earns major praise from AC Milan legend Alessandro Nesta despite his penalty miss