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

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Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami celebrates with Jordi Alba #18.
© Carmen Mandato/Getty ImagesLionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami celebrates with Jordi Alba #18.

After joining Inter Miami 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 Lionel Messi to leave a heartfelt comment on his post.

On his Instagram profile, Jordi Alba 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.

jordi alba trophy

Jordi Alba of Spain poses for a photograph with the UEFA Nations League trophy.

Jordi Alba leaves a long-lasting legacy in soccer history following his retirement

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 FC Barcelona. 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.

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How many trophies has Jordi Alba won? Complete trophy list with Barcelona, Inter Miami, and Spain

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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.

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