'It’s been a gift and a pleasure' - Sergio Busquets, Raphinha, FC Barcelona and Riqui Puig lead tributes as Inter Miami's Jordi Alba announces retirement

Inter Miami CF v New England Revolution

Sergio Busquets, Riqui Puig, and FC Barcelona led the tributes to Jordi Alba after the Inter Miami full-back announced he will retire at the end of the MLS season. The 35-year-old’s decision marks another emotional moment for the club’s famed Barcelona core, with Alba set to join longtime teammate Busquets in closing out a remarkable chapter that bridged La Liga and MLS.

Inter Miami CF v New England Revolution

Busquets' message to Jordi

Following Alba’s unexpected retirement announcement - news that took much of the football world by surprise - several figures have reacted to the player’s decision, including Busquets, who will also retire at the end of the current MLS season.

“Congratulations, Jordi, on your incredible career. It’s been a gift and a pleasure to share so many moments together on and off the pitch. I wish you all the best and, as always, to keep sharing family moments together. We love you so much, family,” wrote Busquets on his Instagram account while reposting Alba’s video.

Tributes from around the world

Other players who paid tribute included Barcelona star Raphinha, who wrote, “An honor and a pleasure to share the field and the locker room with you”; LA Galaxy’s Riqui Puig (“Gracias por todo, folleti”); San Jose striker Josef Martínez (“Hermano, gracias, crack!”); former Real Madrid defender Nacho Fernández (“Jordi!!!! ❤️👏”); and former Barcelona winger Gerard Deulofeu (“Gracias!! ❤️”). Current Inter Miami teammates Tadeo Allende and Marcelo Weigandt also joined in honoring him.

FC Barcelona shared a message on social media as well, writing: “A unique full-back, a Barcelona legend. Thank you, Jordi.”

Inter Miami CF v New England Revolution

Alba by the Numbers

The Spaniard leaves behind a record of a true football legend, with 459 matches played for FC Barcelona and 110 for Valencia in all competitions. With the Herons, he’s made 95 appearances, nearing the 100 mark. As a player, he won the Euro 2012 with Spain, the UEFA Champions League, LaLiga six times, the FIFA Club World Cup, and the Copa del Rey, among other titles.

Atlanta United is next...

Inter Miami will host Atlanta United next Saturday in the final stretch of the MLS season.