Alba on Yamal’s Spark and Messi’s Unmatched Legend: Retirement Beckons for a Barcelona Icon
20 November 2025
Backdrop
Jordi Alba, once a Barcelona star and now with Inter Miami, spoke openly about his plan to retire at the end of the season and about a possible administrative role at Barcelona in the future. He keeps a light tone about the move, promising a new chapter with a smile.
Messi, Yamal, and the Benchmark
In a radio interview Alba described Lionel Messi as a special case and the best in history. He said Messi still owns the keys of Camp Nou, and Alba plans to watch matches with his family while hoping Messi receives the recognition he deserves for the exit that surprised many fans.
Alba explained that he could have stayed for one or two more seasons, but wanted to leave when the moment felt right. He enjoys football, but the daily spark you have in your twenties gradually fades. He has achieved enough and is ready to turn the page.
Regarding the departure from Barcelona, Alba said that leaving was not a joint decision with Busquets and Suarez; each of them chose their path independently. It was not just changing teams but ending a whole life phase.
On the comparison with the rising talent Amin Yamal, Alba made clear that he sees Yamal as wonderful, and that Pedri and Frankie de Jong are also excellent, but Messi cannot be compared to anyone. No one comes close to him.
He also spoke about Messi leaving Barcelona, a moment he still sees as tough. They learned about it through the press and he hopes Messi receives the tribute he deserves.
Alba addressed Spain criticism, saying he built a beautiful career, won many trophies, and stayed consistent on the numbers. He added that his candid personality sometimes brought problems, but over time he stopped caring about what people say.
Beyond the pitch, Alba is excited about his Lorca Hospital project with Tiago Alcantara. It is a city focused venture to move the club and the city toward professional levels. They work hard and face details they did not expect, hoping to take the club forward.
Asked about a future move into sports management at Barcelona beside Messi and Busquets, Alba left the door open. Why not? He does not see himself as a coach, but administration could be a fit.
Career snapshot. Alba played around 700 matches and scored 51 goals with 135 assists. He won many titles with Barcelona and two with Inter Miami, including six La Liga titles, four Spanish Super Cups, five Copa del Reys, one Champions League, one UEFA Super Cup, and one Club World Cup. He also earned a Fan Shield and MLS Cup with Inter Miami and international honors with Spain like Euro 2012 and the Nations League 2023.
Inter Miami extended his contract to 2027 as part of a broader plan that teams Alba with Busquets, Messi, and Suarez at the club after their Barca exits.
On Busquets, Mascherano explained that the other Barcelona stalwart told him about retirement a day before; he remains a player with significant experience and weekly influence. Mascherano said Busquets has the qualities to be a great coach in time.
Alba and Busquets joined Inter Miami after Barca to play again with Messi and Suarez, completing a circle in the story of the club and its legends.
Punchlines ahead. A touch of humor to end: when Alba retires, even his football boots will demand a pension plan. If Messi ever needs a bench warm, Alba guarantees a seat with a lifetime warranty on talent, not on trophies. And if retirement ever feels like a red card, remember there are still plenty of sunny days for a Spaniard who loves the game.
