Messi, the GOAT in Alba’s eyes, and a bittersweet MLS farewell

Messi, the GOAT, according to Alba

Spanish veteran Jordi Alba, former Barcelona stalwart and current Inter Miami player, has publicly lauded Lionel Messi as the greatest footballer in history. The two shared long chapters at Barcelona and have reunited in the United States with Inter Miami, strengthening a bond that transcends leagues.

Alba’s remarks come as he maintains a close on-field connection with Messi, highlighting the special chemistry that defined their Barcelona years before sweeping into MLS together.

News also places Alba in a moment of transition: the 36-year-old has announced his decision to retire at the end of this season, mirroring teammate Sergio Busquets’s plan to end his professional journey as well.

In quotes reported by AS, Alba recalled the first decisive pass he delivered to Messi at Osasuna, a moment he says encapsulated their understanding: “From then on, I think we understood each other well, and our timing in passing and linking up remains effective, whether it looks good or not.” He added that he feels honored to have played with the best player in history and to share a superb on-pitch understanding that produced many of his goals.

“I am very happy and honored to have played with the best player in history, and to have such a wonderful understanding on the pitch. He created most of my goals, and it has been a privilege to play beside him for so many years,” Alba noted, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to continue alongside Messi for as long as possible.

Video credit to Getty Images accompanies the coverage of their collaboration and the broader MLS context.

Alba’s remarks touched on the emotional weight of leaving Barcelona, a club he cherishes deeply, even as he defers to his current commitment with Inter Miami for the remainder of the season. He stated the decision, though difficult, was made with full bodily and footballing honesty and confidence in his future plans beyond the pitch.

“I renewed my contract in May, but time has run its course. I informed the club a few weeks ago; it’s a well-considered decision from a physical and sporting standpoint. I still feel good, but I’ve weighed everything and believe this is the fairest choice.”

He also hinted at other ventures and admitted missing Barcelona, vowing to give his best until season’s end. He stressed that while he has a contract with Inter Miami, personal decisions are not bound by obligation and ultimately rest with his own judgment.

Retirement statement

Alba later released a video on Instagram announcing his retirement, explaining his intention to close a pivotal life chapter and step away from professional football at season’s end in MLS.

“Hello everyone, it’s time to close a significant chapter in my life. I have decided to end my career as a professional footballer at the end of this MLS season,” he said, adding that the move is made with full conviction, satisfaction, and happiness. He thanked teammates, coaches, staff, rivals, and clubs that shaped his life, particularly Valencia, Barcelona, and Inter Miami, while acknowledging the support of family and loved ones.

Alba reflected on the clubs that helped forge his journey—from the early days at Valencia and Barcelona to his MLS chapter with Inter Miami—emphasizing the immense gratitude he feels for every moment and memory.

“Football has given me everything,” he concluded, underscoring how the sport will always be a central part of his life. His career tally includes about 700 matches, 51 goals, 135 assists, and a trove of titles with Barcelona and Inter Miami, as well as European and domestic trophies with the clubs he represented. Inter Miami had extended Alba’s contract to 2027 before he opted for retirement, signaling the end of a remarkable era.

Alba’s farewell bookends a landscape of change in MLS and world football, where legends depart but memories endure, and new stars await to pick up the baton from the likes of Messi and Alba.

Retirement and reflections on a glittering career

As Alba closes this chapter, the focus shifts to the enduring bond with Messi, the lessons learned, and the door opening to new pursuits off the field. His story remains a reminder that football is as much about relationships and moments as it is about records and trophies.

Final stats and milestones aside, Alba’s career leaves an imprint on fans and teammates alike: a left-back who stood tall beside some of the game’s greatest names and helped Inter Miami carve out a historic MLS moment, even as the player himself begins a new life beyond the pitch.