Messi Reflects on the Retirement of Busquets and Alba

Sergio Busquets, at the age of 37, has announced his intention to retire at the conclusion of Inter Miami’s MLS Cup playoff run. This decision did not come as a surprise to Lionel Messi, as the two had previously discussed Busquets’ future. In contrast, Jordi Alba, who is 36, revealed his retirement plans unexpectedly, without prior discussion.

During a recent visit to Barcelona, Messi expressed to SPORT that playing without either Busquets or Alba will feel “very strange,” given their long-standing collaboration over the years.

“The truth is, it was very strange, especially in Jordi’s case, as we weren’t anticipating it. With Busi, we had been having conversations, and he was already considering his future. However, Jordi’s announcement came as a shock; it happened quite suddenly. He informed us one day in the locker room that he was going to announce his retirement, which took us all by surprise,” Messi explained.

All three players joined Inter Miami in 2023 and have been instrumental in establishing the club as a prominent contender within Major League Soccer. Their accomplishments include winning the Leagues Cup and the Supporters’ Shield, with hopes of clinching the MLS Cup next month.

Messi remarked, “It’s a shame because, beyond our enjoyment on the pitch, we are also good friends. We embarked on this Miami journey together from the start, and now we see that our time is dwindling. Being from the same generation, we have shared our entire careers together, and it has been wonderful to experience these final years side by side.”

Messi, who has grown up alongside Busquets and Alba at Barcelona, has no immediate plans for retirement, recently extending his contract until 2028. This new agreement will keep him active in soccer beyond his 41st birthday. Currently, he is content with his performance and has no intention to walk away from the sport.

“I am happy with how these years have unfolded. As long as I can physically perform and feel good, I will continue to compete, strive for victories, and give my all. The moment I realize that I’m not physically capable, that I’m struggling on the field, or that I’m not enjoying it anymore, that will be the time to retire. But right now, I am enjoying my time and feeling good,” he added.

It is anticipated that Messi may consider retiring from international football following the 2026 World Cup, especially since he has already achieved all possible accolades with the Argentina national team.