Sergio Busquets Advocates for Global Expansion of Football Amid Career Transition

Sergio Busquets, a midfielder for Inter Miami, has voiced his aspirations for the global expansion of football by advocating for LaLiga matches to be held in international markets. However, he emphasizes the importance of establishing clear conditions and conducting thorough negotiations before committing to any specific games.

Previously, LaLiga canceled plans for a regular-season match between Villarreal and Barcelona at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, primarily due to backlash from supporters and players in Spain. This decision was ultimately made by Relevent, the league’s partner in the North American market.

Busquets remarked, “I believe many aspects are being misinterpreted. The players are not against the idea; what they seek are clear conditions and transparency in negotiations. They want to understand what lies ahead, much like anyone else would.”

He added, “It cannot be that two teams are selected arbitrarily without anyone being informed about the conditions or the future implications. I believe it is beneficial for the sport and the league, particularly, to expand globally, as long as there is consensus and it fosters growth for all parties involved.”

As Inter Miami faces FC Cincinnati on Sunday in the Eastern Conference semifinal at TQL Stadium, Busquets is acutely aware that he may be approaching the end of his professional playing career. The upcoming match adopts a knockout format, differing from the first round of the MLS playoffs.

“Since the announcement, I’ve been conscious that my time is limited. This competition is entirely playoff-based, and the risk of elimination looms large at any moment. I have come to terms with it; I am enjoying the experience and am eager to extend my journey for a couple more games. That would be a positive sign and a fitting farewell. My focus is on the upcoming match against Cincinnati, which is crucial, yet I am also aware that my career’s conclusion is near. I feel at peace with that, as I have accepted it, “Busquets shared.

Inter Miami advanced to the knockout round of the 2025 MLS playoffs after overcoming Nashville SC in the first-round series. Despite initially leading the best-of-three series, Nashville evened the score, necessitating a decisive third match that could have marked Busquets’ final appearance.

Now, the midfielder continues to prepare for each game with a steady demeanor, irrespective of the possible consequences of defeat. “As always, I remain calm and have accepted everything. As I mentioned earlier, two more games would be ideal. I experienced a similar scenario just two weeks ago, and honestly, I have come to terms with it,” he explained.

Busquets joined Inter Miami in the summer of 2023 alongside his long-time teammates Jordi Alba and Lionel Messi. He celebrated the victory of the inaugural Leagues Cup in 2023, secured the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, and contributed to the club achieving a record for the most points in a single season. Now, he aspires to cap off his two-and-a-half-year tenure with the club by clinching one final trophy.