Alba Reflects on Messi, Yamal, and Transitioning from Football

Jordi Alba, who enjoyed many memorable years alongside the legendary Argentine at Camp Nou and now shares a club with him at MLS side Inter Miami, has consistently regarded Messi as the pinnacle of football talent.

At just 18, Yamal is demonstrating the potential to follow a similar trajectory. After making his senior debut at the age of 15, the young left-footed forward has already broken several records. His ability to maneuver past defenders and his exceptional goal-scoring instincts naturally draw comparisons to Messi.

However, Alba is keen to avoid such discussions. In an interview with El Larguero, he emphasized the presence of other talented players at Barcelona, stating, “I think he’s a great player, but there are others at Barca, like Pedri, Gavi, [Frenkie] de Jong. And I’m leaving out many. I think comparing him to Leo… there’s no comparison, but that’s because Leo has no rival.”

As Alba prepares to part ways professionally with Messi, he reflects on the future. Messi recently signed a new three-year contract with Inter Miami, while Alba has announced his decision to retire following the 2025 MLS Cup playoffs.

The 36-year-old full-back explained his choice, saying, “Honestly, physically I could have lasted another year or two. But due to how I’ve felt, especially at the beginning of the season, and because of new projects on the horizon… It’s a well-considered decision, and I’m very clear about it. I’ll miss football, but I’m happy with what I’ve been able to achieve. I still enjoy the matches, but the day-to-day grind and traveling every week is harder. The enthusiasm you have at 20 years old fades. When you have a family, it shows.”

Alba also mentioned Sergio Busquets, who is on a similar path toward retirement. He remarked on Busquets’ situation: “His retirement? Obviously, these decisions are very personal. We’ve discussed the circumstances we faced throughout the year. Each of us needs to make our own decision. I’m fortunate to share a team and friendship with him; our families also have a solid bond and live very close to each other.”

Luis Suarez, another former Barcelona star, is still contemplating his immediate future. The Uruguayan striker has been battling knee issues but continues to find the back of the net as he approaches his 39th birthday in January.

Alba commented on Suarez’s potential plans, saying, “There he is, the guy. I don’t know if he has a contract for years, but it’s ultimately everyone’s personal decision. It’s not just about changing teams anymore; it’s about retiring from football, something you’ve done your entire life. I’ll be sad, but it hasn’t been hard for me. I’ve accepted it and I’m taking it calmly.”

Rumors suggest that Messi and Suarez could potentially revive their celebrated ‘MSN’ trio with Neymar in 2026, as the Brazilian superstar nears the end of his contract at Santos and heads toward free agency.

Such a move to Florida would undoubtedly attract significant attention, possibly overshadowing Yamal’s achievements in Europe. Nevertheless, the promising teenager seems destined for greatness himself, with some speculating he could surpass Messi’s remarkable collection of Ballon d’Or trophies. Yamal recently finished second in the 2025 Golden Ball voting, trailing Ousmane Dembele, but he has ample time to carve out his own legacy—unlike Alba and Busquets.