Lionel Messi has sent an emotional message to his longtime teammate and close friend Jordi Alba after the Spanish full-back announced his decision to retire from football at the end of the 2025 Major League Soccer season.
Alba revealed his intention to hang up his boots despite having signed a contract extension with Inter Miami in May that would have kept him at the club until 2027. His announcement came as a surprise to many, including Messi, who was quick to express his heartfelt reaction.
“Thanks to you, Jordi. I’m going to miss you so much. After so much together, it’s going to feel strange to look to my left and not see you there,” Messi commented on Instagram. “Crazy how many assists you gave me all these years… Who’s gonna give me back passes now???”
Messi and Alba’s bond stretches back to 2012 when the left-back joined Barcelona after winning the UEFA European Championship with Spain. Over the next decade, the duo developed one of football’s most instinctive on-field partnerships.
Together, they enjoyed an impressive haul of five La Liga titles, five Copa del Rey trophies, three Spanish Super Cups, the 2014–15 UEFA Champions League, and the 2015 FIFA Club World Cup at Barcelona.
Messi and Alba’s story didn’t end in Catalonia. In 2023, the pair reunited at Inter Miami, helping the club win the Leagues Cup and then the Supporters’ Shield the following year.
As Alba prepares to bring his illustrious career to a close, both he and Messi will be hoping to crown their shared journey with one final triumph by helping Inter Miami the MLS Cup.
Alongside Alba, Sergio Busquets, another of Messi’s long-time teammate from Barcelona and now at Inter Miami, will also draw the curtains on his professional career at the end of the current MLS season.
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
