MLS Multiplex
Fansided

Jordi Alba: A Farewell to International Soccer and a New Journey in the United States

By Arthur Fernandes

CINCINNATI, OHIO - AUGUST 23: Jordi Alba #18 of Inter Miami plays during the first half of extra time in a U.S. Open Cup semifinal match against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on August 23, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/USSF/Getty Images for USSF)
CINCINNATI, OHIO - AUGUST 23: Jordi Alba #18 of Inter Miami plays during the first half of extra time in a U.S. Open Cup semifinal match against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on August 23, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/USSF/Getty Images for USSF) /
facebooktwitterreddit

Last Friday, news reverberated throughout the world of soccer: Jordi Alba, one of Spain’s most notable names, announced his retirement from international soccer. The Royal Spanish Football Federation confirmed what many had feared, bringing an end to an international career filled with achievements and memorable contributions.

With 93 appearances for the Spanish national team, 10 goals, and 22 assists, Jordi Alba leaves behind a legacy that will be hard to match. His journey included unforgettable moments, such as the UEFA Euro 2012 title, where his outstanding performance as a left-back was pivotal for Spain. Furthermore, in 2023, he had the honor of captaining Spain to victory in the UEFA Nations League.

Alba’s retirement marks the end of an era for Spain’s fans, who had grown accustomed to seeing him represent his country with dedication and passion. His participation in three FIFA World Cups (2014, 2018, 2022) and three European Championships (2012, 2016, 2020) solidified his status as one of the best left-backs of his generation.

CINCINNATI, OH – AUGUST 23: Jordi Alba #18 of Inter Miami CF takes a shot during a game between Inter Miami CF and FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on August 23, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Miller/ISI Photos/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OH – AUGUST 23: Jordi Alba #18 of Inter Miami CF takes a shot during a game between Inter Miami CF and FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on August 23, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Miller/ISI Photos/Getty Images) /

But, as they say, “when one door closes, another opens.” And so it happened with Jordi Alba, who quickly found a new home with Inter Miami CF, joining other former FC Barcelona teammates, including Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets.

Since their arrival in Miami, this trio has impressed everyone, winning the League’s Cup and securing a spot in the 2024 Concacaf Champions League. Additionally, they have the privilege of hosting the final of the U.S. Open Cup. These achievements in a short period of time showcase not only the individual talent of the players but also the synergy they have maintained over the years.

The challenge now is to lead Inter Miami CF to the playoffs of the 2023 Audi MLS Cup. For Alba, Messi, and Busquets, this represents a new opportunity to add another glorious chapter to their already legendary careers.

Jordi Alba’s retirement from international soccer is a sad milestone for the Spanish national team, which has lost one of its greatest icons. However, his journey in the United States offers soccer fans a reason to continue following his achievements and celebrating the legacy of a player who always gave his best for his country and will now do the same on American soil.

Home/Inter Miami CF