Lionel Messi issues emotional response as Barcelona legend announces retirement

Lionel Messi has hailed Jordi Alba after the Barcelona great and now Inter Miami star announced his retirement with the Argentine joking about the amount of assists he has provided over their time playing together.

Alba confirmed the decision to call time on his career at the end of the 2025 MLS season with a video to his Instagram account. The Spaniard is one of several former Barcelona stars to have played out their twilight years with the Florida franchise.

Alba, Messi, Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets all won the Champions League together in 2015 whilst playing for the Catalans and have all ended up in the United States. Alba came through the ranks at the Nou Camp, but had to leave to initially pursue his ambitions.

After impressing at Valencia he was signed just as Pep Guardiola left in 2012 and went on to play 459 times for Barcelona. He combined with Messi numerous times and the World Cup winner has paid tribute to his team-mate.

He replied to his Instagram post by saying: "Thanks to you, Jordi. I am going to miss you a lot. After many things together, it's going to feel strange to look to my left and not see you there. It's crazy how many assists you've given me over all these years. Who is going to give me those passes from behind now?"

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Across the course of their time together Alba has provided Messi with 33 assists. Only three other players - Luis Suarez, Dani Alves and Andrés Iniesta - have laid on more goals for the Argentine superstar.

While in Spain, Messi and Alba won five La Ligas, five Copa del Reys and the Champions League together. After reuniting at Inter Miami they landed the 2023 Leagues Cup and 2024 Supporters' Shield. They also set the league record for most points recorded in a single season.

A host of tributes have come Alba's way following his announcement. Former Barcelona team-mates Neymar and Suarez, both issued their congrats. "Brother, what to say. You're a crack, to enjoy what's left," said the Uruguayan. "You are huge, brother. Big hug folleti" commented Neymar.

Alba also landed 93 caps for Spain after making his debut in 2011. The full-back scored in the Euro 2012 final win over Italy as the Spanish continued their dominance of international football.

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