"Alba and Messi first started playing together at Barcelona before making their way to Inter Miami in the summer of 2023 to continue sharing the field. While in Spain, Messi and Alba lifted five LaLiga trophies, one Champions League title and five Copa del Rey cups together. They continued making history on the field when joining Inter Miami, lifting the 2023 Leagues Cup and 2024 Supporters' Shield alongside each other before setting the league record for most points recorded in a single season."
"The duo repeatedly connected in the final third to inspire Inter Miami to victory, with Messi most recently setting up Alba for a goal against the New England Revolution on Oct. 4 in the team's 4-1 triumph. Overall, Alba has provided Messi with 33 assists during their careers. Only three other players -- Luis Suárez (60), Dani Alves (42), and Andrés Iniesta (37) have served Messi more."
"Alba revealed his decision with a video to his personal Instagram account. "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," commented Messi on the post. "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?""
Jordi Alba announced his retirement from professional football at the end of the 2025 Major League Soccer season via a video on his personal Instagram account. Lionel Messi paid tribute, saying he will miss Alba and lamenting the loss of Alba's trademark passes. Alba and Messi first played together at Barcelona and reunited at Inter Miami in 2023, winning multiple domestic and international trophies including five LaLiga titles, a Champions League, the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters' Shield. Alba provided Messi with 33 career assists, and Messi now faces upcoming seasons without longtime teammates including Sergio Busquets.
Read at ESPN.com
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