Jordi Alba, the seasoned Spanish defender, expressed his genuine surprise regarding the competitive level and unexpected demands of Major League Soccer, challenging previous perceptions about the league after joining Inter Miami.
Inter Miami defender Jordi Alba has expressed his genuine surprise regarding the standard of Major League Soccer, stating that the league is far more robust than he initially anticipated upon his arrival in 2023.
The former FC Barcelona star announced his decision to retire at the close of the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs, stepping away despite having signed a contract extension earlier in the year.
The 36-year-old, who has thrived alongside former teammates Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets, confirmed his decision to retire in the fall, noting that he had started “to notice feelings that I hadn’t noticed before” and that “day-to-day life was starting to get hard.”
However, Alba was quick to praise the competition, which he is currently navigating in the playoffs. His biggest surprise was the physical nature of the game in North America, a key factor he highlighted in a recent interview with SPORT.
“I’ve been pleasantly surprised, honestly, by the level of MLS. It’s growing tremendously,” he said. “They’ve brought in big-name players and especially young players. Physically, I think it’s a very good league.”
Alba also reflected on the uncertain timing of his final game, noting the difference from European football:
“In Europe, you know when your last match will be, but not here, because you can leave at any moment, unless we reach the final. I’m enjoying this final stretch with a lot of intensity, with my teammates, especially the matches, because I know they’re going to be my last.”
He aims to conclude his career with an MLS Cup title alongside Busquets before focusing on new off-field projects.