Sophia
Inter Miami midfielder Sergio Busquets, a figure synonymous with midfield mastery, is widely expected to conclude his illustrious professional career at the close of the current season, according to reports emanating from Spain.
The 37-year-old Spanish legend, whose trophy cabinet is brimming from his storied tenures with Barcelona and the Spanish national team, has reportedly been contemplating retirement for some time. Should Inter Miami navigate the playoffs and reach the MLS Cup final, his swansong could extend until December 6th.
Athlon Sports
A Legacy Forged in Catalonia
Busquets carved out his legend during 15 trophy-laden years at Barcelona, where he was plucked from the B team by his idol, Pep Guardiola. He seamlessly integrated into arguably the most accomplished midfield trio in football history, alongside Andrés Iniesta and Xavi Hernández.
His understated brilliance quickly caught the eye of none other than Lionel Messi, who, after just three training sessions, told Guardiola: “I like this one. When there is trouble, he will be there.” This early endorsement foreshadowed a partnership that would span 13 years at Camp Nou before their reunion in Miami.
Sports Illustrated
Impact in Miami: A Rapid Ascent
Upon his arrival in Miami two years ago, Busquets quickly became a cornerstone of the Inter Miami squad. In just his seventh appearance, he helped the club secure its first-ever trophy, the 2023 Leagues Cup, a testament to his immediate and profound influence.
The 2024 season saw Busquets amass more minutes than any other outfield player as Inter Miami clinched the Supporters’ Shield. However, illness hampered his playoff performance, limiting him to a late cameo as Atlanta United unexpectedly eliminated the Herons in the first round.
The Final Chapter?
Despite being 37, Busquets has remained a pivotal figure in Javier Mascherano’s side this term, even captaining the team in Messi’s absence. However, reports from Spanish journalist Naco García, corroborated by AS, indicate that his retirement is expected after Miami’s final match of 2025.
There were suggestions that Busquets considered retirement after this year’s Leagues Cup. However, the contentious conclusion to Miami’s 3-0 defeat to Seattle Sounders in the final, which saw Busquets involved in an incident with 20-year-old Obed Vargas, would have provided an unceremonious end to a glittering career.
While the immediate future holds either potential glory or a bittersweet farewell for Busquets, his place among the pantheon of legendary midfielders is unequivocally assured.
A Midfielder’s Midfielder: The Unsung Hero
Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi eloquently captured the profound respect Busquets commands, even years after his peak. “Us pivotes [defensive midfielders] have the bad luck that maybe we don’t get recognized but if you understand football you know Busquets’ value,” Zubimendi told
The Guardian.
“We’ve normalized him playing well so much we don’t always appreciate him. He’s set the bar so high that pivotes are asked to do things we weren’t before.”
While Lionel Messi is expected to remain in Miami, Busquets’ departure will undoubtedly leave a significant void in the heart of the Herons’ midfield, marking the end of an era for one of football’s most intelligent and influential players.
