Sophia
Inter Miami and Spain legend Sergio Busquets has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the conclusion of the current Major League Soccer (MLS) season. The 37-year-old midfielder, a linchpin of some of football’s most dominant teams, confirmed his decision via a heartfelt social media post on Thursday, bringing an end to a glittering nearly two-decade-long career.
Busquets had previously hinted that the 2025 season would be his last, with his contract at Inter Miami set to expire. The news, though anticipated, still marks a significant moment for the sport, as one of its most intelligent and decorated players prepares to hang up his boots.
A Farewell Message from a Legend
In an emotional Instagram post, Busquets reflected on his journey, stating, “I feel that the time has come to say goodbye to my career as a professional soccer player. It has been almost 20 years enjoying this incredible story that I have always dreamed of.”
“These will be my last months on the pitch. I’m retiring very happy, proud, fulfilled, and, above all, grateful. A heartfelt thank you to everyone and to football for everything. You will always be a part of this beautiful story.”
His message resonated deeply with fans and former teammates, underscoring the profound impact he has had on the game.
Chasing More Silverware with Inter Miami
Busquets’ final months promise to be action-packed. This season, he has been a pivotal figure for the Herons, registering 10 assists in 45 appearances across all competitions. His immediate focus will be on securing a second consecutive Supporters’ Shield and, crucially, guiding Inter Miami to their first-ever MLS Cup title. The prospect of ending his career with another major trophy, alongside former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Jordi Alba, adds a compelling narrative to his swansong.
An Unparalleled Career of Dominance
Few players in the modern era can boast a trophy cabinet as extensive and impressive as Busquets. His tenure at FC Barcelona was nothing short of legendary, where he made 722 appearances, scoring 18 goals and providing 46 assists. More significantly, he was the silent architect behind a remarkable 34 trophies, including:
- Three FIFA Club World Cups
- Three UEFA Champions Leagues
- Nine La Liga titles
On the international stage, Busquets earned 143 caps for Spain. He played an instrumental role in Spain’s historic 2010 FIFA World Cup triumph and the 2012 European Championship, where he played every minute. His presence was central to the “tiki-taka” style that revolutionized football, influencing generations of players and coaches worldwide.
The Midfield Maestro: A Statistical Overview
Busquets’ career is defined not just by quantity, but by the quality of his contributions. He formed arguably the greatest midfield trio of a generation alongside Barcelona and Spain teammates Andrés Iniesta and Xavi, dictating play with unparalleled precision and vision.
Here’s a snapshot of his remarkable trophy haul:
| Trophy | Team | Year(s) |
|---|---|---|
| FIFA World Cup | Spain | 2010 |
| UEFA European Championship | Spain | 2012 |
| FIFA Club World Cup | FC Barcelona | 2010, 2012, 2016 |
| UEFA Champions League | FC Barcelona | 2009, 2011, 2015 |
| La Liga | FC Barcelona | 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2023 |
| UEFA Super Cup | FC Barcelona | 2009, 2011, 2015 |
| Copa del Rey | FC Barcelona | 2009, 2012, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2021 |
| Spanish Super Cup | FC Barcelona | 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2018, 2022 |
| Leagues Cup | Inter Miami | 2023 |
| MLS Supporters’ Shield | Inter Miami | 2024 |
The “Invisible” Genius Praised by the Best
While not known for flashy goals or dazzling runs, Busquets’ genius lay in his unparalleled ability to read the game, break up play, and distribute the ball with surgical precision. His quiet dominance often went unnoticed by casual observers, but his influence was profound and deeply appreciated by those who understood the nuances of the game.
Former Spain head coach Vicente del Bosque famously championed Busquets’ inclusion in the 2010 World Cup squad, despite initial doubts. Del Bosque’s words perfectly encapsulate Busquets’ unique qualities: “If I could be a player now, I’d like to be like Busquets. He can play.” This sentiment highlights the respect and admiration he garnered from football’s elite.
The Final Chapter: MLS Cup Dreams
After retiring from international football in 2022 and departing Barcelona in 2023, Busquets joined Inter Miami, reuniting with his former Barcelona compatriots. He quickly made an impact, helping the club secure the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, adding two more significant trophies to his already impressive collection, bringing his total to 36.
Now, with just five regular-season games remaining, Busquets is poised to lead Inter Miami into the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs. The club has never advanced past the first round, making this campaign a historic opportunity. The stage is set for a fitting farewell, with Busquets attempting to cap his “beautiful story” by lifting the MLS Cup alongside his lifelong teammates and friends.
