In an emotional Instagram video posted on September 25, 2025, Sergio Busquets confirmed that he will retire from professional football after the 2025 Major League Soccer season with Inter Miami CF. The 37‑year‑old thanked the clubs, teammates and the Spanish national side that shaped a career spanning almost twenty years, calling it “the club of my life” when referring to FC Barcelona.
Career Highlights
Busquets’ journey began in Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, where he honed the passing precision and tactical intelligence that would later define his role as a deep‑lying playmaker. A debut in 2008 thrust him into a Barcelona side transitioning under Pep Guardiola, and he quickly became the cornerstone of a midfield trio with Xavi and Andrés Iniesta.
- 9 La Liga titles (2008‑2019)
- 7 Copa del Rey trophies
- 3 UEFA Champions League crowns (2009, 2011, 2015)
- 3 FIFA Club World Cup victories
- 18 goals and 46 assists for Barcelona
- 722 official appearances for the club, third‑most in its history
On the international stage, Busquets earned 143 caps for Spain, ranking third behind Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos. He was a vital part of the 2010 World Cup‑winning squad and the Euro 2012 champions, providing the defensive stability that allowed Spain’s creative talents to flourish.
Farewell and Legacy
After moving to Inter Miami in July 2023, Busquets joined fellow Barcelona icons Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba, helping to raise MLS’s profile worldwide. In his retirement note, he praised the Miami club for offering “a new experience” and a chance to “contribute my part” to a growing franchise.
The reaction from the football community was immediate. Messi posted a heartfelt tribute, recalling sleepless nights spent training together and naming Busquets as “the engine that kept us moving.” Former rival Sergio Ramos described him as “one of the most brilliant midfielders I ever played with,” emphasizing his humility despite a career full of silverware.
FC Barcelona released an official statement, calling Busquets a “legend” and thanking him for “all the football” he gave to the club. The statement highlighted his status as a home‑grown player who achieved every possible accolade at the highest level.
Beyond the numbers, Busquets’ style reshaped the defensive midfield role. He combined a lanky frame with razor‑sharp positional sense, dictating tempo with simple yet incisive passes. Coaches lauded his ability to read the game before it unfolded, turning potential threats into controlled possession.
Looking ahead, Busquets hinted at staying involved in the sport, mentioning possible coaching badges and a desire to mentor young talent. He concluded his video with a hopeful note: “Every end is a new beginning,” leaving fans confident that his influence on football will continue off the pitch.
Post Comments