Sergio Busquets to retire after MLS season

Sergio Busquets announces retirement at the end of MLS season

Spanish midfield maestro Sergio Busquets has confirmed he will retire from professional football following the conclusion of the Major League Soccer (MLS) season this December. The 38-year-old, currently playing for Inter Miami, has enjoyed a storied career spanning nearly two decades, leaving an indelible mark on club and country.

From Barcelona academy to global football icon

Busquets joined Barcelona's youth academy in 2005 at just 17 years old, quickly rising through the ranks to make his first-team debut under Pep Guardiola in 2008. Over 18 seasons with the Catalan giants, he made 722 appearances — the third highest in the club's history — and won 32 major trophies. His haul includes nine La Liga titles and three UEFA Champions League victories, cementing his status as one of football's all-time great defensive midfielders.

Key role in Spain's golden era

Internationally, Busquets was a mainstay in Spain's midfield for over a decade. Making his debut in 2009, he earned 143 caps and was instrumental in Spain's historic triumphs at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2012 European Championship. By the time of his international retirement in 2022, he was Spain’s third most capped player.

Joining Inter Miami and reuniting with former teammates

In 2023, Busquets made the move to MLS, joining Inter Miami where he reunited with several former Barcelona teammates, including Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba and Luis Suarez. This high-profile signing boosted the club’s profile and helped them secure a convincing 4-0 victory over New York City FC, sealing their spot in the MLS play-offs.

MLS play-offs and Busquets' final chapter

The MLS play-offs, commencing on 22 October and culminating with the MLS Cup on 6 December, will mark the end of Busquets’ playing career. Fans and pundits alike are eager to see the veteran midfielder’s influence in the final stages of the season as he bids farewell to professional football.

Busquets' legacy on and off the pitch

Throughout his career, Busquets was lauded for his intelligence, tactical awareness, and ability to control the tempo of games. Unlike flashy forwards, his style was understated yet crucial — breaking up opposition attacks and initiating Barcelona’s fluid passing game. His professionalism and humility have also set a standard for younger players worldwide.

His retirement marks the end of an era, but his influence continues to inspire emerging talents across Europe and now North America. Aspiring footballers studying his techniques can learn much about positioning, reading the game, and maintaining consistency at the highest level.

What Busquets' retirement means for football fans and MLS

Busquets’ decision to hang up his boots after the MLS season highlights the growing appeal of American soccer as a destination for elite European talent in their twilight years. This trend enhances MLS’s competitiveness and global visibility, attracting fans and players alike.

For Spanish football enthusiasts, losing a player synonymous with their golden era evokes nostalgia but also pride. Busquets' career achievements stand alongside other legends who have shaped modern football’s development.

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Final thoughts on Busquets’ career and retirement

Sergio Busquets leaves behind a legacy defined by loyalty, excellence, and leadership. His journey from La Masia academy prodigy to a global football icon epitomises dedication and success. As he closes the chapter on his playing days, the football community eagerly anticipates his next steps, whether in coaching, punditry, or mentoring future stars.

His farewell message echoed gratitude and fulfilment: “I’m retiring very happy, proud, fulfilled, and above all, grateful.” For fans across continents, Busquets’ career will remain a benchmark of professionalism and passion in the beautiful game.