Sergio Busquets Announces Retirement After Legendary Barcelona and Inter Miami Tenure

Sergio Busquets Announces Retirement After Legendary Barcelona and Inter Miami Tenure

On September 25, 2025, Sergio Busquets posted a heartfelt video to Instagram, letting fans know he will retire after the 2025 MLS season. The 37‑year‑old Spaniard, a World Cup winner and one of the most respected defensive midfielders of his generation, summed up a career that stretched across 718 competitive matches and spanned three continents.

A Storied Journey with Barcelona

Busquets entered La Masia at the age of 12, quickly catching the eye of coaches with his calm presence on the ball. He broke into the first team in 2008 and, over the next 18 seasons, logged more than 700 appearances—making him the third‑most‑capped player in the club’s history, trailing only Xavi Hernández and Lionel Messi. His consistency earned him the nickname "the silent engine" because he rarely grabbed headlines, yet his influence was unmistakable.

Under Pep Guardiola, Busquets formed the midfield triangle that would become the foundation of Barcelona’s most dominant era. Paired with Xavi and Andrés Iniesta, he provided the positional discipline that let Messi roam freely. In that period Barcelona captured:

• 9 La Liga titles
• 3 UEFA Champions League trophies
• 7 Copa del Rey championships
• 3 UEFA Super Cups
• 3 FIFA Club World Cups

His skill set—precise passing, tactical intelligence, and an uncanny ability to read the game—allowed him to break up opposition attacks while initiating his own side’s forward moves. Even as the physical demands of the modern game intensified, Busquets adapted by honing his positioning, proving that football intelligence can outweigh raw athleticism.

Final Chapter in MLS

In the summer of 2023, Busquets opted for a new challenge, signing with Inter Miami. The move reunited him with former Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi and gave the MLS franchise a seasoned professional to guide younger talent. Busquets described the experience as "a new and evolving club where I could contribute and learn," highlighting his desire to give back to the sport beyond personal glory.

During his time in Miami, he helped the team secure its first major trophy, the 2024 Leagues Cup, and mentored emerging midfielders on the nuances of ball retention and spatial awareness. His presence also boosted ticket sales and global interest, underscoring the growing pull of the American league.

Beyond the pitch, Busquets has been active in charitable initiatives, supporting youth football programs in both Spain and the United States. He has spoken often about the importance of humility, crediting his teammates, coaches, and family for shaping his outlook.

Tributes poured in across the football world after his announcement. Former rival Sergio Ramos praised him as "one of the most brilliant midfielders" he ever faced, emphasizing Busquets' "class, vision, and authentic nature." FC Barcelona simply labeled him "a legend," reminding fans that the club’s modern identity was built on the steadiness of players like him.

When asked about his feelings heading into his final season, Busquets said, "I am retiring feeling joyful, proud, fulfilled, and above all, grateful. Every end is a new beginning." His words capture the quiet confidence that defined his playing style, and they set the tone for what fans can expect in his farewell matches.

As the MLS calendar ticks toward its 2025 climax, the football community will watch Busquets' last appearances with a mixture of nostalgia and admiration. The story of a lanky youngster from Sabadell who rose through Barcelona's youth ranks, lifted a World Cup, and ended his journey in the United States exemplifies the global reach of the beautiful game.

For anyone searching the web today, the headline Sergio Busquets retirement will dominate the sport’s news feeds, reflecting a career that set the standard for the modern defensive midfielder.