Sergio Busquets, the legendary midfielder and right-hand man to Lionel Messi, will retire at the end of Inter Miami’s 2025 MLS season. The 37-year-old has confirmed he will hang up his boots after a storied career at both Barcelona and with Spain.
Sergio Busquets, one of the most decorated and intelligent midfielders of his generation, is reportedly set to retire from football at the conclusion of the 2025 Major League Soccer season. The 37-year-old midfielder, who followed Lionel Messi to Inter Miami in 2023, will call time on a legendary career that spanned 15 years at Barcelona and saw him earn 143 caps for Spain.
Busquets’ Legendary Career Comes to an End
Busquets has confirmed that his time at Inter Miami will be his last, with the Spanish journalist Nacho Garcia of COPE reporting that he plans to retire once his current contract expires in late 2025. This decision comes as no surprise to those close to the player, as Busquets has previously hinted that he is “much closer to ending my career than to continuing it.” While no official announcement has yet been made, sources suggest that confirmation is imminent.
Busquets Creates Gap at Inter Miami
Busquets’ retirement marks the end of a truly historic career in football. For Inter Miami, it will signal the departure of a crucial Designated Player who, along with Messi and Jordi Alba, has formed the backbone of the club’s Barcelona-inspired project. His departure will undoubtedly create a significant gap in the midfield, but the expected renewal of Messi’s contract provides some stability as the club looks ahead to its future.
A Barcelona and Spain Legend
Busquets’ journey began at Barcelona’s La Masia academy, where he quickly rose through the ranks to make his first-team debut under Pep Guardiola in 2008. Over the course of his 15-year career at Barcelona, he made 722 appearances—ranking him third in the club’s all-time list. Known for his exceptional vision, intelligence, and composure under pressure, Busquets became synonymous with Barcelona’s famous tiki-taka style of play.
With nine La Liga titles, three UEFA Champions League trophies, and countless other domestic and international honors, Busquets’ legacy is firmly etched in football history. He was also a key player in Spain’s golden generation, winning both the 2010 World Cup and the 2008 and 2012 UEFA European Championships.
Possible Return to Barcelona in Non-Playing Role
Rumors in Spain suggest that Busquets could return to Barcelona in a non-playing capacity, with opportunities in coaching or as an ambassador being considered. His deep ties to the club and unparalleled understanding of the game could make him an invaluable asset off the field.
Could Busquets Bow Out with MLS Glory
Busquets will be hoping to conclude his illustrious career in the most fitting way possible—by helping Inter Miami win their first-ever MLS Cup. Currently sitting fifth in the Eastern Conference, Miami’s chances of reaching the postseason remain strong, particularly with Messi continuing to produce moments of magic on the pitch. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Busquets and his team as they look to add another major title to his already packed trophy cabinet.
