Former captain of Spain and FC Barcelona, Sergio Busquets, has announced his retirement from professional football, with his final appearances scheduled for the end of the Major League Soccer (MLS) season in December. This momentous occasion signifies the closing chapter of an outstanding career that has left a profound impact on both club and international football landscapes.
At 38 years of age, Busquets has amassed an extraordinary collection of accolades during his remarkable 18-year stint with Barcelona, where he achieved a staggering 32 major titles. His trophy cabinet includes nine La Liga championships and three prestigious UEFA Champions League trophies, reflecting his vital role in one of the most dominant periods in football history.
On the international front, Busquets has proudly represented Spain on 143 occasions. He was an integral part of the national team that captured the FIFA World Cup in 2010, as well as the UEFA European Championship title in 2012. Known for his exceptional football intelligence, tactical awareness, and ability to dictate the rhythm of a game, he has been a key figure in ensuring both his club and country enjoyed significant success.
In 2023, Busquets made the move to Inter Miami, where he had the opportunity to team up with former Barcelona legends Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suarez. This iconic reunion not only revitalized the team but also brought renewed interest and excitement to MLS, drawing global attention to the league.
In a touching video message shared on social media, Busquets expressed his feelings about this pivotal moment in his life. He remarked, “I feel like the time has come to say goodbye to my career as a professional footballer. It has been nearly 20 years filled with wonderful experiences that I always dreamed of.” He conveyed a sense of joy and fulfillment with his journey, stating, “I’m retiring very happy, proud, fulfilled, and above all, grateful. Thank you all very much, and see you soon.”
Busquets’s football journey began when he joined Barcelona’s youth setup in 2005. His rise through the ranks was meteoric as he progressed to the club’s B team before making his senior debut under the guidance of the esteemed manager Pep Guardiola in a league match against Racing Santander in 2008. Over the course of his career, he made an impressive 722 appearances for the club, placing him third on the all-time list for most appearances in Barcelona’s illustrious history.
His international career kicked off in 2009, and Busquets became a stalwart in the national lineup, eventually retiring from international football in December 2022 as the country’s third-highest appearance holder. As he approaches his final matches with Inter Miami, the team secured their playoff position with an impressive 4-0 victory over New York City FC on Wednesday, solidifying their place in the postseason.
The MLS playoff series is set to commence on October 22, culminating with the highly anticipated MLS Cup on December 6. As Sergio Busquets transitions from an active player to a revered figure in football history, the sport celebrates his remarkable contributions, legacy, and the inspiration he has provided to countless fans and aspiring footballers around the globe. His departure will undoubtedly be felt within both the football community and beyond, as he leaves behind a rich legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
World of sports 
Leave a comment