Sergio Busquets, one of football’s most respected and celebrated midfielders, has officially announced that he will retire from professional football at the end of the current Major League Soccer (MLS) season.

The 37-year-old player made this announcement on September 25, 2025, through his club, Inter Miami. Busquets’ decision marks the end of an illustrious career that has spanned nearly two decades and has seen him achieve remarkable success both at the club and international levels.

Early Life and Rise to Football Stardom

Sergio Busquets was born in Sabadell, Spain, a city near Barcelona. From a young age, he demonstrated an exceptional talent for football. His dedication and skill earned him a spot in FC Barcelona’s youth academy, La Masia, which is renowned for producing world-class players such as Lionel Messi,

Xavi Hernandez, and Andres Iniesta. Busquets’ development at La Masia allowed him to master the technical and tactical aspects of the game, particularly in midfield, where he would later become a controlling force for his teams.

Busquets’ first-team debut for Barcelona came in 2008, when he quickly impressed coaches and fans alike. His intelligence on the field, excellent passing ability, and capacity to read the game distinguished him from other players.

Early in his career, he was recognized for his defensive contributions, often intercepting passes and breaking up the opposition’s attacks. Over time, Busquets evolved into a complete midfielder, combining defensive discipline with the vision to initiate attacks, making him a central figure in Barcelona’s gameplay.

Dominance at FC Barcelona

Throughout his 18-year tenure at Barcelona, Sergio Busquets became a cornerstone of the club’s success. He made over 700 appearances and contributed to numerous victories, helping Barcelona achieve an era of dominance in both Spanish and European football.

Some of his most notable achievements include winning nine La Liga titles and three UEFA Champions League trophies. His partnership with midfield legends like Xavi and Iniesta allowed Barcelona to control games with precision and fluidity, often overwhelming opponents with tactical brilliance and teamwork.

Busquets’ style of play was characterized by calmness under pressure, quick decision-making, and exceptional positional awareness. He was able to dictate the pace of games, a skill that made him invaluable in high-stakes matches. Coaches and teammates often praised his leadership, as he consistently provided guidance and stability in midfield, helping younger players integrate into the team’s system and maintain composure in critical moments.

International Career with Spain

In addition to his club success, Sergio Busquets had a remarkable career with the Spanish national team. He earned 143 caps and played an integral role in some of Spain’s greatest football achievements. He was part of the squad that won the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, where Spain’s midfield dominated matches and outclassed opponents. Busquets’ ability to intercept passes and launch attacks was crucial in Spain’s possession-based style, which became widely admired.

Busquets also contributed to Spain’s victories in the UEFA Euro 2012 tournament, further cementing his reputation as one of the finest midfielders of his generation. Known for his intelligence, anticipation, and ability to maintain control under pressure,

Busquets was often described as the backbone of Spain’s midfield. His calm presence and tactical understanding allowed Spain to play fluid, possession-oriented football while minimizing defensive risks.

Move to MLS and Reuniting with Former Teammates

In 2023, after concluding his career at Barcelona, Sergio Busquets made a move to Major League Soccer, joining Inter Miami in the United States. This transition marked a new chapter in his career, as he brought his experience, skill, and leadership to a developing soccer environment in North America.

At Inter Miami, Busquets reunited with former Barcelona teammates, including Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suárez. The reunion not only rekindled on-field chemistry but also generated excitement among fans who had followed their careers in Europe.

Busquets’ move to MLS also demonstrated his willingness to embrace new challenges while continuing to play at a competitive level. Despite being in the later stages of his career, he remained a vital contributor on the field, guiding his team with his vision, intelligence, and composure. His presence elevated Inter Miami’s midfield and allowed the club to compete effectively in domestic competitions.

Achievements in Major League Soccer

Since joining Inter Miami, Busquets has been a key figure in the team’s successes. He helped the club win the Leagues Cup and the Supporters’ Shield, showcasing his ability to influence games even outside of Europe. His leadership and experience proved invaluable in high-pressure situations, enabling Inter Miami to perform consistently throughout the season.

In addition to his contributions on the field, Busquets has served as a mentor to younger players, sharing insights from his years at the highest levels of football. His work ethic, professionalism, and understanding of the game have left a lasting impression on his teammates and coaches, contributing to the overall growth and development of the club.

Retirement Announcement and Reflection

Sergio Busquets announced his retirement in a heartfelt message that reflected on his career and expressed gratitude to fans, teammates, and coaches. In a video posted on Instagram, he stated:

This announcement signifies the end of an era, not just for Busquets personally, but also for the teams and fans who have admired his contributions over the years. His humility, leadership, and consistent excellence have earned him respect across the football world, making his retirement a significant moment in the sport.

Legacy and Impact on Football

Sergio Busquets leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations. His style of play revolutionized the defensive midfield role, demonstrating that intelligence, positioning, and decision-making can be as impactful as physical ability. Coaches and analysts often cite Busquets as the model for a modern midfield pivot, capable of dictating the rhythm of a game while contributing defensively.

At Barcelona, his combination with Xavi and Iniesta became iconic, helping define one of the most successful and aesthetically admired football teams in history. Internationally, his role in Spain’s World Cup and European Championship victories highlighted the importance of a disciplined, tactically aware midfield in achieving team success. Busquets’ influence extends beyond statistics, as his contributions were often subtle but essential to the functioning of his teams.

Personal Attributes and Leadership

One of Busquets’ most notable qualities was his leadership. On and off the pitch, he exemplified professionalism, calmness under pressure, and a commitment to team success over personal glory. Younger players have cited him as a role model, learning from his approach to preparation, teamwork, and strategic thinking. His leadership was often quiet but effective, guiding teammates through challenging moments and ensuring that teams maintained their focus and discipline.

Fans and Cultural Impact

Busquets’ retirement has also resonated with fans worldwide. Supporters in Spain, Europe, and North America have praised his dedication, vision, and humility. He became a symbol of footballing intelligence, showing that success does not always rely on flashy plays but on consistency, awareness, and strategic execution. Merchandise, social media tributes, and fan celebrations are already honoring his career, reflecting the global admiration he has earned.

Looking Forward

As Sergio Busquets retires at the conclusion of the MLS season, the football world will remember him as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation. While he will no longer appear on the field, his impact will continue through coaching influences, mentorship, and the example he set for aspiring players. His career demonstrates that football excellence can be achieved through intelligence, discipline, and teamwork, inspiring future generations to approach the game with the same dedication and insight.

Inter Miami will need to adjust to life without Busquets, but his influence will remain in the club’s culture and playing style. Young players who trained and played alongside him will carry forward his lessons, ensuring that his legacy is woven into the fabric of the team’s future.