(Las Rojas de Madrid) Spanish defender Jordi Alba has decided to end his international career at the age of 34 after more than a decade and 92 appearances for the national team, the Spanish Football Federation announced on Friday.
The Catalan left-back, formerly of Barca and now in the United States where he plays in MLS with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami, was captain of “La Rosa” in the Nations League last June following their final win against Croatia. on penalties (5-4).
Alba made his international debut in 2011. He scored nine goals in 92 matches, including the Euro 2012 final (4–0) won by Spain against Italy. He has played in a total of three World Cups and three European Championships.
In a press release, the Spanish federation expressed its “endless gratitude” to him.
Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente paid tribute at a press conference on Friday to a player who is “part of the history of Spanish football” and “leaves an unforgettable legacy for younger generations”.
“He will continue to play football and achieve great things,” said the coach of the men’s team, presenting a new list of players for qualifying matches for Euro-2024.