After securing 93 international caps, Jordi Alba stands as the third captain in Spain’s history to lift the UEFA Nations League, adding another chapter to a storied career that already includes the 2012 European Championship. He has spent thoughtful moments considering the possibility of closing his Spain chapter and continuing at the club level, rather than extending his time with the national team.
Alba will not appear on the selection list led by head coach Luis de la Fuente on Friday after the federation confirmed its decision. The move is not tied to any recent controversy within the federation or to presidents or officials, and it marks a clear separation from the episodes that have dominated discussions around federation leadership in recent times.
The left back has contemplated this switch since the Nations League triumph. Even though he is 34, he believes the sport must see younger players step forward, especially on the international stage. He understands that stepping aside could be beneficial for both the national team and himself, allowing the next generation to grow while he pursues new challenges.
His decision to pursue a transfer to Inter Miami further complicates his availability for Spain. Travel demands, longer league commitments, and the timing of Major League Soccer windows all influence international duty. Should he stay aligned with the national team, Alba would miss at least two upcoming fixtures, including qualifiers against teams such as Georgia and Cyprus for the 2024 Eurocup campaign.
Responsibility
Joining Inter Miami follows a life change that includes fatherhood, a factor that deepens his sense of responsibility. Alba recognizes the need to stay connected with his new teammates and help integrate the club’s evolving identity while carrying the spirit of the Spain shirt onto the field.
While this news may be difficult for the national team setup, the coaching staff will handle it with pragmatism. The former Barcelona ace was a trusted presence during the Final Four, and his experience remains a valuable asset for the squad as they consider future selections. In the mix, coaches must weigh options, including Balde, Alba’s potential successor at left-back, alongside other talents from Real Madrid, Villarreal, and Valencia.
Jordi Alba is poised to leave the national team as one of the game’s enduring legends. With two major titles under his belt and leadership that teammates relied upon, the defender from L’Hospitalet will depart with the kind of acknowledgment every era hopes to receive from the country it represents. His legacy is defined not only by trophies but by the standard he set in training rooms, on the pitch, and in moments of high pressure that tested a squad’s character.