Busquets, 37, announced his decision on Instagram following Inter Miami’s qualification for the Major League Soccer play-offs.
The midfielder, who joined the club in 2023 after leaving Barcelona, said: “I feel that the time has come to say goodbye to my career as a professional soccer player.
“It has been almost 20 years enjoying this incredible story that I have always dreamed of. A heartfelt thank you to everyone, and to football, for everything. You will always be a part of this beautiful story.”
Inter Miami paid tribute in a statement, saying: “Since joining Inter Miami CF in 2023, Busquets has been instrumental in the club’s continued growth, contributing his vision and quality in midfield, as well as his experience and leadership, and playing a role in winning both the Supporters’ Shield and the Leagues Cup.
“The team now looks forward to his contribution in the push for its objectives during the final stretch of the campaign, which will bring to a close an extraordinary career that saw him claim numerous titles and accolades with FC Barcelona and the Spanish National Team, earning recognition as one of the greatest midfielders in football history.”
Busquets rose through Barcelona’s La Masia academy and spent 18 years with the Catalan club, winning nine La Liga titles, seven Copa del Reys and the Champions League on three occasions.
His emergence under Pep Guardiola was central to the development of the tiki-taka style that dominated European football in the late 2000s and early 2010s.
He won 137 caps for Spain, playing a crucial role in their 2010 World Cup triumph and 2012 European Championship victory.
Pep Guardiola said of him: “Busquets was the best, able to read everything that happens and anticipate situations. He didn’t move a lot, only in the centre, but he could solve any problem with his brain. It was fascinating to work and learn with him.
“I said it in private but… I think he will be an exceptional coach.”
At Inter Miami, Busquets has been reunited with former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba and Luis Suárez, and is expected to play his final games alongside them as the MLS season continues through to December.
