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Sports / Football

Spain defender Alba retires from international duty

Published: 01 Sep 2023 - 01:54 pm | Last Updated: 01 Sep 2023 - 01:56 pm
Jordi Alba #18 of Inter Miami CF controls the ball against Shaq Moore #18 of Nashville SC in the second half during a match between Nashville SC and Inter Miami CF at DRV PNK Stadium on August 30, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Megan Briggs/Getty Images/AFP

Jordi Alba #18 of Inter Miami CF controls the ball against Shaq Moore #18 of Nashville SC in the second half during a match between Nashville SC and Inter Miami CF at DRV PNK Stadium on August 30, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Megan Briggs/Getty Images/AFP

AFP

Las Rozas de Madrid, Spain: Spain defender Jordi Alba has retired from international football, the Spanish football federation said Friday.

The former Barcelona left back, now playing in the United States with Inter Miami, captained the team to UEFA Nations League glory in June.

Alba made his debut for Spain in 2011 and played 92 times for his country, scoring nine goals.

The 34-year-old netted for Spain in the Euro 2012 final win over Italy, helping La Roja retain the trophy.

"From the Spanish football federation, we have eternal gratitude for this brilliant path, thank you, Jordi," wrote the RFEF in a statement.

Spain have various alternatives to call on for the left-back spot including Barcelona's Alejandro Balde, who took Alba's place at club level.