Exactly. I would prefer an inline image though. It's simpler and less prone to implementation mistakes. When decorative, alt can be left empty. When informational, use alt text. From a front-end perspective: object-fit can replace background-size just fine, also easier to use responsive images.

Hi! I'd say: decorative background images shouldn't have alt text. CSS background images can be hidden in several circumstances, and shouldn't be the only means of conveying information. If an image has meaning, it probably shouldn't be a background image. Inline decorative images should use alt=""