Andres Iniesta Makes Heartbreaking Decision for His Fans
Barcelona and Spain legend Andres Iniesta is set to announce his retirement from professional football at the age of 40.
WHAT HAPPENED?
The iconic midfielder was most recently playing for Emirates Club in the UAE. Before that, he spent five years with Vissel Kobe in Japan, following his unforgettable spell at Camp Nou, which ended in 2018.
THE BIG PICTURE
Iniesta, who came through Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy alongside stars like Lionel Messi, Xavi, and Sergio Busquets, made 674 appearances for the Catalan club. During his time at Barca, he helped the team win nine La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies.
DID YOU KNOW?
Iniesta earned 131 caps for Spain, winning two European Championships and the 2010 World Cup. He became a football icon with his dramatic extra-time goal in the final against the Netherlands. A player who defined an era, Iniesta is now ready to retire.
WHAT WAS SAID?
According to Relevo, Iniesta will announce his retirement on October 8, a date chosen to match his favorite shirt number. There had been rumors of a reunion with Messi and Busquets at Inter Miami, but the former Barca star will not be heading to MLS.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR INIESTA?
Iniesta is focused on transitioning into coaching. He has never hidden his desire to return to Catalonia. He previously said, “I would like to return to Barca at some point in my life because I feel that way. However, I don’t know when or how, and neither does anyone else. We’ll see how things go in the meantime and then figure out where we stand.”
