When the name Andres Iniesta comes before the eyes, the image of a sloppy footballer in the midfield comes to mind. One of the greatest midfielders of all time, Iniesta, is credited with changing the life of one club, Barcelona. After retirement from football, Iniesta himself said that Barcelona changed his whole life.
Barcelona witnessed the rise, success, crown in Iniesta’s football career. Growing up as a player, starting his journey to professional football, all at this club. Every grass at Camp Nou knows Iniesta’s contribution. The Spanish star also has no end of gratitude to his former club.
Iniesta has announced his retirement as a player for United Arab Emirates club Emirates. The midfielder announced his retirement on social media on Monday (October 7). The next day in an event in Barcelona, he spoke about various issues of his entire career.
“I’m lucky to be here today,” Iniesta said. I have come here after almost 30 years at a very important and special moment. La Masia changed me forever. I have no words to express my gratitude. It was a dream for me to come to Barca and I focused on fulfilling it. I could never divert my attention from what I wanted.’
“I was in the best time of the national team. I also want to remember Barça’s best time. Barça changed my life and Barça is everything to me. I can’t forget the players and coaches here (as teammates)’ – added the ‘Don Andres’ famous player.
Iniesta joined Barcelona’s academy at the age of 12 in 1996. Debut for main team in 2002. Then just move on. Along with Lionel Messi, Xavi, Carlos Puyol, Gerard Pique established himself as the best of the best.
Iniesta played a total of 674 matches for the Barcelona first team. In addition to scoring 57 goals, he scored 135 goals with his teammates. For the Catalan club, he won 4 Champions League, 9 La Liga, 6 Copa del Rey, 3 Club World Cups and a total of 32 titles.
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