One of the greatest players from Spain who graced the pitch, Spain and Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta is set to retire from professional football at the age of 40. The midfielder, hailed as one of the most influential players in football history, will officially reveal his decision during a ceremony scheduled for October 8.
A stellar career at Barcelona
A product of Barcelona’s renowned academy, ‘La Masia,’ Iniesta made 674 appearances for the senior team, netting 57 goals and providing 135 assists for the Blaugranas. With the Catalonian club, he lifted the Champions League trophy four times, the Copa del Rey six times, and won La Liga nine times. The midfielder was instrumental in the Champions League-winning team in 2009, where in the final he scored the winning goal for FC Barcelona.
Andres Iniesta’s playing style
Andres Iniesta’s playing style closely resembled that of Lionel Messi, marked by outstanding dribbling skills, intelligent assists, and gifted playmaking abilities. His ability to navigate tight spaces and create opportunities for teammates made him an influential player in Barcelona’s success.
Andres Iniesta’s goals and records
| Club/ National Team | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barcelona | 674 | 57 | 135 |
| Vissel Kobe | 134 | 26 | 25 |
| Emirates | 23 | 5 | 1 |
| Spanish National Team | 131 | 14 | 30 |
Iconic moments with Spain
Iniesta has 131 caps for the Spanish national team and is best remembered for scoring the World Cup-winning goal against the Netherlands in the 2010 final in South Africa. Known fondly as ‘Don Andres,’ he has recorded 14 goals and 30 assists in international competitions. He was a key player in Spain’s Euro Cup victories in 2008 and 2012. He played his last match against Russia in the FIFA World Cup 2018, where Spain lost in the round of 16.
Stint with Vissel Kobe after European football
After a legendary 22-year career at Barcelona, Iniesta ventured to Japan to play for J-League club Vissel Kobe, where he made 134 appearances, scored 26 goals, and registered 25 assists. He also enjoyed a one-year spell with the UAE club Emirates, where he featured in 23 matches.
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