Andres Iniesta has announced his retirement from football in an emotional farewell. The 40-year-old icon, forever remembered for his decisive goal in Spain’s 2010 World Cup triumph, was also a central figure in Barcelona’s iconic tiki-taka era, which mesmerized fans around the world.
Following an extraordinary 22-year career during which he won numerous accolades, including two European Championships and four Champions League titles, Iniesta bid farewell at an emotional ceremony held in an exhibition center in Barcelona on Tuesday.
“I never expected the day would come when I would have to say goodbye,” Iniesta said. “The tears I have shed in recent days are not tears of sadness but of pride, reflecting on the journey of a young boy whose dream was to play football, and who achieved it through hard work and passion.”
Iniesta began his senior career at Barcelona in 2002, amassing an impressive 674 appearances in the iconic Catalan jersey. “Wearing the colors of Barcelona and representing the club I cherish has been an extraordinary experience, and the connection I’ve made with its passionate supporters will forever be etched in my heart,” he reflected on his unforgettable journey. Since leaving Barcelona in 2018, Iniesta has played in Japan and recently displayed his skills in the UAE Pro League with Club Emirates.
Throughout his time at Barcelona, Iniesta secured an impressive nine La Liga championships and six Copa del Rey titles. Additionally, Iniesta played a crucial role in Spain’s football supremacy, contributing to their victories in the Euro Championships in 2008 and 2012, as well as scoring the winning goal in the 2010 World Cup final during extra time against Netherlands.
A legend of the game ❤
Andres Iniesta won it all 🏆 pic.twitter.com/KnOVnXHKcS
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) October 8, 2024
As he looks to the future, Iniesta has expressed a wish to stay connected to football, suggesting that he may pursue coaching opportunities down the line. He also plans to return to Barcelona at some point in his career.
“Those of you who know me know that I am quite stubborn in that sense, to do a great job. It won’t be behind the ball but in another place.” Iniesta said.
“I’d like to return to Barca at some point. Not just to say it, but because those who had so much influence, in one way or another, have to be there. When I can do what I did as a player in another role at the club, I’d be delighted.” he added.
Andres Iniesta honors
La Liga: 2004–05, 2005–06, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11, 2012–13, 2014–15, 2015–16, 2017–18
Copa del Rey: 2008–09, 2011–12, 2014–15, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18
Supercopa de España: 2005, 2006, 2011, 2013, 2016
UEFA Champions League: 2005–06, 2008–09, 2010–11, 2014–15
UEFA Super Cup: 2011, 2015
FIFA Club World Cup: 2009, 2011, 2015
J1 League: 2023
Emperor’s Cup: 2019
Japanese Super Cup: 2020
UEFA European Under-16 Championship: 2001
UEFA European Under-19 Championship: 2002
FIFA World Cup: 2010
UEFA European Championship: 2008, 2012
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
