Andres Iniesta breaks down in tears as he delivers emotional retirement message
Andres Iniesta has brought to an end a glittering career that saw him represent Barcelona, Vissel Kobe and Spain and the World Cup winner let the emotions get the better of him
by Daniel Orme · The MirrorAndres Iniesta choked back tears after confirming his retirement at the age of 40.
The iconic former midfielder has finally hung up his boots after a glittering career, the majority of which he spent with boyhood club Barcelona. He made over 670 appearances for the Catalan giants, winning countless trophies.
And he announced his intention to retire during an emotional event in Barcelona surrounded by former bosses and teammates. “Please allow me to be a little emotional today,” a tearful Iniesta said.
“I never thought this day would come. I never imagined it. Yes, all these tears we have shed these days are tears of emotion, of pride. They are not tears of sadness.
“They are tears of that boy from a small town like Fuentealbilla, who had the dream of being a footballer and we achieved it after a lot of hard work, sacrifice … of never giving up, essential values in my life. I feel very proud of this path, with all the people who have accompanied me.”
Iniesta initially left Barcelona in 2018 after a hugely successful stint with the Spanish club. The Catalan giants gave him a huge send-off ahead of the midfielder’s move to Japanese side Vissel Kobe.
And he claims that it ranks among his career highlights. He added: “The last game with Barça was one of the most spectacular I’ve ever played. I was flying, I remember it as it was.
“Of course, it crosses your mind, before I leave, after… My idea was to retire at Barça, but the situation and the moments. Barça need you to give 300 percent and I felt that it was not going to be possible.
Is Andres Iniesta the best midfielder of all time? Share your thoughts in the comments below
“I left at a time when the memory for Barça fans is fantastic. A player who leaves at an impressive moment and that will remain forever.”
He spent five years in Japan, helping Vissel Kobe to the 2023 J1 League title ahead of a move to UAE side Emirates Club. But Iniesta insists that a return to the Camp Nou has always been on his mind.
“I would like to return to Barça at some point in my life,” Iniesta said. “I think we have had so much influence and with so many years at this club in one way or another they have to be.
“The moment I can feel that I can contribute what I did as a player in other roles, I would be delighted. If I’m a coach one day it will be the Iniesta profile, like any other.”
Asked which managers had made the biggest impression on him, Iniesta refused to answer that question but did have a special mention for ex- Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal. He said: “I couldn’t single out any coach above any other, but I can’t forget Louis van Gaal.
“I want to highlight his courage and his confidence to follow the path. Barça changed my life and it has been everything to me. I can’t forget the players, people who made it unique.”
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Sky Sports deal
Sky Sports launches 'lowest price' Premier League package
£43 (was £52)
Sky has slashed the price of its Sky Sports, Sky Stream, Sky TV and Netflix bundle in an unbeatable new deal that saves £216 and includes 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
With Ultra HD included at no extra cost, football fans can enjoy the 2024/25 season with crystal clear picture quality.