Andrés Iniesta, the Spanish midfield maestro who helped define an era of dominance for both Barcelona and Spain’s national team, is set to announce his retirement from professional football at the age of 40.
Iniesta hinted at the upcoming announcement in a social media post on Tuesday, writing “Coming soon 8/10/24” alongside an anticipation video on his X (formerly Twitter) account.
The diminutive playmaker’s career, spanning over two decades, saw him emerge from Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy to become one of the most decorated players in football history. Iniesta amassed an astounding 35 trophies during his 22-year stint at Barcelona, including nine La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League crowns.
On the international stage, Iniesta played a pivotal role in Spain’s golden era, contributing to victories at UEFA Euro 2008 and 2012, as well as scoring the winning goal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup final against the Netherlands.
Pep Guardiola, then Barcelona captain, famously told Xavi about a young Iniesta, “You’re going to retire me. This lad is going to retire us all,” highlighting the prodigious talent evident from an early age.
Iniesta’s exceptional ball control, vision, and composure earned him praise throughout his career. FIFA.com described his style: “It is in this position that his direct style and quick feet can be used to full effect, with the ball seeming glued to his toes as he races into threatening positions.”
After leaving Barcelona in 2018, Iniesta continued his career in Japan with Vissel Kobe before a brief stint with UAE Pro League club Emirates.
As the football world prepares to bid farewell to one of its most revered players, Iniesta’s legacy as a complete midfielder who could “attack and defend, create and score,” in the words of former Spain manager Vicente del Bosque, remains secure.
The official announcement, expected on October 8, will mark the end of an era in global football, with Iniesta’s retirement closing a chapter on a generation of Spanish players who revolutionized the game.
