Spain and Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta retires, aged 40

Andrés Iniesta, one of the most iconic footballers of all time, has officially retired from playing at the age of 40. Widely celebrated for his technical brilliance and midfield partnerships with Xavi Hernandez and Sergio Busquets at both Barcelona and the Spain national team, Iniesta leaves a lasting legacy.

The Spanish legend earned 131 caps for his country, playing a pivotal role in Spain’s golden era. He famously scored the winning goal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup final, helping Spain claim their first-ever world title. Iniesta also won two European Championships with Spain in 2008 and 2012.

Por tu fútbol, por tus valores, por darnos nuestra ⭐️.

Simplemente 𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗦 por TANTÍSIMO, @andresiniesta8.

ℹ️ https://t.co/YIZOiWpizJ #VamosEspaña pic.twitter.com/wzhtpqoxa8

— Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) October 8, 2024

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At a retirement event in Barcelona, an emotional Iniesta expressed his gratitude for a career filled with achievements. “Being on the pitch is over,” he said. “I can’t stay away from football, it’s my life and will continue to be my life.” He confirmed plans to pursue a career in coaching.

Iniesta spent the majority of his illustrious 22-year career at Barcelona, where he rose from the famed La Masia academy to become a club legend. During his time at Barça, he won an impressive 29 titles, including nine La Liga championships and four UEFA Champions League trophies. His dramatic stoppage-time equalizer against Chelsea in the 2009 Champions League semi-final remains one of the most unforgettable moments in the competition’s history.

After leaving Barcelona in 2018, Iniesta joined Japanese side Vissel Kobe, before moving to UAE Pro League club Emirates in 2023. His individual accolades include being a runner-up in the 2010 Ballon d’Or and being named in the FIFA FIFPro World 11 for nine consecutive years from 2009 to 2017.

Iniesta’s retirement marks the end of a glittering career, with his influence on and off the pitch set to continue as he transitions into coaching.