Andrés Iniesta Retires from Professional Football at 40

Andrs Iniesta, the legendary Spanish midfielder, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 40. Iniesta, widely regarded as one of the most influential midfielders in football history, will formally announce his decision in a ceremony on October 8.

Illustrious Career with Barcelona

Iniesta is a product of Barcelonas renowned academy, La Masia. He featured 674 times for the senior team, scoring 57 goals and providing 135 assists. During his time with Barcelona, he won 32 trophies, including nine La Liga titles, four Champions League titles, and six Copa del Rey titles.

International Achievements

Iniesta had a stellar international career with Spain, earning 131 caps and scoring 14 goals with 30 assists. He is best known for scoring the World Cup-winning goal against the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final. In addition to the World Cup, he won two European Championships with Spain in 2008 and 2012, where he was named Player of the Tournament in 2012.

Post-Barcelona Career

After his 22-year career with Barcelona, Iniesta moved to Japan to play for J-League side Vissel Kobe, where he played 134 matches, scoring 26 goals and providing 25 assists. Following his stint in Japan, he had a one-year period with UAE-based Emirates FC, making 23 appearances for the club.

Iniestas retirement marks the end of an era for a player who has been celebrated for his exceptional skill, vision, and humility on the pitch. He is fondly known as Don Andrs and is remembered for his pivotal role in some of the most significant moments in Spanish and Barcelona football history.