The legendary midfielder Andrés Iniesta has recently been playing in the UAE with Emirates Club, after a five-year stint in Japan with Vissel Kobe. His move to Japan came following his departure from Barcelona in 2018, where he had an unforgettable career at Camp Nou.
Iniesta, a product of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy—alongside stars like Lionel Messi, Xavi, and Sergio Busquets—played 674 games for the Blaugrana, contributing to their success with nine La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies.
On the international stage, Iniesta earned 131 caps for Spain, helping his country win two European Championships and the 2010 World Cup. His decisive extra-time goal against the Netherlands in the final of that tournament remains one of football’s iconic moments. Now, at 40, the evergreen playmaker is ready to retire.
According to Relevo, Iniesta plans to announce his retirement on October 8, a date that corresponds with his iconic shirt number. There had been speculation about a potential reunion with Messi and Busquets at Inter Miami, but a move to MLS is not in the cards.
Instead, Iniesta is shifting his focus toward coaching, a career path he’s been vocal about pursuing. He has expressed a desire to eventually return to Barcelona, stating: “Of course I’d like to return to Barca someday, but I don’t know when or in what capacity. We’ll see how things evolve over time.”
Andrés Iniesta
SpainAndrés Iniesta has not played yet in this season. Last season he played in total 20 times for 1593 minutes for .
Emirates performance and stats
Emirates is currently 13th in the with 14 points.
In the last 26 games, it has won 4 times, drew 5 times, and lost 17 times. In its last match, Emirates lost 2-3 against Al Ain.
It has a negative goal difference after scoring 25 goals and conceding 48.
