“In light of Andrés Iniesta‘s announcement about his retirement from football as a professional player, Real Madrid CF, its president and its Board of Directors want to show their recognition, admiration and affection for one of the great legends of Spanish and world football. .
“Andrés Iniesta has contributed with his football and his values to making this sport great, beyond the numerous titles won during his career. His iconic goal in the final of the World Cup in South Africa in 2010 will forever remain in the memory of all Spanish fans,” reads the white club’s statement.
André Iniesta burst into tears when officially announcing his retirement from the fields at a press conference at the old IMAX cinema in Barcelona’s Port Vell.
“I suppose you will allow me to get emotional today. But they are tears of emotion, of pride, not of sadness. They are the tears of that boy from Fuentealbilla who had the dream of being a professional footballer.
“And I achieved it, with a lot of work and a lot of effort… of never giving up, essential values in my life. “I feel very proud of this path, with all the people who have accompanied me,” said Manchego.
About 450 people attended the event, including his former Barcelona teammates such as Xavi Hernández, Gerard Piqué, Deco, Sergi Roberto, Marc Bartra and Sergi Samper.
The current Barça coach Hansi Flick, the footballers Gavi, Ronald Araújo, Ansu Fati and Dani Olmo, and the Blaugrana president Joan Laporta also attended.
Andrés Iniesta is hanging up his boots at 40 years old and after playing for FC Barcelona, Vissel Kobe in Japan and the Emirates Club in the United Arab Emirates.
Manchego leaves the fields after winning 32 titles with Barcelona: nine Spanish Leagues, four Champions Leagues, seven Spanish Super Cups, six Copas del Rey, three European Super Cups and three Club World Cups.
With the Spanish team he won two European Championships and the 2010 World Cup in South Africa thanks to his goal in extra time (116′) against the Netherlands.
The End of an Era: Andrés Iniesta Announces Retirement
The football world was recently abuzz with the news of Andrés Iniesta’s retirement from professional football. The 40-year-old Spanish midfielder, who spent 22 years of his life at Barcelona, has decided to hang up his boots, marking the end of an illustrious career.
According to reports, Iniesta has announced his retirement after spending over two decades in the sport, with a majority of that time spent at Barcelona [[1]]. This news has sparked a wave of tributes and recognition from the football community, with even arch-rivals Real Madrid CF, its president, and its Board of Directors extending their admiration and affection towards the legendary player.
As a football enthusiast, it’s hard not to feel a sense of nostalgia upon learning of Iniesta’s retirement. He was a true genius on the pitch, known for his exceptional skill, vision, and creativity. Iniesta’s ability to control the game, create chances, and score crucial goals made him an invaluable asset to any team he played for. His legacy extends far beyond the numerous trophies and accolades he won during his career, with many regarding him as one of the greatest midfielders of all time.
Sky Sports’ Adam Bate paid tribute to Iniesta, describing him as a “genius whose ability was about more than trophies and stats” [[2]]. This sentiment is echoed by many fans and pundits alike, who recognize Iniesta’s impact on the sport and his enduring influence on the game.
Iniesta’s retirement serves as a reminder of the impermanence of a player’s career. As he bids farewell to the sport he loves, the football world will undoubtedly miss his presence on the pitch. However, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans, cementing his status as one of the all-time greats.
As the news of Iniesta’s retirement spreads, fans and football enthusiasts alike are taking to social media to share their favorite memories of the legendary player. Sky Sports Football recently shared a video on Facebook confirming Iniesta’s retirement [[3]], which has sparked a flurry of tributes and well-wishes from fans around the world.
As we bid farewell to Andrés Iniesta’s playing career, we remember the countless moments of magic he brought to the pitch. His dedication, passion, and love for the game have inspired us all, and his retirement marks the end of an era.
