Spain, Barca legend Iniesta set to retire at 40

At the age of 40, Andrés Iniesta, who is recognised as one of the best midfield players of all time, has made the decision to leave professional football.

The legendary Spanish player will formally declare his choice on October 8, capping off a remarkable career spanning more than 20 years.

Tuesday, Iniesta said on his X page, "Coming soon 8/10/24," with a video teaser.

At Barcelona's renowned La Masia academy, where he first started his football career, Iniesta made an immediate impression with his superb ball control, vision, and poise.

Xavi's skill was apparent from a young age, so much so that Pep Guardiola, the Barcelona captain at the time, famously told him, "You're going to retire me." This boy, Iniesta, is going to put us all to sleep.

Over his professional life, Iniesta has been lauded for his incredible technical abilities. As FIFA.com said, “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.”
Vicente del Bosque, his previous manager, called him "a complete footballer." He is able to create and score as well as attack and defend.

A tribute to Iniesta's skill on the pitch is his trophy case.

He collected an incredible 35 trophies in his 22 years with Barcelona, including nine La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League crowns.

He becomes the most decorated Spanish football player of all time with this incredible haul.

Iniesta was a key player in Spain's heyday on the international scene. He had a key role in Spain's wins in the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the UEFA Euro 2008, and the Euro 2012.

His game-winning goal against the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final will go down in football history forever.
Following their departure from Barcelona in 2018, Iniesta continued to showcase his skills in Japan with Vissel Kobe before a brief stint with UAE Pro League club Emirates.
Throughout his career, Iniesta was one of the most accomplished midfielders in football history thanks to his keen sense of timing and close control.