He redefined football, Andrés Iniesta. The 40-year-old officially bowed out of the game on Monday by announcing his retirement at an event in Barcelona. And while players and clubs worldwide sent him notes of praise, one club, in particular, paid a rare congratulatory tribute.
On Tuesday, Real Madrid released a heartfelt tribute to the Spaniard who once beat them to nine La Liga titles, more than half of his career for the Blaugrana first team. Iniesta also scored Spain‘s most memorable goal, the extra-time winner in 2010, to win the World Cup.
“Following Andrés Iniesta’s announcement that he will retire from professional football, Real Madrid CF, its president and its Board of Directors would like to express their recognition, admiration, and affection for one of the great legends of Spanish and world football,” the statement reads.
Andrés Iniesta has contributed to the greatness of the sport with his football and his values, beyond the numerous titles he has won during his career. His iconic goal in the final of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa will remain forever in the memory of all Spanish fans. Real Madrid wishes him and his family the best of luck in this new stage of his life.”
Iniesta is among the few players ever to receive a standing ovation from the Real Madrid faithful. During the 2015-2016 season, the midfielder produced a masterclass in Barca’s 4-nil El Clasico win.
During his illustrious career, Iniesta played against Los Blancos 38 times in La Liga, Champions League, Copa del Rey, and the Supercopca. The maestro’s record in those clashes was 16 wins, ten draws, and 12 losses.
It’s impossible to dislike the humble Barcelona legend who combined elegance, extreme technique, and balletic mastery on the pitch. He also played his entire senior career, totaling 1,016 games, without ever receiving a red card.
It’s worth mentioning that Real Madrid stayed mum after Barca and Spain legend Xavi retired in 2019. In addition to the 2010 World Cup, Xavi and Iniesta won two Euros together and combined for four Champions League titles, seven La Liga titles, and three Copa del Rey trophies. Will Iniesta emulate his legendary midfield teammate by coaching next?
The Incredible Legacy of Andrés Iniesta
- Joined FC Barcelona’s youth academy La Masia at the age of 12 in 1996.
- Accumulated 674 first-team matches during his time at Barcelona.
- Played a key role in helping the club secure:
- 9 La Liga championships
- 4 UEFA Champions League titles
- After departing Barcelona in 2018, he signed with Vissel Kobe in Japan:
- Instrumental in the team winning:
- J1 League championship
- Emperor’s Cup
- Japanese Super Cup
- Represented Spain 131 times, making his senior debut in 2006.
- Participated in:
- 4 FIFA World Cups
- 3 UEFA European Championships
- Scored the decisive goal in the 2010 World Cup Final against the Netherlands, marking Spain’s first World Cup victory.
- Contributed to Spain’s Euro success:
- 2008 UEFA European Championship
- 2012 UEFA European Championship
