Real Madrid is among the few clubs that have honored Barcelona legend Andrés Iniesta, who announced his retirement from professional football today.
“In response to Andrés Iniesta’s announcement of his retirement from football as a professional player, Real Madrid C.F., 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.
Andrés Iniesta has contributed to making this sport great with his football and his values, beyond the numerous titles won during his career. His iconic goal in the final of the World Cup in South Africa in 2010 will remain forever in the memory of all Spanish fans.”
At a press conference on Tuesday, a tearful Iniesta expressed his emotions about retiring. “Please allow me to be a little emotional today… I never thought this day would come,” he said. “Yes, all these tears we have shed these days are tears of emotion, of pride.”
“They are not tears of sadness,” Iniesta continued. “They are tears of that boy from a small town like Fuentealbilla who had the dream of becoming a footballer.”
Iniesta, who famously played for Barcelona, where he began his senior career, was with the Catalan club from 2002 to 2018. In 2018, he joined the Japanese club Vissel Kobe, where he played until 2023. He then moved to Emirates Club in the UAE but did not receive a contract extension at the end of last season.
The 40-year-old has made 1,016 appearances, scored 93 goals, and provided 191 assists. Described as one of the most decorated players of all time, Iniesta has won 35 trophies for both club and country.
He has also received recognition from FIFA, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and UEFA, among others.
