Iniesta ends legendary career with emotional farewell in Tokyo

Spanish football legend Andres Iniesta officially brought his illustrious playing career to a close on Sunday with an exhibition match in Tokyo, featuring Barcelona and Real Madrid greats.

The 40-year-old, who had previously announced his retirement in October, now plans to transition into coaching.

Iniesta’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary, highlighted by two European Championships and the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Over 45,000 fans gathered in Tokyo to witness the maestro’s final performance, celebrating his 16 glittering years at Barcelona, where he claimed nine La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies.

In true Iniesta fashion, he ended his career with a memorable moment. His last-minute cross forced an own goal by the Real Madrid defense, sealing a 2-1 victory for Barcelona and giving fans one final glimpse of the brilliance that defined his career.

“I think it was a great game for the Japanese fans,” said Iniesta, who played in Japan for five years after leaving Barcelona in 2018.

“If they went home satisfied then I’m very happy.”

Iniesta lined up alongside former midfield partner Xavi Hernandez, with Rivaldo, Rafael Marquez and Javier Saviola also in the Barcelona line-up.

Roberto Carlos, Fabio Cannavaro and Iker Casillas were among the players in the Real team.

Iniesta said he had “a lot of fun” playing with Xavi, with whom he helped take Barcelona and Spain to new heights.

“Of course neither of us is at the same level that we were before but a lot about the way we used to link up came back to me during today’s game,” said Iniesta.

Iniesta came up through Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy and made his first-team debut aged 18.

He made 674 appearances and won a total of 32 trophies during his time at the Camp Nou.

He moved to Japan’s Vissel Kobe before playing one final season in the United Arab Emirates.

Iniesta said he wanted to stay involved in football.

“I’m thinking about getting my coaching licence and I want to see where my career takes me,” he said.