Andres Iniesta has officially retired, in a video posted on social media platforms in the early morning of October 8 (Vietnam time). In addition to the former Spanish midfielder's shares, some coaches such as Pep Guardiola, Louis van Gaal, Luis Enrique and Vicente del Bosque also shared about the legacy he left for world football.
In the video, with the caption "The game continues", Iniesta was very moved, trying to hold back his tears as he reflected on what football means to him.
The video focuses on clips from Iniesta's early days at Albacete and Barcelona's youth academies, followed by highlights from his peak years playing for Barca and the Spanish national team, along with iconic newspaper covers.
Some of Iniesta's key coaches also appear in the video. Van Gaal, who gave Iniesta his Barcelona first-team debut as an 18-year-old in 2002, commented on the player's unique qualities.
"He doesn't look big, he's always slim, but football is always in his head," the Dutch coach said, noting Iniesta's modest personality.
Enrique, who coached Iniesta at Barcelona from 2014 to 2017, emphasized the midfielder's love for football.
"For me, he represents the feeling we had as children, playing soccer on the street until our mothers called us in when it was too dark to see the ball. That is Andres Iniesta, who, at the age of 40, is still wondering whether he should continue playing."
Guardiola, Iniesta's coach during his golden period at Barca from 2008 to 2012, recalled an important moment at the beginning of his coaching career when Iniesta reassured him.
"We have only won 1 of 6 points, almost in the relegation zone, and Andres told me, 'We are on the right track, everyone is happy, and everything is going to change'. That gave me the energy I needed to keep going, and I will always be grateful for that.
Former Spain coach Del Bosque emphasized the admiration Iniesta received from fans, when recalling a memorable moment.
"I remember Barcelona won away to Espanyol, about 4-1 or 5-1, and Iniesta left the pitch in a warm welcome. I think that completely sums up the affection that everyone has for him."
The video ended with a heartfelt message from Iniesta's father, Jose Antonio Iniesta: "I don't think Andres can ever really leave football."
