Retiring Spanish football legend Andres Iniesta said goodbye to his career on Sunday in the exhibition match between Barcelona and champions Real Madrid in Tokyo and will now look to start his coaching career.
In October, the 40-year-old announced he was hanging up his boots after a career that saw him win two European titles and the 2010 World Cup.
He gave more than 45,000 fans in Tokyo a last glimpse of the skills that saw him win nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues during his 16 years at Barcelona.
He made sure he went out with a bang, slotting in a last-minute cross that the Real Madrid defense converted into a goal of their own to give Barcelona a 2-1 win.
“I think it was a great match for the Japanese fans,” said Iniesta, who played in Japan for five years after leaving Barcelona in 2018.
“If they go home happy, then I’m very happy.”
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Iniesta joined former midfield partner Xavi Hernandez, while Barcelona’s squad included Rivaldo, Rafael Marquez and Javier Saviola.
The Real team included Roberto Carlos, Fabio Cannavaro and Iker Casillas.
Iniesta said he “had a lot of fun” playing with Xavi, with whom he helped Barcelona and Spain reach new levels.
“Obviously neither of us are at the same level as before, but I was reminded of a lot of how we worked together during today’s match,” Iniesta said.
Iniesta came through Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy and made his first-team debut at the age of 18.
During his time at Camp Nou, he made 674 appearances and won a total of 32 trophies.
He moved to Japan’s Vissel Kobe, then played his last season in the United Arab Emirates.
Iniesta said he wants to stay involved in football.
“I’m thinking about getting my coaching license and I want to see where my career takes me,” he said.
