Andres Iniesta, 40, announced his retirement from football on Tuesday (EPA)
Andres Iniesta has announced his decision to retire with Real Madrid among those who have paid tribute to the former Barcelona midfielder.
The 40-year-old, who made his first-team debut for Barcelona 24 years ago in 2002, will be widely regarded as one of the finest midfielders Spain has ever produced.
During his career, Iniesta helped Barcelona win 29 trophies, including nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues.
At international level, Iniesta was an integral part of Spain’s World Cup win in 2010 as well as their European Championship wins in 2008 and 2012.
‘Football ends at this stage,’ Iniesta said at a press conference in Barcelona on Tuesday.
‘The game continues… I can’t be too far from football, it has been my life and it will continue to be. We are working on different projects.
Andres Iniesta won 29 trophies during his career at Barcelona (AP)
‘In this next step I have that motivation to continue training outside of football but in the same way. I need to learn, make mistakes, train, in the project of the clubs we have, the academies… which is a legacy that I want to continue maintaining. And I am already starting with the coaching course.
‘Those who know me know that I am quite stubborn. I hope to do a great job not running after the ball, but from the other side. But with a lot of desire.
Andres Iniesta scored the winning goal to win the World Cup final for Spain in 2010 (AP)
‘If there is one word that can sum up this stage it is pride. Pride of having fought until the last day as a footballer. The rest is history… titles, defeats, bad moments… but pride and never giving up is what makes me happy.
‘It is sad because I would have played until I was 90 years old but happy to have fulfilled the dream of being a footballer.’
Real Madrid also paid tribute to Iniesta with a statement which read: ‘Following Andres Iniesta’s announcement that he is retiring from professional football, Real Madrid C. F., its President and its Board of Directors would like to express their recognition, admiration and affection for one of the biggest legends of Spanish and world football.
‘Andres Iniesta has enriched the sport through his football and his values, in addition to the numerous trophies he has won during his career. His iconic goal in the 2010 World Cup Final in South Africa will forever remain in the memory of every Spanish fan.
‘Real Madrid would like to wish him and his family the best of luck in this new chapter of his life.’
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