Iniesta used the social media post “Coming Soon 8/10/24” to declare his retirement. Throughout his eighteen-year career, the Spaniard used two digits for identification: 8 and 24.
Today, October 8, 2024, the Spanish midfield wizard said goodbye to the beautiful game. On social media, Iniesta declared his retirement with the caption, “Coming Soon 8/10/24.” Eight and 24 are the numbers the Spaniard wore during his spectacular eighteen-year career.
Over the course of his lengthy career, Iniesta made 674 appearances for Barcelona, racking up 135 assists and 57 goals. He has won one World Cup, two European titles, and four Champions Leagues overall in his career. The team’s main motor, Iniesta is the only player in history to have been named man of the match in the FIFA World Cup, Champions League, and European Cup finals. Let’s look back on the top five Andres Iniesta moments in this post.
The Spanish legend Andres Iniesta and the Argentian golden child Lionel Messi spoilt the evening for all of the Blues supporters at Stamford Bridge on May 6, 2009. In the first leg of the semifinal, which took place at Camp Nou, there was no goal in the match. The Blaugrana club faced the difficult task of taking on Real Madrid, their bitter rivals, prior to their second leg. Los Blancos was defeated 6-2 by Pep Guardiola’s team, shocking everyone.
The most famous Champions League final in history pits FC Barcelona against Manchester United at Wembely. Wayne Rooney, a legend of Manchester United, opened the scoring in this match. At the interval, United was leading 1-0. With three goals from Pedro, David Villa, and Messi in the second half, Barca displayed their class. They also dominated possession insanely. With Xavi, Iniesta, and Sergio Busquests controlling the midfield, FC Barcelona had an incredible 71% of the ball. Following this game, the tiki-taka style of play gained popularity. Iniesta, Pep Guardiola, and the members of the squad went down in football history as immortals.
Andres Iniesta’s goal against the Netherlands in the 2010 FIFA World Cup final is his most well-known goal. The 2010 FIFA World Cup is regarded as one of the most entertaining football competitions in history. Spain prevailed in extra time against the Netherlands thanks to a goal by Iniesta in the 116th minute, which gave the Spanish team the trophy. Not only did Andres Iniesta win man of the match, but he also won man of the tournament.
Germany and Spain, two of the best teams of all time, faced up in the legendary 2008 Euro Finals. Spain was able to hold the most possession throughout the game because to their comfortable tiki-taka style of play. In the thirty-third minute, Fernando Torres’ excellent finish after a deft pass from Andres Iniesta put the ball in the net gave Spain the victory. Andres Iniesta played a pivotal role in holding onto the midfield position. Both Xavi and Iniesta served as the game’s anchors in the middle and controlled possession. Iniesta was named man of the match and Xavi was named man of the tournament for their outstanding performances.
During his tenure at Barcelona, Iniesta shown exceptional adaptability by skillfully switching between different midfield positions and adjusting to varied tactical schemes under different coaches. In addition to his abilities, he contributed leadership and experience to the game, coaching younger players and encouraging a winning mindset.
From 2008 to 2012, Iniesta played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s illustrious period, helping the team win many La Liga titles and the UEFA Champions League. His play flawlessly reflected the tiki-taka mentality of the team, which is defined by short, rapid passes and fluid movement. Fans adored Iniesta because of his professionalism and passion, which went beyond his technical skill. In addition to awards, his legacy at FC Barcelona includes the grace and creativity he brought to the game.
