Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta breaks down in tears after final appearance for Vissel Kobe as he makes retirement hint
BARCELONA legend Andres Iniesta broke down in tears after his final appearance for Vissel Kobe.
The veteran midfielder has spent the last five years at the Japanese club.
But he now appears ready to retire after struggling with injury issues.
The 39-year-old has been limited to just six appearances this season but is reportedly keen on leaving to have more game time.
During his farewell speech to supporters on the pitch Iniesta shared his pride at playing for the club and hinted at hanging up his boots.
He said: “The last few months have been a really tough period both for me and those close to me.
“I have the desire to retire and close my career while playing on the pitch, and I’m taking my next step in accordance with that emotion.
“I came here in 2018 to fulfill the promise of making this club big.
“I feel I’ve managed to achieve that, and I’ve given my maximum both on and off the pitch. I hope you feel as much pride as I feel for this club.”
Iniesta won the 2019 Emperor’s Cup with Vissel Kobe and a year later helped his side reach the semi-final of the Asian Champions League.
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The World Cup winner also broke down in tears when he announced he would be leaving the club in May.
And he did the same when confirming his Barcelona exit in 2018.