Grapevine

By Punch
Oct 1, 2024

Spain, Barca legend Iniesta set to retire at 40

In an anticipation video posted on his X page on Tuesday, Iniesta wrote, “Coming soon 8/10/24.”

Iniesta’s journey in football began at Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, where he quickly impressed with his exceptional ball control, vision, and composure.

His talent was evident from an early age, prompting then-Barcelona captain Pep Guardiola to famously tell Xavi,

“You’re going to retire me. This lad [Iniesta] is going to retire us all.”

Throughout his career, Iniesta has been lauded for his incredible technical abilities. As FIFA.com said, “It is in this position that his direct style and quick feet can be used to full effect, with the ball seeming glued to his toes as he races into threatening positions.”