Andrés Iniesta’s adventure at Vissel Kobe comes to an end this summer after five years. The 39-year-old midfielder leaves despite an ongoing contract with the Japanese club, where he barely gets any playing time.
Iniesta announced the news at an emotional press conference. “This is one of the most difficult decisions of my career,” said the FC Barcelona club icon in tears.
“I always thought I would retire here, but it didn’t go the way I wanted it to. It seemed that the coach had other priorities. Nevertheless, it was one of my best choices to come here.”
Iniesta moved to Japan five years ago. Previously, the 131-time international of Spain only played for Barcelona, the club with which he celebrated great successes. He won the Champions League four times and nine national titles with the Spanish top club.
At Vissel Kobe, Iniesta has barely played in recent months. The experienced midfielder had to make do with a few (short) raids at the leader of Japan.
Iniesta does not intend to end his career yet. “I really want to keep playing football,” he said at his press conference. The Spaniard is free to come and go as he pleases from July 1.
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