The 40-year-old football legend announced his retirement last week, ending an illustrious 24-year playing career.
Iniesta confirmed that he has begun taking coaching courses as he prepares for the next chapter in his football journey…Continue Reading
Since departing Barcelona in 2018, Iniesta played for Vissel Kobe in Japan and the Emirates Club in the UAE before retiring.
His longtime teammate, Xavi, coached Barcelona from 2021 to 2024, leading them to a La Liga title in the 2022/23 season before being replaced by German manager Hansi Flick after a trophy-less campaign.
Flick has since guided Barcelona to the top of La Liga after nine games this season, securing his position for now. Nonetheless, Iniesta has expressed a strong desire to “return to Barca someday.”
While it’s uncertain when or if Iniesta will start his managerial career, he has disclosed which three Barcelona players he would sign given the opportunity.
His selections were somewhat unconventional, including a midfielder, winger, and goalkeeper.
“I would sign Pedri, [Marc-Andre] Ter Stegen and Ansu Fati,” he told Spanish outlet El Partidazo de Cope.
Pedri will be particularly happy with the recognition, as the Spanish international is often likened to Iniesta.
The two share striking similarities, boasting comparable traits such as a delicate first touch, excellent passing ability, and a low center of gravity.
“We spoke several times, and I told him that I am available if he needs any help, I feel that I can help him because he is in Barca and because of these comparisons,” Iniesta told ESPN in 2022.
“He’s an amazing boy with incredible talent. If he continues with this desire to work and improve and continues to be humble, he will set an example.”
Ter Stegen is currently out of action after rupturing his patella tendon during a match against Villarreal in September.
Given his long-standing presence at Barcelona, it’s no surprise Iniesta would consider him a valuable signing.
Fati’s inclusion, however, might raise some eyebrows. The 21-year-old, who broke onto the scene in 2019 and was once hailed as a future star, has yet to fully live up to expectations.
Last season, a loan stint at Brighton gave him a taste of Premier League football, but he struggled to make a significant impact.
So far this season, he has made just three appearances for Barcelona, sparking rumors that he might leave the club permanently in January.
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