Lionel Messi pens special message to Andres Iniesta on retirement

New Delhi,UPDATED: Oct 8, 2024 11:27 IST

Lionel Messi shared a heartfelt message for his former FC Barcelona teammate Andrés Iniesta, as the legendary Spanish midfielder announced his retirement from professional football. The duo, who created many unforgettable moments on the pitch together, remain close friends off the field, and Messi's tribute highlights the respect and admiration they share.

Iniesta revealed that he will retire at the end of the season with UAE club Emirates. On his Instagram story, Messi posted a picture of the two from their Barcelona days, praising Iniesta’s brilliant career. The two legends formed a pivotal partnership during their time at Barcelona, and their chemistry was instrumental in the club's success. Messi's warm words reflect their enduring bond.

“One of the teammates with the most magic and one of those I enjoyed playing with the most”. The ball is going to miss you, and so will all of us...I wish you the best always. You’re a phenomenon,” Messi's story read.

Before joining Emirates, Iniesta was linked to a move to Messi’s current side, Inter Miami, where several other former Barcelona stars like Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets had reunited. However, Iniesta opted for a new chapter in the UAE instead of Major League Soccer.

Iniesta's Iconic Career

Iniesta joined Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy at age 12 in 1996 and quickly rose through the ranks. After breaking into the senior team in 2002, he became a key player alongside the likes of Carles Puyol, Xavi Hernández, and Messi. Together, they formed the backbone of one of the most dominant teams in football history.

Over 16 years at Barcelona, Iniesta made nearly 700 appearances, winning nine LaLiga titles, four UEFA Champions League trophies, and a total of 32 major honors with the club. His brilliance extended beyond club football, as he became a Spanish national team hero, most notably scoring the winning goal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup final against the Netherlands, securing Spain’s first-ever World Cup triumph.

After leaving Barcelona in 2018, Iniesta enjoyed success in Japan with Vissel Kobe before joining Emirates for the final chapter of his illustrious career.