The playmaker helped revolutionize how soccer was played around the world and, as a pivotal part of historic Barcelona and Spain teams, he won everything there is to win in the sport on both the club and national team levels.
In the 22 years after joining the Barça’s youth academy, Iniesta won 32 trophies for the club and lifted two European Championships and one World Cup for Spain in an unprecedented run of success – La Roja won Euro 2008, the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012, the first and only country to ever win three major championships in a row.
But his departure from his boyhood club in 2018 didn’t mark the end of his career. Instead, it was the start of yet another adventure in very different part of the world.
After leaving Spain, Iniesta signed for Japanese club Vissel Kobe and enjoyed reasonable success in following five years.
But this year, after seeing his playing time diminish in Japan, it was time for a new challenge.
Iniesta played for Vissel Kobe after leaving Barcelona in 2018.
Mohamed Farag/Getty Images
Amid interest from around the world, including Major League Soccer (MLS), Iniesta eventually signed a one-year deal with UAE side Emirates Club.
“When I left Japan, I had different options and then, at the end of the day, you decide for what you believe is the right thing to do, the right thing for you and your family,” Iniesta told CNN’s Becky Anderson.
“There are many things to be improved [in the local scene], so I can really use my experience in order to improve the football situation here.
“I am thrilled to be here and I am very happy with the way I was received here. I’m just hoping to do the best I can.”
Life in the UAE
Despite signing a one-year contract, Iniesta has the option of extending his stay, but he’s currently just focused on enjoying the season ahead.
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The midfielder says his family are quickly adapting to life in his new home city of Ras Al Khaimah.
In his first start for his new side on Friday, Iniesta scored a late penalty in a dramatic 4-4 draw against Ajman Club. He had previously made his debut after coming off the bench in a 1-0 defeat on August 19.
“At my age, I still have the dream of playing, to train and to have fun and that’s why I take care of myself,” Iniesta said.
Before signing for Emirates Club, there had been reports that Inter Miami was looking to attract the Spanish legend to the MLS.
