New Delhi: Lionel Messi shared a heartfelt message for his former FC Barcelona teammate Andrés Iniesta as the legendary Spanish maestro hung up his boots. Iniesta announced his retirement on October 8, 2024, posting a video on his social media with the caption, ‘The game will go on.’ Tributes soon followed from notable figures, including Pep Guardiola, Louis van Gaal, and Luis Enrique.
Messi, who shared the pitch with Iniesta for years during FC Barcelona’s golden era also paid his respects. He posted a picture of the two on his Instagram story with a touching message that read, “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.” The message encapsulated the deep admiration Messi holds for Iniesta both as a player and a friend.
Tribute from football elites
Iniesta’s retirement video struck a chord with fans and former colleagues alike. In the video, he posed the question, “What does football mean to him?” Luis Enrique, who managed Iniesta at both Barcelona and the Spanish national team, reflected, “Football reflects what we felt when we were kids in the street, when your mother called you at night, and we couldn’t see the ball anymore… that is Andrés Iniesta.” The tribute beautifully captured Iniesta’s pure love for the game, a passion that spanned over two decades.
Pep Guardiola, who helped Iniesta achieve some of his finest performances during his time managing Barcelona, added his own emotional tribute. “When Andrés came and said, ‘We’re on the right track,’ it was a boost of energy. I will always be grateful for that,” Guardiola recalled, reflecting on Iniesta’s ability to inspire his teammates during challenging moments.
Former Spain coach Vicente del Bosque also remembered Iniesta fondly, citing his crucial role in Spain’s 2010 World Cup victory. “I remember at Espanyol’s ground, Barça was winning 1-4 or 1-5, and he was met with applause from the entire stadium,” Del Bosque said, highlighting the immense respect Iniesta commanded, even from rival fans.
Messi and Iniesta’s Iconic friendship
Andres Iniesta (R) of Barcelona celebrates with his teammate Lionel Messi (L) (Photo by Burak Akbulut/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)
Messi’s emotional tribute is a testament to the unique bond the two shared on the field. They are referred to as one of football’s most iconic duos as they played 489 matches together for Barcelona. In their time together they won 337 of those games, drew 96, and lost just 56, boasting an impressive winning rate of 68.9%. Together, they lifted numerous trophies including four Champions League titles, making a lasting impact on Barcelona’s history and the world of football.
Their connection on the field was more than just numbers. Messi and Iniesta were the heart of Barcelona’s famous tiki-taka style, effortlessly reading each other’s movements and creating moments of magic that left fans and opponents alike in awe. With Iniesta pulling the strings in midfield and Messi wreaking havoc up front they defined an era of dominance that football fans will remember for generations.
The end of an era
Iniesta’s retirement marks the end of an era for a player whose grace, intelligence, and humility on the field were unparalleled. His presence was so much more than the statistics or the trophies it was about the way he played the game. He embodied everything beautiful about football simplicity, elegance, and joy. It’s no wonder that players, coaches, and fans have taken this moment to reflect on the legacy he leaves behind.
After leaving Barca and retiring from international football he went on to Japan where he spent five years with Vissel Kobe before winding down his career at Emirates.
Although there were even rumors that Iniesta might reunite with Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba at Inter Miami he decided to close this chapter on his own terms. As he calls it a day he leaves behind a legacy that few will ever match, a legacy of excellence, respect, and unforgettable moments that have etched him into football history forever.
As Messi said, “The ball is going to miss you, and so will all of us.”
Lionel Messi shared a touching tribute to his former Barcelona teammate as the legend announced his retirement, celebrating their iconic partnership and Iniesta’s incredible football legacy. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
