After a prolific career in Europe with FC Barcelona and being the architect of the goal that gave Spain the first World Cup, Andrés Iniesta said goodbye to Japanese football this Saturday after playing his last game with Vissel Kobe in what it was a one-goal draw against Consadole Sapporo.
In a packed Noevir stadium in the city of Kobe, the Spanish international started and played 57 minutes before being replaced by Daiju Sasaki. As he left the pitch, Iniesta bowed to the fans who applauded, cheered and even waved Spanish flags.
“We take with us as a precious memory the affection and respect that they showed us from the first day we arrived here,” said the midfielder, who described his time in Japan as a “beautiful and exciting” trip. According to what was published by the Japanese outlet Nikkan Sports, Iniesta said he felt that he has “grown as a player and as a person since I came here.”
“I have always tried to give my best on and off the field. I hope that everyone feels the same pride that I feel for this team, ”added the Spaniard in his farewell.
“I want to retire playing on the field”
Although he has been suffering a series of injuries since 2021 that have kept him from making constant appearances with the Japanese team, Andrés Iniesta made it clear that he is not thinking about retiring yet.
“I want to retire playing on the field and I’m ready to take the next step,” said the Spaniard although his next destination is still unknown.
As the Japanese media recalls, since Iniesta joined Vissel Kobe in May 2018, the number of attendance at the stadium increased by 40%, while the number of attendance at away games doubled just to be able to see Iniesta play .
Keep reading:
– Farewell to a historic: Cesc Fàbregas announces his retirement from football
– Former soccer player Samuel Eto’o could go to prison for not complying with his daughter’s support
–FC Barcelona lost more than 400,000 followers on Instagram for celebrating LGBTIQ+ Pride Day