Legendary Spanish play-maker Andres Iniesta Lujan has quit international football aged 34.
He made the announcement Tuesday following La Roja’s failure to go past group stage at the Russia World Cup.
“I have been thinking about it a lot during the past months.
“The illusion and will to continue are total but I’ve always said that I will always do what’s best for the national team.
“The future is thrilling with a great group of unbelievable players that from now on will have me as unconditional supporter.
“I would like to thank all the Spanish Federation for the support and treatment that has been given to me during these past 19 years,” Iniesta, who is regarded as one of the best midfielders the game has ever produced said in a statement, while thanking fans and family.
Iniesta was part of the glorious Spain generation of footballers who conquered Europe and the world with the famous “tiki taka” style of football.
Twice he bagged the UEFA Euro Cup but his crowning moment came in 2010 when he scored the lone goal against Netherlands to win the World Cup, a first for Spain.
In Spain, Iniesta played his entire senior career with Catalan giants Barcelona until end of the 2017-18 season when he switched to Chinese side Vissel Kobe.
The decision to move out of Europe as he nears retirement was largely influenced by the fact that he vowed never to face his former side in a football match.
Do you have a story you want told? Do you know of a sensitive story you would like us to get our hands on? Email your news TIPS to Editor@kahawatungu.com
Email your news TIPS to Editor@Kahawatungu.com — this is our only official communication channel
