Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta to leave Vissel Kobe and plans to keep playing

Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta has announced he is leaving Japanese side Vissel Kobe and plans to continue playing, although the 39-year-old midfielder is not sure where yet.

Iniesta, who won the World Cup with Spain in 2010 and four Champions League titles and nine La Liga championships with Barcelona, brushed back tears on Thursday as he confirmed his exit from the J-League club.

Asked where he might play, he said: “I have to tell you the truth, I don't know.

“I want to keep playing football. I feel like I am capable of still playing,” Iniesta added, speaking in Spanish. “But as this chapter closes, we'll see what's possible. I want to finish my career on the pitch playing, and this is what I'm hoping to do."

News reports suggested a stint in the Middle East, but with no details about clubs.

“It's a very emotional day after so many years," he said. “I tried to give my best on and off the pitch. I am very proud of that.”

After finishing his long and illustrious tenure at Barcelona, Iniesta joined Vissel Kobe in 2018 on a three-year deal, and prolonged his stay with a two-year extension. News reports indicate his reason for leaving is because he wants more playing time.

Iniesta just turned 39 and made the announcement at a club news conference in the western city of Kobe.

入団から5年間。クラブに多大なる貢献をしてくれたキャプテンに心からの感謝を！For five years since joining, we express our heartfelt gratitude to @andresiniesta8 , who has made significant contributions to #visselkobe !#IniestaKobeForever ❤