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Departing Iniesta enjoys Barcelona send-off in Japan

TOKYO: Andres Iniesta said it was "special" to face former club Barcelona in a friendly in Tokyo on Tuesday (Jun 6) as he prepares to leave Japan and continue his illustrious playing career elsewhere.

Iniesta made over 600 appearances for Barcelona, winning the Champions League four times and claiming nine La Liga titles before joining Japan's Vissel Kobe in 2018.

The 39-year-old will leave Kobe after five years next month and has said he intends to keep playing but does not know where his next move will be.

Iniesta started in midfield as Kobe lost 2-0 to Barcelona at Tokyo's National Stadium, failing to get on the scoresheet but hitting the side-netting with a first-half shot.

He left the pitch in the 80th minute to warm applause before being given a hug on the touchline from Barcelona manager and former midfield partner Xavi.

"Everything about it was great," said Iniesta.

"This game was about saying goodbye to the Japanese fans and paying my respects in giving back what they have given to me.

"I was able to achieve that so I'm very happy."

Iniesta and Xavi once ruled European football as Barcelona's midfield engine room and the two shared an emotional embrace as Iniesta left the pitch.

"Iniesta is now a veteran but he still showed in the game the quality he has," said Xavi.

"For me he is always a fantastic player and someone who has been great for Spain and Barcelona."

The game kicked off less than 48 hours after Barcelona completed their domestic season, which saw them win the La Liga title 10 points ahead of Real Madrid.

Franck Kessie and Eric Garcia were on target for Barca, who arrived in Tokyo less than 24 hours before kick-off.

Iniesta joined Vissel in 2018 on a three-year deal with a reported annual salary of US$30 million,

Read more on channelnewsasia.com