Andres Iniesta remains focused on Barcelona return | OneFootball

Barcelona club legend Andres Iniesta is hopeful he will return for a future role in Catalonia.

Iniesta won an incredible nine La Liga titles in the heart of Barcelona’s midfield, alongside four UEFA Champions League crowns.

From his first team debut in 2002, to his departure from the club in 2018, Iniesta racked up 674 appearances across all competitions.

That figure places him fourth on Barcelona’s all time appearance maker list behind three of his former teammates including Xavi Hernandez.

Iniesta was asked about his view on Xavi’s departure from the club at the end of last season with fans still split over the treatment of his old midfield partner.

He also spoke about his post playing plans, with no confirmation over whether he will extend his contract at UAE side Emirates, ahead of the new 2024/25 season in Ras Al Khaimah.

“Obviously, I’d love to return to Barcelona, but I don’t know when that will be. My next step after football will be coaching and we’ll see if it works out”, he said.

“It’s about finding your place off the field. Maybe in two years I’ll have a clearer idea, but for now, I don’t know.”

Iniesta turned 40 in May and if he stays at Emirates he is expected break a 900 career game mark before the end of 2024.