Iniesta Enjoys Barca Return Against Mallorca

Andres Iniesta scored a goal on his return from injury, and was understandably delighted in the aftermath.

Andres Iniesta, Barcelona-Mallorca (Marca)
Apart from the three points that Barcelona gained, Saturday night was a special one for the Camp Nou faithful, because it marked the return to injury of Andres Iniesta.

Speaking after the match, Iniesta, who scored a goal for good measure, said "It was important to begin the year well, to get into our rhythm and win the three points. It is always difficult when you return after a holiday or international duty. We won three points and that is what is important. On a personal level, I am pleased to have got on the pitch again."

Iniesta understandably received a rapturous response from the crowd when he was brought on, and he was thankful for their support, stating "The truth is they gave me a strong reception. I have to thank the fans for the affection they showed me today. It was a special night. When I remember it, I get goosebumps."

He then spoke about his first sensations on the pitch, adding "When you go so long without playing, it is inevitable to feel a bit off the pace. But I am happy to have played and to have helped in the win."

--Arjun Miglani, Goal.com


 
play pause open close
Inside Goal.Com
  1. RIGG: Anelka struggling against the current in Shanghai RIGG: Anelka struggling against the current in Shanghai

    Nicolas Anelka went against the grain when he moved to Shanghai. Now he's finding that coaching and gelling tactically is like swimming against the tide.

  2. ROGERS: Bradley should command a bidding war among Serie A teams ROGERS: Bradley should command a bidding war among Serie A teams

    Chievo is currently shopping the American midfielder and several Italian clubs have shown interest.

  3. ISOLA: Neymar-led Brazil should be considered the 2014 WC favorite ISOLA: Neymar-led Brazil should be considered the 2014 WC favorite

    Neymar was brilliant as Brazil easily handled the United States with early World Cup preparations officially underway.

  4. LATHAM: Mexico using summer friendlies to build depth LATHAM: Mexico using summer friendlies to build depth

    With World Cup qualifying to begin in June, Mexico is using three U.S.-hosted friendlies to build squad depth.

  5. McCARTHY: Harrisburg springs its wildest Open Cup upset to date McCARTHY: Harrisburg springs its wildest Open Cup upset to date

    The City Islanders fought back from three goals down with nine minutes to play and won the game on penalty kicks in a stunning game on a wild night for the U.S. Open Cup.