Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta is planning on playing into his 40s but has no regrets at having missed out on the opportunity to grace the Premier League.
An iconic figure of the modern era is about to open an exciting new chapter in his career after agreeing to link up with Japanese side Vissel Kobe.
He has made that move after 22 years at Camp Nou, with the Spain international having been a loyal servant in Catalunya during an era of remarkable success at home and abroad.
While at the peak of his powers, Iniesta was presented with several opportunities to try his luck elsewhere – including in England – but admits he could never bring himself to leave Barca.
He told the Daily Mail: “It would have been nice to play in England. A good experience. But I never imagined I would be better off anywhere else.
“Now I’m leaving Barcelona because my body is asking me to.
“It takes longer to recover and there are the mental demands I put on myself. It’s exhausting. I’ve squeezed out every last drop, there’s nothing left.”
While the tank has run dry in European football, Iniesta has no plans to hang up his boots just yet.
He will be part of the Spain squad chasing down another World Cup crown this summer, while the 34-year-old believes he could have at least six years left in him at club level.
Iniesta added on his future plans: “We've signed for the half season that remains [with Vissel Kobe] and three more.
“I said I want to still be playing when I'm 40.
“I don't know if I will make it! I would have to renew for another three after that.
“Then I will try to become a coach or something very closely related to football. I want to feel close to the pitch.
“Football has been my life since I was four or five. It's been a fairytale too.”
