After more than six years playing football outside Europe, Andrés Iniesta has officially decided to retire, bringing an end to a legendary career that spanned over two decades.
The former Barcelona midfielder, renowned for his elegance on the pitch, played alongside several football greats during his illustrious journey, including Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Xavi, Ronaldinho, and David Villa.
Yaya Touré Chooses Iniesta Over Messi and Xavi
Among those Iniesta shared the field with was Yaya Touré, another Barcelona teammate during the late 2000s. Following Iniesta’s retirement announcement, Touré was asked to reflect on the best player he had ever played alongside.
The former Manchester City star mentioned three iconic names: Lionel Messi, Xavi, and Andrés Iniesta. However, when it came to choosing the best, Touré was clear in his decision—Iniesta.
“Messi was top, Iniesta was top, Xavi was great, but I will say Iniesta. He had something different. Playing with him, wow! It was something else,” Touré shared in an interview (h/t Goal).
This praise comes despite Iniesta being a direct competitor for Touré during their time at Barcelona between 2007 and 2010. Iniesta’s presence limited Touré’s game time at Barça, ultimately leading to Touré’s move to Manchester City in 2010. The transfer proved successful for Touré, who won three Premier League titles and became a City legend.
Currently, Yaya Touré is in the early stages of his managerial career, serving as an assistant to Roberto Mancini for the Saudi Arabian national team.
