Could we see Iniesta in the Premier League?
Andrés Iniesta left the field in tears on Saturday evening as he was substituted in the closing minutes of Barcelona’s Copa del Rey final against Sevilla, knowing it would be one of the last times he wore the famous red and blue jersey, as he prepares to draw his time at Barça to a close. The standing ovation he received from everyone inside the Wanda Metropolitano speaks volumes about the respect he commands from fans across Spain, and the world, regardless of their allegiances.
The midfield maestro is likely to move to the Chinese Super League, for one last payday before he hangs up his boots. But Pep Guardiola is reportedly trying to convince the Spaniard to join him at Manchester City. According to Spanish newspaper AS, the City boss would love to bring Iniesta to the Premier League. During Guardiola’s four years as Barça boss, Iniesta was enjoyed his best years, cementing his status as one of the all time midfield greats.
He would not be a starter at City – his legs wouldn’t allow him to play with the necessary intensity. But he could function as someone who comes off the bench for the last 20 minutes to close a game out, allowing David Silva some more recovery time.
A move to City would allow Iniesta to have another crack at winning the Champions League too, but it’s hard to imagine why he would not rather do that at Barcelona, where he has been since 1996.
