Barcelona legend denies journalist’s claims of signing pre-contract with Real Madrid in 2006

Tomas Roncero has raised many eyebrows recently with a shocking claim which suggested Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta was on the verge of a move to Real Madrid in 2006.

According to Roncero, the move was set to occur in 2006 during Real Madrid’s presidential elections, and Iniesta had allegedly been in discussions to sign a pre-contract with the capital club.

Iniesta issues a firm response

However, in a recent interaction with AS, Iniesta has set the record straight, refuting the idea that he ever considered leaving Barcelona for Real Madrid.

In a firm response to Roncero, the legendary midfielder stated, “Things have been said that are not true, like that I signed pre-contracts with Real Madrid. Let him get over it.”

Iniesta also denied that he supported Real Madrid, vehemently stating, “No, definitely not.”

The speculation over Iniesta’s alleged 2006 transfer saga surfaced just days after the midfielder announced his decision to retire from professional football.

The former midfielder has received widespread wishes from the footballing fraternity following the announcement of his retirement.

But with Roncero’s statements gaining traction, Iniesta felt it important to clarify the rumours and deny the wayward claims made.

What was the 2006 saga?

Roncero’s report alleged Iniesta being courted by Real Madrid as Juan Palacios campaigned to become president.

In 2006, Iniesta, despite being a key figure at Barcelona, was reportedly frustrated after being benched by coach Frank Rijkaard for the Champions League final against Arsenal.

At the same time, Palacios was building his presidential bid, supported by prominent figures like Fernando Fernández-Tapias and Jose Antonio Camacho.

Camacho, a close friend of Iniesta’s family, supposedly facilitated talks to bring the midfielder to Madrid if Palacios won the election.

According to Roncero, a meeting was held in Girona between Camacho, Fernandez-Tapias, and Iniesta’s family, where they agreed on the move.

But Iniesta has now made it clear no such agreement or meeting took place and that he was always loyal to Barcelona.