Barcelona legend Iniesta highlights the importance of La Masia – ‘There is no doubt’

A couple of days after announcing his retirement from professional football, Andres Iniesta visited the Barcelona training camp to meet some of the first-team stars as well as Hansi Flick.

Barcelona shared photos of Iniesta meeting multiple stars, including Dani Olmo, Fermin Lopez and Frenie de Jong, among others.

Iniesta also met coach Flick, who has turned things around for Barcelona this season.

Iniesta on Barcelona’s progress this season

In fact, Iniesta even talked about Barcelona’s performances this season, under the leadership of Flick.

“I’m happy that the team is doing well, winning and transmitting very good feelings and I hope that this continues a lot and in the end, the goals are achieved. I’m very happy with that,” he said during a chat with the Barcelona official media.

Iniesta announced his retirement earlier in the week, putting an end to a career that spanned more than two decades.

One of the best to ever play for the club (Photo by Kenta Harada/Getty Images)

With a total of 674 competitive appearances for FC Barcelona, he is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders to ever play for the club.

Iniesta on La Masia

Iniesta also talked about La Masia, which has produced a series of star talents in the recent past, thus playing a critical role in helping the club navigate a tough economic condition.

Being a former graduate of La Masia, Iniesta shared his happiness over the fact that the academy has consistently produced star talents.

“Knowing that this academy when the need arises the youngsters are ready, there is no doubt about that. Their courage or the right moment to bet on them in any situation. And that is very important for everyone,” he said.

“So let them continue to grow like this and continue to help. I think that’s one of the strengths of our club, and I hope it continues like this,” he concluded.