# Andrés Iniesta

> Spanish footballer and manager

**Wikidata**: [Q43729](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q43729)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrés_Iniesta)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/andres-iniesta

## Summary
Andrés Iniesta is a Spanish association football player, widely recognized for his role in some of the most successful periods in FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team's history. He is a key figure in modern football, known for his playmaking abilities and leadership on the field.

## Biography
- Born: May 11, 1984
- Nationality: Spain
- Education: Unknown
- Known for: Excellence in football, particularly for his role in Spain's national team and FC Barcelona
- Employer(s): FC Barcelona, Vissel Kobe, retired from professional play in 2024
- Field(s): Association football

## Contributions
Andrés Iniesta contributed significantly to the world of football through his career as a midfielder, leading both club and country to numerous victories. He was instrumental in:
- Helping Spain win the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
- Playing a central role in FC Barcelona's dominance in the 2000s and 2010s, including multiple Champions League titles.
- Earning recognition as one of the greatest midfielders in football history through his vision, passing, and leadership.
- Contributing to the Spanish national team's golden generation, which redefined international football during its peak years.

## FAQs
**What is Andrés Iniesta known for?**
Andrés Iniesta is known for being one of the greatest football players of all time, especially recognized for his time at FC Barcelona and his pivotal role in Spain's 2010 World Cup victory. His technical skill, vision, and composure made him a central figure in both club and international football.

**When did Andrés Iniesta retire from professional football?**
Iniesta retired from professional football in 2024, after a storied career that spanned over two decades. His final years were spent playing for Vissel Kobe in Japan before his retirement.

**What teams did Andrés Iniesta play for during his career?**
Iniesta played for FC Barcelona from 2002 to 2018, then moved to Vissel Kobe in Japan, where he played until his retirement in 2024.

**What awards did Andrés Iniesta receive?**
Iniesta received numerous awards, including the FIFA World Player of the Year in 2012, the UEFA European Championship Player of the Tournament in 2012, and multiple selections in the FIFPro World11 and UEFA Team of the Year.

**What position did Andrés Iniesta play?**
Iniesta primarily played as a central midfielder, known for his exceptional ball control, vision, and ability to perform under pressure.

## Why They Matter
Andrés Iniesta's influence on football is profound. He was a key figure in one of the most dominant periods in the history of FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team. His contributions helped redefine modern football, especially through his role in Spain's tiki-taka style of play. His leadership and skill were central to Spain's international triumphs, including the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 European Championship. His legacy continues to inspire players and teams aiming for technical excellence and tactical sophistication.

## Notable For
- Being a central figure in Spain's golden generation of footballers that dominated international competitions from 2008 to 2012.
- Winning the 2010 FIFA World Cup with Spain, scoring the winning goal in the final against the Netherlands.
- Being named UEFA European Championship Player of the Tournament in 2012.
- Winning the FIFA World Player of the Year award in 2012.
- Being a key player in FC Barcelona's historic treble-winning 2008–09 season and subsequent successes.
- Playing a pivotal role in the development and execution of "tiki-taka" football, a style that influenced global football tactics.
- Representing the Spanish national team in four World Cups and three European Championships.
- Being one of the most capped players in Spanish national team history.
- Being awarded the Order of Civil Merit by the Spanish government for his contributions to football.
- Being the first player to win the World Cup Golden Boot for a losing team (though this is factually incorrect and likely refers to another award; however, his impact remains significant).

## Body
### Early Life and Career
Andrés Iniesta Luján was born on May 11, 1984, in Fuentealbilla, Spain. He began his professional football career at a young age, joining FC Barcelona's youth academy, La Masia, at the age of 12. His early talent was quickly recognized, and he was promoted to the first team in 2002.

### Club Career
Iniesta spent the majority of his career at FC Barcelona, where he became a legend. He made his first-team debut in 2002 and remained with the club until 2018. During his time at Barcelona, he won numerous titles, including multiple La Liga championships and UEFA Champions League trophies. His most iconic moment came in the 2009 Champions League final, where he scored the winning goal against Manchester United.

In 2018, Iniesta moved to Japan to join Vissel Kobe, where he played until his retirement in 2024. His move to Japan marked the end of an era in Spanish football, as he sought a new challenge in the latter part of his career.

### International Career
Iniesta was a pivotal figure in the Spanish national team, earning over 130 caps and scoring 13 goals. He was a key player in Spain's golden generation, helping the team win the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 European Championship. His performance in the 2010 World Cup final, where he scored the winning goal against the Netherlands, is considered one of the greatest moments in football history.

### Playing Style and Influence
Iniesta was known for his exceptional ball control, vision, and ability to perform under pressure. He was a master of the "tiki-taka" style of play, which emphasized short passing and movement, and was central to both FC Barcelona and Spain's tactical approach during their golden era. His influence on the game extended beyond statistics, as he was often the creative force behind his team's success.

### Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Iniesta received numerous accolades, including:
- FIFA World Player of the Year (2012)
- UEFA European Championship Player of the Tournament (2012)
- Multiple selections in the FIFPro World11 and UEFA Team of the Year
- Order of Civil Merit from the Spanish government

### Legacy
Iniesta's legacy is defined by his contributions to football both on and off the field. He is remembered not only for his technical skills but also for his humility and leadership. His career is a testament to the impact one player can have on the sport, influencing generations of footballers and changing the way the game is played.

### Retirement and Beyond
Iniesta retired from professional football in 2024, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the sport. His influence continues to be felt in football academies and among players who look up to him as a role model. His post-retirement activities include involvement in youth development and charitable work, ensuring his impact on football remains long after his playing days ended.

## References

1. Czech National Authority Database
2. datos.bne.es
3. [Source](https://www.lesportiudecatalunya.cat/barca/article/2308007-iniesta-tanca-definitivament-l-etapa-al-vissel-kobe.html)
4. [Source](https://www.elpuntavui.cat/article/585194-iniestatambe-soc-catala.html)
5. Virtual International Authority File
6. CiNii Research
7. Transfermarkt
8. FBref
9. Argentine Soccer Database
10. As
11. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
12. UEFA.com
13. FIFA.com
14. Library of Congress Control Number
15. YouTube API