Andres Iniesta has decided to stay with Barcelona, signing a lifetime contract with the La Liga giants. The deal signed by the 33-year-old Spaniard, officially announced by the club on Friday, will see him spend the rest of his illustrious career as a one-club man.
This comes as welcome news to fans considering the jittery past couple months at Camp Nou that have not only seen Neymar's exit but also talk of Messi's own exit come his contract end this summer.
The legendary midfielder denied reports by current president Josep Bartemeu of a contract renewal just a month ago. It was understood he was reluctant to put pen to paper on a new deal with his future and role in the club unsure under new coach Ernesto Valverde.
OFFICIAL: @andresiniesta8 has signed a lifetime contract with @FCBarcelona.@LaLigaEN gets to witness more of this legend pic.twitter.com/HDv4Y9UKaV
— LiveSoccerTV.com (@LiveSoccerTV) October 6, 2017
However, Iniesta's deep love for the Spanish side ultimately swayed his decision to stay put and - for the new 2017-18 season - he has retained his captaincy, a position he has held since 2015.
But what exactly does a lifetime contract mean? There is no expiration date on his new deal with the Copa del Rey champions. This means the Spaniard is guaranteed to retire at Camp Nou at his time of choice, with the possibility of continuing with the club even after hanging his boots.
The 33-year-old is the first player in Barcelona's history to be offered a lifetime contract. It is a fair depiction of Iniesta's legendary status, albeit his influence in the starting lineup has diminished.
The World Cup and two-time European Championship winner first arrived at Barcelona in September 1996, at the age of 12. After graduating from the La Masia youth academy, he debuted in October 2002 and currently holds eight Spanish league titles and four Champion Leagues to his name.
He has made 639 appearances for Barcelona in total, the second highest in its history. Furthermore, he is tied with Lionel Messi for most titles won at the Blaugrana – 30.
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