Topics: Andres Iniesta, Barcelona, Spain, La Liga
After 22 years at the Blaugrana, the Spanish playmaker will wave farewell once the season ends.

It is the news that Barcelona fans have been dreading, but it’s now official. Iconic midfielder Andres Iniesta will be leaving the club at the end of the current season.

The Spaniard confirmed rumors of his exit via a press conference on Friday. Speaking to reporters, the 33-year-old broke the hearts of many and revealed this will be his final season at Camp Nou.

But many had already predicted he will be departing his boyhood club. The World Cup winner's age has started to show despite being a class act. His starting role has diminished, with Coutinho now expected to fill his shoes.

Nonetheless, this did not stop Iniesta's announcement from being an emptional one. The Blaugrana legend was in tears, as well as members of his family, as the Catalan squad gathered for the press conference.

"It is a difficult day for me to be here saying goodbye when I've spent my whole life here," Andres stated.

He added: "A great deal of who I am, is down to Barca and La Masia - I am very thankful to them.

"I spoke to a lot of people - players, coaches - and I know what they want, but I tried to be honest with myself and the club."

Rumors link the Spaniard with a move to China. While the player refused to reveal where his next destination will be, he did admit that he will not be joining another European team so as not to face Barcelona.

"I want to be remembered as a great footballer and a great player," Andres continued to say. "Because when our football days are over, that's all we are - people."

The playmaker will undoubtedly be remembered as a great, an icon of both the club and the beautiful game. He will go down as one of the Catalan giant's greatest players, as only one player - former team-mate Xavi - has made more appearances than the number eight.

Iniesta has spent 22 years at the club, devoting 16 seasons to the Liga leader. Making 669 appearances for the Blaugrana, it comes as little surprise why he is revered at Camp Nou.

He has also enjoyed tremendous success, winning eight league titles and four Champions League crowns. With Valverde's side destined to win the top-flight race, Andres is set to leave the club having won a staggering 32 titles.