It was just a matter of days, but finally Andrés Iniesta has confirmed his new adventure in the world of football.
Speaking in a press conference that gathered more than 200 journalists, the former Barcelona maestro was unveiled as the new Vissel Kobe player. "El Fantasmita" will join "The Cows" (Ushi, in Japanese) on a three-year deal, after discarding offers from clubs playing in other parts of the world.
I had many offers, but I decided to sign with Vissel Kobe because their project seems really interesting. They also showed me their trust from day one. Furthermore, Japan is a wonderful country, and I love its culture. I'd like to enjoy my life here in Japan," Iniesta stated.
Here's how the club welcomed its new signing.
ようこそイニエスタ!
— ヴィッセル神戸 (@vissel_kobe) May 24, 2018
Bienvenido Iniesta!
Welcome Iniesta!
Willkommen Iniesta!
Iniesta seja bem vindo!
ยินดีต้อนรับอิเนียสต้า!
잘오셨어요 이니에스타 !https://t.co/fXn41SrydR#vissel #BienvenidoIniesta #iniesta #WeAreKobe @andresiniesta8 pic.twitter.com/ok1mettKqj
After 22 years at Barcelona, Iniesta hinted that he needed a new challenge in football, which motivated him to sign for the Japanese side.
"It's a big day for me, it's a new challenge in my career. I'd like to contribute to the way my team-mates play. I have massive respect for Japanese players, and I look forward to working with them," Iniesta added.
The Spanish midfielder will work with Lukas Podolski in this team. The German footballer joined Vissel Kobe last season.
After being unveiled with his new team, Iniesta will now head to La Roja's training camp, where he will prepare for one last tournament with the Spanish national team that's set to play in the 2018 World Cup.