“I would not find a better woman,” Barca great hails wife as he retires, decides next step

• Barcelona icon Andres Iniesta bids farewell to football, speaking at an emotional press conference
• Iniesta sent an emotional message to his wife and hails her for her sacrifices
• The Barcelona legend thanked football fans, stating their respect and admiration is what he will carry with him

After gracing the football world for decades and amassing a glittering array of trophies, including 29 at Barcelona alone, Andres Iniesta has officially called time on his illustrious playing career at the age of 40. 

The Spanish legend, known for his grace on the ball and his humility off it, announced his retirement just yesterday, 7th October. 

Today, 8th October, he opened up to the media, reflecting not only on his career but also paying heartfelt tributes to his family for their unwavering support throughout his journey.

At the press conference, Iniesta was keen to show gratitude to those who cheered him on both in stadiums and on the streets, stating the profound connection he shares with football fans, 

“I would like to remember all the people who have seen me on the street or on the football field and have shown me their respect and love. That’s what I take with me. Footballers pass, people stay.”

He also showered praises on his wife, Ana, 

“For Ana, my wife. Honestly, I don’t have words to describe how I really feel about you. But, I want to tell you that I am privileged and share this life with you. Mainly because of the person you are, I respect you, I admire you, we have formed this wonderful family and you are our mirror and our reflection. I thank you for putting up with me, not everything is always so beautiful. I am the happiest man, and I would not find a better woman and mother for us.”

While he may be stepping off the pitch, Iniesta’s journey is far from over, he confirmed his plans to transition into coaching, expressing his desire to return to Barcelona in the future, this time in a managerial role, 

“I’m already starting with the coaching course. I want to train in this next stage in that way, I’ll try to do a great job again.”

French star Antoine Griezmann announces retirement from international football after 10 years

Previously, TheRadar reported that French star Antoine Griezmann has decided to draw the curtain on his international career with the national team, marking the end of a remarkable journey that spanned a decade. 

Griezmann’s last match for France came in the semi-finals of Euro 2024, where they were eliminated by eventual winners Spain. Despite the emotional ending to his national spell, the Frenchman’s career is marked by historic triumphs, most notably his contribution to France's victory at the 2018 World Cup.