5 Reasons Why Iniesta Should've Stayed At Barcelona For Another Season
As the curtain draws on one of the most beautiful footballing careers, of one of the most beautiful human beings in the world game, we can't help but wonder if Andres Iniesta could've maybe stayed at his spiritual home for another season. Or two.
The World Cup winner recently announced that he will be leaving Barcelona at the end of the season after 23 unbelievably successful years with one of the biggest clubs on the planet. The Spaniard departs with numerous titles under his belt and is widely regarded as one of the finest players of all time.
This begs the question, did Andres make the decision to leave a season too early? Here are 5 reasons why:
#5 Unparalleled experience in the current squad
The midfield maestro is one of the best midfielders in world football, but he is, undoubtedly, also one of the most experienced. As much as his age is a factor in him leaving the club, we can't help but wonder if that specific factor could be used as an advantage in the argument we're trying to make.
He has seen it all and conquered every bit of it. Need numbers?
4 x CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WINNER
9 x SPANISH CHAMPION
6 x SPANISH CUP WINNER
3 x FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP WINNER
7 x SPANISH SUPER CUP WINNER
3 x UEFA SUPERCUP WINNER
1 x UEFA BEST PLAYER IN EUROPE
To say nothing of his exploits with the national team. How will Barcelona manage to fill the void, in terms of experience, left by him once the legendary midfielder does leave the club?
Let's look at the specifics, Iniesta is the only player at Barcelona who has been at the club for over a decade and a ha. With veterans like Puyol, Xavi and Valdez all moving on or retiring, this put Iniesta in pole position to be the leader of the side.
After his departure, the 3 most senior players in the squad will be Messi (14 seasons), Pique and Busquets (10 seasons each).