Iniesta to decide on potential China move in coming week
Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta is set to announce his future plans in the coming week, having received an offer from an unconfirmed outfit from the Chinese Super League.
Iniesta, 33, was visibly emotional during his side's 5-0 thrashing of Sevilla in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday, receiving a standing ovation from both sets of supporters as he exited the match in the second half, and wiping away tears while on the bench.
The iconic Spain international found the back of the net as he and his cohorts captured their 30th Copa del Rey title, and Iniesta was candid after the match about the timeline of his future plans.
"This week I will make the decision public," Iniesta said, according to Mundo Deportivo, as quoted by ESPN FC. "There are many emotions, many feelings, many years - I'm happy to be able to give this image and the title. Today the people deserved this.
"I am happy personally and at a collective level. There are very strong emotions, the affection and respect that people have for me is something that I am very much grateful for. As I said, I will try to add this cup to the league.
"This week I will speak about the decision I make, as a person and as an athlete. The affection the people have shown me is priceless."
Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu also confirmed that Iniesta had received an offer, though he added that the long-serving midfielder is also on a lifetime contract with the Blaugrana, should he wish to stay.
Iniesta has played for the club through its youth ranks since 1996, and has made over 650 first-team appearances over 16 seasons.