Andres Iniesta approves Barcelona’s pursuit of €58 million-rated wing-wizard

Away from the hustle-bustle of Europe and at the ripe age of 40, Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta is still playing the beautiful game for Emirates Club in the UAE Pro League.

Despite playing in a land far away, however, it is clear that the club legend stays in the loop around his former club and the Spanish National Team. In his recent interviews, in fact, he even opened the door to a return to Barcelona in some capacity in the future.

Speaking in an interview (h/t Mundo Deportivo) earlier this week, Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta spoke on a plethora of topics related to the Blaugrana club including their transfer strategy and a possible return for him to the Catalan club.

Iniesta approves Nico Williams pursuit

Iniesta was quizzed about Barcelona’s top transfer target, Nico Williams, and what the Athletic Club winger would bring to the table for Barcelona.

“The level they are showing with the National Team [is impressive]. We talk about Nico or Lamine but we can talk about Fabián, Rodri, Dani Olmo… anyone,” Iniesta said.

“Nico Williams has also had a fantastic season at his club, it is a name that surely sounds for the big teams. It is undeniable that the signing of Nico Williams would add another level to Barcelona but let’s see what happens,” he added about the winger, who is protected by a €58 million release clause at Athletic Club.

Iniesta hails Lamine Yamal

The Barcelona legend then gave his two cents on Lamine Yamal, the teenager’s heroics at the highest level and maturity beyond his years.

“It is extraordinary and surprising, because of his age and because it is not normal in football. But considering the season he enjoyed at Barça, he has already been someone who is different.”

“I hope he can play a great final because he is a decisive player. He has his whole life ahead of him to continue growing, but today, delighted that he is performing at the level he is doing it,” he added.

Iniesta then went on to comment on the pressure on the youngster and how it could affect him given his young age.

“The fact that young people do not feel the pressure is not true. We can say that it is not felt but it is obvious that it is felt not only in soccer, but in the day-to-day life.”

“I believe that times have fortunately changed, the tools have changed, the opportunities for professionals and the environment in which you grow can help you because you have them at your fingertips,” he added on today’s world of football and the growing prowess of young talents.

On Xavi, Flick, and a return to Barcelona

Moving on to the topic of Hansi Flick’s appointment in Catalonia after Xavi’s successful spell at the club, the legend said,

“Barça enter another situation with a new coach, from the outside, another way of seeing different situations. I would have loved that Xavi had continued for what he represents for me on a personal and professional level.”

“I hope Flick has the strength, the tranquillity and the tools so that Barça can qualify for all the titles. As a Barca fan and as a culé, I hope we can have stability for a long time,” he added, welcoming the new manager.

Finally, the midfield maestro was asked about his immediate future and whether he would continue as a player, to which he said,

“Right now I feel that I would still like to continue playing football. Until I feel that the time to stop has come, I would like to continue playing. Then I would like to get the title of coach and then we will see what the future holds.”

“Obviously I would like to return to Barça at some point, but at what time and in what way I don’t know or anyone knows it. Let’s see how things go,” he added on a possible return to Catalonia.