Andres Iniesta Thanks Fans After Loss of Child Causes Barcelona Absence

Andres Iniesta has confirmed he missed Barcelona's recent defeat to Valladolid after his pregnant wife lost their baby due to "complications," as reported by Tom Conn of Inside Spanish Football.

Iniesta was a late absence from Barca's trip to the provincial city, but confirmed more important matters took priority over the Catalan side's La Liga tie.

The 29-year-old midfielder revealed his family's heartache with a message on his Facebook account, thanking fans for their support:

"

Good Evening. On behalf of Anna, myself and our families, we can’t thank you enough for all of your support and affection over these last several days. My family and I are overwhelmed and infinitely grateful to all of you. There are difficult times and we thank you for respecting our privacy. We're certain that for up above, the little one will help us…Big hugs for everyone.

"

David Ramos/Getty Images

La Blaugrana may have had their title hopes derailed with a 1-0 loss to Juan Ignacio Martinez's relegation fodder, but the gravity of the loss is put into perspective by Iniesta's situation.

It was important for the World Cup winner to spend time with his family, and it remains unconfirmed as to whether he will need further time to cope with his personal loss.

Iniesta has played 30 times across La Liga and the Champions League this campaign, per WhoScored.com. He has netted one goal and provided five assists during Gerardo Martino's debut campaign and is key to the Camp Nou side's quest for silverware.

David Ramos/Getty Images

Barcelona are four points away from Real Madrid at the top of the Spanish top flight but have a commanding 2-0 lead over Manchester City after the first leg of their European round of 16 tie.

March is destined to be a key month in the campaign, with the return fixture against City and an El Clasico showdown on the horizon.

As acknowledged during Iniesta's statement, he and the rest of Barca's squad can use this tragedy as inspiration to finish the season strongly.

Tata's men will undoubtedly pull together for Iniesta and aim to thrust the club to glory as a tribute to their colleague, his family and the child that lost their life.

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