Andres Iniesta Announces He's Leaving Barcelona in Summer

Andres Iniesta has confirmed he will leave Barcelona at the end of the season after more than two decades at the club.

The long-expected announcement came on Friday, less than a week on from the Spaniard helping Barca to a 5-0 win over Sevilla in the Copa del Rey final, per BBC Sport.

Per BBC Sport's report, the Barcelona legend had to hold off tears as he addressed a press conference. 

"It is a difficult day for me," he said. 

Barcelona posted some footage on their Twitter feed:

Per FourFourTwo, Iniesta, 33, will leave the club as one of the most decorated players in Barca history, and he is likely to add another La Liga title to his tally before his exit:

The Spain international made his senior debut for the Blaugrana in 2002 after graduating from their famed La Masia academy and went on to form one of the best-ever midfield pairings with compatriot Xavi.

Iniesta is not expected to retire as a one-club man.

It has been widely reported he will join a club in the Chinese Super League in the summer, specifically Chongqing Dangdai Lifan, per The Independent.

Unsurprisingly, Iniesta's announcement prompted a swathe of tributes for the 2010 FIFA World Cup and two-time UEFA European Championship winner:

He has been a fixture of the best in European club football for the better part of two decades and is likely to be missed, not just by Barca supporters, but La Liga and UEFA Champions League fans alike.