Andres Iniesta joins Japanese side Vissel Kobe

Spain midfielder Andres Iniesta has signed for Vissel Kobe, the Japanese club have announced.

Vissel Kobe announced the news at a press conference in Tokyo on Thursday where Iniesta appeared along with Kobe's billionaire owner Hiroshi Mikitani.

Mikitani said: "I am pleased to announce today that Andres Iniesta will be signing up to play with Vissel Kobe after his historic career at FC Barcelona,"

The 34-year-old playmaker left the Catalan giants after landing his ninth La Liga title with the club. He also secured a host of other honours, including four Champions League triumphs.

A World Cup winner with Spain in 2010, Iniesta captained Barcelona during his final three seasons at the club.

Mikitani added: "I am confident Iniesta's philosophy, leadership and DNA will be a terrific inspiration, not only for Vissel Kobe but all Japanese football society.

"We look forward to Andres Iniesta not only strengthening the team's performance but also contributing to the development of the next generation of players through the introduction of the Iniesta methodology to the youth
academy.

"We believe his decision to come to Japan will have a major impact, not just on Vissel Kobe, but on football in Japan and Asia."

Source: Sky Sports