Andres Iniesta has promised ‘to work and learn’ in Japan after being officially unveiled by Vissel Kobe on Saturday.
More than 8,000 Vissel fans were present at Iniesta’s coronation as a player for the Japanese club, their Noveir Stadium decorated with banners that read ‘Welcome, Andres Iniesta’, while plenty more Spanish flags and greetings were on display.
“Thank you very much for this warm reception,” began the club’s new No 8.
“In these two days that I have been in Japan, I’ve received a lot of affection, and I want to thank you all.
“I’m very excited to work and learn. My objectives are to help Vissel keep improving, aspire to the maximum and help the club become champions of Japan and Asia.
“Now I have to go back to Spain and compete in the World Cup, which is a very nice challenge.
“In a couple of months, I’ll be back working at my best and try to improve this team.”
Vissel are owned by Rakuten, which sponsors the 34-year-old’s former club Barcelona.
The midfielder won nine Liga titles and four Champions Leagues at Camp Nou, prior to signing a three-year contract with the J1 League side.
. @andresiniesta8 has been formally presented at @vissel_kobe this Saturday. All the best, Andrés! pic.twitter.com/hhttFc8te3
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) May 26, 2018
