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Andres Iniesta targeted by former boss Pep Guardiola as he nears retirement

Spain playmaker, 33, could be tempted to begin new challenge in another league like former midfield partner Xavi

Pep Guardiola wants Andres Iniesta to join his Man City revolution, according to reports.

The Barcelona superstar signed a “lifetime contract” with the La Liga giants back in October, but that deal is believed to be non-binding, meaning the Spain playmaker could still move on.

And the Sunday Mirror claim City boss Guardiola is keeping tabs on the situation and is keen to reunite with his former player.


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Pep Guardiola wants to reunite with Andres Iniesta at Manchester City

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Pep Guardiola wants to reunite with Andres Iniesta at Manchester City

Barca signed £142million Philippe Coutinho from Liverpool in January, seemingly as a long-term replacement for Iniesta.

And while his influence is still felt at the Catalan club – having started 21 games this season – his playing time is expected to be reduced in the coming seasons as he nears retirement.

Andres Iniesta is still going strong at 33 at Barcelona but has been used more sparingly

Getty - Contributor
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Andres Iniesta is still going strong at 33 at Barcelona but has been used more sparingly

Guardiola, who was effectively replaced as a player by Iniesta when he left Barcelona in 2001, hopes the midfielder will also want to break new ground in the Premier League.

The pair won a staggering three La Liga titles, two Champions Leagues, two Copa del Reys and three Spanish Super Cups during Guardiola’s four-year spell in charge of Barca.

Guardiola’s midfield trio of Kevin De Bruyne, David Silva and Fernandinho are already running riot in the Premier League having helped the club to a 15-point lead at the top of the table.

So just imagine Iniesta joining their ranks?

Philippe Coutinho was signed by Barcelona as a long-term replacement for Andres Iniesta

AFP
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Philippe Coutinho was signed by Barcelona as a long-term replacement for Andres Iniesta

Iniesta’s experience would be sure to help his old boss in his mission for total domination across Europe and in cup competitions as well.

In May, Iniesta hinted he could be tempted to pack it in at Barca is the right opportunity came along.

He said: “My wish has been always the same and that doesn’t change, which is retiring at Barcelona.

“That’s always been my wish since I got here aged 12.

“But of course there are always possibilities for something else.”


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