On Tuesday, Real Madrid paid tribute to Barcelona icon Andres Iniesta after the legendary midfielder announced his retirement from professional football at a press conference in Barcelona.

The 40-year-old Iniesta, widely regarded as one of the finest players in football history, revealed his decision to hang up his boots, marking the end of a stellar career that spanned more than two decades. Speaking to the media, Iniesta said, “Football ends at this stage.”

In response to the announcement, Real Madrid released an official statement on their website, honoring Iniesta’s legacy and wishing him well for the future. The statement read, in part: “Following Andres Iniesta’s announcement that he is retiring from professional football, Real Madrid C. F., its President and its Board of Directors would like to express their recognition, admiration and affection for one of the biggest legends of Spanish and world football. Real Madrid would like to wish him and his family the best of luck in this new chapter of his life.”

Iniesta, a product of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, made his first-team debut in 2002. Over the course of his illustrious career, he helped the Catalan club win 29 major trophies, including nine La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League titles. His mastery of the game, including his passing, vision, and composure under pressure, cemented his place as a key figure in Spain’s golden generation, which also claimed two European Championships and the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The gesture from Real Madrid, Barcelona’s historic rivals, underscores the immense respect Iniesta commands across the football world.