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#3 Andres Iniesta: From FC Barcelona to Vissel Kobe
Even though Xavi could fit into this list just as easily, Andres Iniesta is just a few months removed from his decision to join Vissel Kobe in the J-League. It is not a very surprising move, considering Iniesta had won everything he could have at Barcelona, but he had so much left to offer European football still.
The 34-year-old Spanish midfielder was imperative to Barcelona last season, as his contributions were unmatched by any other midfielder in the team. He maintained his position as the creative outlet in the middle for Barcelona and created opportunities for players ahead of him to convert.
Even though he moved further back into the midfield, he was still the key creative component for Barcelona, and his presence on the pitch was felt.
Iniesta has left, even though he easily had a season or two of top-flight football still in him. He was never reliant on flash but was always a functional player.
His functionality is something that would keep him relevant at the top level of European football, even if his physical gifts of strength and speed wane. His departure has been a sad one for European football.
