Andres Iniesta snubs Lionel Messi reunion for UAE side

Former Barcelona star Andres Iniesta is set to sign for Emirates Club on a one-year deal.

The 39-year-old arrived in the UAE on Monday to finalise his move to the Ras Al Khaimah side, having reportedly turned down the chance to join Lionel Messi at Inter Miami.

The Spaniard was welcomed by Emirates Club in the early hours of Tuesday morning, on the club's official social media pages. A video was posted of the smiling star wearing an Emirates Club scarf and being greeted with gifts.

Welcome #iniesta in #emiratesclub 💚🔥😍 @andresiniesta8 @fabriziorom @liveherewego_ pic.twitter.com/Ak52cyEvNY

— شركة نادي الامارات لكرة القدم (@Emirates_FC) August 7, 2023

The star is a free agent after leaving Japanese club Vissel Kobe after five years.

Iniesta is considered one of the greatest players of his generation having won 22 major trophies, including nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues. He also played a key role for his country when winning the 2010 World Cup and European Championship in 2008 and 2012.

The midfield maestro had been linked with a move to Inter Miami to join former Barcelona teammates Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba in the MLS. 

Emirates Club are preparing for life back in the Adnoc Pro League having secured promotion last season.