Iniesta signs a ‘lifetime’ contract

Andres Iniesta has committed his future to Barcelona by signing the first “lifetime contract” in the club’s history.

Barcelona announced that the 33-year-old midfielder had penned a deal which will keep him at the Nou Camp for the rest of his career. His previous deal had been set to expire in 2018.

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu said: “After 118 years of history it’s the first time we have ever offered a footballer a lifelong contract. This is a reward for Andres’ exceptional career.”

Iniesta has made 639 appearances for Barcelona since making his debut 15 years ago, second only to his former team-mate Xavi.

He has been at the club since 1996, having joined their famed youth set-up at the age of 12. He has won eight La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns. Barca did not say what Iniesta’s role would be when he stops playing.