“Magical” Iniesta Is Key for Spain, Says Teammate Busquets

Iniesta, now 32 has been an inspiration in Spain’s 2008, 2012 European Championship successes.

Barcelona’s Andres Iniesta runs with the ball during the Champions League quarterfinal second leg match against Paris Saint Germain at the Camp Nou. (Photo: AP)

Spain midfielder Sergio Busquets hailed his Barcelona teammate Andres Iniesta as “magical” after a crucial performance in the country’s Euro 2016 opening game against the Czech Republic.

An inspiration in Spain’s 2008 and 2012 European Championship successes and 2010 World Cup win, Iniesta, now 32, set up goal scorer Gerard Pique with a precise cross to score the winner on Monday.

As the years go by, each time he gets better and just as important for us on the pitch as he is off it. It’s marvellous to have him with us, he is magical. When he takes two steps, it’s two steps forward for the team and two steps back for the rivals. 

Sergio Busquets

Named Man of the Match against the Czechs, Iniesta received plenty of praise in the Spanish media.

Iniesta, who made his 110th appearance for Spain on Monday, said he was happy to still be fit enough to make a difference for his national team.

I said many years ago that I wish I would still be asked the same question in years to come as to if I thought I was still at the top of my form. I celebrate that I’m healthy, that I’m still able to finish the games well, and that is the important thing.

Andres Iniesta

Spain have had the ideal start but have plenty to do to win the tournament for the third time in a row. They next meet Turkey in Nice on Friday.