Andrés Iniesta At New Masia Opening

Barcelona midfielder Andrés Iniesta, who was once a student at the old Masia, was at the opening of the new facilities for footballing youngsters and said: “it’s a world recognised centre and I’m thrilled to be here for the opening”.

Iniesta is one of many players who have moved up to the Barca A team and who started their football career at the Masia. Iniesta came to the Masia at 12 years of age in 1996 and is therefore in a position to add his comments on the new masia facilities. He said the following: “right now, and for some time, the Masia has been recognised throughout the world. The secret is doing things in the right way from the very start and they try to improve you as a player and as a person too”.

The inauguration of the new Masia has a special significance for ex students such as Valdés, Piqué, Xavi or Iniesta. “It’s an emotional day. Important. There’s a real change between the old and new Masia, you can see how things have changed and I’m thrilled to be a part of the first team and to be here for the opening” he said.

Iniesta gives advice to the next generation

When asked about giving advice to the new breed of Barca talent at the new Masia, Iniesta stated: “they have to be aware of what they have and to value going to school and being able to train every day because the time goes by very quickly. It’s hard to leave your family and so you have to appreciate what you have here. I would tell them to enjoy themselves”.