Andres Iniesta talks Yamal, Pedri, coaching ambition: ‘A complete player who will keep improving’ | OneFootball

Barcelona prepare to take on Albacete later today in a game that will decide whether they progress to the final four of the Copa del Rey. 

The game will be played at Carlos Belmonte, Albacete’s home ground, and the same stadium where Real Madrid and Celta Vigo faced elimination from the competition. 

Notably, Albacete is also home to a bona fide Barcelona legend, Andres Iniesta. The player, in fact, was in Albacete’s youth system before he joined La Masia and went on to make history.

Speaking to the media in a recent interview, the Barcelona legend spoke about a plethora of topics, including his coaching aspirations, but began by giving his two cents on the upcoming presidential elections at the club and the game against Albacete.

“Regarding the elections, I just hope Barça can compete for all titles and have the stability it needs.”

“Whoever becomes president should be what is best for Barça. What the members decide will be the best,” he added.

Speaking on the team’s upcoming clash against Albacete, his boyhood club, Iniesta said,

“I would have liked to be there to watch Barça play my boyhood club Albacete, but I am in Dubai, and I will watch it from here.”

“There are matches you simply cannot miss, and Albacete coming from eliminating Real Madrid is already a warning,” he added.

On his coaching goals

Iniesta then went on to speak in detail about his vision as a manager and his path to becoming a licensed coach to begin his journey in Europe.

“My idea is to start coaching soon. I am missing the Pro license, which I am completing here in Asia.”

“I finished my playing career here and came up with the idea of getting my coaching badges. I will finish the process in Dubai,” he added, explaining why he is in Asia.

He then provided an insight as to how visualising and approaching football as a coach is very different from doing so as a player.

Andres Iniesta is working on his coaching license. (Photo by Jamie McDonald/Getty Images)

“As a coach, you start watching football differently, with a different perspective.”

“The ball still attracts you, but today there are very few secrets. What matters now is preparing myself in the best possible way,” he added on how he still has a desire to play.

“In good physical condition, I think I could have played in any system,” he elaborated on his playing days.

Returning to the topic of his coaching license, Iniesta explained the various considerations a manager must keep in mind when taking charge of any team.

“When you start coaching, you first need to know the players you have and what they can give you.”

“You must have a clear idea of how you want to play, but also the mentality to adapt to the situation,” he concluded.

On Yamal and Pedri

The Barcelona legend also showered praise on young Lamine Yamal, admitting that he had it in him to become an all-time great.

“Lamine Yamal’s challenge is to keep growing every year.”

“He plays with incredible naturalness, and it is in his hands to become one of the greatest if he keeps pushing himself,” he added.

Iniesta also praised the player who has seemingly taken his place in the current Barcelona team – Pedri Gonzalez – and spoke on how the midfielder is a natural phenomenon.

“Pedri feels very comfortable on the ball and is always involved.”

“He can organise the game but also provide imbalance. He is a very complete player with brutal qualities who will keep improving,” he added.

Source: 3Cat