Video PlayerClose

TOKYO, July 18 (Xinhua) — Hundreds of fans greeted former Barcelona star Andres Iniesta on Wednesday as he arrived in Japan to join up with Vissel Kobe, the J-League side.

“It was a long trip. But I had been looking forward to coming to Japan. I’m excited to play with my Vissel teammates,” Iniesta told reporters after his arrival.

“I hope fans will enjoy seeing me and my team play. I will do my best to make my new challenge a success.

“I want to play as soon as possible. I’ll get in top condition for Sunday, and I hope to show the fans great play.”

Iniesta is scheduled to join his new teammates for training on Friday and could make his J-League debut as early as Sunday, when Vissel Kobe play Shonan Bellmare at home.

In May, Iniesta agreed to join Kobe following the end of his 22-year term at Spanish champions Barcelona.

The 34-year-old midfielder is believed to have signed a multi-year deal with an annual salary of 30 million dollars, Kyodo said.

Former Germany striker Lukas Podolski also joined Kobe last year from Turkish side Galatasaray.

Earlier this month, Iniesta announced his retirement from international football after Spain’s elimination on penalties against hosts Russia in the World Cup last 16.

Iniesta won 32 titles with Barca and his goal in the final against the Netherlands gave Spain the 2010 World Cup title in addition to Spain’s triumphs at Euro 2008 and 2012.

ai vision