The winning goal scored by Andres Iniesta in the 2010 World Cup final against the Netherlands had a big impact for the Spaniard. The midfielder says in an interview with Bild that the hit in Johannesburg helped him to get out of depression.
The death of 26-year-old Daniel Jarque – who died of heart attack – was so hard on Iniesta that he not only sought professional help, but also returned to live with his parents.
“It was definitely the most difficult phase of my life, which ultimately made me a better and stronger person. Fortunately, my wife and my parents supported me. The winning World Cup final goal helped me get out of that depression.”
“Unfortunately, I had to experience several misfortunes in a row, even though I was really successful at the time. But then my friend Dani Jarque died in August 2009, which really put me in such a fragile situation that I needed professional help.
“It was certainly the hardest phase of my life. It was very good for me to have the support of Anna, my then girlfriend and current wife, and of course that of my parents.” Iniesta added.
A lifetime contract meant that Iniesta could stay at Barcelona for as long as he wanted. Since he is 33 and he thinks that he has eclipsed the best days of his footballing career so he needs to move on.
The 36-year-old said Barcelona is an elite club and needs the best footballers to take it forward and since he thought he was not an elite footballer anymore so he simply walked away to Japanese club Vissel Kobe.
“There has been a lot of emphasis placed on that, but listen, the main reason why I’m leaving is a sporting one,” Iniesta said.
”We’ve been selling wine in China, Japan and many other places for many years now. But in the end, if the interest in the winery is there, it benefits both parties.
“I’m looking for a project where I will feel comfortable and I’m able to transmit what I’ve learned for a long time, trying to be surrounded by people who I trust.” he added.
