Andrés Iniesta (born in Fuentealbilla, 1984) played his one thousandth professional match this Saturday, making him "privileged," as he stated after facing Emirates FC in the UAE Proleague against Ajman.

Iniesta played his twelfth match with Emirates. He joined the team from Vissel Kobe in Japan, with just three stops along the way.

Approaching his 40th birthday on May 11th, Iniesta adds his twelve matches with Emirates to the 723 played with FC Barcelona (49 with Barça B and 674 with the first team), in addition to 131 international appearances with the Spanish National Team and 134 matches with Vissel Kobe.

In those thousand matches, Iniesta has scored 104 goals, provided 192 assists, and celebrated 38 titles, including 1 World Cup, 2 European Championships, 4 Champions Leagues, and 10 La Liga titles. Throughout his career, he has never received a red card.

"Reaching this milestone means something very special to me. When I played on the fields of Fuentealbilla or at Albacete, my dream was to become a footballer, but I could never have imagined enjoying such a long and beautiful career," the midfielder said in statements provided by NSN (Never Say Never), the player's agency.

"I feel privileged for everything I've experienced and for all the love I've received over the years. A thousand thanks to all who have supported me, especially my parents and my family, for their unconditional support," he said.