Andres Iniesta’s Indian Chapter: Mohun Bagan’s Amicable ‘Smiley’ Response to Salary Inquiry
According to The Times of India’s Marcus Mergulhao, representatives of football icon Andres Iniesta reached out to Indian club Mohun Bagan Super Giant following his departure from the Japanese side Vissel Kobe. The attempt to bring Iniesta to the Indian football scene took an unexpected turn when the Barca legend proposed a salary of 8 million dollars per year, to which the club reportedly responded with a ‘smiley,’ effectively concluding the discussion.
Iniesta, undeterred by the Indian venture not materializing, eventually found a new home in the UAE, signing with Emirates Club. The 39-year-old has already made an impact, contributing 2 goals and 1 assist in 8 appearances for his new team.
Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan stands as one of India’s premier football clubs, having secured a 3rd-place finish in the top flight last season, and currently maintaining a similar position. Despite the playful exchange with Iniesta, the club continues to assert its presence in the Indian football landscape.
Iniesta, since departing Barcelona in 2018, has added to his trophy cabinet with triumphs in the Japanese Cup and the Japanese Super Cup during his tenure with Vissel Kobe. His brief negotiation with Mohun Bagan adds an intriguing chapter to the narrative of one of football’s modern legends.