Which Barcelona legends will join Andres Iniesta for Real Madrid Legends showdown in Tokyo?
Barcelona have announced an exciting match for fans in Japan and around the world. The FC Barcelona Legends, led by icons like Andres Iniesta, Xavi Hernandez, Javier Mascherano, and Rafa Marquez, will face off against the Real Madrid Legends in Tokyo on December 15 at Ajinomoto Stadium.
This exhibition match, to be hosted in Japan for the first time ever, promises to be an emotional evening as some of football’s greatest names reunite on the field.
For Iniesta, who recently retired after five years with Japanese outfit Vissel Kobe, this game holds extra significance. Fans in Japan will get one last chance to see the midfield maestro in Barca colours in what’s being called “The Last Dance” for the beloved player.
Iniesta’s decision to take part in the match has fans buzzing with excitement, and his presence will surely be one of the highlights.
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Barcelona Legends taking part in the match
Adding to the thrill, Barca’s team will also feature Xavi, who recently stepped down as the club’s head coach. He joins Mascherano and Marquez, each making their debut in a legends match since retirement.
These players bring unique legacies back to the pitch, having represented Barcelona with distinction in their playing days.
Other former Barca stars, such as Rivaldo, Bojan Krkic, Javier Saviola, Ludovic Giuly, Adriano Correia, and Gaizka Mendieta, will also be part of the lineup, making this a star-studded occasion for fans in Tokyo.
🚨 Barça Legends to play Real Madrid Leyendas in Tokyo on December 15 as Andrés Iniesta, Xavi, Javier Mascherano, and Rafa Márquez to feature for the first time since retiring!
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) November 12, 2024
Real Madrid brings ‘Galacticos’ to the field
Real Madrid’s Legends lineup will bring together some of their most celebrated players from the “Galacticos” era, including Roberto Carlos, Luis Figo, Iker Casillas, Steve McManaman, and Julio Baptista.
For fans of both clubs, this match is more than just a game — it’s a chance to relive the golden era of El Clasico with legends on both sides.
With a venue as large as Tokyo’s Ajinomoto Stadium, which holds more than 48,000 spectators, the match is expected to draw an enthusiastic crowd of supporters eager to watch these icons play once more.
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Barca legends: Celebrating a legacy
The Barca Legends program, started in 2016, keeps former stars connected to the club, promoting its values and global reach.
This December’s game in Tokyo is just one of many exhibitions that allow fans worldwide to reconnect with Barca’s iconic players and celebrate the legacy of the club.