Iniesta: Whoever wins the Champions League deserves it Barcelona Midfield maestro speaks about retirement plans

Andres Iniesta has spoken about the merits of Real Madrid's three straight Champions League titles, his plans for after he hangs up his boots and Lionel Messi's role as Barcelona captain.

After nine Spanish league titles, four Champions League crowns and a host of other trophies, Iniesta left Barcelona for Japan's Vissel Kobe last summer.

The midfield legend, in an interview with Diario Sport newspaper, acknowledged that while Barcelona's team on paper should have won more Champions League titles this decade, Real Madrid's recent successes were merited.

"Hopefully, this season we'll take the steps that have been missing from the past few years," said Iniesta.

"I've always thought that whoever wins the Champions League are deserved winners."

There has long been speculation that Iniesta could eventually join former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola's backroom staff at Manchester City, but the midfielder is not considering retiring just yet.

"The truth is that I haven't thought about it," he said.

"I don't know what will happen in a few years.

"For now, I'm focused on being a football player in another country and another championship, but always as a footballer."

The "Pep Team" of 2008 to 2012 is touted by many as the greatest club side of all time, with fans hopeful that some of the players from that era will return to the Camp Nou as coaches.

"It's a nice idea in theory, but the future will take us to where each one of us should be," said Iniesta.

"We have the love of the fans because we've been here for a long time.

"In my case, particularly, I would love to pass on what I've learnt.

"I can't know in what capacity, if I'll be ready and who will be in the club.

"These are hypotheses that we will see."

Messi has taken the captain's armband following Iniesta's departure and the Argentinian has thrived under the extra responsibility, with 15 goals and 10 assists in LaLiga Santander this season.

"I don't think it's a new thing for him," added Iniesta.

"He has been here a long time as the star player and at the centre of everything.

The captain's armband is an added stimulus for him."