Iniesta: Worst day of my life was spent at La Masia

Andres Iniesta became one of Spain's greatest players during his 20 years at Barcelona, but it didn't start according to plan.

In his upcoming autobiography, "The Move of My Life," the World Cup winner described his first days at Barcelona's famed La Masia academy as the worst of his life.

At 12 years old, he moved from his home province of Albacete to the footsteps of Camp Nou. Although he first visited the facilities with his parents, he was forced to leave them behind as he chased his dream.

His qualities were never doubted - Pep Guardiola once said Iniesta was "already a good player in his mother's womb" - but it took a long while to adapt. He was a shy boy who was homesick for his family.

"Yes, it seems absurd, but true, the worst day of my life I spent at La Masia," read an excerpt published on Marca. "I had a feeling of abandonment, of loss, as if I had pulled something from inside, deep inside of me.

"It was a very tough time, but I wanted to be there because I knew it was best for my future, of course.

"It was a very bitter pill to swallow because I had to leave my family, not seeing them every day and not having them close … it was very hard.

"I chose it for me, it's true, and it made me … it made me."

Under Guardiola's tutelage, Iniesta grew into a generational talent. His incisive passing and quick movement cut through opponents, and he always maintained his humility.

He broke Chelsea hearts at Stamford Bridge in 2009, and later clinched the 2010 World Cup courtesy of an extra-time winner. He also enjoyed back-to-back European Championships with La Roja.