FC Barcelona preparing a life plan for captain and legend Andres Iniesta

Andres Iniesta wants to renew his Barcelona contract. 

"You'll have to aske the directors about my turn to renew, I want to finish my career here," said the midfielder in an interview with Cadena COPE. 

Iniesta is signed up until June 30, 2018, when he will have just turned 34. Barcelona will speak with Iniesta in the new year before the end of the season and see what the player wants to do. Without rush, without pressure. The club know that a legend like Iniesta should be allowed to do what ever makes him feel happiest and comfortable. 

The club's own rule is to renew players' contracts year on year when they reach 34, related to their sporting performance. However, Iniesta's case is completely different. He is an institution at Barcelona, having spent 20 years here, behaving extremely well and playing superbly. He is an icon. 

What Barcelona will do is offer Iniesta a contract that he can choose the length of. Barcelona want Iniesta here for life. Beyond the pitch, he can have a new role. A representative of the club, like Emilio Butragueno at Rael Madrid, a youth coach or an assistant with the first team. 

Barcelona know that Iniesta would fit like a glove in La Masia. He was the first to come out of the system, a clear example of working hard at the lower levels being able to bring you to the top. He would also be a local reference point for the youngsters. 

However, it's tough to know how long Iniesta will go on playing for. He still makes the difference for Barcelona on a regular basis and is a grand professional. His name always needs to be linked to that of FC Barcelona. He will hopefully spend many more years here. It would be a great sign.