Few midfielders in football history can match the skill, achievements, and legacy of Andres Iniesta.
The former Barcelona maestro played a pivotal role in one of the most dominant club eras of all time, forming an iconic midfield partnership with Xavi that lasted for over a decade.
During his illustrious career, Iniesta had the privilege of playing alongside elite midfielders like Sergio Busquets, Javier Mascherano, and Cesc Fabregas. However, when asked which Premier League star he would have loved to see join him at Barcelona, he had one name in mind – N’Golo Kante.
“He’s a player I’d like to have in my team for many years because of the work he does on the field and the confidence he has in his game. His mastery made him the centrepiece of Chelsea and the France national team.”
Despite never playing in the Premier League himself, Iniesta closely followed England’s top division and recognised Kante as one of its standout talents.
Although the two midfielders never shared a team, they did face off three times between March 2017 and March 2018. Their first encounter came in an international friendly, where Iniesta’s Spain secured a 2-0 win over Kante’s France.
Is N'Golo Kante the defensive midfield GOAT? 🇫🇷 @BarraBruvvas pic.twitter.com/xe9lNDYnub
— GOAL (@goal) March 19, 2025
Later, in the Champions League, they clashed twice during the Round of 16, with Barcelona drawing 1-1 at Stamford Bridge before sealing a 3-0 victory at Camp Nou.
Kante, now playing for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, was instrumental in Chelsea’s success throughout the late 2010s and early 2020s. His tireless performances helped the club secure major silverware, including a Premier League title and an unforgettable Champions League triumph against Manchester City in 2021.
Before his move to Saudi Arabia, Kanté had established himself as one of the hardest-working midfielders in Europe. His relentless energy was crucial to Chelsea’s dominance, and his influence was just as significant at international level.
