Andres Iniesta was desperate to get Gavi's shirt, even before friendly in Japan

A heartwarming interaction between Andres Iniesta and Gavi was captured on camera ahead of Barcelona's friendly clash against J-League side Vissel Kobe.

The likes of Robert Lewandowski and Ansu Fati jumped on a direct flight to Tokyo after Sunday's final league game of the season – a 2-1 defeat to Celta Vigo – to play at the Japan National Stadium.

Vissel Kobe, featuring former Blaugrana players Andres Iniesta and Sergi Samper, are currently top of the J1 League ladder after picking up 10 wins from 15.

But they conceded two early goals on Tuesday night, as Franck Kessie and Eric Garcia handed the Spanish giants an early lead.

Ahead of kick-off, Iniesta bumped into former Barcelona teammate Xavi, who recently guided the club to a historic La Liga title.

He also enjoyed a brief chat with Gavi. In fact, as you can see in the clip above, four-time Champions League winner Iniesta had a request for the talented midfielder.

According to Barcelona's official Twitter account, he said: "You give me your jersey today or my children will kill me!"

Here's how social media reacted to the scenes. One said: "Iniesta asking Gavi for his shirt has got to be a surreal experience for Gavi," while another wrote: "One is already a legend, the other a legend in the making."

A third added: "I just witnessed the official transfer of greatness."

Back in May, Iniesta announced he would leave Vissel Kobe at the end of the season after five years with the Japanese club.

When asked about his next club, the Spaniard said: "I have to tell you the truth, I don't know.

"I want to keep playing football. I feel like I am capable of still playing. But as this chapter closes, we'll see what's possible. I want to finish my career on the pitch playing, and this is what I'm hoping to do."

He added: "It's a very emotional day after so many years. I tried to give my best on and off the pitch. I am very proud of that."

Xavi and Iniesta enjoy emotional reunion in Japan with Barcelona taking on Iniesta’s Vissel Kobe 🥹pic.twitter.com/VAenNjPukZ

— SPORTbible (@sportbible) June 6, 2023

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