End of an era | Mascherano is embraced by Lionel Messi as he says goodbye to Barcelona
AFP/Getty Images
Jamie Teather24 January 2018

FC Barcelona held an ‘institutional farewell’ for Javier Mascherano, which was attended by the entire first-team squad.

The Argentine announced he would be leaving Barcelona this January, and the 33-year-old has signed for Chinese Super League side Hebei China Fortune.

Mascherano was visibly moved by the touching farewell put on by the club and was forced to hold back tears on a number of occasions.

Barca had organised a five-minute video comprising of video messages from players and staff who had worked with the Argentinian during his seven and a half-year stay at the club. Javier was also presented with a framed photograph of the Argentinian standing on Camp Nou pitch alongside the entire collection of trophies from his time at the club.

From right to left: Coach Ernesto Valverde, Andres Iniesta, Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets and Gerard Pique Photo: AFP/Getty Images
AFP/Getty Images

Throughout his time in Catalonia, Mascherano won a total of 18 trophies, including four La Liga titles, and two Champions League medals.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the club said: “Only three foreigners have ever played more game for Barca than the ‘little chief’, namely Lionel Messi, Phillip Cocu and Dani Alves.”

The 33-year-old, born in San Lorenzo, Argentina, will couple up with former Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini, as well as international compatriot Ezequiel Lavezzi.

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