Captain Andres Iniesta became the first player to sign a contract for life with Barcelona on Friday, ending speculation he could leave the club where he has spent his entire career.

Iniesta, 33, has been at Barcelona since he was 12 years old, making his professional debut in 2002. He is the club's second all-time leading appearance maker behind Xavi Hernandez, playing 633 games and scoring 54 goals.

He is also the club's most decorated player alongside Lionel Messi, having won 30 trophies.

"Today is a very special day for me, one of many here for the simple fact I'm continuing at this place which is my home, which means I can continue to aspire to win things for this club, my club," Iniesta told a news conference.

"This is the club where I grew up and evolved and I feel privileged to be its captain