While Barcelona‘s entire squad, club president, coaching staff, manager Ernesto Valverde, officials and a packed press contingent were present during club legend Andres Iniesta‘s departure announcement on Friday, two notable figures were missing – Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.

The 33-year old revealed that this would be his last season at the club where he has spent more than 20 years, admitting he will be leaving Europe to pursue a new challenge.

However, many found it surprising that Messi and Suarez were not in attendance.

However, the club’s justification for the duo not being able to attend the press conference was “due to personal reasons”.

The event was confirmed at just three hours notice.

The Argentinian and the Uruguayan will though be present for Iniesta’s official farewell next month.