Iniesta takes first coaching job at second-tier UAE club

Football legend Andrés Iniesta has embarked on a new chapter in his illustrious career, accepting his first coaching position with UAE First Division League side Gulf United. The announcement came Monday from the club, confirming the appointment of the former Barcelona and Spain midfielder.

Iniesta, a pivotal figure in the midfield for both club and country during periods of immense success in the late 2000s and early 2010s, and scorer of the winning goal in the 2010 World Cup final, retired from playing in 2024. Having obtained his A Licence, he will now progress towards his Pro Licence while taking his initial steps on the touchline with Gulf United.

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Joining Gulf United FC feels like the right place to begin this new chapter.

"Joining Gulf United FC feels like the right place to begin this new chapter," said the 42-year-old Iniesta, who last played for Emirates Club in the UAE. "Football has given me everything, and now I want to give something back through coaching, through learning, and through working every day with young players who have the hunger and the talent to go far."

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Football has given me everything, and now I want to give something back through coaching, through learning, and through working every day with young players who have the hunger and the talent to go far.