Iniesta announced as new UAE club coach

Former midfielder Andrés Iniesta, an idol of Barcelona and Spain, was announced as the new coach of Gulf United, a second division club in the United Arab Emirates.

Iniesta was a central part of Spain and Barcelona's midfield during one of the most successful periods in the history of both teams, between the end of the 2000s and the beginning of the 2010s. The former player was also notable for scoring the winning goal of the 2010 World Cup, in the final against the Netherlands.

In a statement released this Monday, Gulf United said that Iniesta will take over the technical command of the team after obtaining his A Coaching License.

"After obtaining his A License, the world champion and multiple Champions League-winning midfielder joins the club as head coach as he progresses towards his Pro License and takes his first steps on the sidelines," the club said.

Iniesta ended his playing career in 2024. His last club was the Emirates Club, also from the United Arab Emirates.

"Joining Gulf United FC seems like the right place to start this new chapter," said the 42-year-old Spaniard.

"Football gave me everything, and now I want to give back through coaching, learning and working daily with young players who are hungry to win and have the talent to go far," he added.

CNN at the World Cup: From Galeão, the Brazilian team embarks for the USA | CNN PRIME TIME

Source: CNN