Barcelona and Spain legend Andres Iniesta ready for ‘new chapter’ as he lands first coaching job
· Yahoo Sports
Spanish football icon Andres Iniesta has taken his first step into management, signing with United Arab Emirates second-tier club Gulf United as a coach.
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The former Barcelona and Spain midfielder, who retired from playing with Emirates Club FC in 2024, holds a coaching license for the second tier. Gulf United confirmed on Monday that he is in the process of obtaining his Pro Coaching Licence.
Iniesta expressed his excitement for the new venture, stating: "Gulf United FC feels like the perfect place to begin this new chapter.
“Football has given me everything, and now I want to give something back through coaching, through learning and through daily work with young players who have the hunger and the talent to go far."
The move aligns with Gulf United’s reputation for its strong academy and dedication to developing young players.
Iniesta called time on his playing career in 2024 (Getty)Iniesta elaborated on his coaching philosophy, adding: "I believe in developing footballers the right way: with patience, with a clear idea of how the game should be played and with genuine care for each individual. Gulf United shares that philosophy, and that is why I am here."
He concluded: "I want to grow as a coach, gain real experience and earn my Pro Licence."
Iniesta is widely recognised as one of Barcelona and Spain’s finest players following his glittering career at the highest level.
After coming through the famed La Masia academy, Iniesta broke into the first team and would go on to make 674 appearances for Barcelona.
During his time with the Catalan giants, Iniesta won La Liga nine times, while also lifting the Champions League trophy on four occasions.
He also thrived on the international stage, playing a key role in Spain winning three major tournaments on the trot.
Spain triumphed at Euro 2008 and Euro 2012, either side of winning the World Cup for the first time in 2010, with Iniesta scoring the winning goal in the final against the Netherlands.
Iniesta finished his club career by playing for Japanese side Vissel Kobe and then moving to Emirates Club FC.
Now, two years on from hanging up his boots, he has returned to football, this time in a coaching capacity.