Andrés Iniesta Appointed Head Coach of Gulf United
Andrés Iniesta has been named the head coach of Gulf United, a club competing in the United Arab Emirates' second division. This marks the former Barcelona and Spain captain's first coaching role since retiring from playing in 2024 with Emirates Club. Iniesta, who holds a UEFA A license, plans to continue his education to earn his Pro license as he transitions into management.
The Team and Ambitions
Gulf United, which finished tenth in the 2025/2026 season, boasts the youngest squad in the league. At his new club, Iniesta will work with Leroy Fer and Julien Jeanvier. Fer previously played for Swansea City and Feyenoord, while Jeanvier is a former defender for Reims and Auxerre. The length of Iniesta's contract has not been disclosed, but his appointment has generated significant buzz in the football world.
Gulf United is the right place to start a new chapter in my life. Football has given me everything, and now I want to give back to the game by working daily with young, talented players. — Andrés Iniesta
Iniesta, famously the scorer of Spain's winning goal in the 2010 World Cup final, has not hidden his ambitions to eventually join the coaching staff of Barcelona or the Spanish national team. Meanwhile, the Moroccan national team has already initiated talks with Iniesta, signaling his growing reputation in coaching circles.
This move could prove pivotal in Iniesta's career, offering him the chance to develop a new generation of footballers within a youthful squad. His high-level experience and commitment to further coaching education may be key to improving the club's performance. The appointment also highlights the increasing appeal of coaching opportunities in the region, which could lead to future collaborations and projects.