Serhii Rebrov and Al-Wahda
Serhii Rebrov, the former head coach of the Ukrainian national team, is in discussions to take over Al-Wahda, a club based in the United Arab Emirates. His representatives are currently negotiating with two clubs, including Al-Wahda, which sits in fifth place in the UAE top-flight standings for the 2025/26 season. An official announcement regarding a potential partnership between Rebrov and Al-Wahda could come as early as mid-May.
Rebrov is no stranger to UAE football, having managed Al-Ain from June 2021 to June 2023. During the 2021/22 season, he led the club to both the league title and the UAE League Cup, earning recognition as the country’s Coach of the Year. Notably, Ukrainian international Andriy Yarmolenko played for Al-Ain under Rebrov’s tenure.
Ukraine’s New National Team Coach
As for the Ukrainian national side, 54-year-old Italian Andrea Maldera is set to become the new head coach. The Ukrainian Association of Football and Maldera are in the final stages of finalizing the contract. This marks a historic first: a foreign specialist will take the helm of Ukraine’s national team. Maldera will replace Serhii Rebrov, who stepped down on April 22 after the team failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, losing 1–3 to Sweden in the playoff semifinals.
In June 2023, Ukraine is scheduled to play friendly matches against Poland and Denmark. In the fall of 2026, the team will compete in League B of the UEFA Nations League, facing the following opponents:
- Hungary
- Georgia
- Northern Ireland
Andrea Maldera is on the verge of becoming the new head coach of the Ukrainian national team. The deal with the Italian coach is currently being finalized. — Fabrizio Romano
These coaching changes—both at the club and national team levels—reflect a push for renewal and improved performance in Ukrainian football. Rebrov, already a familiar figure in the UAE, could bring fresh ideas and experience to Al-Wahda, while Maldera’s appointment as Ukraine’s head coach opens a new chapter for the national team. These moves have the potential to shape the future results of both sides on the international stage and enhance the reputation of Ukrainian football.
As Ukraine prepares for a new chapter with Italian coach Andrea Maldera at the helm, it's essential to understand his background and coaching philosophy. This transition comes on the heels of Serhii Rebrov's departure, marking a significant shift in the team's strategy. For a deeper look into who Andrea Maldera is and what he brings to the Ukrainian national team, check out our detailed overview here.