Former Spain and FC Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta has been named head coach of Gulf United FC, a second-tier club in the United Arab Emirates, marking the 2010 World Cup winner’s first step into professional management.
The 42-year-old takes charge of Gulf United FC in the UAE First Division League after completing his UEFA A Licence and continuing his push toward the Pro Licence.
The club confirmed his appointment on Monday, calling it the beginning of his transition from elite player to coach.
Iniesta, one of the defining midfielders of his generation, spent most of his career at FC Barcelona between 2002 and 2018, winning nine La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League trophies while anchoring one of the most dominant sides in modern football.
He also earned 131 caps for Spain national football team and delivered the defining moment of the nation’s golden era, scoring the extra-time winner in the 2010 World Cup final against the Netherlands.
