Barcelona legend Iniesta: “Football has given me everything” after accepting new coaching role

Barcelona legend Andrés Iniesta has announced that he has accepted a new coaching position.

On Monday, Gulf United—a club competing in the UAE’s second division—officially named the 42‑year‑old Spaniard as its head coach.

Iniesta will take over the team ahead of the 2026/27 season, succeeding Ahmet Cebe, who has departed.

The appointment follows Iniesta’s recent acquisition of a UEFA A Coaching Licence, marking a new phase in his coaching career.

“Joining Gulf United feels like the right start for a new chapter in my life,” Iniesta said after the announcement.

“Football has given me everything, and now I want to give back by coaching, learning, and working every day with talented young players who are eager to improve.”