Andrés Iniesta took the first step in his new stage in football. After retiring as a player in 2024, the historic former Spanish midfielder will begin his career as a coach at Gulf United, a club that competes in the second division of the United Arab Emirates and is characterized by its commitment to the development of young talents.

The arrival of the former Barcelona player occurs while he continues his training process to obtain the Pro Coach License. According to the statement released by the institution, Iniesta already has a license that allows him to work at the club, although he is still working to complete the professional certification required for the highest levels of the bench.

The former Spanish international considers that this project fits with the vision he wants to develop in his new role within the sport. His incorporation occurs in an entity that has one of the youngest squads in the Emirati First Division League, an environment that will allow him to accumulate practical experience while continuing his academic and professional preparation.

“Gulf United FC seems like the perfect place to start this new stage,” said Iniesta. “Football has given me everything, and now I want to give something back through training, learning and working daily with young players who have the ambition and talent to go far.”

A project focused on talent training

The club's philosophy was one of the factors that convinced the former footballer to accept the challenge. Gulf United is recognized for its academy and its focus on the growth of young players, an aspect that Iniesta highlighted in his first statements as a member of the institution, according to AP.

"I believe in the correct development of footballers: with patience, with a clear idea of ​​how to play and with a genuine interest in each player. Gulf United shares that philosophy, and that is why I am here," he said. The Spaniard also explained that his intention is to continue growing in this new profession: “I want to grow as a coach, gain real experience and obtain my professional license.”

Iniesta's arrival was received with enthusiasm by the club's leadership. Ahmed El Saraf, president of the entity, highlighted both the man from La Mancha's sporting career and the values ​​he represents within football.

"We are proud and honored to welcome Andrés Iniesta to Gulf United FC. He is not only one of the best footballers of his generation, he is also a person who has always represented the values ​​in which we believe: technical quality, intelligence and an authentic love for the game," he said.

The leader also highlighted the importance that his presence will have for the growth of the institution's footballers.

With this move, Iniesta officially begins a new professional stage in the same country where he played his last season as a footballer, now with the mission of transferring his experience to work from the bench.