Andres Iniesta has signed and will coach the first team of his career!

Iniesta ended his playing career in 2024 at Emirates Club. He later obtained his coaching license which allows him to manage Gulf United in the second tier, but is still in the process of obtaining his PRO license, according to a statement issued by the club.

Andres Iniesta, the new coach of Gulf United FC

“Gulf United FC is the perfect place to start this new chapter. Football has given me everything and now I want to give something back through coaching, learning and working daily with talented young players who want to go far,” said Iniesta.

The Emirates club is known for its focus on developing young players and its football academy, aspects that weighed in the former Spanish midfielder's decision.

“I want to grow as a coach, gain real experience and get my professional license,” Iniesta added.

Iniesta's new team was formed just seven years ago and is based in Dubai. The club was founded by football coaches from Manchester and placed a special emphasis on the development of young players.

However, the team also appears to benefit from significant financial backing, having made several transfers from European football in recent years, including Swedish international Robin Quaison and Dutch international Leroy Fer.

Iniesta follows a similar coaching trajectory to that of Xavi, who initially took over at Al-Sadd in Qatar. A possible return to Barcelona will be mooted if he is successful in the UAE.

• As a player, Iniesta played for Barcelona for 16 years between July 2002 and July 2018. He played 674 games for the Catalans in all competitions.