SOCCER: Iniesta takes first coaching job at second-tier UAE club

Former Barcelona and Spain midfielder Andres Iniesta has been named the new head coach of Gulf United, the United Arab Emirates second-tier club announced on Monday.

Iniesta was the centerpiece of the Spain and Barcelona midfields during a period of dominant, sustained success for both teams in the late 2000s and early 2010s. Notably, he scored the winning goal in the 2010 World Cup final against the Netherlands.

"Having obtained his A License, the World Cup winner and Champions League-decorated midfielder has joined as head coach... as he progresses toward his Pro License and takes his first steps on the touchline," the UAE First Division League side said in an official statement.

A New Chapter in the UAE

The 42-year-old football legend retired from professional play in 2024, finishing his illustrious playing career with the UAE-based Emirates Club.

"Joining Gulf United FC feels like the right place to begin this new chapter," Iniesta said regarding his appointment. "Football has given me everything, and now I want to give something back through coaching, through learning, and through working every day with young players who have the hunger and the talent to go far."

-Reporting by Aadi Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Peter Rutherford/Reuters