Yaya Toure Appointed as Assistant Coach for Saudi Arabia National Team
On November 3, 2023, Yaya Toure, the retired Ivorian football legend, was named as the assistant coach for the Saudi Arabia national team.
This significant appointment marks the next phase of his career, transitioning from a successful player to a coaching role.
Reunion with Roberto Mancini
In his new role, Yaya Toure will work alongside head coach Roberto Mancini, who previously coached him during their time at Manchester City from 2010 to 2013.
This reunion with his former manager adds an intriguing element to his coaching journey.
Yaya Toure’s Distinguished Playing Career
Yaya Toure enjoyed a remarkable playing career, spending eight years at Manchester City after joining the Premier League club in 2010 from FC Barcelona.
His time with the club saw him win three Premier League titles, establishing himself as a pivotal figure in the team.
Transition to Coaching
Following a breakdown in his relationship with coach Pep Guardiola, Yaya Toure made the decision to depart from Manchester City in 2018.
He subsequently played for Olympiacos and later joined the Chinese Super League club Qingdao FC in 2019, where he eventually retired from professional football in the same year.
Beginning of Coaching Career
After retiring from football, Yaya Toure embarked on a coaching career in 2019.
He underwent a series of coaching courses in preparation for his future in coaching, showcasing his dedication to the profession.
Coaching Experience and Preparation
Yaya Toure’s coaching journey included roles as an academy coach at Tottenham Hotspur and as an assistant coach at clubs like Olimpik Donetsk, Akhmat Grozny, and Standard Liège.
These experiences prepared him for his latest and arguably most prominent coaching role with the Saudi Arabia national team.
Learning from Roberto Mancini
Working alongside Roberto Mancini, the former head coach of the Italy national team, will provide Yaya Toure with valuable insights and mentorship in his coaching journey.
Mancini took charge of the Saudi Arabia national team in August 2023 and has overseen several matches.
Yaya Toure’s Illustrious International Career
Before retiring from international football in 2015, Yaya Toure represented Ivory Coast on 101 occasions. He played a pivotal role in helping the national team secure victory in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, leaving an indelible mark on Ivorian football.
Legacy of Success
Throughout his career, Yaya Toure collected an impressive total of eighteen trophies while playing for eight different clubs.
His experience and achievements as a player make him a compelling figure in the world of football, and his transition to coaching holds promise for the future.