RIYADH — The Saudi Arabian Football Federation has made an exciting announcement, revealing the signing of Ivorian football legend Yaya Touré as the assistant coach for the Saudi national team. This significant addition to the coaching staff was initiated at the request of the team's Italian head coach, Roberto Mancini, who saw the potential in including Touré in his team of coaches for the upcoming period.
Yaya Touré expressed his eagerness to embark on this new coaching journey with the Saudi National Team, emphasizing the unique opportunity it presents. He shared his enthusiasm, saying, "Being part of football in Saudi Arabia gives me an opportunity to work in a Muslim country for the first time in my career. This is something I have always wanted to do. I cannot wait to get out on the field and start coaching at an exciting time for the game in Saudi Arabia."
At the age of 40, Yaya Touré brings with him a wealth of coaching experience, having previously served as an assistant coach at three different clubs. His coaching journey has taken him to Olympic Donetsk in Ukraine, Ahmat Grozny in Russia, and Standard Liege in Belgium. Additionally, he took on the role of coach for the under-16 team at the renowned English club, Tottenham Hotspur.
Yaya Touré's illustrious playing career has seen him represent various top clubs across the globe, with notable stints at Barcelona in Spain and Manchester City in England. It was during his time at Manchester City that he played a pivotal role in the team's historic victory in the English Premier League, breaking a long-standing championship drought. His connection with Mancini, who was the coach of Manchester City during this triumphant period, adds an intriguing dimension to his new coaching role.
