Former Manchester City and Barcelona midfielder Yaya Touré has been named as the new head coach of ŠK Slovan Bratislava, the Slovakian champions.
The club’s web page confirmed the development on Saturday, saying, “The club’s management has agreed to a three-year contract with the 43-year-old former star player.”
The Ivorian star, who had a dazzling playing career that includes Premier League titles with Manchester City and glory at Barcelona, has moved into coaching.
He formerly worked at Tottenham Hotspur Academy and as Roberto Mancini’s assistant coach for the Saudi national team.
In a video and statement released by the club, Touré stated his excitement for the assignment.
He also recalls watching Slovan play Manchester City in the Champions League last season.
Club CEO Ivan Kmotrík Jr. welcomed Touré’s appointment and praised his experience and motivation.
“I am delighted that we have agreed on a three-year contract with him… I had several face-to-face meetings with Yaya Touré. He made an amazing impression on me,” Kmotrík Jr. said, noting their shared ambition for success.
The appointment is Touré’s first senior head coaching position and is viewed as a big step forward for the ambitious Slovak club, which has 32 league titles and a storied history, including a 1969 UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup win.
More information on the coaching staff is expected at a press conference on Monday.
