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Manchester City legend Yaya Toure has officially embarked on his first senior managerial journey after being appointed as the new head coach of Slovakian powerhouse Slovan Bratislava. The iconic Ivorian midfielder has signed a three-year deal, marking his transition from assistant roles to the top job in the dugout.

A new era for the former City star

Toure’s move to Slovan Bratislava completes his progression from the field to the touchline. The 43-year-old, who enjoyed a stellar playing career with Barcelona and Manchester City, has been entrusted with leading Slovakia’s most successful club. He steps into the role vacated by Vladimir Weiss, who has taken over the Slovakian national team for a second stint, leaving behind a significant position at the 32-time Slovak champions.

This appointment represents a major milestone for Toure, who has been steadily developing his coaching credentials since hanging up his boots in 2019. After working in various backroom positions across Europe and Asia, the four-time African Footballer of the Year now gets his first opportunity to put his football philosophy into practice at a club known for competing regularly on the European stage.

‘Something new and unique’ – Toure outlines his vision

Speaking after his appointment, Toure expressed great enthusiasm for the challenge ahead and shared that he has already been analysing the team. “I’m very happy and excited; honestly, I can’t wait for us to start working together on Monday. My predecessor deserves huge respect for what he achieved with Slovan. I want to build on that success while also introducing something new and unique of my own. Football is everything to me. I love challenges and can’t wait to coach a historic club with big ambitions and a fantastic stadium,” said Toure.

The Ivorian coach also praised the club’s facilities and underlined his intent to play proactive, attacking football. He added: “I was really impressed by the club’s infrastructure, which is top-class. With Slovan, I want us to play dominant football, control matches, and make our supporters proud. I’m eager to get to know the players personally. I’ve already studied the squad in detail, but the most important thing will be to see how they respond in training.”

Inspiration from watching Slovan face Manchester City

Toure’s interest in the Slovan job was sparked after he watched the team compete against his former club, Manchester City, in the Champions League. Seeing their performance on such a grand stage convinced him that the time was right to begin his own managerial chapter. The Ivorian had been waiting patiently for the ideal opportunity to step out from behind more established names like Roberto Mancini.

“As an assistant, I had the privilege of working with Roberto Mancini, for example, but I’ve wanted for a long time to lead my own project as a head coach. I’m grateful that this opportunity has come at a top club, which I recently watched play in a Champions League match against Manchester City. I really can’t wait for Monday; I’m very excited for what’s ahead,” Toure said.

Having signed a three-year contract, Toure will officially begin his reign on Monday, aiming to sustain Slovan’s dominance in Slovakian football.

From assistant coach to the main man

Before earning the top job in Bratislava, Toure built his coaching experience step by step. He previously worked as an assistant manager with Olimpik Donetsk, Akhmat Grozny, and Standard Liege, and also spent a year as an academy coach with Tottenham Hotspur, where he gained valuable experience in developing young talent. Most recently, he served under Roberto Mancini as part of the Saudi Arabian national team’s coaching staff. These varied roles have equipped him with the tactical and leadership skills required to handle the pressures of managing a title-contending side.

Toure’s credentials as a player are unquestionable. During his eight-year stay at the Etihad Stadium, he lifted three Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and two League Cups. With 70 Champions League appearances to his name, his vast experience at the elite level of European football will be a significant asset for Slovan as they prepare for next season’s qualification rounds in the competition.