Ex-Man City and Barcelona star Yaya Toure lands first head coach role with surprise club after spell as Roberto Mancini's assistant at Saudi Arabia

According to a report from Belgian publication DH Les Sports+, the legendary former midfielder is expected to land his first head coach role. Belgian outfit Daring Brussels have already been in touch with the Ivorian icon and are expected to announce him as the new manager next week.

Daring Brussels have been searching for a young, dynamic head coach ahead of next season, with former D.C. United and Montreal coach Hernan Losada initially seen as the ideal fit given his Belgian ties and coaching experience. However, club owner John Textor has reportedly shifted focus to Toure, who has impressed during discussions. The 42-year-old now appears to be the frontrunner, with a final decision expected by Monday as preseason begins.

Toure had a glittering playing career as a midfielder, enjoying successful spells at Barcelona and Manchester City before retiring in 2019. Since then, he has served as the assistant coach at Ukrainian side Olimpik Donetsk and Russian outfit Akhmat Grozny, before returning to England to coach the Tottenham Under-16s in 2022. He returned to Belgium to become assistant at Standard Liege, before reuniting with his former coach Roberto Mancini as his second in command at the Saudi Arabia national team. Although Mancini left the role in October 2024, Toure has continued his job under current manager Herve Renard.

The four-time African Footballer of the Year will be aiming to help Daring Brussels achieve promotion to the Belgian Pro League (first-tier) next season. In the 2024-25 season, the club finished third in the Challenger Pro League (second division) and lost the promotion play-off.