History Maker Yaya Toure Becomes First African Coach to Reach UEFA Champions League Main Round

Legendary former Ivory Coast footballer Yaya Toure has written his name in the history books by becoming the first African coach to guide a team into the main round of the UEFA Champions League, managing Slovakian club Slovan Bratislava.

Slovan Bratislava secured their historic spot in the prestigious European club competition following a hard-fought 3-2 aggregate victory over NK Celje in Slovenia. Since taking over as head coach in June, the 43-year-old has enjoyed an incredible start, securing four league wins and navigating a demanding qualifying campaign.

The journey to the group phase began in July with a 2-0 victory over Georgian team Saburtalo, followed by a 1-1 draw in the second leg. Slovan Bratislava then triumphed over Sweden’s Mjallby in both legs of the second qualifying round before overcoming NK Celje in the playoffs.

Following the emotional victory, fans celebrated by singing the famous “Yaya Toure” chant reminiscent of his glory days at Manchester City. Retiring in 2019 after a glittering 18-year playing career, Toure's resume includes a UEFA Champions League title and two La Liga titles with Barcelona, alongside multiple domestic honors with Manchester City.

As a player, Toure earned four African Footballer of the Year awards and lifted the Africa Cup of Nations with The Elephants in 2015. Before landing the top job at Slovan Bratislava, he gained coaching experience as an assistant manager with various European clubs and served as assistant coach for the Saudi Arabian national team.

Slovan Bratislava will discover their opponents for the group phase during the official draw held in Madrid.