Yaya Touré is widely regarded as one of the greatest African footballers of all time. The Ivorian midfield maestro dazzled fans with his exceptional dribbling, passing, and goal-scoring ability throughout his illustrious career. From dominating the midfield at Barcelona to leading Manchester City to Premier League glory, Touré left an indelible mark on football. Here, we uncover some lesser-known facts about his life and career.
Contents
Yaya Touré: Key Facts & Information
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gnégnéri Yaya Touré |
| Date of Birth | 13 May 1983 |
| Nationality | Ivorian |
| Current Role | Assistant Coach, Saudi Arabia National Team |
| Net Worth | Estimated $70 million |
| Relationship Status | Married to Gineba Touré |
| Height & Weight | 1.88 m (6 ft 2 in), 90 kg (198 lbs) |
| Parents | Mory Touré (Father), Name Unknown (Mother) |
| Siblings | Kolo Touré (Brother), Ibrahim Touré (Brother, Deceased) |
| Position | Midfielder (Box-to-Box) |
| Playing Style | Powerful, technical, dominant in midfield |
| Dominant Foot | Right |
| Clubs Played For | ASEC Mimosas, Beveren, Metalurh Donetsk, Olympiacos, Monaco, Barcelona, Manchester City, Qingdao Huanghai |
| Trophies Won | 3x Premier League, 2x La Liga, 1x Champions League, 1x Africa Cup of Nations, multiple domestic cups |
| Career Goals | 118+ (Club & Country) |
| Match Experience | Over 600 professional appearances |
| Heading Ability | Strong in aerial duels |
| Scoring Ability | Excellent long-range shooting and finishing |
| Pressure Handling | Calm and composed in big matches |
| Notable Injuries | Knee & hamstring issues, occasional muscular injuries |
| Tattoos | None |
Early Life & Journey to Stardom
Born in Bouaké, Ivory Coast, Yaya Touré showed footballing promise from an early age. He joined ASEC Mimosas’ prestigious academy, where he developed his skills alongside future Ivorian stars. His talent earned him a move to Belgian side Beveren before progressing through clubs like Metalurh Donetsk, Olympiacos, and Monaco.
Barcelona Glory & Champions League Triumph
In 2007, Touré signed for FC Barcelona for €10 million, where he became an integral part of Pep Guardiola’s midfield. He played a crucial role in Barcelona’s historic 2008-09 treble-winning season, even featuring as a center-back in the Champions League final against Manchester United.
Manchester City Legend & Premier League Domination
In 2010, Touré joined Manchester City for £24 million, becoming a transformative figure in their rise to Premier League dominance. His goals in the 2011 FA Cup semi-final and final ended City’s 35-year trophy drought. His incredible 2013-14 season saw him score 20+ league goals from midfield, leading City to their second Premier League title.
International Success with Ivory Coast
A key player for the Ivorian national team, Touré captained the Elephants to Africa Cup of Nations glory in 2015. He represented Ivory Coast in three FIFA World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014) and six AFCON tournaments.
Post-Retirement & Coaching Career
After retiring from professional football, Touré pursued coaching, earning UEFA coaching badges. He has worked with Tottenham Hotspur’s youth team and is currently an assistant coach for the Saudi Arabia national team.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Yaya Touré’s net worth?
Yaya Touré’s estimated net worth is around $70 million, earned from contracts, endorsements, and investments.
2. Is Yaya Touré married?
Yes, he is married to Gineba Touré.
3. What are Yaya Touré’s major achievements?
Touré won multiple league titles with Barcelona and Manchester City, a UEFA Champions League, and the Africa Cup of Nations.
4. How many goals did Yaya Touré score in his career?
He scored over 118 goals for club and country.
5. What made Yaya Touré a unique midfielder?
His combination of strength, skill, passing ability, and goal-scoring prowess set him apart as one of the best box-to-box midfielders.
6. Did Yaya Touré have any famous rivalries?
Touré had intense on-field battles with midfielders like Paul Scholes, Steven Gerrard, and Nemanja Matić.
7. Where is Yaya Touré now?
He presently serves as an assistant coach for the Saudi Arabian national team.
Yaya Touré’s legacy as one of Africa’s greatest footballers is cemented in history. From his early days in Ivory Coast to his triumphs in Barcelona and Manchester City, his impact on football is undeniable. His transition into coaching signals a new chapter, ensuring his knowledge continues to shape the sport. Touré’s name will forever be synonymous with power, precision, and excellence in midfield.
