Refresh is proud to work with Yaya – a Premier League legend and one of the most prominent African voices on the global stage.

The Ivorian’s talent on the pitch saw him crowned African Footballer of the Year on four occasions. He won league titles in England and Spain with Manchester City and Barcelona, is a UEFA Champions League winner, and captained Ivory Coast to a historic Africa Cup of Nations triumph in 2015.

Since transitioning into coaching, Yaya has built a diverse and international portfolio. He began as Assistant Coach at Olimpik Donetsk in Ukraine and Akhmat Grozny in Russia, before joining Tottenham Hotspur as an Academy Coach while completing his coaching badges. He later took on the role of Assistant Coach at Standard Liège, and most recently served as Assistant Coach to Roberto Mancini with the Saudi Arabia National Team from 2023 to 2025.

Beyond football, Yaya continues to make a significant impact off the pitch. In his role as a UN ambassador, his charity work across Africa is extensive, and he is a vocal campaigner on key issues including racism and the environment. He is also currently an ambassador for Ria Money Transfer and Paripesa.