By David Gold
December 21 – Manchester United has launched a soccer school in Mumbai, India, after linking up with the Western India Football Association (WIFA).
The Manchester United Soccer Schools are inspired by the club’s elite academy, which has been responsible for producing some of the best players of the last generation such as Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Gary Neville.
The training at the schools will be in the club tradition, focusing on technique, tactics, physique, mentality and being social.
A newly laid astroturf pitch at the Cooperage ground will give eight to 18 year olds the chance to hone their skills.
The club hope to produce a host of talented players through the school as they increase their presence in India, a country more noted for its cricket stars than footballers traditionally.
Earlier this year Bayern Munich dropped plans to create an academy in West Bengal, while Argentina visited India to play Venezuela in the country’s first ever international friendly.
“We are excited to be working with the current Premier League champions Manchester United,” the WIFA President, Praful Patel, said.
“Young footballers will train under the direct supervision of coaches from Manchester United Soccer Schools, with programmes developed by the world acclaimed Manchester United Academy.
“These intensive but fun football development programmes will significantly improve players’ skills at a young age.
“We believe that this partnership will nurture and inspire young talent and provide players with the opportunity to realise their own potential.”
Manchester United chief executive David Gill added: “We are delighted to be partnering with the WIFA in bringing this exciting training programme to India.
“Manchester United Soccer Schools coaches have tremendous knowledge, experience and passion for the game that they will be able to pass on, both to young players and coaches.
“This is a long-term commitment and we hope we will make an important contribution to the growth of Indian football”
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