KUALA LUMPUR – Want to train with one of the best clubs in Spain? Now is the chance as Villarreal CF has created a new academy in KL.
Through the Villarreal Academy international expansion project, the new academy is aimed at youngsters from three years old to 21 with a capacity to work with more than 400 players and 20 members of coaching staff.
Officially starting its activity in August this year, the club is opening its doors to all young talent from Kuala Lumpur and its surrounding areas who want to be part of the official Villarreal CF partner academy that plans to expand its reach by opening centres all over the country.
Besides having the chance to train under the methodology of a leading European football club, players will also have opportunities to visit Spain to train with or play friendly matches against other Villarreal CF academy teams.
Villarreal Malaysia academy CEO, Massimo Giannelli, has a clear mission for the academy and is excited to work hand in hand with the Spanish club.
“We aim to establish Villarreal Malaysia Academy as the best football development programme in Malaysia.
“Our mission is to be as inclusive as we can and offer the programme to everyone and instil within them the love of football,” he said in a statement.
Previously, Giannelli said he was looking to partner with a club that had a clear and evident strategy for youth football, and after speaking to several other European clubs, he found Villarreal to be the right partner for the next stage of development.
Meanwhile, managing director at Villarreal Malaysia Academy, Jonathan Abishegam, believes the academy will provide great opportunities for young football players across Malaysia.
“We want to bring Villarreal’s success in Spain and Europe to Malaysia, combined with the knowledge that we will learn from the club together with the amazing facilities and experienced coaches, we will create an opportunity for the players to experience high standards that will set them apart.
“This programme is meant to be shared with the masses. We want to give an equal opportunity to boys and girls of all backgrounds as much as we can,” he said.
Whether players are looking for a fun recreational programme or aspiring to play football in Europe, Abishegam said these opportunities will be made available at the Villarreal Malaysia Academy.
Besides the Malaysian academy, Villarreal CF has various academies around the world as part of the Villarreal Academy project.
The Yellows are currently working in countries such as the USA, Canada, Mexico, Bolivia, Israel, Australia, and South Korea. – The Vibes, July 5, 2022.
