Bhubaneswar, Nov 15: All India Football Federation's (AIFF) long-standing ambition to establish a world-class academy is set to materialize in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on November 21, marking a significant milestone for Indian football development. Under the FIFA Talent Development Scheme, the AIFF-FIFA academy's inauguration will witness the presence of Arsene Wenger, FIFA Chief of Global Football Development, as announced in an AIFF release. AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey expressed, "Arsene Wenger will be in India from November 19 to 23. During this period, he and his team will engage with ISL, I-League clubs, and all stakeholders involved in Youth Development in Indian football." Chaubey emphasized the goal to establish a flawless academy, drawing inspiration from existing academies in India. He credited FIFA President Gianni Infantino for initiating and sending Wenger to India, acknowledging Wenger's extensive experience and insights pivotal in shaping the academy into a world-class facility. AIFF Acting Secretary General Satyanarayan M articulated the significance of investing in youth, particularly those below 14, as a pivotal start towards their long-term vision. He expressed plans to replicate similar initiatives across different regions to ensure comprehensive talent development in Indian football. R Vineel Krishna, IAS, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Sports and Youth Service Department, Government of Odisha, expressed excitement about Bhubaneswar being chosen for the FIFA Talent academy. He highlighted Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's directive to support football development, affirming their collaboration with AIFF to create top-notch facilities for football players. FIFA has recommended Sergi Amezcua Fontrodona, a FIFA-trained coach, to relocate to India and spearhead the FIFA-AIFF academy. Amezcua, a FIFA TDS Coach since August 2023, previously contributed to football development in China as the Project Director at the Barca Academy Pro Haikou.

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