October 21 – FC Barcelona has announced a five-year partnership with Africa Foot, a second-division Malian club, to support the ‘technical and behavioural’ development of its players in a huge leap forward for Malian Football.
The agreement was signed by Sergi Burjuan, director of Barça Academies, and Kassoum Coulibaly of Africa Foot, with the Spanish ambassador to Mali and various officials in attendance.
This partnership, part of Barça’s broader efforts in Africa following similar collaborations in Ivory Coast and Senegal, aims to further the growth of Malian football, with both clubs committed to maximising the potential of local talent.
Africa Foot President Bahama Sidibé said: “Today marks the official start of a historic partnership between FC Barcelona and Africa Foot. This partnership sends a strong signal from the Catalan club to the world, indicating that there is potential in Mali and Africa. Malian footballers are incredibly talented, which is why the Barcelonians are here in Mali to cement this partnership.
“Given the composition of this high-level delegation from FC Barcelona, we can say that this partnership is of significant importance to them. It is essential to note that this collaboration is not only about our club but for Mali and Africa as a whole. Let us all join hands to ensure that this partnership flourishes and makes both Africa Foot and Mali proud!”
The director of FC Barcelona Academies in Africa, Thierno Barry, added: “We have been working with the Malian side for some time to make this collaboration a reality. The journey may be challenging, but with the commitment and perseverance of my team, we are sure that we will achieve great things together in developing football in Mali. FC Barcelona thanks you for your trust and we will do everything possible to enhance this project.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing,…
Source link : https://www.insideworldfootball.com/2024/10/21/barca-agree-5-year-deal-malis-africa-foot-develop-players/
Author : Paul Nicholson
Publish date : 2024-10-21 10:54:37
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