"National Centre of Excellence" for Indian football announced
Talking about the development of football in India, All India Football Federation (AIFF) president Praful Patel announced plans to set up a world-class "National Centre for Excellence". The football facility would cost upwards of Rs. 100 crore and will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. It will be home to men, women and junior teams. Let us know more about AIFF's plans for Indian football.
Talks for national facility at advanced stage
The AIFF president also said that the talks to set up the national centre of excellence are in advanced stage and once the U-17 World Cup is over, the location will be announced. Hoping to start the work on facility as early as 2018, he added that there is a possibility of FIFA lending support for the initiative.
U-17 team to continue playing together after World Cup
The 21-member India's U-17 World Cup squad along with few others are expected to sign a long-term contract with the AIFF. They will continue to play together even after the World Cup. AIFF plans to pitch a team in the I-League from Delhi, which will have players from the U-17 team and some U-19 players, essentially providing a competitive environment for the youngsters.
No ISL for the under-contract players
Tying the current U-17 squad together through AIFF contract means the respective players will continue training as a team and would not be part of any ISL teams for the next 2-3 years.
U-17 coach Luis Norton de Matos to continue
India's U-17 coach Luis Norton de Matos is set to continue coaching the team even after the World Cup, to help in their development. The Portuguese has been given a contract extension to coach the current team beyond the tournament. Meanwhile, India has also placed an official bid to host the FIFA U-20 World Cup set to take place next year.
