How is AIFF Identifying 207 Players Under the FIFA-Backed Talent Development Scheme?
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Synopsis
The All India Football Federation has initiated U14 trials in Hyderabad, as part of their extensive talent development strategy, identifying 207 promising players. With FIFA's support, this initiative aims to ensure no talent goes unnoticed, focusing on inclusion from diverse regions across India. Discover how this effort is shaping the future of Indian football.
Key Takeaways
- AIFF has identified 207 potential U14 players.
- Trials are part of a comprehensive long-term development strategy.
- Inclusion from diverse regions is emphasized.
- Workshops for coaches and scouts are being conducted.
- FIFA's support is crucial to this initiative.
New Delhi, July 25 (NationPress) The All India Football Federation recently launched trials for the U14 boys’ team in Hyderabad, aligning with its comprehensive long-term strategy.
Over the past 18 months, the AIFF’s scouting team, in collaboration with FIFA Talent ID expert Richard Allen, has pinpointed 207 promising players from various competitions, including the AIFF youth leagues, national championships, school games, Subroto Cup, and additional open trials.
“With FIFA’s continuous backing of the AIFF through the Talent Development Scheme, we have witnessed significant progress in discovering and selecting emerging talents. Alongside the AIFF, we are committed to our mutual aspiration of ensuring every talent receives an opportunity,” remarked Allen.
The identified 207 players will undergo assessment by a panel of seasoned coaches, who will finalize the U14 squad for advanced training.
The revamped scouting methodology has successfully included potential talents from historically underrepresented areas such as Lakshadweep, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh.
AIFF Technical Director Syed Sabir Pasha stated, “Our national scouting initiative is driven by a singular aim — to ensure that no talent is overlooked. We are confident that the players we nurture today will be the cornerstone of the future Indian National Team.
Moreover, the AIFF has organized capacity-building workshops for coaches, scouts, and physical education teachers, enhancing talent identification at the grassroots level.
AIFF Deputy Secretary General M Satyanarayan commented, 'Previously, our organization lacked a dedicated scouting department. With FIFA's Talent Development Scheme and Mr. Arsène Wenger, we convened the inaugural meeting with potential scouts nationwide, launching our scouting initiative. Since then, numerous scouting activities have occurred across various junior and senior-level events.'
'This latest endeavor aims to capture young talent. As we progress, we will adapt our approach, and in due time, we anticipate that scouting will become increasingly effective.'
Point of View
The AIFF demonstrates a proactive approach to identifying and nurturing future stars. This strategy not only empowers young athletes but also aims to elevate the standard of Indian football on the global stage.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the AIFF Talent Development Scheme?
The AIFF Talent Development Scheme aims to identify and nurture young footballing talent across India, ensuring that no talent goes unnoticed.
How many players have been identified under this scheme?
A total of 207 players have been identified through the AIFF's scouting efforts in collaboration with FIFA.
What regions are included in the scouting process?
The scouting process has successfully included players from regions like Lakshadweep, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh.
What will happen to the identified players?
The identified players will be assessed by experienced coaches who will finalize the U14 squad for further training.
How is the AIFF enhancing talent identification?
The AIFF is enhancing talent identification by conducting capacity-building workshops for coaches, scouts, and PE teachers.
