La Liga, Spain’s top football league, has launched a new initiative in the UAE to identify and nurture emerging football talent, selecting eight standout players—equally divided between boys and girls—for an exclusive development programme in Madrid.
Announced during a press conference in Dubai as part of the “LaLiga FC Futures” programme, the initiative aims to inspire the next generation of footballers by offering them direct exposure to the Spanish football ecosystem. Selected players will tour professional clubs in Madrid and participate in an intensive training experience alongside La Liga experts.
The talent trials, held at the High Performance Centre in Dubai Sports City, brought together 200 young players from academies across the UAE. The UAE was chosen for this edition due to its strategic importance in the region and the presence of high-calibre training institutions.
The event was attended by Raúl Ostalé, Head of Marketing and Content for La Liga MENA; Daniels Pitrows, CEO of the High Performance Centre; and Rubén Cano Sierra, Technical Manager for La Liga’s global sports projects.
The UAE leg follows earlier editions in the United States and South Africa, with upcoming trials scheduled in Vietnam and Guatemala, reflecting La Liga’s global commitment to youth development.
The selection process focuses on more than just technical ability. Coaches evaluate skill, mindset, and values, aiming to shape well-rounded athletes who embody sportsmanship and character both on and off the field.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
