FC Goa enter into a strategic cooperation with RB Leipzig: All you need to know

Indian Super League (ISL) outfit FC Goa have entered into a new partnership with Red Bull Leipzig that will run until June 30th, 2023.

The relationship is something that has been in the making for a while now and the deal has finally been announced. 

FC Goa's Indian assistant, Clifford Miranda, also used the Goan club's contact with Leipzig and visited the Bundesliga side's premises as part of a module to complete his two-year AFC Pro Diploma Coaching Course in Uzbekistan last year.

Leipzig are touting this affiliation as its first step in Asia as they try to forge a global presence. The partnership will involve opportunities for young Indian talent to train and hone their skills at the German club's facilities, although the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic will limit the prospect to online correspondence for now. 

In future, Leipzig is expected to offer support with on-site training that will involve the exchange of know-how regarding youth development. 

ISL

FC Goa co-owner and president, Akshay Tandon, termed Leipzig as the 'perfect partner' after the deal was completed.

“I am delighted to have RB Leipzig as our partners. They have shown the world of football how to build from the ground up and that’s something we resonate with. It is our first international partnership and in RB Leipzig, we have the perfect partner.

“Partnerships such as these validate our long-term vision that we have at the Club. Our goal is to develop Indian footballers for the world stage and this partnership helps us create a visible pathway for all young aspiring footballers in India. We have a long way to go, but these steps help build a strong foundation for the future. This is a partnership that gives me even more belief in the direction we are headed," said Tandon.

Meanwhile, Oliver Mintzlaff, CEO of RB Leipzig, commented on the newly forged partnership as one that could explore all suitable prospectives.

"We are very much looking forward to the partnership with FC Goa, because this club is a perfect fit for us with its young, modern, and innovative approach. We want to break new ground with RB Leipzig and take our first steps internationally. Our cooperation with FC Goa is the first step of a wider internationalisation strategy.

"The up-and-coming and rapidly growing Indian market is perfectly suited to cooperation. The discussions with FC Goa were very open, convincing, and purposeful from the beginning. Additionally, such a partnership also offers the opportunity to represent the Bundesliga in India in the best possible way and, to a certain extent, act as an ambassador."