The programme commenced with practical trials at the High Performance Centre in Dubai Sports City, involving approximately 200 players from various academies throughout the UAE. These trials are structured to assess a range of attributes, including technical skills, tactical understanding, and a positive mindset, with the goal of nurturing athletes who embody strong personal values and sporting character.
Following the evaluation process, eight promising players—equally divided between boys and girls—will be selected for an intensive development and training programme in Madrid. This experience is designed to provide firsthand exposure to the Spanish football scene, offering participants the opportunity to train with La Liga clubs and gain insights into professional football environments.
The announcement was made during a press conference in Dubai, attended by key figures such as Raúl Ostaále, Head of Marketing and Content for La Liga in the Middle East and North Africa; Daniels Pitrows, CEO of the High Performance Centre; and Rubén Cano Sierra, Technical Manager for La Liga sports projects. The UAE was chosen for these trials due to its regional significance and the presence of advanced football academies, reflecting La Liga's commitment to global talent development.
This initiative follows previous rounds in the United States and South Africa, with future stages planned in Vietnam and Guatemala. By implementing the 'Next Gen Draft' across multiple countries, La Liga and EA Sports aim to create a diverse pool of young talent, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange within the football community.
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UAE