Azerbaijan, FC Barcelona announce new football academy partnership

Azerbaijan is set to become the home of a new Barcelona Football Academy following a high-level meeting between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Joan Laporta, the President of FC Barcelona, the renowned Spanish football club.

Expressing his gratitude for the warm reception, Joan Laporta reflected on his first visit to Azerbaijan during COP29, noting that he was deeply impressed by the rapid development processes in Baku, Caliber.Az reports via local media. 

He highlighted the significant potential for collaboration in Azerbaijan, which prompted his decision to visit the country for a second time within a short period, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

The discussions focused on Azerbaijan’s commitment to the development of sports, particularly football. They noted that the country has consistently organized prestigious international sports events and world-class football matches, adhering to the highest standards of excellence.

One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the announcement of a forthcoming agreement to establish the Barcelona Football Academy in Azerbaijan. Both sides exchanged views on the future activities of the academy and emphasized the importance of cooperation in developing children's football in Azerbaijan.

As a gesture of goodwill, Joan Laporta presented a keepsake to President Ilham Aliyev, marking the significance of this high-level meeting and the strengthening of ties between Azerbaijan and FC Barcelona.

By Vafa Guliyeva