- A significant step for FIFA and recognition of Bahrain’s proud track record in youth development
- Celebration of Bahrain’s progress within the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS) in the presence of Arsène Wenger, FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development
- A key focus aligned with FIFA’s strategic goals for global football: 75 FIFA Talent Academies by the end of 2027
A special event was held in Bahrain’s capital, Manama, to honor the progress of the country’s FIFA Talent Academy—an exemplary institution that has significantly developed under the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS).
The celebration, attended by Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Football Association, and Arsène Wenger, FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, marked an important milestone for FIFA and recognized Bahrain’s strong commitment to nurturing young football talents.
Since the launch of the TDS in February 2022, over 200 FIFA member associations have benefited from this innovative program, designed to help them unlock their full potential by ensuring that all talented players have the opportunity to be identified and supported. The main objective of the TDS is to raise the standards of national team football worldwide—both in men’s and women’s football—by establishing a sustainable foundation for long-term talent development and maximizing opportunities for all associations.
One of the key focuses of the TDS, led by Arsène Wenger, is to establish 75 FIFA Talent Academies by the end of 2027, in line with FIFA’s strategic goals for global football from 2023 to 2027. To achieve this, FIFA is deploying dedicated talent coaches worldwide to set up exemplary training centers for young players.
The celebration in Manama honored the FIFA Talent Academy in Bahrain—one of over 20 such operational centers to date—and was the first of its kind, with many more to follow in 2025.
“Bahrain is one of the pioneers of the FIFA Talent Development Scheme, and I want to thank you for your dedication. Together, we celebrate the great progress that has been made so far,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino in a video message. “We recognize that football plays an important role off the pitch as well, which is why FIFA Talent Academies aim to develop well-rounded individuals by instilling values such as discipline, teamwork, and leadership through football in a safe environment. This ensures that young talents not only excel on the field but also grow into responsible and active members of society.”
Key elements of every FIFA Talent Academy include child and youth protection as well as education. By meeting specific standards, these academies ensure a safe environment that promotes the well-being and holistic development of all young talents.
“The ultimate goal of FIFA Talent Academies is to help young players reach their full potential through world-class training and educational opportunities, thereby contributing to the overall development of football in their respective countries,” said Arsène Wenger, FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development.
FIFA is committed to creating a sustainable football ecosystem, establishing a long-term and structured pathway for talent development that integrates football and education. By providing the necessary resources, infrastructure, and coaching expertise, FIFA aims to raise global standards through a customized approach for each member association.
