Eredivisie: AFC Ajax to open an academy in Dubai (UAE), its first in the Middle East

AFC Ajax (Eredivisie) has entered into a partnership with British marketing and player management agency Only4Stars for six years (2021-2027) in order to open a private academy in Dubai (UAE), its first in the Middle East, announced the club on 29/09/2021. Only4Stars was already behind the partnership between the Dutch club and Sharjah FC (ADNOC Pro League, UAE first division), signed in April 2020 (see below).

"Training will be provided for children between the ages of 5 and 17 according to the Ajax philosophy, by three resident Ajax coaches. In addition to the three trainers who come over from Amsterdam (NED), Hans Vonk (project manager, Ajax Coaching Academy) is also closely involved with the football school. The academy will be built with one goal in mind: accessible youth development. The aim is to offer talents at different levels the opportunity to become better footballers, explained the club.

"With the football school, the Ajax Coaching Academy is embarking on a new project. The input of the parties is clear: Ajax provides the football knowledge and experience. Only4stars…