Arsene Wenger's India Visit

Arsene Wenger, FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, made a landmark visit to the Football House in India on November 20, 2023. During his stay, he engaged in discussions with heads of prominent football academies from across the country and had an extensive meeting with AIFF President Mr. Kalyan Chaubey and Acting Secretary General Mr. Satyanarayan M regarding the establishment of the AIFF-FIFA Academy and youth development in India.

This visit is in conjunction with the FIFA Talent Development Scheme and is part of a three-day tour in preparation for the inauguration of the AIFF-FIFA Academy in Bhubaneswar on November 21, 2023, marking Mr. Wenger’s inaugural visit to India.

AIFF President, Mr. Kalyan Chaubey, expressed immense gratitude and privilege in hosting Mr. Wenger, acknowledging his vast football expertise. He emphasized the importance of Mr. Wenger’s involvement in India’s Talent Development Scheme project and anticipated the project’s significant success, strengthened by FIFA’s support.

Mr. Chaubey also shared his vision for India to not only develop football but to establish a global presence in the sport. He highlighted the momentous date, November 20, 2023, as a day to remember when they began this transformative journey.

Mr. Wenger, known for his fascination with India, emphasized his commitment to global football development. He regarded India’s vast population as a valuable asset for football’s growth and expressed optimism about the country’s potential. Mr. Wenger’s team is highly motivated to contribute to India’s football development, aiming for swift progress.

He cited Japan’s remarkable football transformation, going from the early stages in 1995 to the World Cup in 1998, as an example of rapid development. Mr. Wenger’s approach centers on early talent identification, technical perfection, and bringing the best talents together.

Mr. Wenger envisioned India’s untapped football potential, referring to it as a “gold mine” yet to be fully explored, exploited, and nurtured. His mission in India is to inspire confidence in the nation’s football capabilities and encourage its development.

As Mr. Wenger’s visit culminates with the AIFF-FIFA Academy’s inauguration, India eagerly anticipates a transformative era in its football journey under his guidance and FIFA’s support.