In a monumental stride towards football development in India, Atletico de Madrid has forged a groundbreaking collaboration with the RDB Group of Companies to bring to life the Inter Kashi project. This ambitious venture aims to establish the first national football club in the state of Uttar Pradesh, with Varanasi as its home base. In this comprehensive article, we delve into the details of this historic collaboration and the far-reaching impact it promises for Indian football.
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Atletico de Bharat: Nurturing Football Talents
One of the most exciting facets of this partnership is the creation of the Atlético de Bharat Academy. Led by Carlos Santamarina, the coaching staff of the first team will commence their journey in the second division of Indian football, the Hero I-League, starting from September. Simultaneously, the Atlético de Bharat Academy will be dedicated to nurturing grassroots football in the region, addressing the critical need for a strong foundation for the sport.
Inter Kashi: A New Beginning for Varanasi
The birth of Inter Kashi is a pivotal moment for Varanasi and the entire state of Uttar Pradesh. This new football club, christened by the RDB Group, represents a significant step towards realizing the footballing dreams of the region. As it seeks the necessary permits to compete in the Hero I-League, Inter Kashi is already assembling its inaugural team, promising an exciting journey ahead.
Atletico de Madrid’s Expertise
Atletico de Madrid brings a wealth of footballing experience to this project, which will be instrumental in the growth of Inter Kashi. The club’s involvement spans both the elite level, with the first team’s sporting development, and the grassroots, through the establishment of the Atlético de Bharat Academy. This multifaceted approach ensures that football in Uttar Pradesh receives the holistic attention it deserves.
The Spanish giants have a storied history dating back over a century, making them one of the most respected clubs in the world. Their achievements include numerous La Liga titles and international successes, cementing their place as a powerhouse in the footballing universe.
Carlos Santamarina, who will be directing the coaching staff of the first team, brings a wealth of experience in football development. Having worked in India for four years as head of the project that Atlético’s Academy signed with the TATA Group, he possesses the expertise needed to guide Inter Kashi towards success.
Inter Kashi: A Confluence of Partnerships
Inter Kashi is not just about Atletico de Madrid’s involvement. It represents a confluence of partnerships aimed at propelling football in Uttar Pradesh to unprecedented heights. Besides Atletico de Madrid, the project has garnered support from other esteemed entities. These include Inter Escalades, former Andorran league champions, and FC Andorra, a club co-owned by FC Barcelona great Gerard Pique, which competes in the Segunda Division (second division) of the Spanish League.
This amalgamation of footballing minds and resources is a testament to the potential and promise of Inter Kashi. It showcases the belief that Uttar Pradesh, with its rich culture and heritage, can also become a hub for football excellence.
Atletico de Madrid’s Vision for Indian Football
In a statement, Atletico de Madrid expressed its enthusiasm for this collaboration. They acknowledge the challenges of creating a club from scratch but are determined to draw upon their 120-year history and experience. Miguel Ángel Gil Marin, Atlético’s Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the partnership’s objective to make Uttar Pradesh a footballing cradle in India.
“While the starting of the first-ever National-Level Club from Uttar Pradesh remains the primary target of this collaboration, in which Atlético will provide full support for the footballing and technical side of the Club, an equally important part of the vision of both Companies is the creation of Youth Academies and development of football at the grassroots level,” the statement read.
A Holistic Approach to Football Development
Beyond the immediate goal of launching a national-level club, both Atletico de Madrid and the RDB Group share a vision for the broader development of Indian football. This vision encompasses the creation of youth academies and the nurturing of grassroots talent. The launch of “Atlético de Bharat,” their first academy in India, is a testament to this commitment. The long-term goal is to see homegrown talents representing the Indian National Team regularly.
The significance of this approach cannot be overstated. Developing a strong footballing culture from the ground up is essential for any country aspiring to make its mark on the international stage. With the combined efforts of Atletico de Madrid and the RDB Group, Indian football has the potential to undergo a transformation.
A Glimpse into the Future
The collaboration agreement in the Inter Kashi project between Atletico de Madrid and the RDB Group of Companies marks a pivotal moment in Indian football history. The creation of the Inter Kashi football club and the establishment of the Atlético de Bharat Academy signify a concerted effort to elevate football in Uttar Pradesh and India to new heights. With the combined expertise and commitment of these two giants, the future of football in the region looks incredibly promising.
As Inter Kashi sets its sights on competing in the Hero I-League from September, it symbolizes not only the dreams of those involved but also the aspirations of countless young football enthusiasts in Uttar Pradesh. This partnership is not just about building a football club; it’s about building a legacy, one that will inspire generations to come and put Indian football on the global map. The journey has begun, and the world is watching with bated breath as Inter Kashi and the Atlético de Bharat Academy embark on their remarkable quest.
