For Ajax, this is a next step in expanding its worldwide network of club partnerships. The specially founded Ajax Coaching Academy (ACA) has been active in sharing knowledge on developing a successful youth academy for years. In the Netherlands, Ajax is involved with partner clubs in and around Amsterdam, while across the borders the club has partnerships with Guangzhou R&F FC (China), Sagan Tosu (Japan) and Sydney FC (Australia), among others.
Following on those programs, the Ajax will become responsible for the coordination of Sharjah FC’s youth academy, with staff from Amsterdam stationed in the UAE. This includes virtually all aspects of the academy, such as scouting, talent development and the supporting departments.
'Important step'
Sharjah FC – President Mr. Mohsim Musabah: “This is an important step for our club Sharjah FC and we
are very glad to sign this partnership agreement with the best youth Academy in the world, Ajax Amsterdam Academy, we are looking forward from this co-operation to develop our football academy in Sharjah FC by implementing best training methodologies and best and latest global techniques to build a unique generation of football players and prepare them to lead the sports in the future.
As well as developing capabilities of UAE coaches with direct contact with the coaches from Ajax academy”.
This is #ForTheFuture ❌❌❌
— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) January 5, 2020
✔ Amsterdam
✔ New York
✔ Guangzhou
✔ Tosu
✔ Cape Town
✔ Sydney
🆕 Sharjah pic.twitter.com/lCmiInBVuq
'Great progress'
Ajax-CEO Edwin van der Sar: “This is a next step for Ajax, we are excited to have been able to yet again expand our international network. Sharjah FC* has similar philosophy and we share a mutual vision regarding youth education. Our aim is to build a strong youth academy together, bringing talents to the next level. Ajax have made great progress in sharing our knowledge in the last years. There is a serious demand, which allows us to find partners that are a good fit for us. We are convinced we have found such a partner in Sharjah FC”.
*Sharjah FC plays in the top UAE Liga. In the last season, the club won the championship, ensuring their participation in the Asian Champions League this season.
Read also: Ajax opens office for the Asia Pacific region