Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Spain’s Ambassador Carlos Aragon Gil de la Serna have discussed plans to strengthen cooperation in sports, including the proposed establishment of a pilot football academy in Lahore.
The proposal was discussed during the Spanish ambassador’s meeting with the Punjab chief minister, where both sides reviewed opportunities for closer cooperation between Punjab and Spain.
The proposed academy would be established in collaboration with LaLiga, Spain’s professional football league, and would focus on developing football talent in Pakistan. The programme is expected to provide training opportunities for both coaches and footballers, helping improve technical skills and professional development.
The initiative could provide young football players in Lahore with exposure to training methods associated with Spanish football. It may also support the development of local coaches, creating a stronger foundation for football development at the grassroots level.
Sports cooperation was among several areas discussed during the meeting, alongside trade, business, culture and other areas of mutual interest between Punjab and Spain. The two sides also explored broader opportunities for strengthening ties between the province and Spain.
The proposed football academy reflects growing interest in developing structured training opportunities for Pakistani players and connecting local talent with international football expertise.
If implemented, the Lahore academy could become another platform for young players to develop their abilities and gain access to more organised football training in Pakistan.
