PSG Expands Horizons with Casablanca Football Academy Launch

Wednesday 07 August 2024 - 12:12

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is set to deepen its connections with Morocco by unveiling a cutting-edge football academy in Casablanca, scheduled to open in September 2024. This initiative underscores the club's commitment to nurturing young talent and strengthening its presence in the region.

Located in the vibrant district of Tamaris, the PSG Academy will offer a comprehensive training experience for boys and girls aged 4 to 18. The facility will feature a full-size 11-a-side pitch along with smaller 5-a-side, 7-a-side, and 9-a-side pitches, ensuring a versatile training environment. In addition to top-tier coaching, the academy will provide amenities such as a café and three padel courts, creating a well-rounded sporting hub.

The local development of the academy will be spearheaded by Daoud Boulanger, a seasoned French trainer with extensive experience in Moroccan football. Boulanger, who has served as a UEFA and CAF instructor, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “It is a great honor to offer a project of this quality to Moroccan youth. Sharing the culture of French training with these young football enthusiasts is a source of immense pride.”

PSG's decision to establish an academy in Casablanca is fueled by the club's substantial fan base in Morocco and the surrounding region. With 4.9 million Moroccan followers on social media, largely inspired by star defender Achraf Hakimi, Morocco ranks as PSG’s 10th largest supporter base. Overall, the club enjoys 18.6 million fans in the region, representing 12% of its global following.

Nadia Benmokhtar, PSG's Head of Brand Development, highlighted the club’s dedication to excellence in youth training. “We are incredibly proud to expand PSG Academy to Morocco. This initiative underscores our commitment to youth training excellence. It allows us to connect more closely with our passionate supporters in this football-loving country, offering them an unforgettable experience aligned with their enthusiasm for PSG.”

Looking ahead, PSG Academy intends to broaden its footprint in Morocco, potentially launching additional centers or programs, thereby cementing the club's role in global youth development.