Cape Town - English giants Manchester City have announced a
partnership with National First Division (NFD) side Mpumalanga Black Aces.
According to the Mail Online website,
the three-year arrangement will see Black Aces become City's 'official regional
school of football partner'.
As part of the deal, City will deliver coaching programmes to local children
and the academy sides will also have the opportunity to travel to and play in
Manchester.
The programme will follow the same training techniques and philosophies of the
City first team, in keeping with the 'holistic approach' the club are
developing towards all aspects of their football.
City will also set up a coach education programme at Aces to help educate youth
and build towards leaving a lasting legacy.
"South Africa's love of football was clear for the world to see during
both the World Cup, and most recently the (Africa) Cup of Nations," Patrick Vieira,
a former City player and current head of their elite development squad, told
the Goal.com website.
"The national pride shown for hosting both tournaments is a testament to
how the country and people embrace the sport.
"It's a privilege for Manchester City to be part of South Africa's youth
football development by passing on our expertise to the Black Aces coaches, at
a time when the country is fast becoming a force in world football.
"Through shared learning, both clubs can work together in order to
provide children with a holistic football experience that places equal
importance on football and education," Vieira concluded.