City team up with Black Aces

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.