Spanish side Sevilla have continued their recent relationship with Nigeria by signing a collaboration agreement with the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The former Europa League winners who have already signed one Nigeria international in Chidera Ejuke and are in talks with another in Kelechi Iheanacho, have now linked up with the Nigerian top-flight.
The collaboration aims to assist with coaching, youth development, and providing sporting advice to the league on talent development and administration.
Elegbeleye ecstatic about Sevilla/NPFL collaboration
NPFL Chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye and his delegation are in Spain for the signing ceremony with Sevilla and have undertaken a tour of the club’s facilities as part of the collaboration.
Sevilla President José María del Nido Carrasco expressed his happiness at joining forces with the NPFL, noting that the partnership is part of their effort to expand their club's presence across Africa by welcoming the Nigerian league into their World Club Alliance program.
“We are very happy to be able to work with the Nigerian Professional League. Sevilla FC is convinced that this alliance can help NPFL clubs to continue improving and encourage the development of youth players,” Del Nido Carrasco said.
“The club will provide advice in sporting and other areas of development, with a special focus on coach training and developing the talent of young Nigerian players.
“It is a new decisive step in our internationalization process and will help our brand continue to grow in Africa, in a country like Nigeria from which we are receiving a lot of support after the signing of Chidera Ejuke,” he added.
NPFL Chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye was also ecstatic about the collaboration and believes Nigeria and the league will benefit from it.
“I know the history and track record of Sevilla FC. This is a very good club which has won trophies in Spain and Europe for many years.
“With your help and training, when they return, they can become better players.
“We also have a training agreement for our coaches that will be positive for us. It is a win-win arrangement for everyone in the NPFL,” he said.
As part of the collaboration, a proposed training tour of an NPFL U17 select team is expected to tour Spain soon in conjunction with La Liga.
