November 14 – Following last year’s successful Bundesliga Dream China initiative, Bundesliga International and the Chinese Football Association (CFA) have announced a second edition set for April 2025.
The announcement came after CFA President Song Kai’s recent visit to Germany, where he met with DFL CEO Marc Lenz and Bundesliga International CMO Peer Naubert to discuss ongoing youth development efforts.
In early 2024, the programme brought 20 talented U16 Chinese players to Germany for training with youth teams from Borussia Mönchengladbach, VfB Stuttgart, and Bayer Leverkusen. Of these, eight were later selected for China’s U16 national team, with five making substantial contributions to the team’s AFC U17 Asian Cup qualification.
The 2025 edition will provide another cohort of young players the opportunity to train at Bundesliga youth academies, follow a dedicated training plan crafted by the DFL and CFA, and attend Bundesliga matches.
Bundesliga International Chief Marketing Officer Peer Naubert said: “Impactful youth development programmes that lead to tangible results are a key part of our global growth strategy, and working hand-in-hand with both strong local partners and Bundesliga clubs, we have cultivated a unique and innovative approach that continues to pay dividends around the world.
“Following the completion of the first edition of Bundesliga Dream, we were very pleased to see China qualify for the U17 Asian Cup, particularly knowing that several members of the squad were here with us in Germany just six months ago.
“This success is another proof point that the DFL, through initiatives such as Bundesliga Dream, is delivering on its aim to support the growth of football at all levels across the globe. We are extremely proud to be working directly with the CFA and its clubs on a second edition of the project, as well further youth development plans, an area in which the Bundesliga has long been at the forefront.”
The Bundesliga is considered the home of Asian players in Europe, with more players from Asia playing in Germany’s top-flight in the last 20 years than the other top four European leagues combined.
Chinese Football Association President Song Kai said: “The youth development of Chinese football should learn from the leading international football organisations. We should strive to create conditions for young players to go out and participate in more high-level competitions, exchanges and training, not only to improve their personal abilities, but also to broaden their horizons. We are looking forward to the results of the next edition of the Bundesliga Dream project, and also to working with the DFL and the Bundesliga clubs in the future. ”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1734878370labto1734878370ofdlr1734878370owedi1734878370sni@g1734878370niwe.1734878370yrrah1734878370
