Former Chelsea and Senegalese striker Demba Ba has launched a multi-million dollar football academy in a Senegalese town.
According to Wiw Sports, the former Chelsea striker invested 3 billion FCFA in the opening of a football academy in a Senegalese community.
The academy will be constructed on a 10-hectare plot of land in Roff Village, a neighborhood of Malicounda. The neighborhood’s youth center and maternity ward will be established with assistance from the local government.
“I don’t know if you are aware, but yes I bought a club which is based in the Thies region and which plays in the second division,” Ba said as quoted by Ghana Sports Market. “It is this club that I am in the process of developing and these infrastructures will allow us to be able to achieve excellence. In football, if you want to reach the top level, you need good infrastructure.”
The 37-year-old just acquired Amitie FC, a second-tier squad in his home nation.. The former striker for Senegal is passionate about giving young people the opportunity to develop their talent and have a shot at playing professional football.
The project is well-liked by the locals, and the Malicounda Municipality has also contributed to its success.
Demba Ba won the Turkish Super League twice, with Besiktas and Istanbul Basaksehir, two separate clubs.
The Lions of Teranga are gearing up for the Qatar 2022 World Cup as Ba focuses on influencing Senegal’s youth.