Shillong, May 31: Rakesh Khadse, the Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, visited Northeast United FC, where he met with the club’s management, coaching staff, and young football players. He commended the club’s efforts to identify and develop football talent from across the country, particularly from the Northeast region.
During the visit, key figures from Northeast United FC were present, including CEO Mandar Tamhane, Technical Director Rohit Thorat, and Reserve Team Head Coach Naushad Musa.
The club leadership briefed Khadse on their youth development policy, talent identification system, and strategies for creating long-term development pathways for young footballers.
Northeast United FC shared that under Naushad Musa’s guidance, a comprehensive talent scouting campaign is underway. Coaches are traveling to various parts of the country to identify emerging players. Selections are based on evaluations from the club’s coaches, former players, and youth competitions organized by the All India Football Federation.
In the final selection phase, around 60 talented young players were invited for trials in Guwahati. The selected players are expected to form the foundation of the club’s under-18 and reserve teams, strengthening the club’s long-term player development system.
Khadse praised the club’s systematic approach to talent identification and player development, emphasizing the importance of creating a robust pipeline of opportunities for young athletes from grassroots to elite levels.
He stated, “The future of Indian football depends on how quickly we can identify talent, provide quality training, and offer organized opportunities for advancement. Initiatives that connect grassroots talent scouting, player development, and long-term planning are essential for strengthening the Indian football ecosystem.”
Khadse highlighted that Northeast India is one of the country’s strongest sports regions, consistently producing excellent football talent. He stressed that ongoing investment in coaching, sports infrastructure, and scientific player development can further enhance the region’s potential.
He also reaffirmed the central government’s commitment to promoting sports at the grassroots level, strengthening player development mechanisms, and providing more opportunities for young athletes across the country.
During his visit to Meghalaya and the Northeast region, Khadse reviewed sports infrastructure, player development programs, and various sports initiatives aimed at youth engagement.
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