Spain-based LaLiga (Liga de Futbol Profesional), known for comprising of 42 teams including Real Madrid and Barcelona, grants its scholarships to four Indian students.

Hailing from Mumbai and Bengaluru, Rian Katoch, Asik Shaikh, Ishan Murali and Vidwath Shetty, will train with first division club, CD Leganes, from May 26 to June 5, this year. The visit will give them an opportunity to train in various technical as well as non-technical aspects of the sport through workshops with club officials and Spain’s best young players.

The students have been selected through a scouting process in which 32 players are shortlisted from LaLiga Football Schools. They’ve been assessed on various factors including technical skill, exemplary behaviour, attitude and demonstrated history of exceptional performance in respective football schools.

“These four students showcased exemplary technical skills and sporting values throughout their time at LaLiga Football Schools. We have always believed that India has strong potential to become a global footballing superpower and with this programme, young Indians will take their country one step closer to achieving the status. During their time with CD Leganes, the students will get a chance to train with the best coaches and youth of Spain which will surely have a strong impact on them.” Managing Director of LaLiga India, Jose Antonio Cachaza, said in a release.

The scholarship has been launched in association with the Embassy of Spain in India and India On Track.