Star Spanish footballer Iker Casillas is planning to launch a training institute for goalkeepers in Dubai, according to a statement.
Called the Iker Casillas Goalkeeper Training Center, this will be the first such facility by the Real Madrid goalkeeper outside Spain.
The center is to be established in partnership with Dubai’s Fursan Hispania FC, and helmed by former Spain international footballer Michel Salgado, said the statement.
It is expected to help hone the skills of aspiring young goalkeepers from the UAE and the region, as well as established club and country professionals and goalkeeping coaches.
The center will reportedly offer three different products tailored to suit different needs: a Weekly Program, a Program for Goalkeeping Coaches, and a more comprehensive Fursan Goalkeeping Implant Program.
The Weekly Program is expected to be held four times a year, and aimed at players from around the GCC region.
In each instance, it would entail practical and theory lessons for six hours on six days.
The program will reportedly be hosted by Fursan Hispania and overseen by ICA coaches, and tailored to the technical needs of players ranging from age eight to 21.
The Program for Goalkeeping Coaches will also be based on the ICA methodology, and be open to coaches from around the GCC and Middle East. It is expected to be tailored to their needs.
Meanwhile, the Fursan Goalkeeping Implant Program will reportedly cater to goalkeepers of different levels, with the coaching team working under the quality standards and methodology of Casillas.
The Iker Casillas Goalkeeper Training Center and Fursan Hispania will also work with Dubai Sports Council to develop UAE-specific programs, which include an elite program for goalkeepers from the UAE’s football leagues, as well as for goalkeepers from other Middle East and North Africa leagues.
Fursan Hispania is also expected to scout for the best goalkeeping talents from the UAE and the region.
It will also reportedly recommend them for a full-boarding program at the Iker Casillas Academy in Madrid, Spain.