The first meeting featured representatives from 27 selected national and club academies across 11 MAs, bringing together experts from some of Asia’s leading youth development institutions to share perspectives on the opportunities as well as challenges shaping the future of the game.

Following Roxburgh’s welcome address, the conversation centred on the core principles underpinning elite player development, including the need to increase playing opportunities in competitive environments, enhance talent identification systems, invest in sports science, and appoint specialised coaches to help talented youngsters fulfil their potential.

The focus then shifted to examine in greater detail the evolving demands of elite football and their implications for youth development, including the increasing intensity of the game, quicker transitions, and greater physical demands.

Furthermore, with technological advancements rapidly becoming an integral part of the modern game, the participants discussed the potential role of artificial intelligence in supporting young footballers, while also highlighting the importance of individual player development plans that address not only the technical, tactical and physical aspects of their development, but also their mental well-being.

In another thoughtful dialogue, the attendees discussed the importance of creating an effective training environment in which young players are nurtured by qualified specialists who can provide appropriate guidance, establish clear expectations and build a safe space for them to thrive as they seek to transition from youth football to the professional game.

They also explored the challenges that elite youth academies face today and how they can prepare players for the future, with considerations ranging from the rapidly increasing intensity of the game and its physical demands to the possibility of changes in the Laws of the Game.

With collaboration between academies, MAs and the Confederation remaining a central theme of the meeting, the latter half of the programme turned the spotlight on the acclaimed AFC Elite Youth Scheme, which currently has 29 endorsed members, comprising 14 one-star, five two-star and 10 three-star members.

The session concluded with an interactive exchange in which participants discussed their immediate priorities and challenges, sharing insights and exploring solutions with their peers, further reinforcing the Confederation’s commitment to provide tailored solutions to its members.