KUALA LUMPUR: La Liga side, Villarreal CF, are keen to work with the FA of Malaysia (FAM) on grassroots and youth football development.
Villarreal's business development manager, Mar Llaneza, said in a recent interview in Kuala Lumpur: "Malaysia presents a remarkable opportunity for foot ball development.
"The country's welcoming environment and its vibrant football culture make it an attractive partner.
"Our aim is to nurture young talent and offer training aligned with European football principles, focusing on team dynamics over individual stardom."
Villarreal, who established a football academy in Malaysia three years ago, are now holding a players selection programme to identify and develop young talent.
The Spanish club plan to select 16 to 18 players from 102 participants across Sydney, Melbourne, Kuwait, Dubai, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Spain.
The players, categorised into Under-12, U-14, and U-16 age groups, will have the opportunity to compete in global tournaments and travel to Spain for further events.