Atlético Mineiro partners with Angola’s Kiala FC for talent scouting

Atlético Mineiro has formalized a strategic partnership with Kiala FC, a club based in Viana, Angola, to enhance the scouting and development of young African football talent. The agreement aims to identify promising players and integrate them into the Brazilian club’s youth academy.

The partnership involves singer and entrepreneur Kelly Key and her husband, Mico Freitas, who manage Kiala FC. Founded in October 2023, the Angolan project currently serves approximately 70 adolescents and was initially established with a social focus. The collaboration was solidified during a visit to Atlético’s training facilities and the Arena MRV.

The initiative builds on existing professional relationships, including connections between Atlético’s youth manager, Luiz Carlos Azevedo, and Mico Freitas. This move follows Atlético’s recent efforts to monitor African football, such as the signing of Guinean midfielder Mamady Cissé.