John Abraham announces new sports academy and football talent goals

John Abraham, the principal owner of NorthEast United FC (NEUFC), has announced ambitious plans to develop football talent in Northeast India. Speaking at a jersey launch event in Mumbai, Abraham stated his goal is for the Northeast region to supply 60% to 70% of the players for India’s national and Under-23 football teams within the next two years.

To support this vision, a Centre of Excellence sports academy is being established in Shillong, Meghalaya, on 20 acres of land provided by the state government. Abraham described the facility as a potential game-changer for regional sports with the long-term aim of contributing to India’s Olympic prospects.

Abraham also highlighted the club’s growth and increasing commercial stability, noting rising sponsorships from partners such as Reebok, Indian Oil, and Meghalaya Tourism. Despite competing against multi-billion-dollar corporate-backed clubs, he expressed confidence in NEUFC’s position as a top contender in the Indian Super League.