Bundesliga Dream 2.0 aims to nurture Thailand's future footballing stars
The 'Bundesliga Dream 2.0' project has been filled with 17 of the most talented footballers from across Thailand, who have travelled to experience life at German football academies as part of their development.
In an initiative aimed at spotting and developing young and emerging footballing talent from across Thailand, the players chosen to take part will get to experience life at the academy of a top club for three weeks.
Augsburg, Hamburg and Borussia Dortmund all form part of the scheme, with the young players getting the chance to enjoy comprehensive training programmes as part of a joint-syllabus developed by the Thai FA, the DFL Deutsche Fußball Liga and the participating Bundesliga clubs.
Elite on-field training sessions, friendly matches and educational workshops all form part on the initiative, which runs in coordination with the Sport Authority of Thailand, the Thailand Football Association and broadcast partner PPTV HD 36. The players will also experience live Bundesliga matches, meet Bundesliga Legends, and participate in a 12-part series broadcast on PPTV HD 36 that follows their journey.
Phakphoom Sengdang, Marketing Director of Bangkok Media & Broadcasting Co., Ltd. (PPTV HD 36), explained: “The Bundesliga Dream Project continues to be a beacon of inspiration for young footballers in Thailand. Our collaboration with the Bundesliga, alongside the generous support of our presenting sponsor Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS) and our kit sponsor Ari Football, has made this project a reality. We are proud to be part of an initiative that not only nurtures talent but also brings the excitement and passion of the Bundesliga closer to Thai football fans.”
Dennis Kittel, Head of Southeast Asia & India, Bundesliga International, added: “Last year’s edition of Bundesliga Dream Thailand reached millions of people, inspiring not only those players that were here in Germany, but also young and aspiring football fans throughout the country. We are especially proud that three players from the previous Bundesliga Dream programme – Sirapop Nilsaeng of BG Pathum United, Chonasorn Choklarp of Assumption Thonburi, and Natee Tampradap of Police Tero Klong Klone Academy – represented Thailand in the Asian Football Confederation AFC U17 Asian Cup."
The announcement of this year's squad was made in Bangkok, with the Chargé d’affaires of the German Embassy, Mr. Hans-Ulrich Südbeck, pointing to the project’s goal of connecting Thailand and Germany through elite training opportunities for young Thai players.
The DFL reaffirmed its committment to working with national federations throughout Asia, creating a pathway for young players to develop on and off the pitch, and forging links to support the provision, access, growth and enjoyment of football at all levels. In March 2023, the DFL signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SAT, and has since worked closely with its clubs and partners on the ground to strengthen its commitment to Thai football.
Last month, Bundesliga club and UEFA Champions League finalists Borussia Dortmund travelled to Thailand as part of the BVB Asia Tour, playing a pre-season friendly against BG Pathum United in Bangkok.
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