Two Delhi boys inducted into top French football academy

New Delhi: Delhi boys Maanas Kaalra and Shiv Jhangiani have been inducted into the football academy of French club FC Metz which has produced the likes of Frank Ribery, Emmanuel Adebayor and Louis Saha.

After a successful trial at FC Metz, Kaalra and Jhangiani, would be the first Indian boys to train full-time in an International European Club Academy while pursuing their studies at the same time. They will now train at the academy for the next one to two years. "In the three months I have been here, I already feel a part of the club. I stay with the other Academy Players, train with them and go to school with them," Jhangiani, who impressed FC Metz coaches with his recent performances against the Luxembourg national team, said. "Before coming to Metz I was lucky enough to train under Eric and Yogesh. They prepared me both on and off the field and the period of intense training proved invaluable in getting selected," he said in a release. Maanas Kalra said, "Being at Metz is a dream come true for me. Being a Professional Footballer is something I have strived for. I need to thank my Coach Eric for developing me and helping me pursuing my dream. In fact, he is more of a friend and mentor than a coach. I hope to make the most of this opportunity and continue my development as a player so that I can compete with the best in the World." PTI