March 7, 2025: In a significant boost to football development in the region, NorthEast United Football Club (NEUFC) is set to establish a state-of-the-art residential football academy in Shillong.

This announcement was made by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, who revealed that the state government will invest nearly Rs 1,900 crore over the next three years to develop sports infrastructure and host the 39th National Games in 2027.

The residential academy, slated to be one of the best in the country, will provide young footballers with top-notch training facilities, education, and coaching. This initiative is expected to nurture local talent, promote grassroots football, and create a pathway for players to represent NEUFC and the Indian national team.

The academy will be built on a 15-acre plot in Mawkhanu, New Shillong Township, and will feature residential accommodations, football fields, a gymnasium, and other facilities ². NEUFC CEO Mandar Tamhane expressed his gratitude to the Meghalaya government for their support, stating that the club aims to create a center of excellence for football development in the region.

It may be mentioned that football is among the most popular sports in Meghalaya and often youth in the state show a keen interest in it. 

The academy is expected to not only bring out new players in Meghalaya but also from the NE region.