Premier League's NEXTGEN Coach Programme Empowers Indian Coaches in Mumbai

The Premier League's NEXTGEN Coach programme recently took place in Mumbai, uniting 34 coaches from the OSCAR Foundation for a four-day training event. This initiative aims to enhance grassroots football in India by providing local coaches with essential skills and knowledge. The programme culminated in a football festival, allowing young participants to apply what they learned. With nearly two decades of community engagement, the Premier League continues to impact thousands of young players and coaches across the country. The event was attended by UK officials, highlighting the cultural connections fostered through football.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 16, 2026, 13:45 IST

Overview of the NEXTGEN Coach Programme

From October 10 to 13, the Premier League conducted the second edition of its NEXTGEN Coach programme in Mumbai, uniting 34 coaches from the OSCAR Foundation for a four-day training session at the Cooperage Football Ground.

This initiative was facilitated by the Premier League's international community coaches, with support from Indian coach educators who are graduates of the Premier League Primary Stars programme.

Following the inaugural NEXTGEN Coach programme held in Goa in May 2026, this edition continues the Premier League's dedication to fostering grassroots football development in India.

Evolution of the NEXTGEN Initiative

Originally launched as a tournament that brought together Premier League Academy teams and Indian youth squads, the NEXTGEN initiative has now evolved to include a coach-development programme aimed at sharing knowledge and providing practical learning experiences for local coaches.

Through a combination of classroom instruction and on-field training, coaches participating in the programme gain the necessary tools and confidence to create a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable football environment for young players in their communities.

Impact on Grassroots Football

This programme is part of the Premier League's extensive community football efforts in India, which have been ongoing for nearly 20 years. To date, the Premier League has supported over 7,500 coaches, referees, and educators, positively impacting more than 164,000 young individuals across 18 states.

In line with this commitment, the Premier League established its India office in Mumbai in April 2025, enhancing its ability to engage with the broader football community through coaching and community initiatives.

NEXTGEN Football Festival

The week's activities culminated in a NEXTGEN Football Festival, where over 80 students aged 10 to 14 from the OSCAR Foundation participated in football sessions led by the coaches, allowing them to apply the skills and knowledge they acquired.

Statements from Premier League Officials

Hrishikesh Shende, Managing Director of Premier League India, emphasized the importance of grassroots football, stating, "The NEXTGEN Coach programme directly brings our coaching expertise to local coaches, enabling them to nurture young talent and enhance the game within their communities. By investing in local coaches, we can significantly improve the quality of football coaching available to youth across India."

UK Delegation's Visit

The Premier League Trophy was showcased at the event, attended by UK Secretary of State for Business, Science, Innovation and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds, along with members of the Great North delegation, including various mayors from the Northern UK region, who were in India for their inaugural trade mission.

Reynolds remarked, "It was fantastic to witness the Premier League's impact in India, aiding local coaches in skill development and providing young people with the opportunity to enjoy the sport we all cherish."

Football as a Cultural Connector

Kim McGuinness, Chair of the Great North and North East Mayor, stated, "Football serves as a powerful bridge between our nations, uniting people through a shared passion that transcends borders. Our clubs represent our communities on a global stage, fostering connections with millions of fans in India."

Bev Craig, Mayor of Greater Manchester, expressed pride in the region's football heritage and highlighted the importance of the project in strengthening ties through sport and culture.

Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, added, "Football is integral to our identity, and the Premier League's grassroots initiatives in India are invaluable for building community and creating opportunities for young people."