Indian Super League side Hyderabad FC, on Sunday, announced a two-year partnership with Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund, with an option of extending it to another year.
"The partnership brings in good news for football supporters in India, as it shows a long-term commitment of one of the biggest German football brands to the Indian football ecosystem," Hyderabad FC said in a release.
While the association with Hyderabad FC, who finished at the bottom of the 2019/20 ISL season, is Dortmund's first partnership in India, the German club already has ties with Thai Premier League Club Buriram United, Australia’s NPL Club Marconi FC and Iwate Grulla Morioka in Japan.
As part of the deal, Borussia Dortmund will link up with the Hyderabad-based club to help in their youth development. Furthermore, the eight-time Bundesliga winners will also aid in providing the coaching staff members, who will be working closely on the grassroot level and the youth development.
OFFICIAL! Hyderabad FC and Borussia Dortmund have entered into a historic multi-year partnership. #HyderabadFC 🟡⚫️@BVB @BlackYellow pic.twitter.com/RyfcXnh1Xq
— Hyderabad FC (@HydFCOfficial) August 16, 2020
Hyderabad FC, previously known as FC Pune City, had the Italian side Fiorentina owning 15% of stakes. However, with the results on a decline, the Florence-based club pulled the plug within a few seasons.
Several ISL sides went into the association with top European teams, with the most notable being ATK's partnership with La Liga giants Atletico Madrid. Delhi Dynamos, no known has Odisha FC, tied up with Feyenoord, but it only lasted a solitary season.
As things stand, Bengaluru FC are in association with Scottish side Rangers FC, while Mumbai City FC recently announced a takeover from the City Football Group, which also owns Manchester City, Melbourne City FC and New York City FC.
Meanwhile, the partnership will officially launch during Dortmund's Virtual Asia Tour on August 20, 2020, and if things go as per the blueprint, there is an option of extending it until 2025 as well.
Feature image courtesy: Twitter / @BlackYellow
