A Liverpool Football Club Academy is set to be developed in the Maldives, with completion expected before the end of 2028, according to the Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation, Abdulla Rafiu.

In an exclusive interview with MMTV, Minister Rafiu confirmed that discussions are ongoing with Liverpool FC officials following a proposal from the Liverpool International Academy to establish a football academy in the Maldives. The Minister described the project as a major opportunity to elevate Maldivian football and expressed confidence that it will be embraced by the local football community.

Minister Rafiu, who accompanied President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on his recent visit to the United Kingdom, also met with Liverpool FC representatives. During the meetings, he shared information about existing sports facilities in the Maldives and reviewed the minimum requirements needed to establish the academy.

He stated that the Liverpool Academy project is part of broader cooperation resulting from the partnership agreement signed between the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) and Liverpool Football Club, which promotes the Maldives as an official tourism destination partner of the club.

As part of the academy initiative, a coach from Liverpool is expected to visit the Maldives to train local coaches. Minister Rafiu noted that participation in the programme does not require a formal coaching license.

He also indicated that implementation of the various agreements made during the UK visit will begin soon and that the academy will be operational within the next three years.

Beyond tourism promotion, the partnership with Liverpool FC is expected to provide technical support for the development of football in the Maldives, offering long-term benefits for both local players and coaches.