Chaired by AFC Technical Director Andy Roxburgh, the high-level platform follows the recent AFC Grassroots Panel and AFC Coach Education Panel meetings, which took place earlier this month.
Following Roxburgh’s opening remarks, the experts turned their attention to the FIFA World Cup 2026, which provided several excellent examples of what the right kind of system can yield in guiding talented youth players towards professional success.
Against this global context, the panellists then discussed various factors that need to be prioritised in the landscape of Asian elite youth football, including establishing a wide network of academies, increasing playing opportunities and bringing highly qualified coaches into the fold to ensure talented youths are nurtured in the right direction.
The panel members were also briefed on the latest edition of the AFC Elite Youth Scheme Regulations, which is set to include several new elements to encourage academies to involve parents and guardians in their children’s development, alongside greater attention to data collection.
The conversation then shifted to a closer examination of the Scheme itself, with the experts engaging in an insightful dialogue on the key role it plays in acting as a blueprint for Asian teams to succeed on the global stage, while also exchanging ideas on additional action points that can help advance the cause.
Among the other key highlights, the panel members received updates on the latest status of endorsements under the scheme, which currently comprises 29 MAs.
The meeting also shed light on the many upcoming events and activities to look forward to in the near future, including the AFC Special Elite Youth Football Awards 2026, which will be presented at the AFC Youth Conference later this year.
Finally, before concluding, the experts engaged in a dynamic conversation on the possibilities that lie in store for the future of the beautiful game, ranging from evolving playing styles and changing rules to elevated skills and techniques.