Morocco to Host African Football Clubs Association Headquarters

Morocco Chosen as Hub for African Football Club Development
Morocco has been selected as the permanent headquarters for the Association of African Clubs (ACA), marking a significant step towards boosting the development of football across the continent. This exciting news comes after Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), and Hersi Ali Said, president of the ACA, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Mohammed VI Football Complex. This strategic partnership aims to elevate African club football to new heights, fostering growth and collaboration on a continental scale.
The decision to base the ACA in Morocco underscores the country’s growing influence in African football. Morocco’s recent successes, including the Atlas Lions’ historic semi-final run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup – the first time an African nation reached that stage – and the impressive performance of Moroccan clubs in continental competitions like the CAF Champions League, have solidified its position as a footballing powerhouse. This move also aligns with the FRMF’s ongoing efforts to develop football infrastructure and nurture young talent, as evidenced by the state-of-the-art Mohammed VI Football Complex. This complex, a hub for training and development, serves as a testament to Morocco’s commitment to the sport’s future.
The partnership between the FRMF and ACA promises to bring numerous benefits to African club football. By centralizing operations in Morocco, the ACA can streamline its efforts to support and empower clubs across the continent. This includes providing resources for club development, promoting best practices in management and governance, and facilitating networking opportunities. Furthermore, the collaboration is expected to enhance the competitiveness of African club competitions, attracting greater investment and global attention. The potential for increased revenue streams for clubs, improved player development pathways, and a stronger overall ecosystem for African football is immense.
This initiative also reflects a broader trend of increased investment and focus on football development in Africa. According to a recent report by Deloitte, the African sports market is experiencing rapid growth, with football at the forefront. The continent’s young and passionate fan base, coupled with the increasing global appeal of African players, presents a significant opportunity for growth. The establishment of the ACA headquarters in Morocco is poised to capitalize on this potential, driving further development and elevating African football to its rightful place on the world stage. This move also aligns with the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) vision for the future of the sport, which emphasizes investment in infrastructure, youth development, and good governance.
The selection of Morocco as the ACA’s home base is a testament to the country’s dedication to the beautiful game and its vision for a stronger, more unified African football landscape. This partnership promises to be a game-changer, unlocking new opportunities for clubs, players, and fans across the continent. It will be exciting to see the positive impact this collaboration has on the future of African football.