High-ranking Chinese delegation visits Leverkusen

Bayer 04 received a visit from a high-ranking delegation from China on Sunday looking to discuss a partnership in developing football in China. The group of six politicians led by Liu Xinle, the vice-governor of Inner Mongolia responsible for football, also met Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel and representatives of the DFB and DFL during their visit to Germany. Bayer 04 CEO Michael Schade greeted the Asian delegation, signed a partnership agreement and presented a pennant.

Helmut Jungheim, head of the youth section at Bayer 04, informed the Chinese guests about the structure and key details of youth development at Bayer 04 and then joined them in watching a Werkself U17 Bundesliga fixture at the Haberland Stadium. The partnership between the Chinese and Bayer 04 involves the establishment of a Sino-German Academy in Baotou in Inner Mongolia in accordance with standards for education and training recommended by Bayer 04 and the training and development of Chinese coaches locally. Plans also include an exchange programme in the establishment and development of professional women’s football in Inner Mongolia