It's part of South Melbourne's bid to earn an A-League franchise, with all prospective bidders keen to show their links to foreign clubs. Although few can boast the likes of Real Madrid.

Hungarian icon and former Galactico, Ferencz Puskas, famously coached South Melbourne during the 1970s and South's bid Chairman, Bill Papastergiadis, was keen to impress the connection.

“Real Madrid and South Melbourne Football Club share rich international awards, both being awarded by FIFA as the Clubs of the Century for their respective Continents," he said.

“It is these International Awards and the current youth development program that sets South Melbourne apart from all the other A League bids. Our juniors won practically all of the titles in 2017 for their age groups in Victoria. 

This reflects the interest of players wishing to play for the Club and to wear the club’s colours. You can’t buy this passion”.

“Equally, the Club has invested heaving in retaining and employing the best coaches for its junior player development.  Grass roots football underpins the club. It will be the platform for the next Socceroos”.