The Academy will focus on developing the talents of Indian players from Under-12s to Under-21s through an established coaching curriculum that utilises best international practices.

The holder of an Asian Football Confederation Pro-Diploma, he was most recently employed as the head coach of the Mariners.

“Football takes you to all sorts of places, and this opportunity has captured my imagination. It’s an exciting project, and the potential is unlimited,” Walmsley said.

“Between myself and FCV, we’re bringing a lot of expertise into the country – regarding academy infrastructure, coach education and elite coaching. We are looking forward to blending that with the local know-how and enthusiasm that exists to drive the programme forward and show players a path to progression in India.” 

The coaching programme will operate six days a week catering for the needs of both development and performance squads.

The Academy will open for assessment trials on September 28.

Walmsley has more than 25 years of experience in the football industry as a coach, specialising in the development of talent at youth level in Europe and Oceania.

Walmsley will be joined by UEFA A licence holder and current Crystal Palace scout Ian Sampson for the trials.

Sampson is FCV's international development coach