Malut United Teams Up With Benfica to Launch Ambitious Youth Academy Project

Malut United FC have taken another major step in their long-term football vision by partnering with Portuguese giants SL Benfica to develop young talent in Indonesia. The collaboration highlights the club's commitment to building a strong foundation for future generations rather than focusing only on short-term success.

The partnership is expected to be officially introduced during Malut United's final home match of the 2025/2026 Super League season against Persita Tangerang at Kie Raha Stadium. During the event, the club will unveil its new youth development initiative called "Akademi Merah Putih."

Since being established in 2023, Malut United have continued to expand their ambitions beyond the senior team. Club management believes the academy can create greater opportunities for children in eastern Indonesia, especially those from North Maluku, to pursue football education and professional careers.

One of the most unique aspects of the project is its focus on orphaned children aged between seven and nine years old. The academy will operate under an initial five-year agreement, with two coaches from Benfica set to live in Ternate and directly supervise training programs, nutrition plans, and character development for the students.

The academy will also combine football training with religious education, creating an environment similar to a football boarding school. Malut United see this concept as a way to help young players build discipline, strong values, and better life opportunities alongside their sporting development.