Spanish soccer legend shares joy with Yunnan elementary students

Former Real Madrid captain Manolo Sanchis recently gave a soccer workshop to students from a middle school in Jinping county, Yunnan province.

On Wednesday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on social media that Sanchis shared heartfelt moments with the teenagers, calling it a wonderful testament to China-Spain friendship.

On Sunday afternoon, the former captain showed the students how to control the ball with their heads by applying force and adjusting their posture. He also joined them for a traditional bamboo pole dance.

"My initial impression is that the children here are full of joy," Sanchis said. "It's wonderful to see kids from diverse ethnic backgrounds in China's border regions growing up healthy and happy."

He added that he is very pleased to see that the children have access to soccer pitches.

In early April, Yunnan introduced 20 measures to promote soccer development, focusing on enhancing youth training. These measures include allocating funds to youth training systems, school programs, talent development, and branded competitions.

Sanchis noted that Spain boasts advanced training systems, extensive experience in youth soccer development, and professional training philosophies and equipment. "In these areas, we can provide extensive expertise and support," he added.

Yang Jinghao and Jin Zhaoxiang contributed to this story.