Newly appointed Technical Director of the Barbados Football Association (BFA), Philip Marin, believes the island possesses clear football talent capable of making a strong impression internationally. Marin, who joined the BFA in July, highlighted the high level of skill observed during recent talent identification showcases aimed at selecting national junior squads.
Immediate priority centers on the national Under-15 boys team, who will travel to Baku, Azerbaijan, for the FIFA Under-15 World Cup and Festival from October 22 to 30. During the U-15 showcase, technical staff evaluated approximately 108 boys born between 2011 and 2012. Marin noted that the talent is evident, emphasizing that the association must now provide proper training and guidance. The BFA has already named a 25-member Under-15 training squad to begin preparations.
The scouting exercises form part of the association’s broader strategy for upcoming international competitions through early 2027. Following the Baku event, Barbados will compete in the CONCACAF Under-17 men’s qualifiers in February, followed by the Under-20 women’s qualifiers in late February and March. Marin expressed satisfaction with the progress of the showcases as technical staff continue working to identify top local talent.
