"This is an important step for our Group to explore diversified development of sports-related businesses, and is expected to enrich our sports resources in the field of football," Li continued.

For his part, Koevermans said that the deal is a reflection of Feyenoord's goal to promote football culture around the world.

"We are very excited to be a part of this ambitious new project, and we are committed to doing our part to spur the development of football across China," he said in his remarks at the ceremony.

He also went on to explain that the agreement is a reflection of Feyenoord's commitment to bringing the sport to more and more people around the world.

"Feyenoord's goal has always been to promote football culture around the world. Through our systematic and award-winning youth program, and a team of professional and experienced coaches, we look forward to nurturing local football talents and promoting football in China," he said.

Koevermans also stressed that Feyenoord's approach is to push young players to take their talents to the pitch, and said that this would be the underpinning of his team's efforts in China.

"Our tradition is that at least 50 percent of our academy must play in the first team. Football in China is growing year by year, and we think that [with this approach] we can make a good contribtuion to the development of football in the county," he said.

Koevermans also pointed to a bright future ahead for football in China.

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