Ronaldinho, Barca boost China's grand ambitions

HAIKOU, Hainan - China's plans to become a soccer superpower received a major boost last week when Brazilian great Ronaldinho launched a Barcelona academy in Hainan province.

The Barca legend and club president Josep Maria Bartomeu met with budding young Chinese talent and toured the site at the island's Mission Hills golf complex, which will have seven pitches when it opens later this year.

The academy, which will double as a training center for China's national team and top clubs, is one of tens of thousands of facilities expected in the coming years as China strives to improve performances on the global stage.