Man City UAE Football School Players Sign With Al Jazira FC

The City Football Schools' Talented Player Programme (TPP), established in 2019, has made significant strides in nurturing young talent, with its latest achievement being the transition of six players to Al Jazira Football Club in Abu Dhabi. The TPP, which caters to talented players aged 11-16 across the UAE, is renowned for its comprehensive approach to development, combining advanced coaching techniques, a rigorous schedule of competitive matches, and the opportunity for international exposure.

This week marked a pivotal moment for three TPP Under-16 players, Elias, Feli, and Tafara, as they moved from the familiar sky-blue of City Football Schools to don the black and white of Al Jazira. This transition offers them a unique opportunity to hone their skills within the structure of a leading professional club in the UAE, with the aim of climbing the ranks to first-team football. They join their peers, Itqan, Zein, and Kais (Elias's brother), further solidifying the link between the TPP and The Pride of Abu Dhabi.

Simon Hewitt, Head of Football Operations for City Football Schools in the Middle East, expressed his enthusiasm over the players' progression to professional clubs. He highlighted the success of the programme in facilitating the development of players both on and off the pitch, enabling them to step into elite football environments. Hewitt's comments underscore the programme's track record over the past decade, particularly in the last five years since TPP's inception, of guiding players towards elite opportunities within the City Football Group and other clubs worldwide.

The TPP has garnered support from its partner since 2022, e&, which has been instrumental in providing both boys and girls with a robust platform for advancement. This partnership emphasizes the commitment to developing young talent through a blend of City's advanced coaching techniques, competitive match exposure, and training opportunities at City Football Group clubs globally.

Elias, originating from Dubai, shared his gratitude towards TPP for preparing him to face the challenges of professional football both mentally and physically. He expressed pride in signing with Al Jazira, acknowledging the club's professional stature and his aspirations for achieving significant milestones in his football career. Similarly, Feli from Abu Dhabi, after spending four years in the programme, praised TPP for its exceptional coaching level and its role in his personal and skill development, culminating in his proud move to the Al Jazira Academy.

The partnership with e& has been pivotal in driving these opportunities, with Hewitt extending his gratitude for their unwavering support. This collaboration is fundamental to the programme's success in aiding players to realize their potential and ambitions. The synergy between City Football Schools and e& exemplifies a shared vision for fostering football talent in the UAE, promising an exciting future for aspiring footballers.

The journey of Elias, Feli, Tafara, and their peers from the Talented Player Programme to Al Jazira Football Club epitomizes the essence of the TPP's mission. It not only showcases the tangible outcomes of dedicated training and development but also illuminates the pathway for upcoming talents in the UAE.