Soccer Academy in Portugal
Recently, we launched a Professional Soccer Scouting Program for a Soccer Academy in Portugal, and we have been receiving many great questions. So, in today’s post, we’d like to share some of the most frequently asked questions to help you learn more about this unique opportunity.
What is the Soccer Scouting Program in Portugal?
The program takes place at an academy run by the Vice President of the Portuguese League, and players have the opportunity to sign to other professional soccer clubs in Portugal. The goal is to find a professional club for players while developing their skills at the year-round academy. Typically, scouts from other soccer teams call the academy to sign players after they see matches of their teams playing against each other in the league.
What is the main advantage of playing soccer in Portugal?
The main advantage of playing soccer in Portugal is that there are really only three main First Division clubs: Benfica, Sporting and Porto (also known as “The Big Three,” or Os Três Grandes in Portuguese). So, we have more opportunities to sign players for other First Division clubs in Portugal compared to other countries where the competition is really selective among all First Division clubs. Additionally, the Portuguese leagues go until U21 and in Spain and other EU countries, it’s only until U18, so it gives players more time to develop until age 21. During the season, 2-4 players from the academy usually get signed to professional clubs. Players also will also have media exposure through the sport channel and will practice giving interviews to help them in their professional development.
Which professional clubs does the soccer academy in Porto play against?
In the past, the soccer team has played against the following professional soccer clubs: Moreirense, Boavista, Famalicão, Penafiel, Gil Vicente, FC Porto, Agora, Braga, Vitória de Guimarães and others. Typically, scouts from these teams call our soccer academy to sign players after they see matches of their teams playing against ours.
What if a player doesn’t get signed to a professional club in Europe? What are his options?
As an alternative, players can get a scholarship in the United States for a good university or play in the MLS (Major League Soccer in the US). Additionally, players will have all matches recorded with a thorough progress report they can use for recruitment.
What is the price for the Soccer Academy in Portugal and what does it include?
The program includes the following:
•Training from Monday-Saturday
•Tryouts
•Accommodation
•Uniform
•Media Exposure
•Soccer Training
•Education (private school)
•Fitness Training
•Full board for players (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
•Game analysis
•Transfer from airport
•Security 24 hours
Price: 2200 euros/per month
Where can I get more information about the Soccer Academy in Portugal?
Please see the following link: Soccer Scouting in Portugal