European soccer tours for youth players have been growing in popularity at a very fast rate over the past few years. They see young soccer players embark on the trip of a lifetime, travel across the globe with family, coaches and friends, to train, play and learn amongst the academy of their choice.
These tours involve travel, training, games, live soccer experiences, cultural exploration and more. They’re an investment of not only money, but time – time for players and for those accompanying. It’s important ahead of booking to fully understand the logistics of this.
A European soccer tour with Next Generation International typically lasts between 7 and 8 days. In this blog, we’ll cover tour duration, the key components of the tours, and the various destinations available. Our goal is to provide you with all the information you need before booking your unforgettable soccer adventure.
How is the Time Distributed on a European Soccer Tour?
A whole host of planning goes into one of our European soccer tours. Take a Manchester United soccer tour as an example to understand how time is distributed during the tour.
One of the key components of the tour typically includes four training sessions with Manchester United Soccer Schools’ coaches. These sessions employ the renowned methodologies of Manchester United, focusing on both technical and tactical development. Each group of 15 to 25 players is assigned a dedicated coach, while larger groups of 25 to 40 players benefit from the expertise of two coaches. This ensures that every player receives personalized attention and instruction tailored to their skill level.
A significant highlight of the tour is the pre-arranged matches against local teams of similar standards. These matches offer a practical application of the skills and tactics learned during training sessions, providing invaluable competitive experience in a real-world setting. Such games are pivotal in honing the players’ abilities and boosting their confidence.
Beyond the soccer field, the international soccer tour includes several enriching activities. Participants will visit Manchester United’s iconic Old Trafford Stadium and museum, offering a deep dive into the history and legacy of one of the world’s most famous soccer clubs. They will also get the opportunity to see Manchester United’s stars perform live at Old Trafford (subject to schedule). Additionally, the tour features sightseeing, shopping, and cultural visits, allowing players to experience the rich heritage and vibrant life of European cities.
What Should You Do in the Build Up to your International Soccer Tour?
As we’ve already pointed out, an international soccer tour is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Although Next Generation International will handle all planning and logistics, we recommend being as prepared and researched as possible. Here are some useful tips and tricks:
Understand the Itinerary
Know Your Schedule: Familiarize yourself with the tour itinerary. Understand the schedule for training sessions, matches, cultural visits, and leisure activities. This will help you manage your time effectively and be prepared for each activity.
Stay Fit and Healthy
Maintain Your Training Regimen: Keep up with your current training program. Staying in top physical condition will help you perform your best during matches and training sessions on tour.
Proper Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet rich in proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Hydrate well to keep your body in peak condition.
Pack Smart
Essential Gear: Ensure you pack all necessary soccer gear, including uniforms, boots, shin guards, and training equipment. Bring extras in case of loss or damage.
Personal Items: Don’t forget personal items like toiletries, casual clothing, and any medications you might need. Having everything you need will keep you comfortable and focused.
Engage with Culture
Learn About the Destinations: It’s European soccer tour, in a foreign location to you. Take some time to learn about the places you’ll visit. Understanding the local culture and customs can enhance your experience and help you appreciate the environment you’re in.
Participate in Cultural Activities: Be active in sightseeing and cultural visits. These experiences can be just as enriching as the soccer matches and training sessions.
Team Bonding
Build Relationships: Use this opportunity to strengthen your relationships with teammates. Participate in team-building activities and support each other throughout the tour.
Communicate Effectively: Good communication is key to teamwork. Make sure you’re clear and supportive in your interactions with teammates and coaches.
Choose The Right Destination for Your International Soccer Travel Program
Next Generation International are known for connecting youth soccer clubs and their young players to the world’s top academies and tournaments. With all of the careful planning, preparation, logistics and execution carried out by ourselves, all you need to do is choose which tour you want to go on. Our current international soccer travel programs are:
Manchester United Youth Soccer Tour
Train at the prestigious Manchester United training grounds, with exclusive access to top coaches and facilities, and play matches against local youth teams.
Real Madrid Youth Soccer Tour
Experience world-class training at the Real Madrid City facility, participate in competitive matches, and enjoy exclusive tours of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and museum.
FC Bayern Munich Youth Soccer Tour
Develop your skills at the FC Bayern Munich Academy, train with professional coaches, and compete in friendly matches while exploring the Allianz Arena and its rich history.
Celtic FC Youth Soccer Tour
Hone your abilities at the Celtic FC training grounds, train with top-tier coaches, and play matches against local teams while discovering the rich culture and history of Celtic Park.
Juventus Youth Soccer Tour
Elevate your game at the Juventus Academy, train under expert coaches, and participate in friendly matches, all while exploring the Allianz Stadium and its renowned history.
SL Benfica Youth Soccer Tour
Enhance your soccer skills at the SL Benfica Academy, train with elite coaches, and engage in matches against local youth teams while exploring the Estádio da Luz and the vibrant culture of Lisbon.
Next Generation International is a soccer company run by soccer people. For more information about booking one of our European soccer tours or for any general inquiries, please reach out to us today.