Top 10 Best Football Academies in England and How to Join (2025)

If you want to become a professional footballer in one of the most competitive environments in the world, joining a football academy in England is an excellent choice. England is home to some of the world’s best football academies, producing global stars like Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford, and more.

In this article, we present the Top 10 Best Football Academies in England and How to Join (2025). We cover everything you need to know including fees, programs, how to apply, and what to expect.

This updated guide is tailored to help aspiring players, especially international students and Nigerians, understand the process and take their first step toward a professional career.

Why Join a Football Academy in England?

Here are some of the major benefits of training in England:

• High-level coaching from UEFA/FA licensed trainers.

• State-of-the-art training facilities.

• Opportunity to be scouted by professional clubs.

• Competitive matches in youth leagues.

• Holistic development — technical, tactical, psychological, and physical.

Whether you’re aiming to sign with a Premier League club or develop your skills to an elite level, English academies provide a structured pathway to success.

What Does It Cost to Join a Football Academy in England?

Academy costs in England vary widely depending on the type of academy:

• Club-affiliated academies (e.g., Arsenal, Manchester United) are free for players selected through trials or scouting.

• Independent academies and private programs charge tuition — fees can range from £3,000 to £15,000 per year.

• Additional costs may include accommodation, meals, kits, and travel.

This article also explains how to join both types of academies.

How to Choose the Right Football Academy in England

When deciding which academy to apply for, consider the following factors:

• Level of competition. Elite academies are more competitive to enter and often require outstanding skill and experience.

• Your age group. Most academies begin accepting players from under-9 level, but some accept older players up to under-23.

• Residential or day programs. Decide whether you want to live on campus (boarding) or commute daily.

• Academic education. Some academies combine football with academic studies, while others focus solely on football training.

• Budget. Private academies tend to be more accessible to international students but come with higher fees, whereas club-affiliated academies are free for selected players.

Top 10 Best Football Academies in England and How to Join (2025)

Here is the updated list of the most respected academies in England for 2025.

1. Arsenal Football Academy

• Location: Hale End, London

• Notable graduates: Bukayo Saka, Jack Wilshere

• Programs: Full-time academy, youth leagues

• Age Range: U9–U23

• Fees: Free (if selected)

• How to Join: Attend open trials or be scouted at youth tournaments. Register interest on the club’s website and submit a football CV.

2. Manchester United Academy

• Location: Carrington, Manchester

• Notable graduates: Marcus Rashford, Ryan Giggs

• Programs: Professional youth development pathway

• Age Range: U9–U23

• Fees: Free (if signed); camps ~£3,000

• How to Join: Attend official trials or summer camps. Scouts often identify players at grassroots level.

3. Chelsea Football Academy

• Location: Cobham, Surrey

• Notable graduates: Mason Mount, Reece James

• Programs: Full-time residential academy

• Age Range: U9–U23

• Fees: Free for signed players; trials ~£3,000–£5,000

• How to Join: Submit a CV and attend Chelsea FC Foundation open trials or summer camps.

4. Liverpool Football Academy

• Location: Kirkby, Liverpool

• Notable graduates: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Steven Gerrard

• Programs: Youth academy + summer camps

• Age Range: U9–U23

• Fees: Free for academy players; camps £2,500–£4,500

• How to Join: Join summer programs or impress scouts at tournaments.

5. Manchester City Football Academy

• Location: Etihad Campus, Manchester

• Notable graduates: Phil Foden, Jadon Sancho

• Programs: Elite development squads + camps

• Age Range: U9–U23

• Fees: Free for signed players; camps ~£3,500–£6,000

• How to Join: Through talent scouting, trials, or international camps.

6. FCV International Football Academy

• Location: Stamford, Lincolnshire

• Focus: International students

• Programs: Football + education + language courses

• Age Range: 16–21

• Fees: £7,500–£10,500 per year

• How to Join: Apply directly on FCV’s website. Open to all skill levels.

7. EduKick Manchester Football Academy

• Location: Manchester

• Focus: International students combining football with academics

• Programs: Year-round or short courses

• Age Range: 16–24

• Fees: £8,495–£10,000

• How to Join: Complete the application form and pay program fees.

8. Pro Direct Academy

• Location: Nationwide (multiple centers)

• Focus: High-quality, affordable football + education programs

• Programs: Full-time training with academic courses

• Age Range: 16–19

• Fees: £2,500–£6,500 per year

• How to Join: Apply on the Pro Direct website and attend a trial.

9. UK Football Schools

• Location: Various

• Focus: Short-term camps & development programs

• Programs: Residential and day camps

• Age Range: 8–18

• Fees: £2,500–£6,000

• How to Join: Book directly via their website.

10. Leicester City International Academy

• Location: Leicester

• Focus: Blending football and education for aspiring players

• Programs: Full-time football + academic pathway

• Age Range: 16–19

• Fees: £4,000–£7,500

• How to Join: Apply directly and attend assessment days.

Summary Table: Top Football Academies in England (2025)

How to Join a Football Academy in England (Step-by-Step)

1. Research & Shortlist

Use this guide to choose academies that fit your goals, budget, and skill level.

2. Prepare a Football CV

Include your:

• Personal details

• Playing position(s)

• Height, weight, and age

• Previous clubs and achievements

• Video highlights (if possible)

3. Contact the Academy

Visit the academy’s official website and fill out the application form or email your CV directly.

4. Attend Trials or Camps

Most academies require trials or initial camps before offering a place.

5. Visa & Accommodation

For international players, you may need a student or visitor visa and to arrange accommodation (some academies offer boarding).

What to Expect at an English Football Academy

• Daily Training: Up to two sessions per day covering technique, tactics, fitness, and mental preparation.

• Competitive Matches: Regular fixtures against other academies and clubs.

• Education: Academies often offer GCSE, A-levels, or English courses.

• Pathways: Perform well and you may earn a scholarship or professional contract.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do academies guarantee professional contracts?

No. They prepare and expose you to scouts, but earning a contract depends on your performance and development.

Are international players welcome?

Yes. Many academies are open to international students, particularly private and independent ones.

Can I work while training?

If on a student visa, check UK work restrictions. Most focus full-time on football and education.

What is the minimum age?

Some start accepting players as young as 8 or 9, though international students usually start at 16+.

Tips for Success

• Train hard and stay disciplined.

• Maintain good fitness and nutrition.

• Be patient — development takes time.

• Network and showcase yourself during matches and trials.

Final Thoughts: Top Football Academies in England and How to Join

The journey to becoming a professional footballer begins with the right training environment. England’s football academies provide world-class facilities, coaching, and pathways into professional football.

By following this guide to the Top 10 Best Football Academies in England and How to Join (2025), you can choose the right academy, understand the costs, and take the right steps toward achieving your football dreams.

Start today by researching, applying, and giving your best on and off the pitch.