Perth players travel to Abu Dhabi for youth tournament

Thu 14 May 2026

Read our review on Manchester City Perth Under 10 players recent trip to Abu Dhabi for a Manchester City international youth tournament.

In its first year of operation, Manchester City Football Programs Perth has already created a memorable international football experience for young players, taking an Under 10 squad to Abu Dhabi to compete in a major youth tournament.

The squad of 10 players travelled from Perth to the UAE for the programme’s first international tour competition, giving them the opportunity to test themselves in a new environment, play against teams from around the world and experience football beyond their regular weekly training.

For players and families, it was a proud milestone. For the programme in Perth, it was an important step in building a football offer that combines structured local coaching with opportunities that connect young players to the wider Manchester City football network.

Preparing for the tournament

Before travelling to Abu Dhabi, the squad completed seven training sessions and three friendly matches to prepare for the competition.

The focus was on helping the players build understanding as a team, develop confidence in possession and apply the principles they had been working on in training. With limited time together before the tournament, the preparation gave players a valuable opportunity to connect on the pitch and begin learning how to compete as a group.

This was not just about getting ready for matches. It was about helping young players understand what it means to prepare properly, travel as a team and represent their programme in a different football environment.

A Manchester City experience in Abu Dhabi

During the tour, the players were welcomed by Manchester City in Abu Dhabi and enjoyed a range of football experiences alongside the tournament.

As part of the programme’s Manchester City connection, the squad took part in a training session led by a City coach, giving players the chance to learn in a new setting and experience another part of the Club’s coaching approach.

They also completed a skills challenge at the Manchester City store in Abu Dhabi, testing their control, dribbling and shooting in a fun and engaging environment.

These moments helped make the trip more than a tournament. It gave players the chance to feel part of something bigger, while continuing to learn, compete and enjoy the game.

Competing against teams from around the world

On the pitch, the players showed great character and adaptability throughout the competition.

The squad finished fifth in their initial group before responding strongly on finals day, topping their group and earning a place in the semi-final. They narrowly missed out on reaching the final after a penalty shootout defeat, but their performances across the tournament showed clear progress and resilience.

The team scored some excellent goals and gained valuable experience against a range of opponents, including academy sides from the UAE and teams from different football cultures.

For young players, these experiences can be powerful. They learn how to manage the pace of tournament football, deal with different playing styles and understand the importance of teamwork, focus and decision making in competitive moments.

Memories on and off the pitch

The tour was also about shared experiences away from the game.

From travelling together as a team, including plenty of Ted Lasso on the flight, to spending time with teammates and families, the players created memories that will stay with them well beyond the tournament.

The trip finished with a team day at Abu Dhabi Waterworld, giving the squad the chance to relax, laugh and celebrate the experience together after a busy week of football.

A proud moment for Manchester City Football Programs Perth

Taking an Under 10 squad to Abu Dhabi in the programme’s inaugural year was a proud moment for Manchester City Football Programs Perth.

It reflected the ambition of the programme, the commitment of the players and families, and the opportunities that can come from being part of a structured football environment connected to Manchester City.

For young players in Perth, the tour offered more than matches. It provided a chance to travel, learn, compete, grow in confidence and experience football on an international stage.