Perth squads set for new experiences in Melbourne and Jakarta

Manchester City Football Programs Perth has established three squad teams in its inaugural programme, giving young players the opportunity to train regularly, play friendly fixtures and continue their development in a more focused football environment.

The squads have been created for players who are ready to be challenged through regular training and match play, while continuing to learn in a positive and supportive setting.

Our current squad teams are:

U10s
U12s
U13/14s

Each squad trains together and takes part in three friendly matches per term against local club sides. These games give players the chance to apply what they are learning in training, build confidence in match situations and understand how to work together as a team.

Find out more about our programs here

Training with clarity and purpose

The squad programme is built around structured football development. Sessions are planned and delivered with clear learning outcomes, helping players understand what they are working on and why it matters in the game.

Through our play to progress curriculum, players are supported to develop their technique, decision making, movement and understanding of team play. Sessions are designed to be challenging, enjoyable and realistic to the moments players experience in matches.

The intensity of squad training is also an important part of the programme. Players are encouraged to train with focus, respond to coaching detail and build positive habits over time. This creates an environment where young footballers can keep improving, while feeling supported by coaches who understand their stage of development.

Learning through match play

Friendly fixtures are a key part of the squad experience.

Across the term, players compete against local club sides, giving them regular opportunities to test themselves in match conditions. The results have varied, as they should in a development focused programme, but the squads have continued to show strong progress, commitment and understanding.

Every game is used as a learning opportunity. Wins, draws and defeats all play a role in helping players grow, whether that means managing pressure, staying confident after a setback or recognising the value of teamwork and decision making.

Our matches are played in the right spirit, with a focus on attractive, effective football and respect for the game. The aim is not only to compete, but to help players understand how to perform, reflect and keep developing.

Building confidence through competition

Competition has an important place in player development when it is delivered in the right way.

For Manchester City Football Programs Perth, fixtures are planned with development as the priority. Players are given the chance to experience different opponents, different challenges and different moments in the game, while being guided by coaches before, during and after matches.

This approach helps players build confidence, resilience and a clearer understanding of how to play as part of a team. It also supports their wider growth, encouraging positive behaviours that matter on and off the pitch.

Upcoming squad experiences

As the squad programme continues to develop, players are preparing for two exciting upcoming trips that will provide further opportunities to learn, compete and experience football in new environments.

Melbourne, Australia, July

In July, two squad teams, made up of 22 players, will travel to Melbourne to visit partner club Melbourne City.

The experience will include a tournament, training sessions delivered by Melbourne City coaches and matches against Melbourne City Academy teams. Players will also have the opportunity to tour the club’s training facilities, observe professional team sessions and attend A-League matches.

This trip will give players a valuable insight into another professional football environment, while creating a memorable team experience close to home.

Jakarta, Indonesia, September

In September, the third squad will travel to a partner school in Jakarta for a six day football experience.

The programme will include daily training sessions, classroom based theory sessions, two matches and participation in a local tournament.

This will give players the chance to experience football in a different country, learn in a new setting and continue developing both on and off the pitch.

A distinctive squad programme for young players in Perth

Through regular training, friendly fixtures and carefully planned tour opportunities, the squad programme gives young players in Perth a clear and exciting way to continue their football development.

The strength of Manchester City’s club partnerships and global connections helps create experiences that go beyond weekly coaching. Players have the chance to learn, compete, travel and build confidence through football, while being supported by a structured programme and a consistent coaching approach.

For families in Perth, the squad pathway offers something distinctive: a high quality football environment where young players can be challenged, supported and given opportunities to experience the game locally, domestically and internationally.

Find out more about our programs here