It’s been a month since Team UK took part in the PSG Academy World Cup in Paris—and we’re still dreaming about what an unforgettable experience it was!
Twelve boys and two coaches made the journey to the French capital to take part in the biggest tournament of the year for the PSG Academy. Team UK was one of many international squads, as Academies from all over the world came together in Paris to compete for the title of World Cup champion.
In this special edition of Player Spotlight, we’re thrilled to introduce the incredible players and coaches who proudly represented Team UK in the U13s category.
Meet the Coaches
Name: Paulo
Position: Technical Director, PSG Academy UK
As the Technical Director, Paulo oversees all coaches and programmes across the UK. He works closely with PSG’s technical team to ensure that the club’s unique methodology and philosophy are delivered across the Academy. While Paulo travels frequently across England and Wales, he is primarily based at our hub for Buckinghamshire—Lord Grey Academy, Milton Keynes.
Name: Ash
Position: Head Coach
Ash plays a key role within PSG Academy UK. As Head Coach, he guided the U13s through every step of the tournament. Ash is also based at Lord Grey Academy, where he leads the weekly Player Development Programme.
Meet the Players – Team UK U13s
Steven – Goalkeeper
From: Brighton
Owen – CDM / CM
From: Coleford, Wales
Samuel – Midfielder / Winger
From: Derby
Connor – Forward / Attacking Midfielder (FAM)
From: Dronfield
Ayrton – Goalkeeper & Outfield Player
From: Bletchley
Siyan – Centre Midfield
From: London
Ralph – Centre Midfield
From: Sheffield
Kharell – Centre Forward / Striker
From: Houghton Regis
Thomas – Centre Midfield
From: Sheffield.
Andi – CDM
From: Sheffield
Robert – Centre Midfield
From: Witham.
Lucas – Right Wing / Centre Midfield
From: Sheffield
Tournament Highlights
Team UK faced off against PSG Academy teams from UAE, USA East, West Indies, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan. They gave it everything on the pitch, securing a mix of wins, draws, and losses.
One of the biggest highlights? The team had the unforgettable honour of playing their final match at Parc des Princes, the iconic home of Paris Saint-Germain. They also took part in a lap of honour around Parc Des Princes before the PSG vs Auxerre match which they watched followed by the PSG celebration of their Ligue 1 title!
Congratulations to USA West, the champions of the U13 group! Other winners included Brazil (U11s) and Brazil (U15 Girls)— with the double win!
It truly was a trip of a lifetime—filled with memories, friendship, football, and dreams made in the City of Lights.
Until next year, Paris… we can’t wait!