Malaysia is a country with a growing passion for football, and its football academies are playing a key role in nurturing young talent. Whether you’re a parent looking for the best training for your child or a young player dreaming of a professional career, Malaysia offers some of the best football academies in Asia. Here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 football academies in Malaysia, including how to join and what makes each one unique.
1. LALIGA Academy Malaysia
LALIGA Academy Malaysia is part of the globally renowned LALIGA network, offering world-class coaching and training programs. Located in Kuala Lumpur, this academy is run by UEFA Pro and UEFA A licensed coaches with extensive experience in Spanish football.
How to Join:
- Visit the official website and fill out the contact form to express interest.
- Attend trials or open sessions to showcase your skills.
What Makes It Special:
- Coaches trained in the LALIGA methodology.
- Opportunities to participate in international camps and tournaments.
Website: LALIGA Academy Malaysia
Social Media: Instagram
2. Villarreal Malaysia Academy
Partnered with Villarreal CF, one of Spain’s top clubs, this academy brings European football expertise to Malaysia. It offers programs for players aged 3 to 19, focusing on technical, tactical, and physical development.
How to Join:
- Register for a trial through the academy’s website.
- Attend the trial and demonstrate your abilities.
What Makes It Special:
- Training under the Villarreal CF methodology.
- Opportunities to travel to Spain for competitions and trials.
Website: Villarreal Malaysia Academy
3. Real Madrid Foundation Football Program Malaysia
This academy, run by the Real Madrid Foundation, offers world-class training and character-building programs for young players.
How to Join:
- Visit the official website to register for training sessions.
- Attend sessions at the International School of Kuala Lumpur.
What Makes It Special:
- Training under the Real Madrid methodology.
- Opportunities to participate in international tournaments in Spain.
Website: Real Madrid Foundation Malaysia
4. MM10 Academy
MM10 Academy is known for its partnership with the MV8 Academy in Spain, offering a pathway for young players to pursue professional careers in Europe.
How to Join:
- Contact the academy to schedule a trial.
- Attend the trial and showcase your potential.
What Makes It Special:
- Head Coach uses a well-rounded approach to player development.
- Opportunities for trials with major Spanish clubs.
Website: MM10 Academy
5. KL Youth Soccer (KLYS)
KL Youth Soccer focuses on fostering camaraderie and positive values among its players. Led by former Argentine footballer Luis Pablo Pozzuto, the academy offers training for youths aged 6 to 18.
How to Join:
- Visit the KLYS website to register for training sessions.
- Attend sessions at their locations in Ampang or Ukay Heights.
What Makes It Special:
- Emphasis on teamwork and character building.
- Opportunities to play in matches and tournaments.
Website: KL Youth Soccer
6. Little League Soccer
With over 20 years of experience, Little League Soccer is the longest-running international youth football academy in Malaysia. It offers a structured syllabus for players of all ages.
How to Join:
- Contact the academy to enroll in their programs.
- Attend training sessions at one of their eight locations in the Klang Valley.
What Makes It Special:
- Player Development Pathway tailored to individual progress.
- Affordable and high-quality training programs.
Website: Little League Soccer
7. FC Kuala Lumpur (FCKL)
FCKL is the elite program of Little League Soccer, offering advanced training and competitive opportunities for young players.
How to Join:
- Participate in open trials or be selected through Little League Soccer’s training sessions.
What Makes It Special:
- Compete in Suparimau, Malaysia’s nationwide youth league.
- Opportunities to play in international tournaments.
Website: FC Kuala Lumpur
8. KDH Global Sports Group
KDH Global Sports Group is a top football academy with branches across Malaysia. It focuses on developing players’ skills and character through a systematic training syllabus.
How to Join:
- Contact the academy to schedule a trial.
- Attend training sessions at one of their branches.
What Makes It Special:
- Opportunities to participate in global tournaments and trials.
- Strong track record of producing professional players.
Website: KDH Global Sports Group
9. Everton International Academy
The Everton International Academy, in partnership with IGB International School, is the first and only international school in Malaysia to collaborate with a prestigious English Premier League club. This academy offers world-class training programs for players aged 3 to 17, integrating Everton’s renowned football development processes into its curriculum16.
How to Join:
- Visit the official website to register for training sessions.
- Attend trials or open sessions to showcase your skills.
What Makes It Special:
- Training under the Everton FC methodology, with regular consultations between Everton FC and the academy’s coaches16.
- State-of-the-art facilities, including a full-sized astroturf football pitch and a 400-meter running track9.
- Opportunities to participate in international tournaments and gain exposure to professional football612.
Website: Everton International Academy
Social Media: Instagram
10. Junior Football Academy Malaysia (Junior FAM)
Endorsed by the Malaysian Ministry of Education and the Football Association of Malaysia, Junior FAM is one of the most reputable grassroots academies in the country.
How to Join:
- Contact the academy via phone or email to inquire about enrollment.
- Attend training sessions at their locations in Damansara Heights or Cheras.
What Makes It Special:
- Elite students may participate in the Premier Training Camp at Stoke City FC Academy.
- Focus on teamwork and fundamental skills.
Social Media: Facebook
Success Stories from Malaysian Football Academies
Several young players who trained at these academies have gone on to achieve success in football. For example:
- Luqman Hakim Shamsudin: A graduate of the National Football Development Programme (NFDP), Luqman has played for KV Kortrijk in Belgium.
- Akhyar Rashid: A product of the Kedah FA youth system, Akhyar became a key player for the Malaysian national team.
- Junior FAM Alumni: Several players from Junior FAM have gone on to represent Malaysia in international youth tournaments.
Tips for Parents
If your child is passionate about football and joins one of these academies, here are some tips to support their journey:
- Encourage Consistency: Regular training and practice are key to improvement.
- Focus on Enjoyment: Ensure your child enjoys the game and doesn’t feel pressured.
- Provide Proper Nutrition: A balanced diet helps young athletes perform at their best.
- Attend Matches and Training: Show support by being present at games and training sessions.
- Communicate with Coaches: Stay in touch with coaches to understand your child’s progress and areas for improvement.
Conclusion
Malaysia’s football academies are making waves in the world of youth development, offering world-class training, international exposure, and pathways to professional careers. Whether your child is just starting out or aiming for the big leagues, these academies provide the perfect platform to nurture their talent and passion for the game. Explore their websites, attend trials, and take the first step toward a bright football future!
