Morocco has become a hub for football talent in Africa, thanks to its world-class football academies. These institutions not only train young players to become professional athletes but also focus on their education and personal development. Here’s a list of the 10 best football academies in Morocco, including how to join them and some interesting facts about their programs.
1. Mohammed VI Football Academy
Location: Salé, near Rabat
Website: amf.ac.ma
The Mohammed VI Football Academy is Morocco’s crown jewel in football development. Established in 2009 by King Mohammed VI, this academy has produced stars like Youssef En-Nesyri (Sevilla) and Nayef Aguerd (West Ham). The academy offers state-of-the-art facilities, including FIFA-standard pitches, a medical center, and a school that combines sports and academics.
How to Join:
- Open to boys aged 12 to 18.
- Candidates must pass regional and national trials, including physical, technical, and psychological assessments.
- No fees are required for selected players.
Interesting Fact: The academy hosts international tournaments, attracting teams like AFC Ajax and Liverpool, giving students a chance to compete globally.
2. Juventus Academy Morocco
Location: Casablanca and Rabat
Website: juventusacademy.ma
Juventus Academy Morocco is a branch of the famous Italian club Juventus in the country. It focuses on training young players using Juventus’ renowned methodology. The academy is open to children aged 4 to 18 and offers summer camps, individual training sessions, and competitive leagues.
How to Join:
- Open to children aged 4 to 18.
- Annual registration fees apply, with professional coaching and equipment included.
- Parents can enroll their children through the academy’s website or by visiting their facilities.
Interesting Fact: The academy’s training programs are designed by Juventus’ professional coaches, ensuring high-quality development.
3. Barcelona Academy Morocco
Location: Salé
Website: barcaacademy.ma
Barcelona Academy Morocco is part of the global network of FC Barcelona’s youth development programs. It follows the famous La Masia philosophy, focusing on technical skills, creativity, and teamwork. The academy is open to boys and girls aged 6 to 18.
How to Join:
- Open to children aged 6 to 18.
- Registration is done online through the academy’s website.
- Fees vary depending on the program and age group.
Interesting Fact: The academy uses the same training methods as FC Barcelona’s first team, ensuring players learn the “Barca way” of playing football.
4. Raja Casablanca Academy
Location: Casablanca
Website: rajacasablanca.com
Raja Casablanca Academy is known for producing some of Morocco’s most talented players. The academy focuses on technical skills, tactical awareness, and physical conditioning. It also provides educational support to ensure players have a balanced future.
How to Join:
- Open to boys aged 12 to 18.
- Trials are held annually, with registration details available on the club’s website.
- Fees vary depending on the program.
Interesting Fact: Raja Casablanca Academy has a strong partnership with European clubs, offering pathways for players to join international leagues.
5. Wydad AC
Location: Casablanca
Social media: Facebook
Wydad AC Academy is one of the oldest and most respected football schools in Morocco. It focuses on developing players who can compete at the highest levels, both domestically and internationally.
How to Join:
- Open to boys aged 10 to 18.
- Trials are held at the academy’s facilities.
- Scholarships are available for exceptional talent.
Interesting Fact: Wydad Academy has produced players like Achraf Bencharki, who has played in top leagues across Europe and Asia.
6. PSG Academy Morocco
Location: Casablanca
Instagram: @psg_academy_casablanca
PSG Academy Morocco is the latest addition to Morocco’s football scene, officially launched in 2024 with the support of Moroccan star Achraf Hakimi. The academy follows Paris Saint-Germain’s world-class training methods, focusing on technical excellence and tactical intelligence.
How to Join:
- Open to boys and girls aged 6 to 18.
- Registration is done online or at the academy’s facilities.
- Fees vary depending on the program.
Interesting Fact: The academy’s launch event featured Achraf Hakimi, who emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent in Morocco.
7. RCDE Academy Rabat
Location: Rabat
Website: rcdespanyol.com
RCDE Academy Rabat is owned by RCD Espanyol, a Spanish La Liga club. The academy focuses on developing players using Espanyol’s proven training methods. It is open to boys and girls aged 6 to 18.
How to Join:
- Open to children aged 6 to 18.
- Registration is done online through the academy’s website.
- Fees vary depending on the program.
Interesting Fact: The academy offers opportunities for talented players to train at Espanyol’s facilities in Spain.
8. Ittihad Tanger Academy
Location: Tangier
Social Media: Facebook
Ittihad Tanger Academy is known for its focus on technical skills and tactical awareness. It also provides educational support to ensure players have a balanced future.
How to Join:
- Open to boys aged 12 to 18.
- Trials are held at the academy’s facilities.
- Fees vary depending on the program.
Interesting Fact: The academy has produced players like Ayoub El Kaabi, who has played in top leagues across Europe.
9. MAS Fez Academy
Location: Fez
Website: Instagram
MAS Fez Academy focuses on nurturing young talent from northern Morocco. It has a strong emphasis on discipline and teamwork.
How to Join:
- Open to boys aged 10 to 18.
- Trials are held annually, with registration details available on the club’s website.
- Scholarships are available for talented players.
Interesting Fact: The academy has contributed players to Morocco’s national teams, including the U17 squad.
10. AS FAR Academy
Location: Rabat
Website: as-far.ma
AS FAR Academy is part of the AS FAR football club, one of Morocco’s most successful teams. The academy focuses on nurturing young talent and integrating them into the club’s senior team. It has a strong emphasis on discipline and teamwork.
How to Join:
- Open to boys aged 10 to 18.
- Candidates must attend trials held at the academy.
- Scholarships are available for talented players from underprivileged backgrounds.
Interesting Fact: AS FAR Academy has contributed players to Morocco’s national teams, including the U17 squad that reached the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final.
Conclusion
Morocco’s football academies are transforming the landscape of African football. They provide young players with the skills, discipline, and opportunities to succeed on the global stage. Whether you’re a parent looking to enroll your child or a young player dreaming of a professional career, these academies offer the perfect starting point. For more details, visit their official websites or contact them directly. The journey to stardom begins with a single step—take yours today!
