Next Mohammed VI Football Academy International Tournament to take place in Salé

The Mohammed VI Football Academy is preparing to stage another edition of its prestigious U19 International Tournament, a competition that has steadily grown into a key event for youth development and global scouting.

The 2026 edition is set to take place in Salé, continuing the tournament’s tradition of bringing together some of the most exciting young talents in world football.

Since its launch in 2017, the competition has undergone significant evolution. Initially introduced as a U17 event, it transitioned to a U19 format in 2019, a move that has helped attract a broader and more competitive pool of clubs from across the globe. Over time, the tournament has become a recognised platform for emerging players, many of whom have gone on to secure opportunities with top European sides.

The 8th edition of the Mohammed VI Football Academy U19 International Tournament will run from April 22 to April 26 at the academy’s facilities in Salé. While the full match schedule has yet to be officially confirmed, the competition is expected to follow its familiar structure, beginning with a group stage before progressing to classification matches and concluding with a final showdown.

Traditionally featuring 12 teams, this year’s edition expands to 16, reflecting its growing stature on the global stage. The lineup includes Académie Mohammed VI, FUS Rabat, and RS Berkane representing Morocco, alongside a strong international cast featuring AS Monaco, Stade Rennais, Boca Juniors, Palmeiras, Villarreal CF, Nottingham Forest, Leeds United, Como 1907, AZ Alkmaar, Vitória SC, Hajduk Split, Al-Ain FC, and Aspire Academy.

The diversity of participating teams once again highlights the tournament’s role as a meeting point for elite youth academies from Europe, Africa, South America, and the Middle East. More importantly, it reinforces its reputation as a vital scouting hub, offering a glimpse into the future of the sport.

Several players who once featured in this competition have gone on to establish themselves at the highest level, including Nayef Aguerd, Azzedine Ounahi, Youssef En-Nesyri, and Eliesse Benseghir. Their journeys serve as a reminder of the tournament’s growing importance in shaping the next generation of football stars.