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In 2026, the Leicester City FC Academy continues to be a pillar of the Premier League’s Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP), recently celebrating new graduates like Jeremy Monga and Jake Evans. Operating out of the world-class training facility at Seagrave, the academy remains “Committed to Excellence,” blending top-tier footballing development with a robust educational framework.
Whether you are a local talent or an international prospect, this updated guide outlines the 2026 recruitment pathways, scholarship requirements, and contact details.
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1. How the Leicester City Academy Works (2026)
The Academy is a Category One institution, meaning it meets the highest standards for coaching, facilities, and education in the UK.
The “Committed to Excellence” Program: Players aged 8–21 follow a technical program designed to transition them into the First Team.
EPPP Education: Academically, players are mentored by specialists. Day-release players receive daily support in English, Maths, and Science.
Loughborough College Partnership: For scholars (aged 16+), Leicester City partners with Loughborough College to deliver the League Football Education (LFE) program, including BTEC National Diplomas in Sports Performance.
2. How to Join & Trial Procedures
Leicester City uses a sophisticated scouting network to identify talent, but players can still be proactive.
Recruitment Ethos & Travel Restrictions:
U9 – U11: Players must reside within one hour’s travel time of the training ground.
U12 – U16: Players must reside within 1.5 hours’ travel time.
U17+: As a Category One academy, the club can recruit nationally and internationally (subject to FIFA and FA regulations).
Direct Contact & Scouting:
If you have not been scouted, you can submit a “Player Portfolio” to the recruitment team.
Email: academy.recruitment@lcfc.co.uk (Attn: Steve Kinson)
Women’s Academy: louis.sowe@lcfc.co.uk
3. Securing an Academy Scholarship
Scholarships are awarded to players at age 16. These are “full-package” deals that cover football training and formal education.
Requirements for 2026 Applicants:
Video Portfolio: Crucial for international students. Use platforms like Wyscout or YouTube to host your match highlights.
Academic Records: You must provide your most recent school reports and predicted grades.
Player “Vital Stats”: Include position, height, weight, and a record of any representative honors (e.g., playing for your county or district).
Trial Period: If invited, you will undergo a six-week trial period as per Premier League rules.
4. International Students & Outreach
While direct trials are difficult for international players due to visa regulations, the club offers several “open” gateways:
International Soccer Schools: Check for global camps via the Official Soccer Schools Portal.
Sports Turf & Coaching Courses: For those looking to join the “academic” side of the club, the Leicester City Sports Turf Academy offers professional qualifications in 2026.
5. Contact Information (Updated 2026)
| Department | Contact Method |
| General Academy Inquiries | academy@lcfc.co.uk |
| Recruitment (Steve Kinson) | academy.recruitment@lcfc.co.uk |
| Main Telephone | +44 (0) 344 815 5000 |
| Physical Address | King Power Stadium, Filbert Way, Leicester, LE2 7FL |
Key Takeaways for 2026 Success:
Be Digital: Ensure your “highlights reel” is high-definition and focuses on your tactical awareness, not just your goals.
Focus on Education: The club is more likely to sign players who show “integrity and intelligence,” which starts with your school grades.
Local Presence: If you are under 16 and live outside the travel radius, consider joining a Leicester-affiliated grassroots club to increase your visibility.
