BUNDESLIGA SOCCER TALENT SQUAD
INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY IN GERMANY
The Bundesliga Talent Squad is a unique residential pro soccer program (from 3 months to a full season) integrated into the German Bundesliga team, 1. FC Köln, for soccer players aged 16-23 years old from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, and more selected countries.
The club, also known as the Billy Goats, was founded in 1948 and currently plays in the 1. Bundesliga, the top tier of German football.
Road to become a complete player
The Bundesliga Talent Squad is designed for highly ambitious soccer players who want to become a professional player in Germany, Europe, or back in their home countries. The program is also a platform for players seeking a college soccer scholarship in the USA.
The goal is to improve each player, both sportively and personally, to prepare them to reach their optimum level of performance in a safe and secure environment while making friends and having fun with players from all around the world.
Players in the Squad are part of a recruiting network that has completed more than 1,000 college and pro placements through our partner clubs, colleges, and agents.
Residential Soccer Program
This is a unique residential pro soccer program (from 3 months to a full season) integrated into the German Bundesliga team, FC Cologne, for soccer players aged 16-23 years old from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, and more selected countries.
18-24 selected players will be provided with a unique opportunity to develop their skills, showcase their abilities, and pursue their dreams of becoming professional soccer players while learning German culture and language; and taking high school and/or college courses online.
“The Bundesliga Talent Squad in Germany, with its resources and network from a Bundesliga club, is like an Ivy League education but for soccer, which can open many doors, such as a professional or college soccer career.” – Herbert Biste, Head of Recruitment North America, Warubi Sports
FC Cologne Pro Soccer Training
Players of the Bundesliga Talent Squad train 5 times a week for 2 hours each within the professional environment of Bundesliga Team FC Cologne. Every training session is led by 2-3 professional UEFA licensed soccer coaches. Additionally, there will be scouting and matches against German and other European professional and semi-professional teams.
Players will have the opportunity to compete against top-level youth teams from both the country and abroad, and they are being evaluated by FIFA licensed scouts as well as college recruiters. This exposure to high-quality competition and networking will help young players develop their skills under pressure, adapt to different playing styles, and grow both as athletes and individuals.
FC Cologne Pride
German Classes at the Football School
Academics are crucial, as you will be both a student and an athlete!
Each participant must attend German classes (3-5 times per week) while participating in the soccer program. Being able to speak the local language will not only increase chances of playing professional soccer, but it will also have a tremendous impact on future study and job opportunities.
Additionally, each player, depending on their age and graduation timeline, has the option to enroll in online education to earn high school or college credits.
When does it start and what are the costs?
The Bundesliga Talent Squad has year-round intakes on July 1st, October 1st, January 3rd, and April 1st. It’s possible to join the Squad for 3, 6, or a full season (approximately 10 months) depending on the availability of roster spots.
Costs:
3 months – 14,000 EUR
6 months – 27,000 EUR
Full season – 39,000 EUR
The Bundesliga Talent Squad employs a dedicated team of scouts who constantly search for promising young talents both locally and internationally. This broad approach ensures that the academy identifies the most dedicated and promising players, regardless of their background or location.
Europe's most densely populated soccer region
Cologne is part of Europe’s most densely populated soccer region!
The region hosts several powerhouse football clubs such as Borussia Dortmund, FC Cologne (FC Köln), Bayer 04 Leverkusen, Borussia Monchengladbach, Fortuna Dusseldorf, VfL Bochum, MSV Duisburg, Schalke 04, and Fortuna Cologne (Fortuna Köln). These clubs fiercely compete to attract local talent, creating a nurturing environment where young players from diverse backgrounds can develop and excel.
