PSV and Feyenoord boost youngsters with Youth League experience

In the crisp evening at the Stade de Genève, AZ Under‑19 lifted the Youth League trophy after a 5‑0 demolition of Hajduk Split, a scene that still echoes in the academy corridors of Dutch clubs. The triumph marked the first time a Dutch side claimed the competition, underscoring the tournament’s growing relevance for youth development.

AZ’s historic win sets the benchmark

Paul Brandenburg, head of AZ’s youth academy, described the victory as “the crown on the work for the whole youth department”. He highlighted that the 2023 final gave the Alkmaar club a unique platform to test its players against different football cultures, styles and mentalities. Brandenburg believes that exposure to such international fixtures makes defenders “really more robust” compared to playing solely in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie or the domestic Under‑19 league.

PSV and Feyenoord follow the same path

Both PSV and Feyenoord have entered this season’s Youth League, mirroring AZ’s approach. Feyenoord’s Under‑19 side opened their campaign with a 1‑2 win over FC Barcelona at the Estadi Johan Cruyff, while PSV’s academy director Aloys Wijnker noted that even Jong PSV players ask to be included, saying “I am also available, may I play?”

Wijnker added that the competition offers a “special experience” for young players, exposing them to travel, hotel stays and UEFA officials – elements that simulate the senior European weeks. He stressed that the schedule, with matches on Wednesday followed by a Thursday flight and a Saturday league game, teaches youngsters how to recover quickly, a skill he likens to the demands of top‑level football.

Brandenburg echoed this sentiment, explaining that the Youth League teaches players to manage a full‑time timetable and the accompanying physical load. He said the programme “adds valuable international experience to the backpack of a player progressing to the first team”.

He also contrasted players who have grown up with the double‑programme against those who encounter it later, noting that early exposure gives the former a “real advantage” in handling muscle soreness and recovery.

Beyond the on‑field lessons, Wijnker highlighted the off‑field learning: sharing meals with opponents, swapping club souvenirs and observing the senior team’s match. He believes these moments help youngsters adopt professional behaviour early.

Former Feyenoord youth graduate Cheick Touré, now at Katwijk, recalled his 2017/2018 Youth League experience as “a completely different world”, with opponents playing at a faster tempo and higher physical level.