Dubai, UAE — August 29, 2026
Al Ittifaq Academy turned Ripe Market into a football festival on Friday, hosting a special meet and greet with Italian international and Al-Ettifaq striker Mario Balotelli alongside open trials for the UAE FA Youth League. The event drew a strong turnout of young players eager to showcase their skills and get a chance to meet one of the game’s most recognizable names.
A Star Turn at Ripe Market
Fans of all ages gathered as Balotelli made an appearance, taking photos, signing autographs, and interacting with aspiring players and their families. For many of the kids in attendance, it was a rare chance to stand alongside a player they’ve grown up watching — a moment of inspiration that organizers hope will fuel their footballing ambitions.
Trials for the Next Generation
Running alongside the meet and greet, Al Ittifaq Academy held open trials for the UAE FA Youth League, giving young talent across multiple age groups the opportunity to be scouted and selected for the academy’s competitive setup. Players took to the pitch to display their technical ability, game awareness, and competitive spirit in front of academy coaches and scouts.
The turnout reflected the growing appetite for structured youth football in the UAE, with players and parents alike showing up in numbers to be part of the day.
Competing Across the Age Groups
Al Ittifaq Academy currently fields teams across the UAE FA Youth League and National League structure, competing in categories from U9 to U15. The trials held at Ripe Market form part of the academy’s ongoing recruitment drive to build competitive squads across every age bracket, identifying promising talent early and giving them a pathway into structured, high-level youth football.
Looking Ahead
With the trials now complete, the academy’s coaching staff will review the standout performers as they finalize squads for the upcoming season. Events like this one — blending star power with genuine scouting opportunity — underline Al Ittifaq Academy’s commitment to growing the game at the grassroots level in the UAE.
Stay tuned to Al Ittifaq Academy’s news page for squad announcements and upcoming trial dates.
