The World Squad Reflects FC Bayern’s Commitment to Develop Global Talent and Provide them a Real Opportunity
FC Bayern World Squad players have gone on to sign professional contracts with Clubs like FC Bayern, OGC Nice and Viktoria Plzeň.
The FC Bayern World Squad has embarked on its fourth edition with a new partner, Audi, and an exciting addition: a live documentary capturing the journey of young talents from around the world. This year, the coaching team consists of former Bayern legends Roy Makaay and Diego Contento, who will guide these aspiring footballers towards their professional dreams. The project also emphasizes cultural exchange, aiming to convey the values of diversity, tolerance, and open-mindedness that FC Bayern holds dear.
The selection process is rigorous yet inclusive, casting its net wide to identify promising U19 players born in 2006 or 2007. It’s not just about skill; it’s about character, determination, and the hunger for success. Each year, a new cohort of young athletes are chosen to embark on a journey that could change their lives forever.
The FC Bayern World Squad has already seen several of its alumni make significant strides in professional football. Four notable players have successfully transitioned to professional clubs: Daniel Francis, signed by Bayern and currently on loan at Wacker Innsbruck; Viktor Orakpo, now with OGC Nice; Viktor Baier, playing for Viktoria Plzeň; and Siam Yapp, competing at Buriram United in Thailand. These successes demonstrate the project’s impact and the potential for current squad members to follow in their footsteps.
The Class of 2024 arrived in Munich on the last Wednesday of June 2024 and was warmly welcomed at Säbener Straße. The excitement was palpable as the young players, hailing from 14 different nations, prepared to embark on a journey that could potentially change their lives. The squad completed their first training session under the guidance of head coach Roy Makaay and assistant coach Diego Contento the following day.
FC Bayern World Squad 2024
Goalkeepers: #1 Luis Patricio Gomez (Mexico) #21 Kristian Řezanina (Czechia) #22 Artur Vydarený (Slovakia)
Defenders: #13 Aato Akanuma (Japan) #19 Tate Asante (Canada) #18 Jisung Hwang (Korea) #2 Ignacio Isla (Argentina) #24 Dawid Kalbarczyk (Poland) #3 Jeremiah Olaleke (Nigeria) #15 Nicholas Ontiveros (USA) #4 Ifeanyi Ugah (Nigeria)
Midfielders: #27 Giovanni de Abreu (Australia) #25 Maycon Douglas Cardozo (Brazil) #16 Sebastian Dabrowski (Poland) #6 David Emmanuel (Nigeria) #17 Sanjay Gerry (USA) #10 Minwoo Kim (Korea) #20 Gyeong-Bin Mo (Korea) #5 Gustavo Telles (Brazil) #8 Arwyn Walby (Wales)
Strikers: #7 Aphiwe Buthelezi (South Africa) #11 Luis Ibarra (Mexico) #9 James Lackay (Australia)
The TST Tournament in North Carolina
The World Squad’s adventure kicked off with participation in The Soccer Tournament (TST) in North Carolina. Despite narrow losses in overtime against Dueling for Lincoln and Borussia Dortmund, the players gained invaluable experience. Head coach Makaay emphasized the learning opportunities these matches provided, even though the team did not advance past the group stage.
A highlight of the TST tournament was a special encounter with football legend Sergio Aguero. The young talents were thrilled to meet the star, which added a memorable personal touch to their professional development journey. Off the pitch, they engaged with fans, signed autographs, and shared unforgettable moments with children who rarely get to see FC Bayern up close.
What are some differences between the FC Bayern World Squad and the FC Bayern Global Academy?
- FC Bayern World Squad: The World Squad experience typically spans several sessions during a season, during which selected players undergo intensive training, participate in friendly matches, and ultimately compete against Bayern’s U19 team. The focus is on providing a concentrated burst of development and exposure, with an emphasis on immediate results and performance.
- FC Bayern Global Academy: In contrast, the Global Academy offers a more sustained and structured development pathway, spanning an entire season. Players admitted into the academy undergo 6 days of training a week at the FC Bayern Campus, education, and mentorship under the guidance of FC Bayern’s coaches and staff. They also take on local, regional and Bundesliga level teams every week as a part of their development. The program is designed to cultivate not only footballing skills but also holistic personal and academic development, with a long-term view towards professional success.
Matches Against Inter Miami and D.C. United
After the TST tournament, the team traveled to Miami to face Inter Miami. However, the match had to be rescheduled due to a severe thunderstorm and was ultimately abandoned after 65 minutes with the score tied at 0-0. Despite the weather challenges, Makaay was pleased with his team’s performance and composure.
The squad then moved on to Washington for their match against D.C. United, where they secured a well-deserved win. The victory was especially impressive given the physical demands of playing consecutive days. Makaay praised the team for their solid performance and resilience.
FC Bayern Global Academy player, Sebastian Dabrowski, who was invited to join the FC Bayern World Squad says, “One of my best memories with the FC Bayern World Squad was celebrating our exciting win against DC United. After the match, we had a great quality time with the team in Washington, DC, and visited many cool places. It was an unforgettable experience, full of excitement, and team bonding.”
Exploring New York
The team’s journey continued to New York, where they trained in Central Park and played a match on the Bundesliga Common Ground Court. They also visited FC Bayern’s international office in the Rockefeller Center. The players enjoyed the chance to train in such an iconic location and immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant culture.
Back in Germany: Intense Training and Matches
Returning to Germany, the World Squad players trained in ideal weather conditions. Nigerian defender Jeremiah Olaleke finally joined the team after resolving visa issues. The squad visited the Audi Forum in Ingolstadt, providing them with a glimpse into the world of their new partner.
In a friendly against the Tyrol U18 XI in Innsbruck, the World Squad came from behind to win 3-2, showing their progress and adaptability. Roy Makaay expressed satisfaction with the team’s development, highlighting their improved performance in the second half.
As the crucial match against FC Bayern’s U19s approached, the players focused intensely on their training. They also attended a lecture on mental health and performance pressure in youth football, equipping them with tools to handle the psychological demands of their budding careers.
The Ultimate Challenge
The climax of the World Squad’s journey was the match against the FC Bayern U19 team. Played on June 29 at the Sportpark in Unterhaching, this game represented the culmination of weeks of hard work and dedication. Fans had the opportunity to watch the match live and witness the young talents in action. The World Squad put on a commendable performance but fell short of a victory.
Before concluding their journey, the players engaged in a creative activity with American artist Brian Alfred, painting a wall in the FC Bayern youth club. This artistic endeavor added a unique and personal touch to their experience, symbolizing the blend of sports and culture that the World Squad represents.
The FC Bayern World Squad 2024 concluded its adventure with players, coaches, and support staff looking back on an extraordinary journey. From the challenges and triumphs on the pitch to the cultural exchanges and personal growth off the field, the Class of ’24 experienced moments that will shape their futures. Some players secured their place in the Class of ’25, while others might even hope for a contract with FC Bayern.
Sanjay Gerry, another FC Bayern World Squad player from the FC Bayern Global Academy who was scouted in the USA in collaboration with International Soccer Academy said, “This was an amazing experience, unlike anything I have ever done before. It is life-changing. I am so proud to wear the logo and be a part of this amazing and historic Bundesliga club.”
