Football fever has hit Cape Town! The Real Madrid Foundation, in partnership with Generation Schools, has launched its world-famous football academy in Imhoff.
This marks a major milestone for South African football, giving young players the chance to train like champions.
THE REAL MADRID FOUNDATION ACADEMY
The academy, set to open in 2025, will offer top-tier coaching, blending football with academic and personal growth, according to SA Good News.
It will host three elite teams in the Local Football Association (LFA) season, alongside development squads for players at different levels.
A second academy is also planned for Modderfontein, Johannesburg, by mid-2025. Jevron Epstein, CEO of Generation Schools, believes this partnership is a game-changer.
“We are thrilled to bring the Real Madrid Foundation to our Imhoff campus.
SPORT AND EDUCATION
This is more than just football. It’s about creating opportunities for young athletes to excel in sport and education,” he said.
The academy will be led by Alberto Giménez, a UEFA Pro-licensed coach with over 20 years of experience. His goal? To develop South African talent to compete at an international level.
Richard Mcenery, Sporting Director at the Rising Stars Centre of Excellence, emphasised the academy’s broader vision, according to Entertainments SA.
“This is about more than football. It’s about teaching teamwork, leadership, and discipline – values that Real Madrid stands for,” he said.
THE IMPACT OF THE REAL MADRID FOUNDATION ACADEMY
Football legend Roberto Carlos attended the launch and spoke about the impact of the academy, according to ENCA.
“We are delighted to bring Real Madrid’s training philosophy to South Africa.
This is not just about creating great players, but also great individuals. Football is a powerful tool for education and social change,” he said.
With South Africa’s rich football culture, this academy offers a golden opportunity. It provides local players access to world-class training without leaving home.
ENROLMENTS
Enrolments for the 2025 academic year will open soon. Parents and young footballers keen to join can visit www.realmadridfoundation.co.za for details.
This launch also received international recognition, appearing on Real Madrid’s official platforms. The club sees South Africa as an important part of its global vision.
From Imhoff to Modderfontein and beyond, the future of South African football looks bright.
WHAT ROLE DO YOU THINK EDUCATION PLAYS IN THE SUCCESS OF A YOUNG ATHLETE?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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