Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel
Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel
The JC Youth Football Academy Summit concluded triumphantly on August 18, with Manchester United's U16 Academy team completing a week of elite competition and community engagement that left lasting impressions on Hong Kong's young footballers.
Manchester United Academy U16 team and Hong Kong, China U16 Representative Team
Manchester United Academy U16 team and Hong Kong, China U16 Representative Team
The event's most poignant moment came when the visiting squad partnered with Hong Kong's U16 representatives and Red Devils legend Peter Schmeichel to conduct a special coaching clinic at Sha Tin Racecourse Sports Ground.
Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel helping primary school students brush up their football skills at the Sha Tin Racecourse Sports Ground
Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel helping primary school students brush up their football skills at the Sha Tin Racecourse Sports Ground
Over 100 underprivileged primary school students received world-class training and personal mentorship during the inspirational session.
Football took center stage at Mong Kok Stadium on August 17, where 4,500 enthusiastic fans watched Manchester United's emerging talents defeat Hong Kong's U16 selection 7-1 in an exhibition match.
While the scoreline reflected the visitors' dominance, the true value emerged through the cultural exchange and developmental opportunities created by the competition.
Members of the Manchester United Academy U16 team with young local players and Manchester United legend Phil Jones on a visit to the Hong Kong Palace Museum.
Members of the Manchester United Academy U16 team with young local players and Manchester United legend Phil Jones on a visit to the Hong Kong Palace Museum.
Beyond sporting activities, participants immersed themselves in local culture through visits to the Palace Museum and dragon boat experiences. The program also emphasized social responsibility through various community service initiatives.
The summit, running since 2017 under The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s partnership with Manchester United, continues setting the benchmark for youth football development in Asia.
With preparations already beginning for the 2026 edition, this year's event reaffirmed how elite football institutions can create meaningful impact far beyond their home stadiums.