Leicester:Chonburi FC Chonburi FC, the champions of the Chang Junior Cup 2026, were awarded a unique opportunity by "Chang Natural Mineral Water" to experience a week of professional football training in England. This initiative, part of the "Chang Standing by Thai Football" mission, took the young players to the Seagrave Training Centre, Leicester City's football academy, where they engaged in intensive training and played a friendly match against the Leicester City Under-14 team.
According to Thai News Agency, the trip was designed to provide the young athletes with invaluable experiences that money cannot buy, including learning football development methods from English youth coaches. The players also had the chance to witness an English Premier League match and gain insights into the preparation and nutrition of professional footballers.
Chonburi FC's young players not only trained at one of England's most modern football centers but also emerged victorious in their friendly match, winning 4-2 against Leicester City's Under-14 team. The visit included a tour of King Power Stadium, interactions with promising young players like Sammy Braybrook and Will Alves, and attending a match between Leicester City and Oxford United.
Beyond Leicester, the team visited Anfield Stadium and Everton's new Hill Dickinson Stadium, and watched a Premier League match between Everton and Manchester United. These experiences were designed to inspire the young players and help them develop their skills further.
Patrick Horattanachai, Director of External Affairs at Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, expressed pride in supporting Thai youth football development through initiatives like the Chang Junior Cup. He emphasized the importance of such experiences for young athletes at a crucial stage in their development.
Several award-winning players shared their gratitude for the opportunity and the valuable lessons learned during their time in England, which they hope to apply in their future endeavors in football.
For over 30 years, Chang Natural Mineral Water has been committed to developing Thai football by providing platforms for young players to grow and learn from international experiences, reinforcing its mission to support and nurture Thai football continuously.