Dubai’s GEMS Metropole School and GEMS Wellington Academy Al Khail visited Madrid recently on a once in a lifetime Football Development Tour.
During the tour the students visited Real Madrid’s Valdebebas complex, tested themselves against Spanish opposition in a series of international challenge matches and experienced the city’s culture.
GEMS students take in their surroundings in the world famous Santiago Bernabeu.
Speaking of the opportunity to practice on the same pitches as the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, Ahmed said: “The experience of training with Real Madrid is really great, they are teaching us a lot of stuff.”
“They are teaching us how to become professional football players and how important manners and respect are [in the game],” he continued.
Student Maoyad believes the side did well in the Spanish capital. “I think it was pretty tough but we managed to pull through. We scored some pretty good goals and I’m pleased to have assisted in those as well,” he said.
GEMS Wellington Academy’s Matt Stoutt was delighted with the week in Spain. He believes that the students benefited hugely from the tour, both on and off the pitch.
“This experience for the children has been unbelievably superb. It has provided them with an opportunity to explore a new city in addition to also playing against some fantastic local football teams here. The boys’ social interaction has improved and their behaviour on our tour has been absolutely first class.”
View their tour highlights video below:
