THE UNDER 18, BETWEEN TALENT AND AMBITION

The Under 18 category, the beating heart of the AC Monza Youth Academy, represents a true bridge between all the different teams in the biancorosso academy and the Under 20 squad. Here, players consolidate the technical and tactical foundations acquired in previous years, while also refining their mindset, personality and ability to manage different match situations.

At a crucial stage in their sporting and personal development, these young footballers face each day as part of a journey focused on continuous improvement, with the goal of being ready to make the leap into senior football.

The work on the pitch fully reflects the Club’s methodology: a pursuit of game control, intensity in both phases and attention to the development of the individual in order to improve the collective. A clear identity that accompanies players throughout their journey, fostering harmonious growth of individual qualities within the group.

The Club places particular emphasis on the all-round development of its players: the staff, led by head coach Davide Brivio, supports each individual daily not only from a sporting perspective, but also on a human and personal level, through an integrated approach aimed at shaping both footballers and responsible, self-aware individuals.

“The season is progressing with steady growth, especially from a developmental standpoint. Every day we see a more mature attitude in both training and matches, as well as greater awareness from each player in their decision-making on the pitch and in managing different game situations. The players we train are always ready to step up, they give everything from day one and face every challenge with commitment and willingness”, said the coach.

“Considering that at the start of the season the squad was almost entirely new, we decided to focus our work on each individual player, starting from what we consider the most important aspect: the mental one. Only later did we focus on developing other areas, from technical and tactical improvement to recognizing different game situations, along with physical development. We always aim to create a stimulating environment where each young player can continuously improve and feel part of the project. The shared work with the entire staff and the Club’s support allow us to carry forward an educational and sporting path that goes beyond just results”, Brivio explained.

Throughout the season, the Under 18 side has shown significant progress, confirming the quality of the work carried out, the strength of the technical project and the team spirit that defines the group.

“At certain moments the performances have been inconsistent, but the overall improvement in our play compared to the beginning of the season is a strong sign that our daily work is paying off. In particular, our players now have much more confidence in their abilities, show greater intensity and focus in training, and have grown in their capacity to work as a team. Our main focus is on developing the players both individually and collectively and we are very satisfied with what they are doing”, the coach commented.

“Our football philosophy is based on the desire to always dictate the game, regardless of the opponent. To achieve this, we work a lot on aggression and ball possession, but also on verticality and speed of execution. Our way of playing is tailored to the characteristics of the players in the squad, in order to bring out the best in each individual”, Brivio concluded.

Tommaso Cassina, captain of the Under 18, added: “I’ve been part of this Club for eight years. Wearing the Monza colors is an honor, but also a great responsibility, which is why I always feel I must give everything for this shirt. Despite a difficult start, the team has grown a lot over the course of the season, we’re doing well now and the results are showing. Over time, we’ve become a real family”.

“I joined the Club only this year and I’m truly grateful for this wonderful opportunity. The beginning was challenging, many new players arrived, including myself. But with patience and hard work, we found our rhythm and managed to challenge every team we faced, delivering some outstanding performances. We take it one game at a time, aiming to reach as high as possible in the standings while always giving our best”, added Giacomo Carobbio, one of the new faces in the squad.

The Under 18 team continues its journey with enthusiasm and ambition: a united, determined group focused on achieving new goals.

CLICK HERE to discover the full weekend schedule of the AC Monza's Youth Academy.