Adelaide United’s next generation will take on some of world football’s biggest names this August, with the Club’s Under 19 side set to compete in the prestigious Otten Innovation Cup in the Netherlands.
Hosted by PSV Eindhoven, the Otten Innovation Cup is one of Europe’s premier youth tournaments and has a proud history of showcasing emerging talent, with past participants including Memphis Depay, Wesley Sneijder, Georginio Wijnaldum, Dani Carvajal, Romelu Lukaku and Harry Kane.
Image: AS Monaco won the tournament in 2025
The Reds have been drawn in a blockbuster group alongside PSV Eindhoven, Manchester United and SE Palmeiras, giving Adelaide United’s young players a rare opportunity to test themselves against three of the world’s most respected academy programs.
Adelaide United will travel with a squad of 17 Under 19 players with the team to play five tournament matches, including three group-stage fixtures and two finals matches.
As part of the tour, the squad will also train at the PSV Academy before and after the tournament and play two additional friendly matches, providing valuable exposure to a professional European academy environment.
To help support the tour, Adelaide United is using the Australian Sports Foundation to raise funds set to assist in sending the players to the Netherlands.
Adelaide United Football Director, Mitch van Gellekom, said the opportunity was an important moment for the Club’s youth pathway.
“We are incredibly excited to be part of the Otten Innovation Cup, which is exactly the type of opportunity we want to create for our young players,” van Gellekom said.
“Having worked at PSV for many years, I know how highly regarded this tournament is. It is about much more than results – it is about exposing players to a higher level, different styles of football and experiences that can help shape their careers.
Image: PSV’s iconic and scenic PSV Campus De Herdgang
“What makes us most proud is that this squad is filled with talented South Australian players. Adelaide United has always believed in giving local players an opportunity and creating a pathway to the professional game.
“Credit must also go to Paul Vanis and his staff, who have created an environment where players are challenged every day to improve and prepare for opportunities like this.
“We are grateful to PSV for the invitation and look forward to representing Adelaide United, South Australia and Australian football on an international stage.”
The Otten Innovation Cup will be held from 14 to 16 August, with Adelaide United departing earlier in the month to prepare at PSV’s Academy facilities.
The public can contribute to Adelaide United’s Otten Innovation Cup fundraising campaign through the Australian Sports Foundation – CLICK HERE
