Seacoast United Test Themselves Against English Academy Talent

February 2026 was one to remember for the Seacoast United MLS NEXT squad as they travelled to Manchester for an unforgettable soccer adventure. Over nine incredible days, the players experienced the passion and intensity of the English game firsthand. From training at elite academies to competing against strong opposition, visiting iconic stadiums, and exploring some of the UK’s most famous soccer cities, the trip offered a true taste of the game in England.

Training Like the Pros

One of the standout experiences of the tour was the opportunity to train with academy coaches in the world class facilities at Manchester City’s City Football Academy. With the group competing at MLS NEXT level in the United States, the training sessions were adapted to match their ability and playing level. This ensured players were challenged appropriately while also receiving valuable developmental feedback from the academy coaches throughout the sessions.

Both indoor and outdoor training pushed the group to sharpen their technical ability, giving the players a glimpse into the standards and environment of a top academy setup.

Seacoast United, soccer tour, uk, Manchester, February 2026.

“The group had a great experience. Between the Manchester City training sessions, the games against UK clubs, and attending the City match, it was a brilliant week for the boys.”

Meeting a Manchester City Legend

Adding to the experience, the squad had the unique opportunity to meet Manchester City legend Shaun Wright-Phillips during an exclusive meet and greet session. Players heard stories from his time at the club, asked questions, took photos, and collected autographs. It was a memorable moment and a rare opportunity to learn from someone who played at the very top level of the game in England and the US.

“The tour was a fantastic experience for all families and players. They loved Manchester as a city and the behind the scenes access at City and Liverpool.”

Testing Themselves Against UK Opposition

The tour also gave the squad the opportunity to compete against strong English opposition. As an MLS NEXT level program, inspiresport were able to arrange fixtures against academy level teams, giving the players a chance to test themselves in a truly competitive environment.

Matches against sides including Chester FC and Barnsley FC provided a real challenge, exposing the players to the physicality, intensity, and speed that defines English soccer.

These fixtures were a fantastic opportunity for the group to experience a different style of play and gain valuable experience competing internationally.

Experiencing the Premier League Atmosphere

Another unforgettable moment came when the team attended a Premier League match at the Etihad Stadium, watching Manchester City take on Newcastle United. The packed stadium and electric atmosphere gave the players a taste of soccer at the very highest level.

The group also enjoyed a behind the scenes stadium tour, walking through the dressing rooms, tunnel, and media areas and seeing what matchday looks like for Premier League players.

Exploring England’s Soccer Cities

Beyond the training ground and pitch, the team also had the opportunity to explore some of the UK’s most famous soccer cities.

A visit to Liverpool included time around the Royal Albert Dock before heading to Anfield for a full stadium tour. Walking through the iconic Kop, visiting the dressing rooms, and exploring the club museum helped connect the players with the incredible history of Liverpool FC.

Memories That Will Last a Lifetime

From intense training sessions to unforgettable stadium moments, the tour created memories and lessons that will stay with the players long after returning home.

The Inspiresport Experience

Seacoast United’s UK tour delivered an unforgettable mix of elite training, competitive fixtures, and cultural experiences, including: