WELCOME

The 2026 Virgil’s Legacy Trophy returns to Tilburg, elevating the standard with an updated and improved field of 16 world-class academies.

Joining our returning giants Liverpool FC, Paris Saint Germain and AC Milan, are global icons like FC Barcelona, Bayern München and Manchester United, all vying for glory on the very turf where Virgil’s professional journey began.

From the tactical battles at the academy to the grand finale in the Koning Willem II Stadium, the stage is set for a new generation to define their own legacy.

12th-13th September 2026.

A soccer player in a red uniform on the field during a match, with spectators in the stands in the background.
A soccer player in a red uniform on the field during a match, with spectators in the stands in the background.

THE CLASS OF ‘26:

  • The 2025 winners return to Tilburg to defend their throne. Representing the current home of our founder, the young Reds bring the "Anfield Mentality" and a championship pedigree that makes them the team to beat in 2026.

  • Making their highly anticipated debut, the world-renowned La Masia brings its legendary philosophy to Virgil’s Legacy Trophy. Expect technical perfection and the signature "Tiki-Taka" style from the Catalan giants as they look to conquer Tilburg at the first time of asking.

  • The "Theater of Dreams" arrives in the Netherlands. With a historic commitment to youth development, Manchester United brings a squad of dynamic, high-potential talent eager to add a prestigious international trophy to the storied cabinet at Old Trafford.

  • Representing the gold standard of German football, Bayern München joins the field with their trademark blend of tactical discipline and physical power. The Bavarians are here to prove that their academy is as dominant on the European stage as their senior squad.

  • The masters of the "clean sheet." The Bianconeri bring Italian tactical sophistication and defensive steel back to the tournament after a podium finish last year.Item description

  • Parisian flair meets elite athleticism. PSG returns to Tilburg with a star-studded U13 squad looking to improve on their 2025 showing with silverware.

  • The "Total Football" pioneers return. Ajax brings the prestige of De Toekomst to Tilburg, aiming to reclaim their status as the kings of Dutch youth development.

  • Bringing the fire and passion of Istanbul to the tournament, Galatasaray makes their debut as a true wildcard. Known for their grit and fearless attacking play, the "Lions" are ready to shake up the European hierarchy in their first Legacy Trophy appearance.

  • Creative, fluid, and always dangerous. The Gunners bring North London’s finest prospects back to the Legacy Trophy to challenge for the top spot.

  • Last year's finalists are back for revenge. The Rotterdam giants bring a "no-nonsense" work ethic and a squad hungry to turn their 2025 silver into 2026 gold.

  • Steeped in European history, the Rossoneri return to showcase the elegant, intelligent football that has defined their academy for decades.

  • Combining innovative scouting with tactical brilliance, PSV returns to Tilburg looking to prove they are the most exciting academy in the country.

  • The "Saints" are back to showcase the elite English academy system that prepared Virgil for the Premier League. With a reputation for producing world-class stars, Southampton arrives with a technically gifted U13 side ready to compete at the highest level.

  • The "Bhoys" return from Glasgow, representing the club where Virgil first tasted European glory and became a fan favorite. Celtic brings a unique brand of high-intensity, passionate football that honors the deep connection between the club and our founder.

  • The club that gave Virgil his professional debut returns to the tournament. Known as "The Pride of the North," FC Groningen brings a resilient, hardworking squad that embodies the same "never say die" attitude that launched their most famous alumnus to global stardom.

  • The hosts, the heartbeat of Tilburg, and the place where it all began. Willem II represents the foundation of Virgil’s career. Playing on home soil, the Tricolores carry the pride of the city and the spirit of the "Homecoming" every time they step onto the pitch.

RELIVE THE ‘25 TROPHY:

This video captures the elite standard we’ve set and the intensity we expect from every player walking onto these pitches.

TOURNAMENT AGENDA

  • After a long day of travel from across Europe, the 16 academies share a communal dinner to celebrate the brotherhood of football.

    The evening sparks to life with an intimate Opening Event and the official tournament kick-off. With the groups set, the teams retire for a final night of rest before the legacy begins.

  • Saturday is the heart of the tournament.

    Across the pitches of Sportpark Prinsenhoeve, 48 matches are played in a high-octane 11v11 format. This is where the tactical discipline of Bayern München meets the flair of Barcelona, and the grit of Manchester United tests the resilience of the Dutch giants.

    With four groups of four teams, every goal, every tackle, and every point matters. For scouts and fans, this is the ultimate showcase: a relentless day of talent where the future "Class of 2026" begins to separate the contenders from the rest.

  • Sunday begins with high-stakes knockout rounds at the academy to decide who earns the ultimate promotion. The final two teams then head to the Koning Willem II Stadium for an exclusive, professional-grade Grand Final experience. On the same grass where Virgil’s career launched, one squad will be crowned the 2026 champions.

WHERE WE PLAY

The tournament unfolds across two iconic locations, beginning Saturday at Sportpark Prinsenhoeve and SVG for the intense group-stage battles.

Sunday continues at the academy for the knockout rounds, before moving to the Koning Willem II Stadium for the Grand Final. It’s a journey that starts on the training pitch and finishes under the lights of the professional stage.

 

Frequently asked questions

  • It is a high-level youth tournament designed to give young players a taste of the professional life. It features 16 of the top academies from across Europe competing in an 11v11 format.

  • Liverpool FC U13 won the inaugural trophy in September 2025, defeating Feyenoord 2–1 in the final held at the Koning Willem II Stadion.

  • The 2026 edition is scheduled for September 12 and 13, 2026

  • The tournament takes place in Tilburg, Netherlands.

    • Group Stages: Sportpark Prinsenhoeve (Willem II Youth Academy).

    • Finals: Koning Willem II Stadion.

  • You cannot apply for this tournament. It is invitation only. Virgil van Dijk hand-selects 16 elite academies from across the globe to participate.

  • Yes, spectators are encouraged to attend.

    • Saturday/Sunday Morning: Tickets are required.

    • The Final: the final at the stadium is free to public.

  • One of the most common questions from fans and participating families is how much Virgil is actually in the Virgil’s Legacy Trophy. While he is an active professional player for Liverpool and the Netherlands, his involvement is significant and deeply personal.

  • While there is never a 100% guarantee due to the unpredictability of the Premier League and international breaks, Virgil often uses the Friday or Monday surrounding the tournament for "legacy activities" in Tilburg. If you are attending, keep an eye on the Willem II academy (Sportpark Prinsenhoeve), as that is where he spends his time when visiting.