Palace Academy welcomes new intake of 13 scholars
Crystal Palace Academy are delighted to announce that 13 promising young talents have joined the club's Under-18s squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.
01 / 13
Crystal Palace Academy are delighted to announce that 13 promising young talents have joined the club's Under-18s squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The new scholars were joined by their friends, families and loved ones at Copers Cope as they celebrated signing their two-year scholarship agreements, taking the next step on their pathway into full-time football.
History-making Under-18s Head Coach Javier Alonso will continue to lead the group into the new campaign alongside assistant coach Svetoslav Todorov after guiding Palace to the Academy's first-ever U18 Premier League Cup triumph last season.
Signing a scholarship is a significant milestone for any young player, recognising years of commitment, dedication and development. Following their 17th birthday, scholars become eligible to sign their first professional contracts as they continue their pathway towards senior football.
Several members of the new intake have already made their U18 debuts after progressing through the Academy's Foundation and Youth Development Phases, while Northern Ireland youth international Alfie Mulvenna joins Palace from Larne as a first-year scholar.
The club would like to congratulate and welcome:
Academy Director Gary Issott said: "Earning a scholarship is a reward for years of hard work, commitment and sacrifice, not only from the players themselves but also from their families, who have supported them every step of the way. Every one of these young men should be extremely proud of reaching this stage.
"It's also a responsibility. The standards and demands only increase from here, but they have shown they possess the character and dedication to embrace that challenge.
"We're excited to see how this group continues to develop over the next two years and look forward to supporting them on every step of their journey."
