“A tournament that unites Europe!” Coaches' statements after the first day of the 38th Adam Grabka Tournament

The 38th Adam Grabka Tournament isn't just about competing for victory. It's also a space where young footballers can dream, experience, and grow. The voices of coaches and specialists from across Europe demonstrate the immense importance of such initiatives for the athletic and personal development of young players .

Christian Morsing – Brøndby IF – Youth Recruitment Manager: “Football is, above all, entertainment”

The Danish club Brøndby is a regular participant in international tournaments
youth competitions, but – as Christian Morsing admitted – the tournament in Poland did a huge impression on him.

"This is not our first tournament, we often take part in such events. However, I must admit that its organization itself made a big impression on me. In terms of logistics, everything is perfect. I don't know if I've ever encountered anything like this before. The scale of the tournament is also extraordinary, these are not local or national competitions, but European ones. Every young kid dreams of the opportunity to play in such a cup," he said.

When asked about the importance of such events for young players, he emphasized the role experience and enjoyment of the game:
"Our mantra has always been: 'Football should be, above all, entertainment.'" Looking at the faces of our players and after talking to them, I think that today I succeeded. Personally, I believe that nothing teaches you more than experience. The opportunity playing against teams from all over Europe will give them much more than just another regular match training"

Finally, he added with a smile:
"We are grateful to be here. And thank you for organizing this tournament. The kids won't forget this weekend for a long time. I hope they learned the lessons they learned. are learning here today, they will not forget quickly either"

Oscar – Žalgiris Kaunas – Head Coach: “A new experience that changed us”

Oscar, the coach of Lithuanian Žalgiris Kaunas, did not hide his delight after the first day tournament. For his team, it was a unique opportunity to learn and confront their capabilities with rivals from other countries.

"It was amazing! First of all, it was a very important experience for us. A unique tournament that will allow my players to learn the "game." It is also a great opportunity for me as a coach to develop my skills and continue your studies," he said.

When asked how such events might affect his players, Oscar he replied:
"It's an extraordinary experience that allows them to develop in ways that are our club would be unattainable under normal circumstances. I think my The players were very shocked by what they saw – from the organization to the stadium. It might have been a bit overwhelming for them, but after a while they realized that this was their moment and they can enjoy it"

He also added that such tournaments shape the maturity of players:
"The player not only develops, but also "grows up". I believe that today He taught us all a lot. When we get back to our league, we'll show others a little "European football"

Finally, he admitted:
"It was the first tournament of this kind in my life and probably in the lives of my players. We spent one day here and I learned more from others than I could have imagined. expect. Organizing such events develops not only the players and coaches, but also the sport itself. I hope we'll return here in the future."

Kimmo Tamminen – Espanyol Academy Helsinki – Team Leader: “Not only football, but also friendships”

The Espanyol Academy team from Helsinki is the next participant of the 38th Espanyol Tournament. Adam Grabka. Kimmo Tamminen, the team leader, pointed out in a conversation with us attention to the high level of organization and the positive impact on the development of its charges.

"When it comes to player development, tournaments like these, especially those planned in such a way like this one, are great. Our players had a precise daily schedule – they knew when have a break, warm-up, or time for themselves. This tournament presented our young footballers an insight into adult football," he explained.

He also stressed the importance of competing with big clubs:
"It's an honor to even take part in such a tournament. The opportunity to test your skills skills against teams like AS Roma or Wisła Kraków are not only A challenge, but also a pleasure. We thank the organizers for the invitation."

When asked about the integration aspect, Kimmo had no doubts:
"For me, this is the most important part of such events. The boys spend time not only about playing, but also having fun. It builds team spirit. Usually We train three times a week – and that's the time for hard work. Now they spend together for over 48 hours – just in each other's company. Such closeness off the pitch This then translates into fight and commitment during matches," he concluded.