A young Brentford team have flown to Spain to take on some of the biggest teams in world football in a prestigious tournament.
An Under-11 side from Brentford’s Academy are taking part in the 15th edition of the Mediterranean International Cup.
They left the UK on Tuesday, March 31, and will be in Spain over the Easter weekend.
The tournament sees teams from some of the best-known clubs in the world take part in a feast of football.
Among the 35 other teams The Bees will put themselves against at Under-11 level are Manchester City, Liverpool, RCD Espanyol, Valencia CF and Anji FC.
Sides from Spain, Japan, Colombia, Norway, Israel and the United Arab Emirates are also taking part in the seven-a-side tournament while in other age groups Barcelona, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Ajax and Inter Milan are involved.
Brentford have been drawn in a group with CE Sant Gabriel, EF Sant Feliu and PSTC Londrina and will play those three teams today before the best sides go forward to knock-out rounds over the weekend.
Ose Aibangee, Brentford FC Academy Director, said: “This is another great experience for our young players.
“Some of the best players in the world – Lionel Messi, Neymar, Juan Mata and Oscar – have played in this tournament in the past and there will be future stars on show.
“Our players will have the chance to go up against them and show what they can do.
“It is another way of spreading the name of Brentford FC and to be involved in this tournament gives an indication of the progress being made.
“I am sure it will be a great event for players and staff and all will learn a lot from it.”