Jaden Mansour impressed scouts at our West London event held at Queens Park Rangers training ground back in October 2019 and was scouted by a record NINE clubs!

Talking to Jaden’s father Gavin, we asked for more details on his football history. He told us: “Jaden moved over to the UK this year from South Africa.” 

“Back in South Africa he played for Super Sport United Academy and Sporting Portugal Academy.”

“He currently plays for grassroots club Camberley Town Rebels at under 12’s level in the Surrey Youth League.”

Whilst at our event, Jaden caught the eye of scouts from Arsenal, Crystal Palace, Watford, QPR, Fulham, Luton, Portsmouth, Birmingham and AFC Wimbledon!

From this, Jaden trialled with QPR’s development centre and featured in talent ID games for Crystal Palace and was offered an eight-week trial off the back of them.

Jaden continued to impress during his eight-week trial and Crystal Palace chose to sign the youngster!

Speaking with Jaden, we discussed a few things including why he attended our event and what life is like at a Premier League club.

He told us in regards to our trial: “I chose to attend as I had heard great reviews from other people and on social media. It really did live up to expectations as there were so many scouts at the event and I was scouted by nine different clubs!”

Moving onto his trial with Crystal Palace, we asked Jaden how he felt in the build up. He explained: “I was very, very excited and could not wait for my initial trial game.”

He continued regarding the news that the club wanted to sign him: “I could not believe that I was going to get signed by a Premier League side. I when I actually put pen to paper it was a great feeling and an amazing experience.”

Interested what life is like at a Premier League academy, we asked Jaden to talk us through his training and what the facilities are like? He told us: “It is a very tough and challenging training routine but very rewarding.” 

“There is a lot of pressure to perform at a very high level all the time, all the players are great footballers and we challenge each other.”

“Palace are also in the process of upgrading the academy ground. The facilities are best in class and it’s a pleasure to play on the grass pitches.” He added.

We asked Jaden what players inspired him to play football and what advice he had for others like himself. He said: “Cristiano Ronaldo is my idol. I enjoy his style of play and his commitment to the game.”

He continued: “My advice to other players would be to be yourself and show the individual strengths you can bring to an academy. Always believe you are good enough and never give up.”

Everyone at UK Football Trials would like to wish Jaden the best of luck with Crystal Palace. We are delighted that he continued to display his talent and secure a place in the clubs academy.