Elis Kozhani – 14 Years Old – Trial for Fulham FC 

At just 14 years old, Elis Kozhani has already experienced both the highs and challenges of pursuing a football career, showing resilience and determination every step of the way. Now, having been scouted by Fulham FC at a UK Football Trials event, he is preparing for a four-week academy trial that could mark the next big chapter in his journey. 

Elis’s footballing story began when he was 10 years old, playing for EFA. From the start, his natural attacking instincts and ability to find the net made him stand out. His progress soon caught the attention of professional clubs, and he was scouted by Southampton FC, where he attended their London assessment centre for a full year. This early experience gave him a taste of academy-level football and introduced him to the intensity and demands expected at professional clubs. 

He continued to test himself by joining the West Ham Foundation Performance Academy, where he further developed his skills. His performances there even earned him an eight-week trial at West Ham’s academy. Although that opportunity didn’t lead to a permanent move, Elis came away stronger, viewing it as an invaluable experience that improved his game and gave him fresh motivation. 

The turning point came at UK Football Trials. For Elis, this was an important opportunity because, as he explained, “we didn’t have any scouts coming to my grassroots team, so this was a great alternative to showcase my talent.” 

That decision paid off. Fulham scouts noticed him on the day, impressed by his ability and composure under pressure. “It was a very exciting time,” Elis recalled. “We were very happy that the scout noticed my talent and chose me out of all those boys that attended the UK trials that day. Then the club contacted us and gave us all the info needed including a start date for the trial.” 

Elis is now preparing to begin his trial at Fulham FC on 28th August 2025, where he will spend four weeks training, learning, and testing himself in a professional academy environment. “Looking forward to the trial, I will learn a lot from the coaches but also from the academy players,” he said. 

His journey to UK Football Trials came about thanks to his mum, who had been determined to help him find opportunities. “My mum googled football trials in England and UK Trials came up, and we thought it worth giving it a shot — and it worked,” Elis shared. 

When asked if he would recommend UK Football Trials to other aspiring players, Elis didn’t hesitate. “Yes, I have recommended it and will continue to any player that I see wants to make it in football, because if you have the talent I am proof that you do get scouted.” 

For now, the focus is on the upcoming Fulham trial, and Elis remains determined to give his all. “We will see what the outcome will be after my four weeks trial,” he said. 

From grassroots football to academy trials with Premier League clubs, Elis Kozhani’s story is proof of the opportunities available when talent meets determination — and with Fulham now watching closely, his next steps could be the most exciting yet.