Acala Falconer – 15 Years Old – Scouted by Oxford, Brentford, Slough Town & Hull City 

At 15 years old, Acala Falconer has already shown the level of determination, athleticism, and mindset needed to progress in elite football. A committed full-back capable of playing both right-back and left-back, Acala’s football journey reflects resilience, ambition, and a deep belief in continual growth. His success at UK Football Trials has now opened the door to several professional opportunities with Oxford United, Brentford, Slough Town, and Hull City. 

Acala’s foundation in football has been built through years of disciplined training and competing at a high level. Before attending UK Football Trials, he spent 10 months within the Southampton FC Shadow Academy, where his development earned him a trial at Southampton FC itself — a significant achievement for any young player. After this, he moved on to Wimbledon FC, initially for a two-week assessment, which then progressed into a full trial. 

Alongside his academy experience, Acala has also shown strong progression at other recognised development centres. He was awarded Manager’s Player of the Season at Watford Advanced Development, winning the award out of 64 players — a clear indicator of how consistently he impressed the coaching staff. 

His athletic talents extend beyond football. Acala has been a standout performer in athletics, becoming a county champion in the 300m, and representing Middlesex in the 200m after qualifying through school competitions. His pace, endurance, and mobility on the pitch are undoubtedly boosted by this background, giving him the physical edge modern full-backs need. 

Despite earlier setbacks, Acala remains focused and positive. He describes himself as someone who continues “pushing, training, and working hard,” with the ambition to “find a footballing home where I can grow, develop, and be the best version of myself.” 

UK Football Trials became an important step towards that goal. Acala attended the summer 2025 event and instantly made an impression. Multiple scouts approached him, recognising his intelligence, athleticism, and potential to develop within a professional environment. 

“I was contacted by the scouts who have arranged for next steps,” he said. “They want to see me play a full match, and I’m also awaiting final confirmation on a trial.” Although progress has been slightly delayed due to illness among staff at one of the clubs, Acala remains composed: “I’m patient, as I know nothing for me will pass me. I continue working hard in the background.” 

When reflecting on what he learned from the experience, Acala said one of the biggest lessons was mental resilience. “How to hold your nerve,” he explained. Playing in an unfamiliar environment, under pressure, and in front of scouts “is a good way to practice playing in an unfamiliar context, where you have to play the game — not the occasion.” 

His highlight of the day came from a moment that captured both his athletic quality and attacking ability from full-back: “When I made a really good run down the wing and finished with a brilliant cross — and I could hear the reaction of the people in the stands.” Moments like this showed exactly why so many clubs took interest. 

When asked why he chose to attend UK Football Trials, Acala said: “My heart is in playing football. I would really love the opportunity to develop in an academy, under a scholarship — where I get to train and develop alongside my education. It’s my goal to be a footballing athlete and I want a chance to be visible.” 

He recommends UK Football Trials without hesitation: “Try it if you are serious, you never know unless you try.” 

Acala is now awaiting formal trial dates, with progress ongoing behind the scenes. With strong interest from several clubs and the determination to keep improving, he is firmly on the right path to earning his next football opportunity.