Arsenal Football Camp coming to Croatian coast this summer

by croatiaweek
March 12, 2026
in Sport

(Photo: Falkensteiner Hotels & Residences)

English Premier League leaders Arsenal is bringing its youth development philosophy to the Croatian coast this summer.

Arsenal Football Club, the London club founded in 1886 and known for one of Europe’s most respected football academies, will host an exclusive Arsenal Football Camp at the luxurious Falkensteiner Punta Skala Resort.

The programme will take place near Zadar, offering young players the chance to train using the official methodology of Arsenal Football Development in a unique Adriatic setting that combines sport, sea and world-class facilities.

The camp is open to young footballers of all levels, from beginners starting their football journey to players with more developed skills.

Participants will train under certified Arsenal Football Development coaches, following the same principles used by the club’s academy in London.

(Photo: Falkensteiner Hotels & Residences)

The approach focuses on four key areas: Effective team players, efficient movement and technical ability, lifelong learning and a winning mentality.

The model is overseen by former German international Per Mertesacker, who leads Arsenal’s academy system.

Training sessions are designed to mirror those used at Arsenal’s renowned Hale End academy, giving participants a genuine insight into what it means to develop as a player within the club’s system.

(Photo: Falkensteiner Hotels & Residences)

Each participant will receive an official Arsenal Football Development kit on the first day. At the end of the camp, players will be awarded a certificate reflecting their development across the academy’s four pillars, along with daily and weekly Strong Young Gunner awards recognising effort, attitude and commitment.

Eleven Weeks of Camps in Croatia

According to organisers, the programme will run for 11 weeks during summer 2026, welcoming children from Croatia and around the world.

“We are extremely excited to continue expanding our programme in Croatia in 2026,” said Vjekoslav Roguljić, Director of Arsenal Football Development Croatia.

“This summer, in partnership with Falkensteiner, we will host eleven weeks of football camps. Through our Strong Young Gunner model we will welcome children from across the globe to this extraordinary resort. Every session will be inspired by Arsenal’s proven academy philosophy.”

(Photo: Falkensteiner Hotels & Residences)

He added that the aim is for every participant to leave with new skills, knowledge and lasting memories.

The location of the camp adds a unique dimension. The Punta Skala resort is already known as a hub for sports and active holidays, hosting football, tennis and swimming academies as well as international sporting events and training camps.

(Photo: Falkensteiner Hotels & Residences)

The resort features the five-star Hotel & Spa Iadera with a 6,000 m² Acquapura SPA centre, the family-oriented Family Hotel Diadora with Falky Land play areas, luxury villas and apartments, an outdoor sports centre with multiple courts, the Fortis Club fitness centre and bowling, gaming zones and water sports activities.