WOMEN'S YOUTH TEAMS: GROWING THROUGH COMPETITION

A new challenge and an important step forward in the development of the young Rossonere. The 2026/27 season brings a significant change for AC Milan's Women's Youth Sector, with the Under-17 and Under-15 teams competing in the boys' Under-14 PRO and Under-13 PRO championships, respectively, facing the youth teams of professional clubs. While last season the two teams competed against boys' sides at the provincial and amateur levels, in the Under-15 and Under-14 categories respectively, the challenge has now taken on a new dimension. This innovative decision makes AC Milan the first club in Italy to pursue this approach. In the second half of the season, the Rossonere will return to their respective age-group women's competitions.

The project is driven by a clear vision, as explained by Elisabet Spina, Head of Women's Football: "We're looking to drive a cultural shift that will raise the level of competition in women's football." The decision comes from the brilliant results achieved last season against amateur teams, which pushed the Club to reach for a higher level. From there came the decision to face professional teams, lowering the age of the opposition by a year. Facing opponents who play at different speeds and bring different physical attributes gives the players an opportunity to test their abilities, develop their adaptability, and navigate unfamiliar situations on the pitch. "AC Milan is a professional club, and we want to provide everyone with the same opportunities," Spina emphasizes. This approach presents new challenges for the young Rossonere and helps them take the next steps in their development.

Arianna Raso, the 16-year-old Under-17 captain, offers a firsthand perspective on the experience. "The biggest difference when playing against boys is the intensity, both physically and technically," she explains. The faster pace and constant pressure demand quicker thinking and reactions. These challenges are an important part of the players' development, from competing in physical battles and maintaining a high level of intensity to staying composed under pressure. As Arianna points out, competition and mutual respect go hand in hand: "At the end of the day, we're all footballers who want to compete and get better."

The project is also focused on the future, with the aim of creating more opportunities for young female footballers. Competing in boys' leagues marks an important first step, with the potential to build on this approach in the years ahead. As Spina explains, mixed training sessions could be another avenue worth exploring at the grassroots level. While still a possibility rather than a concrete plan, it reflects the Club's commitment to investing in its Women's Youth Sector and supporting the development of young players.

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