Youth Academy

Every three years the youth academies of all Bundesliga clubs are evaluated by the Deutsche Fußball Liga (DFL). In the most recent evaluation the 1. FC Köln youth academy was renewed with the highest possible score of 3 stars. Judged on 8 different categories pertaining to the complete development of youth players, 1. FC Köln was awarded the highest “excellent level” rating in all categories. FC also received a bonus star for its ability to promote players  from youth squads to the first-team, having brought up several players from the academy to the pros. In the current squad Timo Horn, Iso Jakobs, Thomas Kessler, Noah Katterbach and Jonas Hector were all former academy players.

The 8 evaluated categories:

• Strategy & Finance

• Organization & Method

• Football Training & Valuation

• Education & Support

• Staff & Personnel

• Communication & Cooperation

• Infrastructure & Equipment

• Effectiveness & Advancement Opportunities