Raised in the EFL will shine a light on the next generation of footballing talent from 11-25 September, as the EFL and its Clubs celebrate the work taking place across the League to develop the next generation.

The EFL is a powerhouse of Youth Development, producing top-tier footballers for Club and country and providing opportunities for players throughout their footballing journey.

A competitive games programme, with fixtures from Under-9 to Under-21 level, gives young players essential experience at every stage of their development.

Every EFL Club contributes to that journey, whether by developing players through its own Academy, providing senior playing opportunities to young professionals on loan, or supporting emerging talent within the First Team environment.

Alongside opportunities on the pitch, the League’s all-round approach to player development ensures young footballers have access to the tools, education, wellbeing support and elite coaching environment required to reach their full potential.

Throughout Raised in the EFL, stories from across the League will highlight the commitment to youth development, from Academy pathways and loan success stories to the staff who help young players progress.

The campaign will showcase homegrown talent, young professionals and the people supporting them on their journey.

Follow #RaisedInTheEFL from 11-25 September.

2025/26 standout stats

290 players made their First Team EFL debut in the 2025/26 season.
174 EFL Academy players made their professional debuts in the Carabao Cup and EFL Trophy.
23% of total appearances in the Sky Bet EFL last season were made by U21 players.
57% of players who completed their apprenticeships at EFL Academies received either a professional contractor extended scholarship at the end of the 2024/25 season.
2,000 young players from across 60 Club Academies took part in the EFL’s national Futsal Tournaments during the 2025/26 season

EFL celebrates Raised in the EFL

EFL celebrates Raised in the EFL