To this day, Thierry Henry is remembered as one of the greatest soccer players in the world. However, beyond achieving glory during his playing career, INF Clairefontaine Academy played an important role in bringing him to this moment. The France legend has spoken about the tough life in his academy days, which has also produced another world-class player like Kylian Mbappe.

Thierry Henry’s struggle shows how the road towards becoming a professional soccer is difficult. Let us dive deep into the details as the Arsenal legend reveals his life in the Clairefontaine Academy in detail.

Thierry Henry speaks on the struggle behind his tough life at INF Clairefontaine

It is said in France that if you get through INF Clairefontaine, you will certainly make a mark in your soccer career. But to be successful in the elite academy is very tough. Speaking about his experience, Thierry Henry said, “It is a preschool pre-formation, you have to pass for one weekend you come they take the best 20 then they do the same in around not far from Paris. Then the weekend after that you have the 20 from that place 20. From that place only from Paris, you bring it down to 40. You bring that to 20. And eventually, obviously, the 20 goes to that school of Clairefontaine to teach you how to play football. You go to school from, by the way, eight to three after that you play football.” 

The Arsenal legend further explained that only 2% of the players that have gone there have made it big. Hence, he added that being part of that small section of people is very difficult. Thierry Henry also made the point that after getting admission he could not have a normal young life like others. In the end, he wrapped up the topic by saying that now he looks back at his time, he did not have the time to be a child.

Players like Chelsea legend Nicolas Anelka, Louis Saha are also students from this elite academy. Current Manchester United star midfielder Hannibal Mejri is also one of the graduates.

Read More:- Thierry Henry Picks France Legend Over Lionel Messi as the ‘Best Finisher’ He Every Played Alongside

The rules that are followed by all in the prestigious academy

The students who get admission to the academy are provided state of art technology. They also have to give three tests regularly which include psychological, medical, and physical. Coaches also have a different role. They have to constantly help the students improve. But they are not allowed to shout or get angry. This is done to provide a comfortable environment for the player.

All the age groups train in 4-3-3 formation. This is because the management believes that this formation is the most fluid and will give everybody more space to show their skills.

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