The Frenchman began his maiden year in charge at the complex near Novigrad 12 months ago, enjoying a successful tour which preceded an excellent season in which the EDS went deep in four competitions at home and abroad.
City u21s head for the west coast of Croatia on Sunday 13 July, and will once again be joined by the club’s first and second year scholars for a ten day summer training camp.
Vieira told mcfc.co.uk: “We are returning to the same place because the facilities we had last year were terrific, the way we were looked after was fantastic and the hotel we stayed in was really good.
“It was a very successful tour last year and there was no reason not to go back to experience the same thing again.”
EDS Fixtures
HNK Gorica v City EDS: 19 July, 19:00 CET
HNK Rijeka v City EDS: 22 July, 19:00 CET
The two travelling squads will also have the chance to test themselves in three matches while they’re away, two against strong local opposition as well as an in-house game between City XIs.
Vieira added: “The games we play on tour are important to see how we are developing physically, tactically and technically. It will be a good test to see where we are and how we are progressing.
“It is good for the u18s to be on the tour with us as well and to have the opportunity to go up if they perform well.
It is also a chance to show them that we all play the same way, have the same philosophy and make the boys understand that it is one big family.”
...Patrick Vieira...
U18 Head Coach, Jason Wilcox is also excited for his new squad of scholars to experience the benefits of the camp, including travelling and mixing with the EDS.
Wilcox declared: “The trip last year was fantastic, one of the best I’ve experienced as a player or coach.
“It’s an ideal environment to get the group together, particularly as it’s quite a different group this year because we’ve lost quite a few players to the EDS. It’s nice to build a relationship with the boys.
“There is also a great opportunity for the players to move up and work with Patrick’s squad. Myself and Patrick work closely together to make sure we’re aligned tactically, especially because some of the u18 squad may have the chance to play in the u19 UEFA Youth League.
“I’m really looking forward to it and the lads are very lucky.”
We’ll be travelling with the squad, bringing you pictures, video and text updates over the ten days right here on mcfc.co.uk
