T.Z. Layton: The Academy V: Cup Of Nations [2026] paperback

Leo has become a star in the Youth Premier League and one of the brightest young football players in the world.

But he faces his greatest challenge yet when he joins his junior national team and tries to lead an underdog football squad from the United States to victory in the greatest tournament of all for his age group: the U15 Cup of Nations.

Unlike the Lewisham Knights, Leo's national team doesn't have a roster full of Premier League talent. Plus, the team has terrible chemistry and very little time to improve.

The stakes have never been higher. The United States is the host nation, and the pressure is on to make a good showing. Can Leo become a true leader and bring his team together?

Or will they flame out in the group stage and disappoint their country?

T.Z. Layton's inspiring fifth book in The Academy series is perfect for primary school readers and young sports fans looking for their next exciting read.

Ideal for young readers aged 7-13 looking for:

• Page-turning football chapter books
• A humorous, action-packed, sports adventure book series like no other!