Each season, the awarding of academy scholarships marks one of the most important moments in the life of FC Chur. It is a moment that goes beyond contracts and commitments, representing trust, identity and belief in a shared future. For the club, these scholarships are not simply rewards for talent, but recognition of character, work ethic and alignment with the values that define football in Graubünden. This year’s intake reflects a generation shaped by patience, collective responsibility and a deep understanding of what it means to represent Chur – players who have grown within the club’s environment and are now ready to take their first formal step toward senior football.

Speaking ahead of the formal announcement, the tone from both the technical staff and the boardroom was clear: these scholarships were about trust, not temptation. Manager Iñaki Arriola was keen to frame the decision around understanding rather than ability, explaining that “a scholarship is never about who shines the most at fifteen or sixteen”. What mattered more, he said, was whether a player grasped football as a collective exercise – “who understands structure, who listens, who improves every day.”

Arriola described this group as one that had quietly earned its place. He spoke of intelligence, humility and work ethic as the common threads running through the selection process, noting that “talent only matters when it serves the team.” In his view, the defining moment for several players came not in matches they dominated, but in difficult periods – when results turned, when roles changed, and when patience was required. “They didn’t disappear in those moments,” he explained. “They stayed connected to the group. That tells you a lot.”

The manager also returned repeatedly to the idea of readiness, stressing that it was mental rather than physical. “They are ready to be challenged,” he said, “ready to accept repetition, responsibility and criticism.” For Arriola, that mindset is what aligns them with Chur’s footballing identity. “We have a way of doing things here,” he added. “These players already respect it. That’s why this step feels right.”

From the boardroom, president Simon Hofer reinforced the long-term nature of the decision. He described the academy as “the heartbeat of this club”, explaining that scholarship announcements were among the proudest moments of the season. “This isn’t about one good year,” Hofer said. “It’s about years of work – from coaches, from families, from the players themselves.”

Hofer was particularly clear on the club’s responsibility to its region. He spoke about the importance of creating a visible pathway for young players in Graubünden, stating that “developing locally isn’t a slogan for us, it’s a duty.” These scholarships, he explained, were an investment not just in footballers, but in people. “We want to build careers properly,” he said. “That means patience, education and support – not rushing anyone before they’re ready.”

• Raffael Andreas has been awarded a scholarship in recognition of his versatility and steady development across defensive roles. Comfortable both at centre-back and in defensive midfield, Andreas combines athleticism with technical reliability. His relaxed personality off the pitch contrasts with a disciplined and focused approach in matches, where he shows good positional awareness and composure in possession. The academy values his adaptability and sees him as a player capable of growing into multiple roles as his understanding deepens.
• Jonathan Caramés has been awarded his academy scholarship as recognition of both his footballing intelligence and his leadership within the youth programme. A left-footed attacking midfielder capable of operating across the front line, Caramés plays with maturity beyond his years, combining technical quality with a strong collective mindset. Coaches consistently highlight his calmness in possession and his ability to bring others into the game, traits that make him a natural reference point on the pitch. His attitude toward training and competition reflects the values of the academy, marking him as a player with both long-term potential and a deep understanding of team football.
• Nelio Cortesi has earned his scholarship through consistency, intelligence and a natural feel for the midfield role. Left-footed and tactically aware, Cortesi is equally comfortable anchoring the midfield or stepping higher to link play. His athleticism allows him to cover ground effectively, while his technical security ensures composure under pressure. Within the academy, he is viewed as a player who understands structure instinctively – someone who quietly ensures balance and rhythm within the team.
• Mário Silva’s scholarship reflects his leadership qualities and his ability to interpret the game with clarity and composure. Operating primarily from the left, he frequently drifts into central areas, using his intelligence and awareness to influence play. Despite his young age, Silva demonstrates a strong understanding of collective football and is often seen guiding teammates through phases of play. His calm personality and professional attitude have made him a respected figure within his age group.

• Habib Sedoum’s scholarship recognises the balance he brings to Chur’s youth sides through physical presence, discipline and commitment. A right-sided midfielder, Sedoum’s game is built on speed, strength and an unwavering work ethic. He is comfortable performing demanding defensive duties while still offering directness in transition, giving structure and stability to the team. Coaches value his professionalism and reliability, seeing in him a player who embraces responsibility and thrives within organised systems.
• Ennio Parpan’s scholarship highlights his intelligence, movement and strong team ethic in the attacking third. A central striker with good pace, Parpan excels at finding space and timing his runs, often contributing to the collective press as much as to goalscoring situations. His positive attitude and calm temperament allow him to perform without fear, even in demanding moments. Coaches view him as a modern forward whose game is built on awareness, energy and cooperation.
• Julian Barmaz’s progression through the academy has been defined by adaptability and a team-first approach, qualities reflected in his scholarship award. Operating in central and advanced midfield areas, Barmaz combines sound technical ability with a willingness to contribute defensively. He is comfortable receiving the ball in tight spaces and shows a mature understanding of positioning and responsibility. His coaches see him as a reliable connector between lines, capable of adjusting to different roles without losing his identity.
• Novak Lambulić receives his scholarship as recognition of his physical development, intelligence and growing influence in the attacking line. A central striker, Lambulić offers pace, movement and a strong understanding of space, particularly in transitional moments. While still developing technically, his off-the-ball work and willingness to stretch defences make him a constant reference point for teammates. The academy views him as a forward whose impact comes as much from his movement as from his finishing.

Together, the messages from Arriola and Hofer painted a consistent picture. This scholarship group, in their view, represents more than potential. As Hofer concluded, “they represent what FC Chur wants to be – thoughtful, grounded and committed to the long road.”