From the 26th to the 28th of February, a training clinic was held in Sakura; the destination of one of Milan’s Soccer Schools in Japan. The training clinic, which take place on a regular basis, was organised by four Milan Academy coaches that work on a permanent basis in Japan, overseeing the technical and methodological practices of each Milan Soccer School in Japan.Matteo Cont, Luca Monese, Marco Pompili and Claudio Zola led the intense 3 day training clinic with the national soccer schools and it was a great success.A display area (please see the above photo) has been created within the offices of the Sakura Council dedicated to AC Milan and the rossoneri club’s activities with the Soccer School and the city of Sakura. In addition to photos and other Milan memorabilia, there is also an autographed jersey by Monkey Punch, the author and creator of the Lupin 3° series and a local favourite. The display area is a visible sign of the rapport between AC Milan and Sakura and the close ties between the two, even if 12.000 km separate the two parties. Both share the same philosophy of bringing work to young people.Away from the council offices, the Milan Academy coaches organised a joint training session which involved over 140 children from the ages of 6 to 12. The Mayor of Sakura - Mr. Warabi – the President of the local Football Association - Mr. Takamiya –education advisor -  Mr. Kayano – and Monkey Punch were all on hand to watch over another successful aspect of the training clinic. The training clinics, which take place once every 3 months, are opportunities to learn and share ideas. The Milan Academy coaches have the chance to discuss themes from the theory behind the integrated training method put forward by the Milan Academy to more practical issues such as the organisation and management of the soccer school. The meetings also deal with the cultural and social differences that can emerge in two different countries.Finally, Manuel Belleri, an ex-professional footballer, will be present at the next training clinic. The ex- Udinese, Lazio and Atalanta player will be the head Milan Academy coach for the new Milan Soccer School in Tokyo which opens in May.