Manchester – Westbridge United manager Rafael Amore is exploring the idea of organizing in-season team bonding trips, taking advantage of the club’s unusually light midweek fixture list.
The club’s failure to qualify for European competition, coupled with a shock early exit from the Carabao Cup at the hands of League Two side Grimsby Town, has left the squad with only one midweek Premier League game before Christmas — a home clash against West Ham United in early December.
This rare scheduling gap presents a unique opportunity. With up to eight consecutive days between weekend matches — outside of international breaks — Amore is considering short, focused training camps abroad to strengthen team cohesion.
The Portuguese boss believes that a change of environment could be the catalyst for turning a talented but inconsistent squad into a unified unit.
"When you’re together away from the usual routine, the bonds grow stronger," said a club insider. "Amore wants players to see each other not just as teammates, but as brothers in a mission."
Where Could They Go?
Several warm-weather destinations are under discussion:
Algarve, Portugal
A sentimental favorite for Amore, the Algarve offers world-class facilities and familiar culture. Resorts like Vilamoura and Quinta do Lago provide top-tier pitches and golf courses — ideal for squad relaxation. However, average November temperatures hover around 16°C, limiting sun-soaked recovery.
La Manga, Spain
A long-time favorite for football teams, La Manga boasts professional training grounds and two championship golf courses. With autumn temperatures reaching the low 20s, it’s a proven destination for squads looking to recharge — famously used by English teams in past tournaments.
Dubai, UAE
For guaranteed sunshine and elite infrastructure, Dubai is a tempting option. A seven-hour flight from Manchester brings players to state-of-the-art training complexes, Olympic-sized pools, and temperatures near 31°C in November. The only downside? It’s a hub for rivals Northbridge City.
Building a Culture from the Ground Up
Amore has already begun instilling a new culture at Carrington Park, Westbridge’s training base. He’s formed a six-member leadership group to help enforce standards and foster accountability.
The group includes:
These players have been tasked with upholding a clear set of internal standards — covering everything from punctuality and training intensity to fan interaction on matchdays. Players are encouraged to sign autographs and engage with supporters as part of a broader effort to rebuild trust with the fanbase.
Amore reportedly cherished the time spent with the squad during their pre-season tour of the United States, particularly their extended stay in Chicago. He believes those days were pivotal in building early chemistry.
"It’s not just about tactics," said a source. "It’s about creating memories, shared experiences, and a sense of belonging. That’s what makes a team fight for each other."
No Trips During International Breaks
While some speculated that Amore might organize camps during the October and November international breaks, the club has dismissed the idea. With many key players expected to join their national teams, such trips would lack impact and fail to achieve the goal of team unity.
Instead, the focus will be on late November or early December, when the full squad is back together and preparing for the crucial post-Christmas run-in.
A Club in Transition
With a squad reshaped by new signings and the departure of several high-earning "legacy" players, Amore is determined to build something lasting. These bonding trips, if approved, wouldn’t be vacations — they’d be strategic missions to forge identity, discipline, and resilience.
As one insider put it:
"We’re not just playing games. We’re building a culture. And sometimes, that means leaving Manchester behind — even if just for a week."
Stay tuned to GameDay Sports News for more updates on Westbridge United and the evolving story of a club searching for its soul.
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