The cup is regarded as an opportunity for young hopefuls to showcase their skills in a national competition.

A victory in the finals of the cup is as highly sought by players trying to start their career, as by clubs wishing to demonstrate their ability to train young talents.

The tournament is the modern day version of the Coupe nationale des juniors, which ran up until 1954.

The competition was then renamed, in 1955, to honour Emmanuel Gambardella, president of the French Football Federation from 1949 to 1953, who died on 30 August 1953.

Home advantage is given out randomly, until the semi-final stage when games are played at neutral venues.