Academy kids would be until they finish school and sign their first professional contract. Some of the advanced talents will train with, and play lower level cup matches with the senior squad. One of the Liverpool players that lifted the trophy this season had just turned 17 for example in Harvey Elliott.
That said, curious the breakdown of amount of school work is done in person for football players Vs proxie with tutors during the season? I honestly haven't the slightest the ratio but would think the school could afford them extra education related personnel if need be if they adhere to the same protocol.
As loathsome as I think Saban is, he might be right here in that players would be much better protected in this scenario Vs cancellation and sending them back out into the student body full time.