Once again, three talented players from Barça Academy Residency Arizona are getting the chance to train with the youth teams of FC Barcelona, highlighting their development in skills and attitudes. The selected players this year, chosen by coaches from the U.S., are Graham Ford, Makai Wells, and Jorge Padilla. Their involvement in last year’s MLS playoffs, a rapidly advancing competition, underlines their potential.
The impressiveness of Graham Ford, who is joining the U16A team, was evident during last year’s training camp. Known for his left-footed skills, Ford excels in maintaining possession, reclaiming the ball, and displaying strong game awareness.
Makai Wells, also with the U16A squad and making his inaugural trip to Barcelona, is a promising right winger. He has strong passing abilities and is particularly effective in one-on-one scenarios, having joined Barça Academy Pro Arizona only last year.
Meanwhile, Jorge Padilla has moved up to the U19B team for his first experience at the Ciutat Esportiva after four years in Arizona. His standout performance in the MLS U16 playoffs was a significant factor in his selection for this European training opportunity. As a right-sided midfielder, Padilla is known for his tackling prowess and direct playing style that actively contributes to attacking plays. His dedication and hardworking attitude have further solidified his spot in Barcelona’s program.
The Barça Residency Academy USA, established in 2017 in Casa Grande, Arizona, is the only Barça program in North America. It features on-site FC Barcelona coaches to impart the club’s training methodologies, alongside eight soccer fields and a partnership with Arizona State University for academic support. Notably, it is also the only Barça Academy with a team competing in MLS Next, the premier youth league in the United States.
This initiative not only showcases the talent from the U.S. but also offers young athletes invaluable experiences that can shape their future in soccer. The commitment to nurturing these promising players could lead to exciting developments in their careers and represents a positive investment in the growth of soccer talent across borders.
In summary, the selections of Ford, Wells, and Padilla reflect both their impressive capabilities and the growing opportunity for North American talents to shine on global stages like FC Barcelona’s training facilities.