European Soccer Training for American Youth Soccer Players with International Soccer Academy’s Elite Residential Program
How to play soccer in Europe as a teenager … In the heart of Spain’s storied football culture, the Cádiz CF Integrated Academy Team gives elite American youth soccer players a unique opportunity to live, train, and compete in Europe’s high-performance pro soccer environment.
For ambitious youth soccer players dreaming of the European pitch, the Cádiz CF Integrated Academy Team is no longer a bold experiment—it’s a proven gateway to next-level development.
Now in its second successful year, the Cádiz CF Integrated Academy Team continues to deliver an unparalleled development experience for elite American youth soccer players ready to push their game to the highest level. 
Through its exclusive partnership with International Soccer Academy, this program offers a rare opportunity: the chance to live, train, and compete in Spain—one of the most respected football environments in the world. From high-level tactical training to competing against top Spanish academies, players are fully immersed in the European football lifestyle for nine transformative months.
International Soccer Academy understands that not every talented player can afford the high costs often associated with a nine-month European season. That’s why the academy has already awarded over half a million dollars in scholarships to deserving student-athletes. While the program is all-inclusive and elite, International Soccer Academy is committed to making this life-changing opportunity accessible to driven, high-potential players across the U.S.
This isn’t just a program—it’s a pathway.
Spain is known for producing world-class soccer talent, and Cádiz CF is deeply rooted in that tradition. The partnership between International Soccer Academy and Cádiz CF allows players on the Integrated Academy Team to train and compete within Spain’s rigorous soccer landscape, renowned for its tactical brilliance and technical precision.
What Soccer Parents Say
This level of commitment and care hasn’t gone unnoticed by families. For parents who entrusted their talented youth soccer players to the Cádiz CF Integrated Academy, the experience has exceeded expectations—on and off the field. From professionalism and player safety to personal growth and top-tier training, the feedback from parents is a testament to the program’s impact:
“If you have been looking for a residential soccer program you can trust, look no further! As skeptical parents, we thoroughly researched and visited numerous academies. None of the other academies even came close to providing the safety, supervision, community, personalized care, open communication, facilities, training, opportunity, and exposure that the International Soccer Academy delivers. The partnership International Soccer Academy has with legitimate football clubs in Europe is unparalleled.” — Brenna Creamer, Mother of Japhy McGuinness
“Our family has been so impressed with the professionalism of your entire program. And your attention to detail – from fitness testing to training to scheduling enough time for school. All the way to when the airline delayed Bo’s luggage, the assistant coach was ready to take him to the airport. We sincerely appreciate all you do for these boys!” — Jane Cooper, Mother of Bo Cooper
What the Head Coach Says
Former pro player and current Cádiz CF Academy Head Coach Pablo Sánchez, who holds a UEFA Pro License, praises the players’ dedication:
“The commitment these players show is extraordinary. They arrive hungry to learn and willing to work. It’s incredible to see how much they grow in such a short time.”
On the difference between coaching American and Spanish academy players, Coach Sánchez explains:
“American players often lack tactical awareness but bring strong determination. Our job is to get them up to speed quickly—technically, tactically, physically, and emotionally—so they can compete at the highest level. They follow the same professional development plan as our Spanish youth teams, including strength training, nutrition, and psychological preparation.”
READ: From the U.S. to Germany: American Players Adapt to the Demands of European Soccer
He continues: “The Integrated Academy team follows the same development methodology as our Spanish youth teams. From technical-tactical training and strength conditioning to nutritional plans and psychological support, we apply the full program.”
“Spanish players have a head start in game habits and decision-making, built from years of training within a structured methodology. They’ve learned to read the game, understand positioning, and react to specific situations effectively. Physically, Spanish youth players begin building athletic readiness around age 10, giving them an edge. But our International Soccer Academy players are catching up fast.”
“Coaching this group is rewarding—they’re eager, focused, and absorb new concepts quickly. This program accelerates their development and equips them with the tools to reach the next level.”
Player Progress and Testimonials
Returning winger Japhy McGuinness has seen firsthand how the program transforms players. “The training here is intense and structured. We’re playing against some of the best U19 teams in the Spanish first and second division, and we’re winning. That’s how I know we’re getting better,” McGuinness explained. His journey from his first year to now has been marked by noticeable growth, both in skill and mentality.
Austin Griffin, a returning player from Georgia who previously played for Concorde Fire, shares:
“Last year was a learning curve, but this year, I feel more confident and capable. The constant training, the level of coaching, and playing high-pressure games make you better.”
The players are not just developing—they are achieving:
- Marc Castillo (California/Mexico, former Hertha BSC Academy player) signed with Spanish third-division pro club Atlético Sanluqueño.
- Hamza Mansaray (Maryland) received a national team call-up from Sierra Leone for the AFCON tournament and is waiting to sign an offer.
“The level of training here has prepared me for moments like this. Everything we do is geared toward making us better and ready for the next challenge,” says Mansaray.
Life in Cádiz: More Than Just Soccer
Living at Sage College, a British boarding school in Jerez, adds another dimension to the experience. Ryan Choi, a goalkeeper from Georgia, shares:
“Living at Sage College Jerez is an adventure on its own. You get to meet people from all over the world, and it’s like a community. The friendships you build here make the whole experience even better.”
Claudio Andon, the team captain, emphasizes the team’s commitment:
“We’re training over 18 hours a week. It’s demanding, but that’s the price of improvement. Everyone here is committed to getting better, and that’s why the bond between us is so strong.”
With its scenic beaches, rich history, and welcoming culture, Cádiz offers a lifestyle that perfectly complements the high standards of the program. Players often unwind with beach soccer on weekends, deepening their camaraderie and enjoying local life.
A Bright Future for American Soccer Talent
As the Cádiz CF Integrated Academy Team continues to thrive, it’s clear that this unique blend of elite training, high-level competition, and immersive cultural experience is laying the groundwork for future success. Whether it’s signing pro contracts, earning national team call-ups, or simply developing into more complete players, the program is delivering real results.
Michael Agiasmatis, Cadiz CF Integrated Academy Team Director and board-licensed physiotherapist, sums it up best:
“The players train hard, with 100% of them improving their skills. The bond this group has formed is amazing. It’s not just about soccer; it’s about building a family. They support each other through the highs and lows, which makes this program special.”
With a winning record against top Spanish U19 teams, the success of this residential soccer academy in Spain speaks for itself. For these young Americans, Cádiz is more than just a destination—it’s a launchpad for their dreams.
International Soccer Academy has organized over 170 trials in the last 4 years with 47 players signing contracts to play in Europe. Talented players from top MLS Next and ECNL Clubs train extensively under the guidance of some of Europe’s most renowned coaches, facing tough competition while gaining exposure to sign professional contracts.
