Rising El Salvadorian-American Talent Earns Professional Opportunity in Spain
Rising El Salvadorian-American soccer player Francis Castillo signed with the La Liga club Cádiz CF in Spain. Pennsylvania-born, 18-year-old student athlete Castillo played in Germany on the International Soccer Academy Integrated U18 team at FC Schalke 04 last fall.
“Signing with this La Liga club is amazing! It doesn’t feel real but it’s always been a dream and it’s finally happening.”
Francis Castillo, Cádiz CF Player
In an exciting milestone for American youth soccer development, 18-year-old Francis Castillo has officially signed with La Liga club Cádiz CF, marking a major step in his professional soccer journey. The Pennsylvania-born forward, who played for International Soccer Academy’s FC Schalke 04 Integrated U18 Team, is the latest player to secure a European pro contract through the Academy’s elite player pathway.
“Signing with this La Liga club is amazing! It doesn’t feel real, but it’s always been a dream—and now it’s finally happening,” said Castillo, reflecting on this career-defining achievement.
From International Soccer Academy to La Liga: Castillo’s Remarkable Journey
Castillo’s rise is a testament to his dedication and talent. After competing in MLS Next with FC Delco, he took his development to the next level by joining Philadelphia Union Academy in 2022. However, with ambitions of playing in Europe, Castillo made the bold decision to move overseas at just 17 years old, enrolling in International Soccer Academy’s elite residential program at FC Schalke 04 in Germany.
His impact was immediate. Playing against top German youth academies, Castillo honed his skills under UEFA Pro Licensed coaches, earning praise for his strength, determination, and relentless drive.
His talent was further showcased in February 2024, when he represented Nicaragua’s U-20 National Team in the Concacaf U-20 Championship Qualifiers. He finished as the tournament’s top scorer with five goals and two assists. His standout performances solidified his reputation as a player to watch, leading to his signing with Cádiz CF.
Cádiz CF Sees Huge Potential in Castillo
“Francis Castillo is a player with great potential, and we believe he will continue to prove his worth at Cádiz CF,” said José Luis Donoso, Chief Operating Officer of Cádiz CF.
As a club known for developing top talent, Cádiz CF saw Castillo as a strong addition to their ranks, trusting in his ability to make an impact in one of the world’s most competitive leagues.
Top Coaches Praise Castillo’s Talent and Work Ethic
Castillo’s signing comes as no surprise to those who have coached him.
“Francis is a player with exceptional skills and a strong winning mentality,” said Patrick Weiser, former pro player and UEFA Pro Licensed coach, who served as head coach of International Soccer Academy’s FC Schalke 04 U18 team. “He has an excellent attitude and immense potential for further development.”
Assistant Coach René Lewejohann, who has worked with some of Germany’s top youth prospects, added:
“From the moment I saw Francis, his positive energy and drive were evident. His confidence and determination made him stand out. The fact that a La Liga club has signed him proves how valuable this pathway is for young players and professional clubs alike.”
How International Soccer Academy Opened Doors to Europe for Castillo
International Soccer Academy has a proven track record of developing elite American and Canadian youth players, with over 165 trials and more than 41 professional contracts signed since its inception. Co-founder Eddie Loewen first identified Castillo during a Global Soccer Development (GSD) scouting program, where he showcased his exceptional ability and drive.
“Francis Castillo has special qualities that every coach loves,” said Loewen. “He’s not even at 50% of his maximum potential yet, and with the right development, he will be a force to be reckoned with on the field.”
Castillo’s hard work, sacrifices, and commitment to excellence have now paid off, earning him a well-deserved place in one of Spain’s top professional clubs.
The Reality of Chasing a Professional Soccer Dream
Moving to Europe as a teenager to pursue professional soccer is not easy, but Castillo was willing to make the sacrifices needed to succeed.
“Pursuing becoming a professional soccer player can be lonely sometimes, but my goal drives me to make it. You have to have the discipline to say no to distractions and stay focused on your job, which is soccer,” said Castillo.
His dedication has now set him on a path that few young American players achieve, proving that serious talent and the right development opportunities can lead to a professional career in Europe.
International Soccer Academy’s Proven Success
Since launching in 2020, International Soccer Academy has helped over 60 American youth players sign professional contracts in Europe. Co-Founder Diane Scavuzzo, who is also the publisher of SoccerToday, expressed excitement over Castillo’s success:
“We are thrilled that Cádiz CF has signed Francis, and we look forward to watching him succeed. We are proud to have created a proven pathway for talented young players to achieve their dream of playing professional soccer in Europe.”
This season alone, over 80 American youth players are training at International Soccer Academy’s elite residential academy programs, which are officially partnered with:
- Cádiz CF (La Liga, Spain)
- Hertha BSC (Bundesliga, Germany)
- FC Schalke 04 (Bundesliga, Germany)
- FC Bayern Global Academy (Germany)
Want to Play Soccer in Europe?
For talented American and Canadian youth soccer players born between 2003 and 2009, International Soccer Academy offers actual pathways to professional European soccer. Players can apply by submitting a highlight video for European scouts to review on the International Soccer Academy website.
