Three of Barca Residency Academy’s rising stars– Graham Ford, Jorge Padilla, and Makai Wells have been selected for a two-week training stint at FC Barcelona’s world-renowned youth academy, La Masia. From October 28 to November 8, these standout players will have the opportunity to showcase their talent and immerse themselves fully in the La Masia environment in Barcelona, Spain. This exclusive opportunity is part of Barca Residency Academy’s unique partnership with FC Barcelona, designed to help identify and nurture the next generation of future futbol stars.
“This is an incredible opportunity for players within our program to be exposed to the highest level of youth soccer in the world,” said Barca Residency Academy Director Ged Quinn. “These players are fully deserving of this opportunity.”
Graham Ford, a 2009-born midfielder, is no stranger to playing at this level of competition. In his second season with Barca Residency Academy, Ford is making his third trip to La Masia this year alone and is set to rejoin La Masia’s Cadet A team. “This is a testament to his work ethic and how he has performed for our teams since he joined the academy,” said Quinn. “He shows a relentless attitude to improving himself as a player and leads by example amongst his peers.” After bursting onto the scene last year with Barca’s U-15 MLS Next team, Ford has continued to elevate his game, making him one of the academy’s top young prospects.
Jorge Padilla, a 2008-born defender is another standout whose journey has been marked by unwavering dedication and growth. Now, in his fourth season at Barca Residency Academy, he has earned his shot at La Masia through sheer hard work and consistency. “Jorge has developed immensely as a player both on and off the field,” said Quinn. “He has forced his way into our 2006/07 group despite being a 2008 birth year player and has had a significant impact with the U19 MLS Next team this year.” One of the academy’s most dependable players, Padilla will train with La Masia’s Juvenil B team.
Makai Wells, a exciting 2009-born attacking talent, is ready to make his first appearance at La Maisa after joining Barca Residency Academy midway through the 2023-24 season. Known for his dynamic playstyle and goal-scoring ability, Wells has quickly become a top player to watch. “Makai is not only an exciting player to watch, but he is also exciting to coach,” said Quinn. “He has an excellent attitude in recovery moments working for the team but also shows great dynamic moments with the ball to impact the game effectively in possession moments.” Wells will join his U16 MLS Next teammate, Ford, and train with Cadet A while at La Masia.
During their two-week stint at La Masia, Ford, Padilla, and Wells will immerse themselves in the same elite environment that has shaped global football icons like Messi, Iniesta, Pedri, and Gavi. They’ll train, compete, and hone their skills alongside some of the brightest young talents in the world. By stepping onto these legendary grounds, they’ll also follow the path paved by Barca Residency Academy alumni such as Julian Araujo, Matthew Hoppe, Caden Clark, Brooklyn Raines, Leo Orejarna, and Isaiah Kaakoush—who all earned the La Masia experience on their journey to the professional ranks.