Barca Residency Academy is excited to announce that U-19 MLS Next defenders Bryan Garcia and Diego Sanchez have signed their first professional contracts with top Liga MX club, C.F. Monterrey.
Garcia and Sanchez, both Arizona natives, have been pivotal members of Barca Residency Academy since the 2020-21 season, progressing from the Academy’s MLS Next U-15 to the U-19 team.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for both Bryan and Diego to gain their first step into the world of professional soccer,” said Barca Residency Academy Director and U-19 Head Coach Ged Quinn. “Both boys have been with us here in Arizona for over 4 years, and seeing their growth and development as players on and off the field has been a joy to watch.”
Reflecting on his milestone accomplishment, Garcia shared his excitement, saying, “It was really exhilarating when I got the news I was going to be signing for C.F. Monterrey. As well as emotional knowing all the hard work of these years were finally coming true.”
Sanchez echoed Garcia’s sentiments, expressing gratitude for the opportunity and excitement to embark on his professional journey with C.F. Monterrey. He added, “I am really looking forward to being able to experience the new challenges that come with that of a professional environment. I’m excited to start to develop in the next stage that can set me up for future success and being able to play alongside those who I watched and idolized growing up.”
Furthermore, Sanchez reflected on his journey at Barca Residency Academy, stating, “None of this would be possible without the development of not only as a player but as a person at Barca. The staff have really guided me and allowed me to really thrive and mature as a person… I cannot begin to describe the development I have undergone. For my first 3 years at Barca, I had started out as a player on the bench. Each year, I was able to work my way up to becoming a starter and obtaining tons of minutes… They took in a kid who had less than a year of organized soccer under his belt and have pushed him and allowed him to pursue his dream.”
C.F. Monterrey, a storied club renowned for its rich history of success and commitment to excellence, recognizes the potential within Garcia and Sanchez. The duo’s transition to the professional ranks signifies a new chapter in their soccer careers, one filled with promise, challenges, and boundless opportunities for growth.
Quinn concluded, “It’s always a little bittersweet when guys move on from the Academy, but we are extremely proud of both Diego and Bryan, and this is certainly an opportunity that both have more than earned. We wish the guys the best of luck at C.F. Monterrey and look forward to seeing their future successes in the game.”
C.F. Monterrey currently sits second in overall Liga MX standings with a record of 10W-4L-3D. They travel to Mexico City to face Club America at Estadio Azteca, home of the Mexico national team, on Saturday, February 3.
