Nike Academy Manager Jon Goodman has announced the six successful players from the 'Most Wanted' trials that will join his elite development squad for the 2015/16 season. After three days of assessment at St. George's Park, the six talents emerged as the winners of the Global Showcase.
Demonstrating the global hunt for talent, the six prospects arrive from each corner of the world - Sergio Galeano (Colombia), Aleksander Gogic (USA), Emilio Martinez (Australia), Connor Wood (UK), Ryoma Watanabe (Japan) and Vadiel Gonzalez Lardued (Belgium), all of who impressed a panel of expert coaches and scouts to pick up a Nike Academy squad number.
Physiological testing, technical drills, game play scenarios and 11 vs 11 action gave each player ample opportunity to prove his ability to perform at the level demanded by the Nike Academy. First step complete, but the hard work starts now for the boys, they'll take part in a full-time training program and receive elite level coaching, training facilities and off-pitch medical, nutritional and psychological support.
The Nike Academy regularly take on the world’s top youth sides and have recorded recent successes including a 3-0 win over FC Barcelona U19 and a 4-0 win over Inter Milan. Every game is a trial for lads as they look to reach their ultimate goal of earning a pro contract.
