SA’s rising stars embarked on dream football journey in Spain

Some of South Africa’s most promising young footballers recently had the opportunity of a lifetime, travelling to Spain to take part in LaLiga’s celebrated Next Gen competition—an initiative designed to unearth and nurture global football talent.

The experience was far more than just a football tour. It was a journey of growth and discovery, offering the youngsters a chance to showcase their skills while learning from some of the best youth coaches in the world.

Eight players from South Africa were selected after a series of qualifying rounds held in Rustenburg three months ago. They joined a group of young talents from 11 other nations as part of a global gathering that blended football training with cultural exploration.

This initiative forms part of the broader EA SPORTS FC FUTURES programme — a joint project by La Liga and EA SPORTS aimed at developing youth through football, education, and immersive experiences.

Final selections were made through LaLiga’s international academies and local partners, with players chosen not only for their technical ability, but also for their character and willingness to learn. 

Cities such as Rustenburg, Guatemala City, Dubai, New York, and Ho Chi Minh City served as key scouting locations, with eight players (four boys and four girls) chosen from each region.

In Madrid, the youngsters participated in top-level training sessions, played friendly matches against youth teams from LaLiga EA SPORTS clubs, and visited iconic football venues. It was an experience designed to broaden horizons and give each player a taste of life within the LaLiga football culture.

For 15-year-old Kgatliso Raseloma, a Grade 9 learner at HF Tlou High School, the trip was a life-changing moment.

“I was happy and shocked at the same time when I heard I’d be travelling to Madrid,” Raseloma told Independent Newspapers.

A passionate Orlando Pirates fan who looks up to Jude Bellingham and Relebohile Mofokeng, Raseloma said the lessons she took from the trip went beyond the pitch.

“My biggest learning from the coaches in Madrid was that we must not play with emotions. We must attack when we have the ball, and defend as soon as we lose it,” she explained.

“This opportunity shaped my dreams. It gave me exposure, showed me what discipline means, and what it takes to grow as a player.”

The visit could potentially have also opened doors for the young players that might have attracted interest from LaLiga clubs — raising the possibility of future invitations and continued growth on the global stage