My name is Devlin Verstraete from Vancouver, Canada. My coach from Mendoza United FC organized a tryout for me at Instituto Atlético Central Córdoba (IACC), a premier club in the Argentine First Division. I am being considered for a position at IACC this July during the Argentine transfer window.
I had the privilege of attending a trial with IACC, and the experience exceeded all my expectations.
From the moment I arrived, I walked into a professional, focused, and passionate environment. The players, staff, and coaches created a setting where I felt both challenged and supported—a rare balance that made the entire experience unforgettable.
Training sessions were fast-paced, intense, and built around technical precision and tactical awareness. Every drill had a clear purpose, and the coaches paid close attention to detail. They emphasized quality in every touch, decision-making in tight spaces, and constant communication. You could feel the level of professionalism on the pitch—it wasn’t just about training hard, but training smart.
What stood out the most was the team environment. Despite being a trialist, I felt like part of the team from day one. The academy players were not only incredibly talented but also welcoming and respectful. It felt more like a brotherhood. There was genuine camaraderie among the players as they pushed each other, encouraged one another, and held each other to a high standard. That family-like atmosphere made a significant impact on me and reminded me of the kind of culture I want to be part of.
Off the field, the learning didn’t stop. It was clear that football wasn’t just an activity for them—it was a lifestyle. Every part of their routine reflected a deep commitment to the game. Being in that environment inspired me to take my habits more seriously and helped me understand what true professionalism looks like at this level.
This trial wasn’t just a test of my abilities; it was a meaningful step in my journey. It confirmed that I’m on the right path and gave me new inspiration to keep growing as a player and person. I’m genuinely grateful for the experience and excited for the next upcoming steps.
- Devlin Verstraete
“My experience at Mendoza United has been really great and definitely worth it. Before I came here, I thought I was a good player—but after training with the coaches and learning from the staff, I realized I could be much better than I thought.
Coming to Mendoza United opened up opportunities I hadn’t gotten back home in the USA, like trialing for a professional academy here in Argentina. Using everything I learned at Mendoza United, I was able to trial for and make Godoy Cruz’s 2007 age group. Now, thanks to Mendoza United, I’m training every day at a professional club and competing in national-level matches.
Outside of soccer, everyone here—from the coaches to the players—wants to help you grow and become the best version of yourself. Living with people who are chasing the same dream as you makes it feel more like a family. I’ve made friendships here that I know will last a very long time.
Overall, Mendoza United has meant a lot to me, and I’m really grateful I decided to come here.”
- Isaac Guerrero
“My experience here at Mendoza has been really good. I’ve met some amazing people—both on and off the field—and I feel like my football has improved a lot since I arrived. The level of training is high, and that keeps me motivated every day. The structure and overall environment have helped me grow, not just as a player but as a person too.
Recently, I had the chance to trial with a team in Córdoba. It was a three-day evaluation, and it really stood out to me. The whole experience was great—not just to showcase my football, but also to see where I stand compared to other players. I felt confident, played well, and it gave me a clear sense that I’m on the right path.
The level there was also really strong, and going through that helped me understand the kind of football I want to reach. That trial was definitely a big step forward for me, and it’s going to play an important role in helping me get to where I want to be.My experience here at Mendoza has been really good. I’ve met some amazing people—both on and off the field—and I feel like my football has improved a lot since I arrived. The level of training is high, and that keeps me motivated every day. The structure and overall environment have helped me grow, not just as a player but as a person too.
Recently, I had the chance to trial with a team in Córdoba. It was a three-day evaluation, and it really stood out to me. The whole experience was great—not just to showcase my football, but also to see where I stand compared to other players. I felt confident, played well, and it gave me a clear sense that I’m on the right path.
The level there was also really strong, and going through that helped me understand the kind of football I want to reach. That trial was definitely a big step forward for me, and it’s going to play an important role in helping me get to where I want to be.”
- Davi Augusto
“Being in Argentina has been an amazing experience. Once you’re here, you really start to understand how alive the sport is—football isn’t just a game, it’s a way of life. Compared to the U.S., the culture around the sport is on another level. That energy and passion have really deepened my appreciation for the game and fueled my desire to grow.
The level of competition here is intense—way more advanced than what I was used to back home. At the academy, we regularly played friendlies against professional teams, from Argentina’s third division all the way up to the first division. What’s incredible is that if you perform well in those friendlies, you can get invited for an official tryout with the club right then and there. That kind of opportunity just doesn’t exist in the same way back in the States or even in Europe, where American players often aren’t taken seriously.
Thanks to MUFC, I was able to play two seasons with local professional clubs—first with Andes Talleres and now with Luján SC, where I currently play. I can feel my confidence and experience growing with every game. I’m building a name for myself.
My goal is to keep climbing the levels of Argentinian football and eventually make my way to Europe. And honestly, I’m already on that path—just by being here and having MUFC support me from the start.”
- Joshua Swanson
“Coming here has been an experience I’ll always be grateful for—none of it would’ve happened without Bobby. From day one, I started learning fundamentals I had never been taught back home. Coach Rodolfo helped me understand the basics like ball control, dribbling, first touch, using the correct foot for passing and receiving, scanning before receiving, and opening your body to the space. Then with Coach Bobby, I learned about field awareness, supporting runs (both direct and indirect), thinking two steps ahead, avoiding ball-watching, creating angles, and so much more.
These are the kinds of foundational skills that are missing in American soccer. Young players in the U.S. just aren’t getting this kind of technical education, while kids in Europe and South America are mastering these things between ages 6–12. It really explains why they’re so far ahead by the time they hit their teens.
Before coming here, I had a real hunger to improve and understand the game better—but no one had ever really taught me these things. Practicing them daily, applying what I learned in training to my own game, and getting constant feedback from the coaches helped me grow quickly. It’s what prepared me to thrive at Club Sportivo Independiente Rivadavia, where I was selected to play with the AFA (first team of my age group).
Joining La Lepra wasn’t easy at first—especially since I barely spoke any Spanish. I didn’t understand what the coaches or my teammates were saying, I couldn’t communicate, and I was in a totally unfamiliar environment. But I adapted quickly (and trust me, you will too). Over time, I built great friendships with my teammates and coaches, picked up a lot of Spanish, and started playing regularly with some of the top kids in Mendoza for my age. I’ve also had the chance to compete against top clubs and players throughout Argentina—an experience I never would’ve gotten back in the U.S.
Overall, everything I’ve learned—both at Mendoza United and at Independiente Rivadavia—has helped me improve not only as a footballer, but as a young man working toward going pro.”
- Casey Corcoran
“Mendoza United’s program really opened my eyes to what football is all about. They understand what it takes for a player to succeed at an international level. With high-quality training, top-level coaching, and proper nutrition, my game improved quickly.
But for me, Mendoza United didn’t just test my ability on the field—it also challenged my discipline and integrity off the field. The program helped me develop better time management skills and pushed me to become more responsible overall.
Eventually, I went on trial with and signed for FADEP, a fourth division professional team here in Mendoza. Even now, I apply the lessons I learned at Mendoza United every day with my current team. The experience helped me take a big step forward in my career.
If you’re truly committed, Mendoza United can help take your game to the next level too.”
- Aaron Brock
“I really enjoyed my time at Mendoza United. It was a great experience and a chance to learn more about the fundamentals and better understand the game on a personal level. I focused on taking in as much as I could—every piece of feedback, every detail—and tried to apply it in games to improve my performance.
That mindset helped me stand out, and eventually, I got scouted by Godoy Cruz. I stayed disciplined, stuck to the plan, and most importantly, kept God first. In the end, that led to an amazing opportunity—something I’m truly grateful for.”
- Ubong Abasi Ekop
“My experience in Córdoba, Argentina, for a trial with Instituto ACC—a first division professional club—was amazing. Right away, I noticed the high level of play, the intensity of the training sessions, and how organized everything was. What stood out the most was getting to see where I stood compared to the Argentine players at such a high-level club.
The coaches and players were incredibly genuine. They welcomed us with open arms and made us feel like part of the family. Being in that environment, even just for three training sessions, gave me a real taste of what it’s like to be at the professional level—and it left me wanting more.
The players had a high-level mentality and were sharp both physically and mentally. They were always making smart decisions, constantly communicating, and playing simple and effective football—it was second nature to them. Being surrounded by that kind of energy and focus was huge for me. It motivated me and helped me grow as a smarter, more disciplined player.
I'm truly thankful for the opportunity to train with Instituto ACC. It was a privilege, and one I’ll always remember.”
- Bradley Adames
TESTIMONIALS
Mendoza United FC, Player Testimonials
This year, 15 Americans joined professional clubs between January and February during the Argentine summer transfer window, either at the academy or first-team levels in Mendoza.
Mendoza United FC players are on video (Below) giving personal testimonials about our program and their experience with their new professional clubs in Argentina.
The following players play in the Argentina Football Association (AFA), the highest level of academy football in Argentina. They are members of Premier Club Deportivo Godoy Cruz, Division 1 in the AFA.
Kenny Pierpoint (17) from Spokane, WA, u17 Goalkeeper
Aidan Green (17) from Torrence, CA, u18 Defender
Julian Chamleunsouk (15) from Dallas, TX, u15 Striker
The following player signed his first pro contract and plays in the Argentine Federal A (pro third tier) for Huracan Las Heras in Mendoza.
Alfred Regan (22) from Manhattan, NY, Midfielder
The following players currently play for our Academy:
Tamir Melvin (18) from Smithfield, VA, Winger
Tamir came to Mendoza from a residential academy in England because he was unsatisfied with his Football experience. Now he is enjoying a more Professional environment.
Evan Papadakos (17) from Daytona Beach, FL
Evan was in MLS Next in Florida but decided to further his development in Argentina.