Dreams from Manatí to Barcelona: Ian’s Journey to Represent Puerto Rico at the Barça Academy World Cup
- Alexandria Cruz
- Nov 3
- 2 min read
You can help make Ian's dream come true!
Twelve-year-old Ian G. Santos is a soccer player from Yucayeke Toa in Manatí, Boriken, and an enrolled member of the Taino Nation of Boriken with a big dream: to join fellow youth athletes and play on one of the world’s biggest stages. As Ian explains, "This is a big dream of mine, and it’s a great opportunity to learn, grow, and play with other kids from around the world." This spring, Ian will travel to Barcelona, Spain, to train and compete in the Barça Academy World Cup 2026, where he’ll represent both his hometown and his island among players from around the globe.
“I was very happy when I found out I was going to Spain,” says Ian excitedly, “It makes me happy. My family and community support me; they’re always at my practices and games.” - Ian G.
“Marc-André ter Stegen inspired me to be a goalkeeper,” says Ian as he explains his admiration for his hero, the FC Barcelona goalkeeper. Now, he’ll have the chance to train at La Masía, the same world-class facility where legends of the sport have learned and grown. Ian is eager to meet other young players and experience a new culture while sharing his own. When asked what it means to play abroad as a Borikua, Ian’s answer is simple but heartfelt: “PR is very beautiful.” His pride in his roots shines through everything he says. His advice for other young athletes in Puerto Rico is just as bold and honest: “Always dream big.”
When thinking about the future, Ian doesn’t hesitate: “I see myself playing for Barça.” His dreams don’t stop there, as he envisions himself playing professionally in England or Spain, living a life filled with the sport he loves. What keeps him motivated? “My parents and soccer,” he says. “I want to live a new experience.”
Barça Academy is an international global soccer training program for children aged 6 to 18, based on the FC Barcelona philosophy and playing style. Their academies are based in multiple countries and offer professional coaching, focusing on technical skills and transmitting values like respect, effort, and teamwork. Once in a lifetime experiences like this help our youth grow; however, this kind of adventure requires financial support, and you can help make Ian's dream come true.
How You Can Support
Ian and his family are raising funds to make this incredible opportunity possible by covering travel, lodging, uniforms, and training costs to reach Barcelona. In partnership with Latino Sports, International Puerto Rican Heritage Film Festival, Long Beach Latino Civic Association, and the Borikua Taino Foundation, we are helping to spread the word and support his fundraiser.
🎯 Goal: $9,000
📅 Event: Barça Academy World Cup, April 2026
🌐 Donate: gofund.me/535e1a43c
Every donation, share, and message of encouragement brings Ian one step closer to representing Puerto Rico on the world stage!
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