Nine D.C. United Academy players journeyed to Milan to train with sister club Internazionale F.C. and have had the experience of a lifetime, on and off the field.
From experiencing the thrill of a match at the famed San Siro to impressing in training matches, the academy players have tested themselves and expanded their horizons.
Tom Torres is D.C. United Under-18 head coach and head scout and accompanied the players to Italy. “We have all been amazed with how welcoming Inter has been,” Torres said “The professionalism is outstanding and the attention to every minute detail in every aspect is impressive. From translation and transportation to scheduling and training, the entire Inter staff has been wonderful and can't be thanked enough.”
Right after their arrival on Saturday, they took in an under-19 match and were impressed with the play of Andrea Palazzi, Pedro Delgado and Jose Correia.
On Sunday, they headed to the San Siro, where the Nerazzurri played Chievo to a 0-0 draw. Monday, they watched Inter legends Javier Zanetti, Luis Figo, Hernan Crespo, Andriy Shevchenko, Cafu take the field for a charity match.
The Academy players also met Inter’s first team players and coach Roberto Mancini.
In training, the D.C. United boys have adapted well, embracing the intense, pressure-filled and competitive sessions. The D.C. United youth products noticed the difference in physical preparation right away, and they’ve been challenged to match Inter’s technical speed. Over the course of the week, they have integrated within the group and had success.
In a match with players born in 1997 and 1998, Antonio Bustamante, Daniel Reeves, Donovan Pines and Brandon Williamson all played well, with Bustamante and Reeves combining for three goals. On Thursday, Jose Carranza, Luis Rodriguez-Luna, Alexis Cerritos, Michael Edwards and Jonathan Godette were scheduled to get their turn in a match with players born in 1999 and 2000.
Check out pictures from their trip.
And if you're not already jealous enough, check out this video:
