The Spanish national team training center at Las Rozas represented the pinnacle of youth football development in Spain, a state-of-the-art facility where the country's most promising young players gathered to pursue their dreams of international glory.
For Mateo, receiving the call-up to the U-17 squad was the fulfillment of a lifelong ambition, but being named captain at just fifteen years old was an honor that exceeded his wildest expectations.
The facility itself was impressive beyond anything Mateo had previously experienced, with multiple pristine training pitches, advanced fitness centers, medical facilities that rivaled those of professional clubs, and accommodation that provided every comfort necessary for optimal preparation.
The Spanish Football Federation had spared no expense in creating an environment where young talent could flourish.
