In an unprecedented development at one of soccer's most prestigious academies, three American teenagers are forging their paths at Barcelona's famed La Masia. Former Miami rivals Diego Kochen and Pedro Soma, alongside Colorado native Adrian Gill, are breaking new ground as the first American trio to simultaneously train at the storied institution.
Making Their Mark in Catalunya
Kochen and Soma have already advanced to Barcelona Atlètic, the club's B team competing in Spain's third tier. Meanwhile, Gill's progression faced a setback following a severe injury in 2023, just after his first training session with the first team. After an extensive 14-month rehabilitation period, he's now working his way back with the U19s.
The moment Barcelona expressed interest remains crystal clear for each player. Gill, who transferred from local Spanish club Cornellà in 2018, remembers the room "spinning around" at the news. Kochen initially dismissed his father's announcement as a prank, while Soma patiently waited until his 18th birthday to make his move from Cornellà.
Their time at La Masia has included training alongside rising superstar Lamine Yamal. "He just got the ball and dribbled past five people. I was like, 'What just happened?'" Gill recounts from their first session together. Kochen vividly remembers Yamal's extraordinary skill: "It was a 50-50 ball, from the halfway line, volley, straight into the goal. I couldn't believe it."
First Team Breakthrough
Kochen has made significant strides, earning his first-team debut in a friendly and securing spots on the bench for both LaLiga and Champions League matches. His relationship with first-choice goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen has been particularly valuable. "At first it's a little intimidating because he's my role model," Kochen admits. "But he's been really, really helpful. He's always giving me tips on what to do better."
American Spirit Abroad
Despite their immersion in Spanish soccer culture, the trio maintains strong ties to their American heritage. They frequently discuss American sports, with Gill supporting the Denver Broncos, Kochen following Miami teams, and Soma, somewhat controversially, backing the 49ers and Lakers despite his Miami roots. "We're definitely known as the gringos of the team," Kochen jokes, while Gill mentions his nickname "guiri" (Spanish slang for foreigner).
World Cup Aspirations
All three players have their sights set on representing the United States in international competition, despite being eligible for other countries. Kochen, who has already received senior national team call-ups under Mauricio Pochettino, sees the 2026 World Cup as an achievable goal. Soma echoes this sentiment, stating, "I feel very, very American. I love it when I put the shirt on."
"Our goal is to bring a next great generation for the USMNT," Gill asserts. "We've got so many young kids playing in Europe at the top level, which is kind of unheard of. It's going to be a great generation."
