Bermudian footballer Rylan DeSilva has signed for Celta Vigo Academy in Spain.

DeSilva, a central midfielder who represented Bermuda at the Concacaf Under-17 Men’s World Cup Qualifiers in Honduras at the beginning of the year, will be with the Spanish La Liga club’s academy this season.

“I feel as if this is a great opportunity to display what I’ve worked so hard for in the dark to show in the light,” DeSilva told The Royal Gazette.

“I think that living in a country that you don’t speak the language of and having to adjust to a lifestyle you’re not used to while playing football without a parent to remind you or to wake you up for school or training will increase my discipline and responsibility towards achieving my goals in the near future.

“I thank my dad and my grandfather for all the support they have given me in advancing my football career. I wouldn’t be where I’m had it not been for their constant support and encouragement.

“Above all I wouldn’t be where I’m without God in my life. My faith has played the most important role in the career.”

Quark Football, a Madrid-based global football ecosystem that connects international players, coaches, agents and clubs to professional football opportunities in Spain, provided the 16-year-old with the possibility.

“From an opportunity to a new beginning,” said a post on the Quark Football Instagram page.

“After showcasing his talent during our Pro Tryout Programme, we’re proud to announce that Rylan DeSilva will play for RC Celta de Vigo Academy during the 2026-27 season.

“All the hard work, sacrifice and dedication have one goal, to keep growing and getting closer to the dream. The 2026-27 season is here.”

According to his family, DeSilva did a two-week pro tryout programme in Madrid. From there, he was offered the chance to join Celta Vigo Academy, known as Celta 360 A Canteira Experience, an international academy branch that attracts international youth players to live, study and train full-time inside Celta’s elite environment.

The former West Pembroke, Dellwood and Berkeley Institute student played junior football on island for ten years. He won a number of trophies with Dandy Town and last season he appeared at under-15, under-18 and under-23 level for FC Bascome.

“Football has always been his passion and his dream is to climb the ladder and make it on the big stage,” his father Brandon DeSilva said.

“Rylan is adapting well in Vigo, Spain, and is enjoying the professional atmosphere as well as facilities and the high-level of training that RC Celta de Vigo provides.

“He has been in Spain for about a week now, so the journey has just begun and he is looking forward to his first match.”

Bermuda under-17 coach Aaron Denkins described DeSilva as someone with potential to make it to the top.

“Rylan has the passion and all the abilities to be a top player for both club and country,” Denkins said.

“I am proud of him and all of the players that are getting opportunities to further develop. Congratulations to his family for supporting his dream.”