To speak of football is to speak of Gran Canaria, a place that has always been part of the same team. This is especially true when reflecting on its rich history, the legendary players from the island, and the sandy beaches that served as the perfect training ground for developing the unique skills that have long defined Gran Canarian footballers. Historical records dating back to 1859 reveal that English visitors played football on the island shortly after the sport was invented in Great Britain. These same sands later nurtured talents such as Alfonso Silva, Germán Dévora, Juan Carlos Valerón, and David Silva. All of them honed their ball control on the shores of Gran Canaria’s beaches, dreaming as children of becoming the great players they eventually did.

On December 27th, 28th, and 29th some of the most talented young footballers in the world will gather at the Ciudad Deportiva de Maspalomas. This year’s edition of the Under-13 LaLiga FC Futures League Tournament will not only feature top teams from Spain and Europe, but will also welcome historic clubs like Peñarol, from Montevideo, and emerging names like Inter Miami. Gran Canaria will once again become a global stage for football’s future stars.