A talented young Nantwich footballers is making waves at one of the biggest clubs in Europe.

Luca Rodgers, just 15, has been training with Athletico Madrid’s academy since he was 13, and completing his studies in Spain.

Now he has obtained a long term visa to stay in Spain until he is 18.

The visa was obtained by Atletico Madrid who were keen for him to stay and progress through the club’s ranks.

Luca will be living in the club’s residence with other players from the youth system as they look to reach the fringes of the first team.

He goes to school in Madrid and regularly plays for Atletico Madrid U15s “Cadete C and B”.

being born in 2011 (UK he would be U16’s as we do school years not year born). He started with the club age 12 and turns 16 next May

Luca said: “I hopes to stay in Spain with Atletico as long as possible and see what opportunities come up in Spain to continue with my footballing journey.

“Being with Atletico gives me a lot of opportunities and opens a lot of doors.

“The club worked very hard to get me a visa and even had one of the club’s directors got involved in the process. It really is like a family and I am extremely grateful.

“I don’t underestimate how hard I will have to work to continue and I am grateful everyday to everyone who has help me live this dream.”

Luca’s dad Anthony, who lives in Wettenhall, just outside Nantwich, and his mum based on Bolton try to watch his matches.

Anthony said: “Luca has worked really hard for this opportunity, we could not be more proud.

“He’s over there on his won, but with the club, and he’s really enjoying it.”

(Images courtesy of family members)