De León: The Rising Football Talent's Journey to Real Madrid
The path to professional football is often a winding road of trials, youth academies, and sudden breakthroughs. For de León, this journey has spanned multiple countries and some of the most prestigious clubs in Spain, marking his evolution from a youth prospect in Puerto Rico to a professional athlete at one of the world's biggest clubs.
Early Beginnings and International Trials
De León began his footballing education with his local side, Hispania FA. His potential was recognized early; at just nine years old, he received an invitation to trial with Sevilla. By April 2014, at the age of ten, he traveled to Spain for a youth tournament and trial with Málaga, as well as a second training period with Sevilla.
A pivotal moment occurred in 2019 during the Sheffield Cup. While playing for GPS Puerto Rico, de León was spotted by the International Development Academy based in Valencia. This discovery led to a significant life change in the summer of 2020, when he and his family relocated to Spain to join the academy.
Breakthrough at CD Castellón
In the winter of the 2021/22 season, de León joined the youth ranks of CD Castellón. He quickly established himself as a prolific goalscorer in the U19 league, netting twenty-three goals in just thirteen matches. This extraordinary form sparked a bidding war among Spain's elite.
By the spring of 2022, de León had attracted interest from La Liga giants including Barcelona, Almería, and Sevilla. He was subsequently linked to other powerhouses such as Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid, and Real Betis. Despite the allure of these clubs, de León showed loyalty to the team that fostered his growth, signing his first professional contract with Castellón in May 2022. This two-year deal secured his place at the club until 2024.
He made his professional debut for Castellón in May 2022 in a match against Villarreal B. Shortly after, in June, Valencia began exploring potential loan options for the young player.
Transition to Real Madrid Castilla
The interest from the capital eventually culminated in a transfer. On 24 January 2024, CD Castellón officially announced that de León had signed with Real Madrid. He was integrated into Real Madrid Castilla, the club's B-team designed to develop elite talent for the first team.
De León made his debut for Castilla on 28 January against Linares. He continued to make his mark on the squad, scoring his first goal for the B-team on 18 May in a match against Intercity.
Loan to Hércules
To further his development and gain more first-team experience, de León moved to the Primera Federación (the third tier of the Spanish football league system). On 20 August 2025, he joined Hércules on loan for the 2025–26 season.
Key Facts
- Youth Start: Began with Hispania FA and GPS Puerto Rico.
- U19 Record: Scored 23 goals in 13 matches for CD Castellón.
- First Pro Contract: Signed with CD Castellón in May 2022.
- Major Transfer: Joined Real Madrid on 24 January 2024.
- Current Status: On loan at Hércules for the 2025–26 season.
| Period/Date | Club/Organization | Key Milestone |
|---|---|---|
| Early Years | Hispania FA / GPS Puerto Rico | Youth development and Sheffield Cup |
| Summer 2020 | International Development Academy | Move to Spain |
| Winter 2021/22 | CD Castellón (Youth) | Top scorer in U19 league |
| May 2022 | CD Castellón (Professional) | First professional contract and debut |
| January 2024 | Real Madrid Castilla | Transfer to Real Madrid |
| August 2025 | Hércules | Loan for 2025–26 season |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which clubs were interested in de León during his time at Castellón?
During the spring of 2022, de León attracted interest from Barcelona, Almería, and Sevilla, and was later linked to Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid, and Real Betis.
How many goals did de León score in the U19 league for Castellón?
He was the team's top scorer, recording twenty-three goals in thirteen matches.
When did de León join Real Madrid?
His transfer to Real Madrid was officially announced on 24 January 2024.
Who did de León score his first goal for Real Madrid Castilla against?
He scored his first goal for the B-team against Intercity on 18 May.
Where is de León playing for the 2025–26 season?
He is currently on loan at the Primera Federación club Hércules.