Ruben Estelles: Bridging Global Football Experiences

April 28, 2018
A group of people are playing soccer on the beach.
A man wearing a black nike sweatshirt is standing in front of a white wall.

Ruben Estelles, the CEO of Spanish Pro Football Academy (SPF), is a figure deeply rooted in football, both as a former player and as an influential coach and administrator. His journey began with a football in his feet and goalkeeper gloves on his hands, playing in the youth ranks of Valencia CF and later for various notable Spanish teams.


Following his playing career, Estelles chose to leverage his on-field experiences to assist young players in enhancing their football skills. He combines an academic background with a Master's degree in International Business Administration and extensive football training, including a Master in goalkeeper coaching (UEFA "A" level) and a UEFA Level II coaching license.


These qualifications enabled him to work in various youth soccer academies in Valencia. Soon after, he began to develop international programs for Valencia CF and other clubs and national federations, both in Spain and internationally.


Estelles observes, "Young players worldwide possess an incredible desire to turn professional and are fantastic raw material. However, aspiring to be a professional player requires much more than just desire."

To secure a professional career for young talents, Estelles emphasizes, "No one can guarantee that a teenager will become a professional; multiple factors contribute to such success. At SPF, we prepare players to have the best conditions for each of these factors."


His experience includes coordinating groups of international players from five continents and managing young national teams from Indonesia, South Korea, Rwanda, and others.


"We founded Spanish Pro Football Academy because we recognized the need for a reliable European contact for players and teams, one that would advocate for their interests and help them achieve their goals," Estelles explains.


Leading SPF into the future, Estelles sees it as a challenge: "We aim to bring Spanish football methodology to as many players as possible. This heritage of sport should be accessible to all."

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