Real Monarchs goalkeeper Fernando Delgado has been selected to represent the U-17 Mexico Youth National Team in a series of friendlies as they prepare for the upcoming CONCACAF U-17 Championship in February 2023 in Guatemala.
Last summer, Delgado represented Mexico during Japan's 2022 U-16 International Dream Cup and helped his side achieve a second-place finish.Â
"It was amazing. We made it to the final against Japan, and the stadium was packed. You got cameras on you. You got people in suits watching you; it's just insane." Delgado spoke of the experience.
"That is something everybody wants; there's no greater feeling than stepping onto the field with that badge, whether it's US or Mexico. That feeling you get to be one of the best in the country is unmatched."
The 16-year-old holds dual citizenship for the United States and Mexico and has represented both countries at the youth level. Per FIFA mandates, Delgado can represent both countries until he reaches the senior ranks.
At the club level, the Phoenix, Arizona native led the 2020-21 RSL Academy U-15 side to its first-ever MLS NEXT Cup championship. In 2021, he became the youngest goalkeeper ever to make his professional debut in a 4-3 victory over Austin Bold.Â
Since then, Delgado has made one appearance in MLS NEXT Pro with Real Monarchs, helping them achieve a 4-2 victory over Portland Timbers II back in September.Â
In October, Real Monarchs announced that Delgado would travel to England to train with Premier League side Crystal Palace on a short-term stint. Training with a team in one of the best leagues in the world is undoubtedly an opportunity that will provide a valuable learning experience for a young goalkeeper on the rise.
