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Young talent Alejandro Maroto chasing big dreams after UD Poblense move

Alejandro Maroto knows that reaching the top takes more than just talent—it takes the right team behind you. As a graduate of our Tottenham Hotspur Football and Education Development programme, Alejandro is now proving that the transition from Southgate to the professional leagues in Spain is within reach for our students. 

Alejandro joined the Barnet Southgate College Tottenham Hotspur FC Football programme in 2024 in the second year of the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport course. Alejandro didn’t just train; he worked in an elite environment. By utilising our state-of-the-art Academy Gym and receiving bespoke coaching from Martin Nugent Elite Performance staff, he developed the physical readiness required for the professional game. During this time, Alejandro was also selected for the England Futsal U19 representative team. 

All this whilst studying for and passing his BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport qualification. After the season concluded, Alejandro took the opportunity to undertake pre-season at UD Poblense, who decided to sign him to a professional contract, making him the second graduate of the Barnet and Southgate College Tottenham Hotspur Football programme from the 2024/2025 season to sign a professional deal after Joenne Mampovisa made the move to the Scottish Premiership. 

The young midfielder’s journey to signing for Spanish side UD Poblense has been built on relentless dedication. 

“I’ve sacrificed my whole life just for football,” he admits. “I didn’t go out much growing up — it was just training every day. I used to train twice a day, every day.” 

That level of commitment requires strong motivation, especially on difficult days. 

“Every day you don’t wake up wanting to do the same stuff,” he says. “But there’s always a bigger picture. If you have a why, you can overcome anything.” 

For Maroto, that “why” is deeply personal. 

“I want to be the best footballer of all time — and I mean that,” he says firmly. “But also I want to take care of my family. They sacrificed a lot for me, so this is my way of repaying them.” 

Like many young players, Maroto has looked to elite performers for inspiration — not just in football. 

“As a kid and even now, you look at all the greats — Messi, Ronaldo,” he says. “I’ve always been a Messi fan, but I respect Ronaldo because of his hard work.” 

He also draws motivation from sporting icons beyond football. 

“I also draw inspiration from athletes like Kobe Bryant — people who dedicated their whole life to their sport.” 

That mindset shapes how he views talent and development. 

“I don’t really believe in natural talent,” Maroto explains. “Everyone is talented at something. You just have to work hard to find out what it is.” 

His time in the Barnet Southgate College Tottenham Football and Education Development programme proved an important step in his growth. 

“It was good because it’s a big programme with good players,” he says. “I want to surround myself with the best players to give myself the best chance to grow.” 

Programme manager Glen Hicks praised Alejandro’s work ethic and commitment throughout his time at the college. 

“Alejandro joined us at The Barnet Southgate College programme with good technical quality as a player. He went on to play for England Futsal U19s and played regularly for our NFYL U19 team. With a terrific determination to succeed and commitment to himself and our programme at Barnet Southgate College, Ale has created a fantastic opportunity for himself by signing at UD Poblense in Spain. 

Ale also worked smart and hard with our multi-disciplinary team, which includes our full-time strength and conditioning coach and physios, to help himself build a robust body and raise his physical capacity closer to academy level. Ale has given himself a chance to fulfil his dreams. We are all extremely proud of him and will be monitoring his continued progress and future success.” 

Now, the next major chapter has taken him to Spain with UD Poblense — a move that required significant personal sacrifice. 

“It can be tough,” he admits. “I was born in Spain, but most of my childhood was here in London. My friends are here, my parents live here.” 

Still, the decision was clear in his mind. 

“You have to step outside your comfort zone if you want to make it. Not everyone is willing to do it, but I knew it was something I had to do.” 

Despite the distance, Maroto says his support system remains vital. 

“I’ve got friends who still call me every day when I’m in Spain,” he says. “I’m grateful for that loyalty.” 

He also reflects fondly on his college experience, particularly the relationships built along the way. 

“The best moments were the camaraderie — the friendships,” he says. “Being on the minibus to games, in the changing rooms, training with your friends.” 

With his professional journey now underway, Maroto has a clear message for young players hoping to follow a similar path. 

“Don’t give up,” he says. “Nothing worthwhile comes easy.” 

And his advice is simple but powerful: 

“Dream big. I believe if you put your mind to something, you can achieve it. Ninety percent of the game is overcoming mental obstacles.” 

For Alejandro Maroto, the dream is only just beginning. 

Ready to follow in Alejandro’s footsteps?

Whether you want to play professionally or work in the sports industry, our Sports Academies programmes are a great place to start. 

Find out more about our Sport Academies: https://www.barnetsouthgate.ac.uk/sports-academies 

Or visit us at one of our Open Events: https://www.barnetsouthgate.ac.uk/open-events