“Raising the Ceiling” Podcast Episode #3: With Guest Gonzalo Carrasco, former Atlético Madrid player

In this episode, Jacob Henderson interviews Gonzalo Carrasco, a former Atlético de Madrid player who transitioned his career to the United States. The conversation covers Gonzalo’s early development in one of Spain’s most competitive academies, the challenges he faced adapting to college soccer, and his experiences competing in the USL2. He also shares insights on the importance of mentorship, the differences between NCAA Division I and Division II soccer, and how to overcome setbacks. In addition, Gonzalo discusses his role in helping recruit players for the Louisiana Krewe and reflects on the lessons learned throughout his journey in the sport.

Gonzalo’s path began at Atlético de Madrid, where he trained and competed from the U-7 through the U-18 categories. During more than a decade with one of the world’s most prestigious academies, he won six league titles and regularly faced elite opponents, including Real Madrid, Rayo Vallecano, Getafe, and Leganés. He also competed in international tournaments across Spain, Portugal, and the United Arab Emirates. These experiences gave him direct exposure to the standards of European professional soccer at the highest youth level.

At the age of 18, Gonzalo was selected to join the LaLiga Pro Player program, an initiative that identifies top Spanish academy players and supports their transition into U.S. college soccer. Through this program, he competed in NCAA Division I, the highest collegiate level in the United States, while pursuing his education. His ability to succeed athletically and academically abroad underscores both his adaptability and his long-term commitment to excellence.
In addition to his athletic career, Gonzalo completed an MBA in Data Analytics, further strengthening his ability to apply advanced analysis to performance and tactical understanding.

This combination of elite competition experience and academic preparation positions him as a unique contributor to the sport.
The interview not only captures Gonzalo’s career milestones but also reveals the mindset of an athlete who has faced transitions, setbacks, and new challenges with resilience. His reflections highlight the discipline and perspective gained from competing across two continents, while also pointing toward his continued contributions to soccer in the U.S.