Sargis Gasparyan: Developing as an International Midfielder through European Youth Soccer Programs

At just 18 years old, Armenian midfielder Sargis Gasparyan is entering his second season in Germany, continuing a journey that began with a bold decision to leave his home country in pursuit of elite football development. Originally from Armenia, Sargis spent nearly a decade with FC Urartu, one of the nation’s top academies, where he played from U9 to U17 and earned a call-up to the Armenian U17 national team camp.

His goal was clear: to grow within the framework of European youth soccer programs, particularly those in Germany, which are among the most respected in the world. "Germany has one of the best soccer systems in the world," Sargis says. "Playing in the Bundesliga has been my dream since I was a kid."

His move to Germany was sparked by his father, who recognized his son’s growing talent after the national team camp and sought a more competitive environment. A family friend living in Munich introduced them to IFX Soccer and the Soccer City boarding school program, which ultimately facilitated Sargis’s placement with FC Eichsfeld in his first year.

Adjusting to life in Germany wasn’t easy. "The first two weeks were hard," Sargis recalls. "New culture, new team, new people. It was mentally tough being far from home and family. But I got used to it." During his first season, Sargis played in both the Verbandsliga and Regionalliga with FC Eichsfeld, gaining valuable match experience and adapting to the physical and tactical demands of German football. "It helped me become more composed on the ball, understand my position better, and grow physically," he says. His experience reflects the depth and intensity of European youth soccer programs, where players are constantly challenged to improve.

Now in his second year, Sargis has stepped up to the Niedersachsenliga with the U19 squad of traditional club SC Göttingen 05. "It’s a faster and more physical league compared to what I played last year," he explains. "I’ve even faced Bundesliga youth teams like Hannover 96 and Hansa Rostock, and international sides like PSV Eindhoven at the REWE Junior Cup." As a central midfielder, Sargis describes himself as aggressive off the ball and composed on it, with strong physical attributes and tactical awareness. His background as a fullback has sharpened his defensive instincts, making him a versatile presence in the middle of the pitch.

Why Germany? Germany’s youth development structure is globally recognized for producing elite talent. The Niedersachsenliga, where Sargis now plays, is part of a pyramid that feeds into the Bundesliga academies.

Living at the Soccer City boarding school has been a key part of his development. "It helps you grow as an individual, living without your family and becoming mentally stronger," he says. His weekly routine is structured: school and training from Monday to Friday, matches on weekends, and rest on Sundays. Programs like Soccer City represent the best of soccer boarding schools in Germany, offering young international players a disciplined and immersive environment.

IFX Soccer continues to support his journey, providing guidance and opportunities to play in competitive leagues that challenge and elevate his game. "They gave me the opportunity to play in Germany and grow as a footballer," Sargis says. Programs like IFX and Soccer City are instrumental in creating real soccer opportunities in Europe for international players, offering a pathway into the heart of German football and potentially a pathway to Bundesliga.

Looking ahead, his goals are clear: reach his highest level, learn new football skills, and perfect his German. His advice to other young players considering a move abroad is simple but powerful: "Work hard, focus on your journey, and be patient."

Sargis Gasparyan’s experience illustrates the value of structured European youth soccer programs, and the transformative impact of international soccer boarding schools. Through IFX Soccer and Soccer City, he’s building a foundation for a future in one of Europe’s most competitive football environments.