CAP-HAÏTIEN — Haiti’s rising soccer talent, 16-year-old winger Emerson Laissé, has been named to the Best XI of the “Mediterranean International Cup” (MIC) — one of the world’s top youth tournaments— after standout performances with Real Sociedad’s academy side.
The 16-year-old winger helped the Spanish La Liga club reach the semifinals of the under-18 competition, showcasing pace, control and creativity from the left flank. Tournament organizers released the Best XI on April 7, with Laissé selected among the top forwards.
One of his standout moments came during a run down the left wing, where he beat opposing defenders before delivering a precise low cross that led to a goal—highlighting his ability to create scoring chances.
The Mediterranean International Cup is a global stage for future stars. Held annually in Spain’s Costa Brava region for nearly 25 years, it is widely regarded as a premier showcase for emerging talent. Former participants include stars such as eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi, World Cup champion Cesc Fàbregas and one of the all-time great fullbacks Marcelo Vieira da Silva Júnior, all of whom used the competition as a springboard early in their careers.
Laissé’s selection adds him to that lineage and reinforces his growing reputation within European youth football circles.
Building momentum in Spain as part of Haiti’s next generation
His MIC performance follows another strong showing in December, when he earned MVP honors at a separate youth tournament while on trial with Real Sociedad.
Despite the interest, Laissé cannot officially sign with the club until he turns 18 due to FIFA regulations governing international transfers of minors. He currently plays for Mount Pleasant Football Academy in Jamaica.
Laissé is widely viewed as one of Haiti’s most promising young players. An explosive winger with strong ball control and accurate crossing, he has already featured for Haiti’s under-17 and under-20 national teams.
He competed in the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar and played a key role in helping Haiti qualify again for the next edition. At the under-20 level, he has also contributed to Les Petits Grenadiers’ progress into the second and final round of the 2026 World Cup qualifying.
He is part of a broader wave of emerging Haitian talent attracting attention abroad. Midfielder Miguel Joseph has been on trial with Rayo Vallecano, while Franco Celestin has drawn interest from Racing Santander.
Joseph, a 16-year-old defensive midfielder, also shone with the Spanish club and helped it win the Madrid Easter Cup over the weekend.
As for Celestin, who went on trial with second division side Real Racing Santander last December, he reportedly impressed as well.
As these prodigies continue to develop, fans’ attention is turning to when they will become eligible to sign professionally in Europe—potentially marking a new chapter for Haitian soccer on the international stage.
Celestin is the first to turn 18 on Dec. 20. Then, Laissé will turn 18 on Aug. 19, 2027, and Joseph on Sep. 14, 2027.
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