Merced teens sign professional contracts after moving to Columbus Crew academy

Jorge Salmeron, 14, and Immanuel Ewing, 13, left their families in Merced to pursue professional soccer, enrolling in the Columbus Crew Academy after being spotted by Albion SC. Coach Rafael Valencia praised their intensity in training, and both have logged minutes with Crew 2, the developmental side that feeds the MLS first team. Ewing earned the MVP title at the MLS Next Cup U-19 championship, a milestone he did not anticipate.

The pair recently signed MLS Next Pro contracts, securing their place in the professional pipeline. Their progress comes as the Crew replaces former Valley prospect Max Arfsten, who was drafted in 2023, won an MLS Cup, and is set to join Middlesbrough FC in the English Championship. Both players hope their success will inspire other young athletes from Merced and the broader San Joaquin Valley.