AUSTIN, Texas – Austin Bold FC announced on Wednesday it had signed U.S. Youth International and former Boca Juniors midfielder George Acosta to its 2019 USL Championship roster for the remainder of the season, pending league and federation approval.

"George and I worked together on the national team, and in a short time, gained valuable experience with his years in Argentina,” said Austin Bold FC Head Coach Marcelo Serrano. “He has a bright future here in the U.S., and we're glad to have him in our family!”

Acosta, 19, started his playing career in 2014 when he moved from South Florida youth club Weston FC to Estudiantes de La Plata in the Superliga Argentina. After Argentina, Acosta moved back to the United States to play and study at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. Acosta participated in the Montaigu Tournament in France with the United States U-16 Boys National Team. His six goals (most of the tournament) helped the United States lift the trophy for the first time since 1992.

Acosta joined the U.S. U-17 Men’s National Team for the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup in India where he made two appearances and scored one goal. Following impressive performances in the U.S. Youth National Team program, Acosta joined Argentine giants Boca Juniors in 2017.

“I’m happy to be here,” said Acosta. “Since joining the team, I felt accepted by the team and the organization has helped me instantly feel comfortable. I hope to do well in the upcoming months to help the team in the playoffs and potentially win a trophy with them.”

"Having some of the best players of today and tomorrow is a goal the ownership gave to me and coach Marcelo. Acosta fits this concept perfectly. He's someone that we know will play in the highest levels of soccer in the coming years. He has the opportunity of being one of the U.S. Men’s National Team’s top stars in the near future," said Austin Bold FC General Manager Roberto Silva. "Allowing our Austin soccer community to cheer for this type of player makes our job worthwhile."