From Sibling Rivalry To The World's Stage, Wilson Palacios Readies For Next Test With Miami FC

Miami FC midfielder Wilson Palacios has tested himself in England’s Premier League and has played in two World Cups.

Palacios, though, had a tough proving ground as a youngster. Three of his brothers – Milton, Jerry, and Johnny – played professionally, and early this century they all played for the same club in Honduras – Olimpia.

 “The emotions were great, but it’s hard to explain playing with three brothers for one team,” Wilson Palacios told NASL.com.

Later in their careers, Wilson would be reunited with Jerry and Johnny on the world stage. All three were included in the squad that traveled to the World Cup in South Africa in 2010. The threesome made history as Honduras became the first nation to select three brothers for a World Cup.

“It was something beautiful,” Palacios said. “It’s any parent’s dream to see their kid play in the World Cup, let alone three brothers. It was an unbelievable feeling for my parents, and hopefully there will be the opportunity to do so again.”

Wilson Palacios, 31, made his name in the Premier League with clubs like Wigan, Tottenham, and Stoke City. Leaving England was a tough decision, but the chance to play for Miami FC, and for head coach Alessandro Nesta, was too good to pass up.

“I’m happy to be a part of Nesta’s squad,” Palacios said. “He brings a lot of experience to give to the players on the squad. He’s a world champion, so it’s an honor and a privilege to play for him.

“I had many offers elsewhere, but this was a good one to stay close to the national team and to give my experience to the younger players here.”

That experience includes 97 appearances for the Honduran national team, playing in the 2010 and 2014 World Cups, helping Tottenham reach the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, and winning five league titles with Olimpia.

“I want to transfer that to the young players,” Palacios said. “Along with Coach Nesta, there is a solid base of experienced players to create a competitive and good team this upcoming season.”

Now, after testing himself against his siblings who turned professional, and later at the game’s pinnacle in the World Cup, Palacios is ready to lead Miami FC in its inaugural season in the NASL.

“It’s a great project in a strong league, and there are a lot of Honduran players in the league, too,” Palacios said. “I’m excited with the move.”