Born on September 4,1981 in Guadeloupe (French overseas territory)
Played in France, MLS, Asia
IN SHORT
· Former professional football player
· FIFA Talent Coach
· National Team Head-Coach
· Talent finder and developer.
· I get things done
CREDENTIALS
· UEFA Elite Youth A Licence
· UEFA A Licence
· US Soccer A License
· USC Premier Diploma
· USC Director of Coaching Diploma
· Fédération Française de Football CFF1, CFF2, CFF3
· FC Barcelona/City Futsal Certificate
· Johan Cruyff Institute Post-Graduate Diploma in Football business
Early Life and Professional Career:
I was born in Guadeloupe and raised on the island of Saint-Martin in the French West Indies. At a young age, I left the comfort of home to pursue my football dreams, eventually landing at the prestigious youth academy of Stade Malherbe de Caen in Normandy. This marked the beginning of my professional journey, which included stints at clubs like Vannes OC and Nimes Olympique Club, honing my skills over the course of 14 years in the French football landscape.
Venturing Across the Atlantic:
After years of growth and success in France, I felt a calling to explore new horizons. Crossing the Atlantic, I joined Sporting KC in the MLS, where I enjoyed two eventful seasons, highlighted by a notable victory over Manchester United. Subsequently, I transitioned to the NY Red Bulls, where I had the privilege of sharing the field with icons of the game like Thierry Henry and Rafael Marquez, having previously played under the esteemed Pep Guardiola. They both brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team. Surrounded with players of that caliber, I had a renaissance in terms of my football philosophy, igniting a genuine passion for developing young talent and sharing the wisdom I had gained.
Cultural Immersion and International Representation:
Seeking fresh challenges and cultural immersion, I concluded my playing career in the Kingdom of Brunei, savoring the unique experience of football in a different corner of the world.
Additionally, I proudly represented my homeland as the captain of the Guadeloupe National Team in three Concacaf Gold Cups, leading the team to impressive showings and earning recognition with a spot in the tournament’s best eleven players.
The adult game:
In 2019 I became the Head-Coach of the Saint Martin men’s national team. I led the team to its first win in 18 years and obtained promotion to the League B of the Nations League in 2023. Within the Senior game, I quickly realised that the needs of the adult player were, in part, similar to those of the younger ones. Prioritising the individual and fostering the emotional and well-being of players proved to be the key element to success.
Mission and Vision:
My comprehensive approach to development encompasses technical, physical, intellectual, emotional, cognitive, and social facets, aimed at augmenting personality traits, talents, and aptitudes between the ages of 10 and 18. Through this, I aim to equip young players with the skills and mindset necessary to navigate challenges not only in their football journey but also in life beyond the pitch. My mission is to develop top football players who excel both technically and mentally, standing out for their adaptability, problem-solving abilities, work ethic, and positivity.
FIFA Talent Coach
Today, as a FIFA Talent Coach I can use my expertise to impact global football by giving every talent a chance through the FIFA TDS program. Working with Arsene Wenger as part of such an impactful organisation has granted me the best path to transform players.
“Your talent is God’s gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God.”
Leo Buscaglia