Meet cyril, coach at the french football academy !
Tell us about yourself
I grew up in France and came in the US at 19 years after receiving a scholarship to play for St Francis College in Brooklyn - I studied communication and sport management - When I’m not coaching I enjoy reading and playing sports (Tennis, running and soccer of course)
What type of coaching degree do you have and Where did you get it ?
I am currently enrolled in the UEFA A licence with the French Football Federation and also have the Master of Coaching from the Johan Cruyff Institute of Amsterdam. I also have a certification for mental preparation for athletes via LNF.
Tell us about your soccer player experience ?
I played soccer in France starting at 5 years old. I played for the academy of LILLE OSC ( U8 to U12 ) and VALENCIENNES FC U13 to U19 - I then went to St Francis College in Brooklyn NY to play at the NCAA Division I.
I was a central midfielder and center back.
When did you join the FFF ?
I coached for the French Football Academy from 2019 to 2021. I now train the U18 team
What is your coaching philosophy ?
I want my team to play an attractive football - a team that can keep possession and be dominant most of the game but a team that can also progress forward quickly when we recover the ball - I like a football with quick passing, players who combine often in 1-2 touch as much as possible until the final third. In the last third I want the players to dare and be creative. We should create chances thanks to lots of movement and the freedom to express our individual talent.
What is your favorite team and best player ?
My favorite team is Arsenal, and my favorite player is Zinédine Zidane. Allez les Bleus !