🎙 Episode 12 – From Player to Pro Developer: Inside Belgium’s Elite Training with Alessio Carlone

The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me

In this episode, we sit down with Alessio Carlone, a former professional footballer and co-founder of FPD Academy in Genk, Belgium. Alessio shares his inspiring journey from signing his first pro contract at 16, navigating international club moves, and ultimately being forced to retire early due to a genetic heart condition. But Alessio didn’t stop there—he channeled his passion into building a next-level training academy that focuses on both the technical and human development of players.

🎧 We discuss:

• Alessio’s rise through KRC Genk’s academy and professional clubs in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Romania
• The tough decision to retire and how that experience shaped his mission for FPD Academy
• What sets FPD Academy apart from others across Europe
• Training methods that develop not just athletes, but people—including the use of innovative tools like reflex glasses and GPS data
• Why mindset, hunger, and having the right people in your corner matters more than geography
• Alessio’s mentorship of rising talents, including his longtime connection with Dante Vanzeir, who joins this episode in a surprise appearance!

🔥 Dante Vanzeir jumps on to share his experience training with Alessio and why FPD Academy is one of the best environments for young players looking to elevate their game. Dante is a professional Belgium Football players who plays for K.A.A. Gent and the Belgium national team. Dante played for the New York Red Bulls for two seasons and was an integral part of the Red Bulls MLS Cup run.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to succeed in Europe, this is the episode for you.

📲 Be sure to follow:

• ⁠@alessiocarlone⁠
• ⁠@fpdacademy⁠
• ⁠@krcgenkofficial⁠
• ⁠@dantevanzeir31⁠
• 
  

📍Coming to Belgium? Don’t miss Alessio’s recommendations for training, food, and local culture in Genk—just two hours from Amsterdam.