Perspectives From the Pitch: Introducing Florian Valot

The Miami FC midfielder is sharing his personal story with the hope of inspiring others

Perspectives From the Pitch is a new section of Touchline Talk featuring pieces written by players themselves discussing what playing the sport at the highest level looks like and providing insight into who they are as people.

My name is Florian Valot, a 29-year-old former Major League Soccer player for the New York Red Bulls and FC Cincinnati, and current Miami FC player in the United Soccer League. All my life, I always have dreamed of being a professional footballer. I was born in France before traveling the world and finally settling here in the United States eight years ago.

Growing up, I was old enough to witness my country win their first-ever World Cup in 1998. At that moment, I knew this was what I was meant to be doing. But the road hasn't always been easy. I went through highs and lows, almost giving up on my dream.

My first real taste of competitiveness in the sport happened in Scotland, where I spent three years winning trophies and being scouted by some of the English Premier League and Scottish Premiership teams. When I got back to France, I got to experience life in the top academies − at Paris Saint Germain first and then Monaco.

After being released, I was offered the opportunity to study and play in the U.S. I decided to leave everything and committed to a D1 college in New Jersey — Rider University — where I graduated from with a degree in business administration. During my senior year, I got invited to a private combine by the local MLS team New York Red Bulls that turned into signing my first professional contract.

Florian Valot in action for Miami FC. (Photo by Justin Garcia)

I have been making a living out of my childhood dream for almost six years now. Even though my journey to the pros is definitely not typical or the most straightforward, I do not regret anything. I have experienced and learned so much from winning championships, being released, battling mental health and overcoming injuries.

I have decided to share part of my story − whether professional or personal related − to empower young and aspiring athletes to pursue their dream and prepare them to what they might face. You’ll learn about my journey from Europe’s top academies to MLS, the disappointment and failures that I have faced and how I overcame them, the mental aspect of the game and what it takes to succeed.

This is not only for young aspiring athletes, but also for parents and relatives to understand how the process works and how to support your child. I want it to be conversational where you can reach out to me with ideas or topic you would like to hear about.

I am excited to be part of this project and looking forward to writing my first few pieces.

Flo