Free players converge at UNFP Football Club for unique pre‑season

The UNFP Football Club in France has assembled a squad of 26 unattached professional players for the upcoming season, offering a pre‑season platform after the Free Pro Players FC project ended in 2024 due to funding cuts. The initiative aims to keep former Belgian Pro League talents fit and ready for new contracts.

Until 2024, Free Pro Players FC provided support to free agents, helping players such as Nill De Pauw, Derrick Tshimanga, Jelle Van Damme, Damien Marcq, Geoffrey Mujangi‑Bia and Renato Neto maintain fitness and secure new clubs. The programme ceased when financial backing disappeared.

In France, the UNFP Football Club presented its 26‑player roster for the new campaign, describing it as the 36th edition of the project. In defence, the squad includes Fabrice N'Sakala, the former Anderlecht left‑back who is now 35 and was not renewed by FC Annecy.

Florentin Pogba, also 35 and the brother of Paul Pogba, left Virton last summer for Stade Poitevin in National 1, the fourth tier of French football, where his contract also expired. His experience adds depth to the group of free professionals.

Vincent Koziello, a former Nice prospect, departed Ostende and surprised by moving to Nepal, but he still suffers an Achilles tendon rupture. The UNFP Football Club will rely on him for its friendly matches.

The 26 players will wear the UNFP Football Club shirt together, sharing a pre‑season that blends training, strict requirements and a human adventure unlike any other. Their collective effort aims to showcase readiness for future club opportunities.