Our Academy is The Home of Future Champions
Naples City FC Academy is a foundation that improves lives using sport to educate in values, integrate and contribute to the development of society, in addition to being a universal benchmark in the use of sport as an educational tool and for social integration.
Our Objective
At Naples City FC Academy we work to create the perfect environment for training, development, and competition — a true home where players grow both on and off the pitch. Our goal is to prepare every player for the next step in their soccer journey through professional training, personalized development, and a strong foundation of values.
Our Mission and Philosophy
At Naples City FC Academy, our mission is to deliver a world-class soccer education while shaping well-rounded individuals.
We focus on building not only skilled athletes, but future leaders grounded in strong human values.
We are guided by these core principles:
Focus
We provide a training program led by globally experienced coaches, ensuring each session maximizes player development.
Orientation
Our programs are tailored to support both teams and individuals, making sure every player receives the guidance and resources they need to thrive.
Experience
We offer international soccer experiences, giving players unforgettable opportunities to grow and compete beyond their local environment.
Coaches
Our technical team is composed of certified, passionate coaches who specialize in youth development and elite player progression.
Values
We cultivate essential values such as teamwork, respect, and discipline, while fostering the complete growth of players both as athletes and as individuals.
Our Staff
At Naples City FC Academy, our coaching staff is deeply rooted in the Spanish training methodology — widely regarded as the best youth soccer development system in the world.
Our programs are led by highly qualified coaches with international experience, bringing a global perspective and proven expertise to every training session. Their commitment ensures that each player receives world-class instruction in a supportive and challenging environment.
Aitor Lario
Girls Director and Boys Director U15-U19
Head coach u16 girls
With a background as a former professional player in Spain, Aitor continues to bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to our academy.
He holds a UEFA Pro License, a Master’s degree in High Performance Soccer, and is a certified Scouting and Game Analysis Specialist. He also earned an Associate Degree in Physical and Sports Activities, giving him a complete understanding of player development.
Aitor has extensive coaching and director experience at the highest levels in Spain, and for the past 7 years he has coached and directed programs across the U.S. in top leagues such as ECNL, DPL, EAL, and UPSL.
Among his many accomplishments, Aitor was recognized as the EDP Girls Full-Sided Coach of the Year for the 2024 season and led his team to win the U18 Presidents Cup Regional Far West Championship in 2023.
Fran Escalzo
BOYS Director U6-U14
Head coach u12 & U14 boys
Fran brings a lifetime of soccer experience and leadership to our academy.
He holds a UEFA Pro License, USSF National B License, and a USSF Director of Coaching License. He also earned an Associate Degree in Physical and Sports Activities, giving him a deep understanding of player development both on and off the field.
Fran’s coaching journey includes time at two of the world’s most prestigious academies — FC Barcelona Academy and the Real Madrid Foundation.
With 20 years of coaching experience, including 12 years in Spain at the highest levels of youth soccer, and the past 8 years in the U.S. serving also as a Technical Director, Fran’s knowledge and passion are key in shaping our players’ futures.
Samu Marquez
Head Coach U9
Julian Cisneros
Head Coach U10
Marc Torrelles
Head Coach U11
Jhan Franco
Head Coach U19
Our Facilities
Naples City FC Academy trains at Paradise Coast Sports Complex, one of the premier soccer venues in Southwest Florida.
Our players benefit from world-class infrastructure designed to support high-level training and competition.
9 full-size synthetic turf soccer fields, built to FIFA standards
3,500-seat multipurpose stadium for matches and tournaments
Professional LED lighting for evening training sessions
High-quality playing surfaces, maintained for year-round use
Secure, family-friendly environment with easy field access
Located at 3940 City Gate Blvd N, Naples, FL 34117, our facilities offer everything young athletes need to develop, compete, and excel.