Former Red Star FC player Samy Arar-Micouraud joins Grove United

Samy  Arar-Micouraud at Red Star Training Stadium

Former Red Star FC player Samy Arar-Micouraud has officially joined Grove United. His addition brings a wealth of European football experience and a decorated resume to the club. This move also strengthens the connection between Red Star FC and Grove United, signaling an exciting new chapter for both clubs.

Samy started his soccer career at the Red Star FC pre-academy, later joining the Red Star FC Academy. Throughout this time, Samy developed through the pro team’s academy player pathway and competed in several national and international tournaments. 

Samy Arar-Micouraud garnered attention through the Grove United International Pro and College Combine, an experience he speaks of with great enthusiasm. Reflecting on the event, he shared, “The showcase was very interesting for European players because it provides the opportunity to access universities and professional clubs. I was very surprised at the levels I saw during the showcase. As a French player who played at a professional club like Red Star FC, where I absorbed the entire culture of French football, I was impressed to see several players here who are now part of the professional world.”

This endorsement underscores the combine’s growing reputation as a platform for bridging international football talent and opportunities.

Samy  Arar-Micouraud vs PSG Academy at PSG Centre De Formation in Paris

Samy Arar-Micouraud has joined the Grove United NPSL 1st team as a center midfielder and is set to play an integral role in building a championship-contending squad. Grove United President Justin Grove expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Samy Arar-Micouraud is an intelligent and dynamic midfielder with the exceptional ability to dictate the flow of the game. His extensive European experience will be a significant asset to the team, introducing a heightened level of professionalism and a deeper understanding of the game to the group. I expect Samy’s presence to elevate both the team’s performance and its competitive edge.”

Samy’s addition to the NPSL squad marks a key step in Grove United’s quest for success this season.

Samy has expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm following his arrival at the club, stating, “A big thank you to Grove United, who welcomed me with open arms. I am very happy to have participated in this adventure with Grove United and to have had the opportunity to play alongside American players. A special thank you to coach Justin Grove for his trust, hospitality, and professionalism at such an intense football level.”

Red Star FC is a professional French club competing in Ligue 2. The club is one of the oldest in France and has produced professional players at all levels of European football. Samy moving to Grove United has strengthened the connection between the two clubs, allowing for player movements between the clubs for ID and soccer development opportunities. “I am excited to continue strengthening our connection with Red Star FC, providing valuable opportunities for players from both clubs to experience diverse football environments, broaden their cultural awareness, and showcase their talents on an international stage,” says Grove.

In 2023, Grove United standouts Lucas Spiegel and Onesime Muepu traveled to Paris, France, for a trial with Red Star FC. This remarkable opportunity allowed Spiegel and Muepu to experience the game at a higher level, gaining valuable insight and exposure in a professional European environment while showcasing their talents on an international stage. The trial also served as a cornerstone in reinforcing the bond between the two clubs, setting the stage for future collaboration in player identification, development, and movement opportunities. 

International Pro & College Combine Recap!

Day #1 of the International Pro & College Combine

The International Pro & College Combine was held on January 10-12. 160 players were in attendance, taking advantage of the skill-elevating resources provided. 8 pro clubs and 5 colleges were present, which was significant for aspiring players seeking pro-development and exposure to larger markets. 

The combine featured advanced technical sessions, possession and tactical exercises, and matches granting players a platform to showcase their ability in varied environments. 

A standout feature of the event was the panel sessions, where coaches engaged directly with players and parents. Discussions centered on the demands of next-level competition, what coaches look for in aspiring players, and the qualities required to succeed in both collegiate and professional soccer.

Arsenal FC Academy's Josh Pugh, working with players

Notable contributors included Gulf United FC’s Junior Mutumene, Arsenal FC Academy’s Josh Push, and USL Championship team Miami FC’s Marcello Alves. These esteemed coaches offered professional training and invaluable insights into the pathways to achieving success at the highest levels of the sport through both on-field sessions and informative panels.

College coaches representing Virginia Commonwealth University, Hampden-Sydney College, and several other universities provided players with detailed information about recruitment and what is expected concerning athletics and academics for players planning to obtain a roster spot at the collegiate level. 

Professional Clubs in attendance (8):

Gulf United FC - Dubai 1st Division

• Coach: Junior Mutumene

Red Star FC - Ligue 2

• Coach: Vincent Doukantie

Arsenal FC Academy - England 

• Coach: Josh Pugh

Miami FC - USL Championship

• Coach: Marcello Alves 

Georgia FC - NISA

• Coach: Joao Garcia 

Parma Calcio 1913 - Italian 2nd Division Serie B

• Coach: Francesca Lanotte

Toluca FC - Mexico 1st Division / Volta Redonda FC - Brazil 2nd Division

• Coach: Rodrigo Cruz

Colleges in Attendance (5):

VCU Mens NCAA Division I

Virginia State Mens & Womens NCAA Division II

Hampden-Sydney College Mens NCAA Division III

North Carolina Wesleyan University Mens NCAA Division III

Randolph-Macon College Womens NCAA Division III

Despite challenging weather conditions, the players demonstrated commitment to performing at a high level. The elite coaching staff showed great adaptability, delivering sessions that kept players engaged, motivated, and continuously learning throughout.

The next International Combine will take place from July 28–31, offering players another exceptional opportunity to immerse themselves in a development environment that mirrors the professional level. This event also provides a platform for players to showcase their talents in front of both college and professional coaches.

Don’t miss your chance to elevate your game and take your skills to the next level!

Refer to our social media pages for additional highlights of the International Pro & College Combine!

Grove United Enters Partnership With Pro Club, Gulf United FC!

Grove United has entered into an official partnership with Pro Club, Gulf United FC! Gulf United Football Club is a professional football club in the UAE First Division. Renowned for developing young talent, the club stands out as one of the leading football brands in the region. Gulf United regularly participates in international exhibition matches against top professional teams, including Newcastle United and Al Ittihad FC.

The partnership will enable Grove United players to be directly scouted by Gulf United Pro coaches for the chance to sign professionally with the club. Gulf United participated in the Grove United International Showcase in August, where three players were selected for further evaluation. Notably, Grove United's top goal scorer, Will Collins, was signed for the 2025 season and will officially join the team in January.

Will Collins breaking away from defender before scoring for Grove United NPSL.

“Our aim is to nurture high-level players and provide them with opportunities to advance to the next level. This partnership with Gulf United creates a direct pathway for our players to reach the professional ranks abroad,” says club president Justin Grove.

Gulf United has established a reputation for helping players advance to top clubs across the world. In the last two years alone, they have successfully facilitated the signing of over 20 players to higher-level clubs in both the UAE and Europe. This indicates that Grove United players who join Gulf United are not only stepping into a professional club but also gaining access to a pathway that enables them to reach even greater achievements.

In addition to providing opportunities for Grove United players in Dubai, Gulf United players will join the Grove United Pro setup during the first team's NPSL season. These Gulf United professional players will contribute their overseas experience to the training and match environment at Grove United. This collaboration will enable them to be assessed by U.S. coaches throughout the season and gain exposure at our International Combines, which occur every six months with the participation of U.S. college coaches and international professional clubs.

“Following multiple conversations with Gulf United Owner, Jordan Shields, and Head of Operations, Junior Mutumene, it became evident that we share similar values regarding player development and facilitating opportunities for athletes to advance to the next level. Gulf United's dedication to excellence, demonstrated by their success in results and player movement in recent seasons and the world class facilities they offer players, reflects their alignment with our vision for player development. This partnership expands global opportunities for players of both clubs to develop, showcase their talent, and progress to the next level,” says Grove.

Gulf United FC is attending the January International Combine on January 10-12, 2025 at River City Sportsplex. Want the opportunity to be evaluated by Gulf United FC? Register today: https://form.jotform.com/243093890338564