Interview with Aleksi Stanislavov – Union Vrede FC's first new signing for the 2025 season

The 2025 season kicks off with fresh energy! We are proud to present our first official signing for the new futsal season: Aleksi Stanislavov. A strong personality with plenty of experience and a huge passion for the game. Here is what Aleksi told us in his first official interview for Union Vrede FC:

🔹 Hello Aleksi! Tell us a bit more about yourself. Where were you born, how long have you lived in Belgium and when did you start playing sport?

Hello Union Vrede Gent fans! My name is Aleksi Stanislavov and I was born in Levski, a town in the Pleven region of Bulgaria. My family and I have been living in Belgium for 17 years. Since I was a child I've had a passion for sport – I played football in the square every day, often on my own, and that's how I developed my own style of play. I've now been focused exclusively on football for 14 years.

🔹 How did your passion for futsal begin?

It actually started by chance. I was playing in a tournament with friends, and after one of the matches a coach came up to me and asked whether I played anywhere. At the time I didn't, it was just for fun. He invited me for a trial, and that's how I started at Cimbom Ledeberg (3rd provincial division, a Turkish club). Two years later I moved to ARB Hamme (2nd national division), where I played five strong seasons until the team folded. After that I played for Gent City (3rd provincial division).

🔹 What is your futsal experience, and how would you describe your playing style?

I play calmly and with confidence. I like to distribute the play, control the ball and set the tempo. I'm equally comfortable with both feet, which gives me an advantage. And my favourite moment is without doubt the 1-on-1 duel – that's what I enjoy most.

🔹 How did you hear about Union Vrede?

I have good friends who currently play for Union Vrede. I often went to their matches to support them. At some point I just felt that I wanted to be part of this team too. I spoke with them and with people from the club, and everything happened quickly and naturally.

🔹 Was it an easy decision to join Union Vrede?

Absolutely. I already knew the atmosphere and a number of the guys, and I immediately felt welcome and motivated.

🔹 What is your biggest dream in futsal?

My goal this season is to have a strong year with Union Vrede and finish in the top 3. I want to help the team win promotion to the 2nd provincial division. I can't wait for the season to start!

🔹 What do you wish for yourself in your debut season with the club?

First and foremost: good health and staying injury-free. If we stay fit, I'm convinced that as a team we'll have a very strong season.

🔹 What would you like to say to the team and the fans?

To the team: good luck, a strong start and as many wins as possible! We'll fight together, for each other. To the fans: be there at every match! Your support gives us strength and inspiration. When you're in the stands, it feels like we have an extra man on the pitch!

🔜 Aleksi will soon make his official debut in Union Vrede FC's black-and-yellow shirt! 🖤💛

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