If you're reading this, it means you’re considering an incredible, life-changing opportunity for your young footballer. We can’t tell you how excited we are that other families like ours are embarking on this journey. Whether your child is moving abroad on their own or your family is making the transition together, it’s an experience you will never regret. We certainly don’t.

Looking back, relocating from Canada to Portugal (and London) was one of the biggest decisions we’ve ever made—but also one of the most rewarding. We have watched Carson grow as a footballer, adapt to a new culture, and embrace the challenges of European football with an unwavering commitment. Just recently, he was invited to train at the Portuguese National Training Center with the Portugal Women’s Senior National Team as they prepared for a match against England's Lionesses. What an experience—training at the same facilities where Cristiano Ronaldo, João Félix, and Pepe have trained. Opportunities like this simply do not exist in North America, and we are grateful every day that Carson has had this chance.

We created NXTLVL Footballer because we wished we had a guide like this when we started our journey. The process is overwhelming—visas, FIFA regulations, academy selection, finances, and cultural adjustments. But it is possible, and we’re here to help make it easier for you.

We hope this guide gives you the clarity, confidence, and direction you need to make your child’s football dreams come true. The road is not always easy, but the rewards—both on and off the pitch—are immeasurable.

We can’t wait to see what your child accomplishes on their journey. Welcome to NXTLVL Footballer!

Michael & Elise