Academy Dreams vs The Reality

NXTLVL Footballer

In this episode of The NXTLVL Footballer Podcast, we explore the exciting yet challenging journey of pursuing a football dream in Europe.

We’ll walk you through the realities young players and their families face — from leaving home to adapting to a new culture and handling the pressure to perform. But while there are obstacles, the rewards far outweigh the challenges.

Using Carson’s story as an example, we share how his move to Portugal transformed his football journey. From joining Estoril Praia’s Elite Academy to training twice a day under top-level coaches, Carson’s growth both on and off the pitch is a testament to the incredible opportunities available in European football.

We also highlight one of Carson’s proudest moments — his invitation to train at the Portuguese National Training Centre, helping Portugal’s Senior Women’s Team prepare for a match against England. This unforgettable experience showed Carson what’s possible when dedication meets opportunity.

In this episode, we provide practical insights for parents considering this path for their young footballer. We discuss important questions families must ask before committing, from emotional readiness to financial planning and understanding FIFA regulations.

We also recognize that not every family can relocate together. As parents who were fortunate to move with Carson, we share tips for supporting your young footballer from afar, building resilience, and ensuring they have the tools to thrive.

If you’re exploring European football for your child, this episode offers inspiration, guidance, and the reassurance that — while the road isn’t always easy — the journey is incredibly rewarding.

✅ Follow NXTLVLFootballer for more insights and resources.

✅ Follow CRJ Footballer to watch Carson’s journey unfold.

✅ Download The Ultimate Guide to European Football Academies for step-by-step support.

www.nxtlvlfootballer.com

www.crjfootballer.com