Garcia, 17, to play in Eredivisie.
T&T Newsday Reports.
Seventeen-year-old Shiva Boys’ Hindu College standout, Levi Garcia, has signed a pre-contract deal with Netherlands Premier Division Club, AZ Alkmaar.
At his official unveiling into the highly competitive Eredivise yesterday, Garcia was displayed by team technical director, Earnie Stewart, who assisted in the youngster penning a three-year deal with an option for a two-year extension. However, the young man will be unable to kick-start his professional career on the European stage until November 20, when he turns 18 years of age.
Speaking after his introduction yesterday, the ex-Central FC player hoped to be an inspiration to other young footballers in Trinidad and Tobago.
“I’m delighted to have signed my first overseas professional contract. It has not been an easy journey but I worked hard and I continued to believe. I want to thank everyone who supported me in Trinidad and Tobago, my family, my friends and my teammates and past coaches. I want to also thank my agent Humphrey Nijman and Dion Sosa for all their efforts and support,” Garcia said.
Former US international Stewart commented on Garcia, saying, “He has great speed, a good understanding and a powerful shot in his left foot. We see him mainly a promise for the future.”
Moving from Central FC to AZ was not a smooth deal, with TTFA general secretary Sheldon Phillips contacting the parties involved and recommending mediation. Garicia’s representatives met with an attorney and came to an agreement which allowed Levi to depart from Central FC.
Presently, AZ Alkmaar sit in fourth position on the Eredivise 2014/ 2015 League Standings. They currently trail league leaders PSV Eindhoven, Ajax and Feyoonard respectively. Once they maintain a position within the top four finishers at the end of the season, Garcia may be able to experience UEFA Champions League football for his debut season.
The young man has already represented top-flight local team T&TEC, played two years of Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL), represented the red, white and black in Under-17 and Under-20 duty and was later signed to Central FC.
Garcia alongside St Ann’s Rangers player Kadeem Corbin visited the Dutch club last year to undergo trials but is the lone representative selected thus far.
