Layla Habib prepares to travel to Arsenal, Benfica and Sporting Lisbon

A budding Matildas star is set to chase her European dream when she follows in the footsteps of Cristiano Ronaldo later this year.

Layla Habib is a young soccer star on the rise out of Melbourne. The 12-year-old is set to have trials at four different European clubs inc Cristiano Ronaldo (Lisbane club where he was first noticed) in September as she looks to follow in the footsteps of her hero Sam Kerr. She is around 2 years ahead of her age group Layla plays for Oakleigh Cannons. Picture: Tim Carrafa

A budding Melbourne soccer star is set to follow in the footsteps of Cristiano Ronaldo when she embarks on a European adventure later this year.

Oakleigh Cannons young gun Layla Habib has been invited to trial at four European clubs in September including a stop at Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon — the breeding ground for one of the game’s greatest players of all-time.

The 12-year-old will also spend time with Benfica while in Portugal before making the trip to England where trials at Arsenal — the home of Matildas including Caitlin Foord and Steph Catley — and Brentford await.

Since having the round ball at her feet at age five, Habib has spent time with National Premier League clubs including Dandenong City before move to the Cannons last season.

During her time with both clubs, she has been under the watchful eye of coach Luis Miguel Gorgulho — whose connections back in Europe helped the future Matilda earn a shot many can only dream of.

Layla Habib with her coach Luis Gorgulho. Picture: Tim Carrafa

The youngster is also a futsal champion having played at the national championships held in Melbourne earlier this season.

“I’m really excited to go overseas playing soccer makes me really happy,” Habib said.

“When I play indoor, it’s more about using my skills and when I play outdoor I’m able to use my skills a lot more.

“I just love playing.”

Matildas captain Sam Kerr is one of the Habib’s favourite players and there’s every chance she’ll follow a similar path to one of the world’s best.

Her father Abby believes her best position is on the wing but she has also shown an ability to play in the midfield.

Habib is also part of the National Training Centre which is part of the pathway to national teams at junior and senior level.

Layla Habib will travel to Europe in September. Picture: Tim Carrafa

“One of the best parts about Luis’ coaching is that he plays everyone in different positions to teach the kids,” Abby said.

“Layla is playing in the midfield at the National Training Centre because of her ability on the ball. I’ve heard really good things about all of the clubs we will be visiting — especially Brentford’s women’s program.

“This NPL season will be the first time Layla has played against girls as well, she’s played against boys up until this point and the season is only a couple of weeks away now.”

If you want to help Layla and her European adventure, you can donate here.