When is the best time to come over?

Now let’s talk about timing - when is the best time to come over to the UK to play?

In Australia, the system is very structured. There are really only two windows to move: one from October to the end of January or early February, and another smaller window in June for about two to three weeks. That’s because the NPL season runs from late February to early or mid-September, so transfers are tied to that schedule.

In the UK, Non-League is a different story. There are no transfer windows in the same way. You can leave and sign whenever you want, which gives a lot of flexibility for players coming from abroad.

Now, the most ideal time and one I would highly recommend is to come in July, when pre-season starts. You get a full pre-season, settle into the squad, and hit the ground running. But honestly, because the turnover in Non-League is so high, there are still opportunities

three, four, or even five months into the season. If you’re good enough and perform consistently, clubs are always looking for players to strengthen their squad.

So the takeaway? While July is perfect, don’t let a later arrival hold you back. In Non-League football, opportunities are ongoing — if you’re ready to play and show what you can do, clubs will notice, no matter when you arrive.