Echoes of Greatness: The Rise of a Global Football Sensation

However, any rating system will inevitably be subjective.

Different evaluators will see various strengths and weaknesses in a player, making it impossible to assign identical scores.

For players who have performed consistently well, such as Henk Dimer, the coaching staff's opinions are relatively consistent, and they typically give him high ratings. However, for Yang Yang, the coaching staff's opinions are clearly divided.

Yang Yang is a player with extreme strengths and weaknesses. His strong areas are excellent, but his weak areas are very poor. This disparity leads some coaches to rate him very low, while others rate him quite high, causing controversy.

The Almere youth team has just introduced Ajax's semester evaluation system and lacks a mature mechanism for evaluation and rating. Head coach Johnny Rep anticipated this issue and invited Van Gaal to act as a technical advisor. Essentially, Van Gaal's assessment would serve as a benchmark for all coaches.

When the staff debated Yang Yang's evaluation results, Johnny Rep presented Van Gaal's evaluation of Yang Yang.

"One-on-one attack and defense, psychological qualities, running response, ten-meter sprint, thirty-meter sprint, explosiveness, and stamina..." Dick Vanpeor read from the evaluation sheet.

"Mr. Van Gaal rates him over nine points in these eight areas. His psychological quality, off-the-ball running, and one-on-one attacking even received a full ten."

Everyone listened to Vanpeor and focused their attention on the scorecard on the desk.

In addition to the eight segments mentioned above, Yang Yang also scored over eight points in categories like vision and purpose, organizational coordination, as well as many smaller segments such as explosiveness, dribbling, and flexibility, which are all very high scores.

However, in areas like passing, first touch, shooting, heading, ball control, and integration with other players, Yang Yang's ratings were less impressive. Most of these segments were rated around the passing line, with only his first touch receiving a failing score of five points.

Ultimately, Van Gaal, a world-famous coach with extensive experience in youth training, provided an evaluation that was thorough and objective.

Johnny Rep felt both admiration and helplessness.

He knew that Van Gaal appreciated Yang Yang and wanted to help Yang Yang secure a high score, making it more convincing for him to be promoted to the first team next season. However, Van Gaal, known for his integrity, did not show any favoritism. He gave scores that accurately reflected the player's strengths and weaknesses.

In European youth training, coaches often use the "barrel theory" to assess a player's overall quality, focusing on the shortest stave—the weakest link. To reach the level of the European Professional League, a player must have no significant weaknesses. Even defensive players must possess adequate offensive skills, and all their skills need to be at least above average. To play for top clubs, the requirements are even more stringent.

While many defensive players are often criticized by fans for their poor technique, they still possess a range of skills that allow them to perform well in various situations.

This is why players like Yang Yang, who have significant disparities between their strengths and weaknesses, are often not highly regarded.

In the remarks column at the end of the player's rating table, Van Gaal suggested that, in addition to the player's current rating results, the player's progress over the past period and their potential should also be considered.

This suggestion applies to all players but is undoubtedly the most beneficial for Yang Yang.

Everyone looked at Johnny Rep, eager to hear the head coach's opinion.

"Now that Louis has given his opinion, we must respect his professional advice. My idea is to use the performance and progress of the last two months as a basis, add small segments, and have everyone evaluate again," Johnny Rep said.

Everyone nodded in agreement, recognizing the fairness and wisdom of this approach. They took the scoring sheets back and prepared to re-evaluate the ratings, considering both recent performance and potential.

...

...

Although it was June, the temperature in the Netherlands remained relatively cool. Even at midday, the maximum temperature was below 20 degrees Celsius.

Yang Yang trained for a while at the skate park. After having lunch at Uncle Shen Ming's Chinese restaurant, he returned home for a midday break.

Upon entering the Dream training system, Zax's first task was to summarize and analyze the morning's evaluation, pointing out Yang Yang's mistakes through video playback.

Some mistakes were due to his basic skills not being good enough, some were caused by his teammates' unsatisfactory passing, and others were from his on-the-spot errors. These were the aspects he needed to focus on.

"From today, the training on the ball can be reduced, but the training on the left foot should continue to be strengthened," Zax instructed.

This statement from Zax was also a validation of Yang Yang's hard work over the past months. The prospect of reducing the monotonous ball training made Yang Yang very happy, as he had almost grown tired of it.

"Based on your recent performances, you've essentially mastered the one-on-one breakthrough, especially the step-over and feints, which you've become quite adept at," Zax began. "For the next period, I suggest focusing on strengthening two key aspects."

"Which aspects?" Yang Yang asked.

"While continuing to refine your step-over skill, you should also train in several other moves from [Ronaldo's step-over], and strengthen your one-against-many breakthrough training."

Yang Yang nodded in agreement. In his recent matches, he had often faced situations where he was up against multiple defenders, but he would usually opt to pass the ball instead of taking them on by himself. He knew that he wasn't yet proficient at handling several defenders simultaneously, so passing had been the safest strategy.

He understood that as his role as the team's right winger developed, he would encounter more one-to-many situations. It was indeed necessary to intensify his training in this area.

"Let me show you some videos first," Zax said.

As Zax's voice fell, the screen immediately switched to display familiar footage for Yang Yang.

It showed several instances from the inter-school competition where he had attempted a one-against-two breakthrough and failed.

"If you look closely," Zax said, "you'll notice that during these unsuccessful breakthroughs, you consistently made the same mistake: focusing too much on the first defender and ignoring the second player either behind or next to him."

As Zax spoke, the video replayed the scenes in slow motion, highlighting the crucial moments.

"After using the step-over to break through, you often take a big step forward to accelerate, aiming to quickly distance yourself from the defender. However, this often results in the ball moving out of your control range. A slightly experienced defender can then easily intercept the ball, even if you continue running, as they can quickly position themselves between you and the ball."

Yang Yang nodded, understanding the point. "The key is to maintain control of the ball after breaking through the first opponent."

"Exactly. That's what you need to focus on in your training."

Yang Yang was well aware of his current issue. His step-over was effective, but it often led to losing control of the ball, especially after a high-speed breakaway. He needed to learn how to keep the ball under control post-breakthrough. This skill would also help him continue mastering [Ronaldo's step-over] star skill.

The reason was simple: one of the key advantages of Ronaldo's step-over was maintaining ball control at high speeds.

Zax soon set up the training ground.

It was a circular area marked with a white line, about 20 meters in diameter. Scattered randomly within the circle were numerous training cones, each spaced relatively close to the others.

Zax's training requirement was for Yang Yang to dribble into the area and accelerate, maneuvering to avoid and get past the red cones. Neither he nor the ball could touch any of the cones; doing so would mean failing the drill.

This initial setup was just for familiarization and warm-up. As Yang Yang progressed, the cones would be placed closer together, and the difficulty would increase. Yang Yang's speed of execution would need to improve significantly. Eventually, real people would simulate defenders for Yang Yang to practice against, but this would only happen after he successfully completed the initial stages of the training.

"This is much harder than ball control drills," Yang Yang remarked, looking at the challenging setup before him. Despite his words, his eyes sparkled with excitement.

Compared to the tedious first-touch training and ball control with juggling, this type of training was not only more engaging but also had substantial practical value for actual matches. It mimicked real game scenarios and would undoubtedly enhance Yang Yang's playing skills.

This echoed what Van Gaal had said earlier: ball control is fundamental, but it doesn't necessarily make you a better player.

With a decisive clap of his hands and a determined grin, Yang Yang said, "Let's get started."

...

...

The two-hour lunch break went by quickly.

Yang Yang emerged from the Dream training system feeling revitalized. He washed his face and headed out, trotting to the skate park to practice his basic skills against the wall, focusing particularly on his first touch and ball control.

Time flew by during the monotonous training session, and by nearly four o'clock, Yang Yang made his way north to the Almere training ground.

By this time, the entire youth team was already gathered outside the changing room, anxiously waiting for the coaching staff to post the morning's results.

This announcement included not only the morning test results but also a combination of weekday training performances, match results, and school grades, culminating in an overall score.

The club's requirements for school grades were not exceptionally high, so there was no special advantage for top students like Yang Yang. As long as they met the club's standards and passed with a decent grade, they would fulfill this part of the evaluation.

Yang Yang was uncertain about his overall score because he was acutely aware of his weaknesses. His basic skills, still in development, couldn't yet match those of players like Henk Dimer, who had over a decade of experience and training. Yang Yang had to rely on his game performance and his standout qualities to earn points. However, he feared that his average scores wouldn't provide a significant edge.

After all, players like Henk Dimer had built a solid foundation through many years of dedicated effort.

When Yang Yang arrived at the training ground, everyone had already gathered anxiously around the locker room of the training building, awaiting the results.

Yang Yang shook his head, observing that many of his teammates seemed overly nervous, causing a sense of chaos in the atmosphere.

While he wasn't without worries himself, Yang Yang had already given his best in the evaluation. Whatever the outcome—whether he made it into the top three or not—he had resolved to accept it.

This resolve led him to head straight to the skate park after the evaluation.

"How are you feeling?" Henk Dimer, not among the crowd, turned to ask Yang Yang.

"I gave it my all," Yang Yang replied with a hint of fatigue in his voice.

He could see that Henk Dimer would likely secure the top position, which seemed only fitting given his exceptional skills. Even if Yang Yang wasn't his closest friend, he respected and acknowledged Henk Dimer's capabilities.

"Don't worry too much about elimination at this stage. The coaching staff's intentions are clear about your future," Henk Dimer reassured him. "Instead of dwelling on the assessment, focus on the amateur games this summer."

With a gleam of determination, Henk Dimer continued, "I aim to challenge myself in the amateur competitions and strive to stand out at the Talent Day selection event in August."

This aspiration wasn't just Henk Dimer's; it was shared by everyone, including Johnny Rep.

If one of the top three in the assessment is chosen at the Ajax Talent Day selection event, it would undoubtedly be a significant boost for Almere. It could attract more talented players and further elevate the team's youth training standards. Such players embody the success of youth development.

Perhaps Yang Yang's attitude had recently shifted. He didn't resent Henk Dimer's comments; instead, he found himself in agreement.

After all, professional athletes are driven by ambition. Without ambition, progress would stagnate.

Henk Dimer's confidence was also apparent, prompting Yang Yang to reflect inwardly. Wasn't he, too, harboring similar aspirations?

As they conversed, they noticed head coach Johnny Rep and assistant Dick Vanpoer descending from their office upstairs. The entire team was tense and eager, even Henk Dimer showing signs of nervousness, though Yang Yang remained composed throughout.

Both coaches smiled, attempting to ease the players' anticipation.

Johnny Rep spoke first, delivering a motivational speech. He emphasized maintaining confidence and determination regardless of the assessment outcome. He encouraged resilience, urging the players not to give up even if results weren't as expected.

"Even if you're not selected immediately, our coaching staff and scouts will continue monitoring your progress. With persistence, there's always a path back to Almere," he assured.

However, everyone understood the challenges of reclaiming a spot once lost.

Dick Vanpoer proceeded to outline the overall assessment situation, highlighting that the coaching staff had introduced a new evaluation component based on Louis Van Gaal's recommendations, focusing on players' growth and potential over the recent period.

The final evaluation comprised 20 specific segments, and the addition of one more was considered routine, especially since Ajax's evaluation criteria evolve annually. Everyone took it in stride without much concern.

Observing their reactions, Vanpoer smiled and assured them that for transparency and fairness, all assessment results would be posted at the entrance to the dressing room for everyone to review. At present, he would only announce the top three rankings.

Similar to league promotions where the top teams garner most attention, the coaching staff had decided not to publicly disclose the names of the three players who didn't make the cut out of respect. Instead, these results would be communicated individually in private discussions.

This approach mirrored what Johnny Rep had consistently emphasized to Yang Yang in their private conversations.

"After the final assessment test, the coaching staff meticulously evaluated and combined regular training, competition performance, social conduct, school grades, and other factors. Following a comprehensive assessment, we have selected the top three performers of this evaluation."

Dick Vanpoer paused, his gaze sweeping across the assembled players. His expression gave no indication, leaving everyone to speculate on who the top three might be. Henk Dimer and others exuded confidence, visibly assured of their positions.

"In third place for the overall evaluation..."

Vanpoer's announcement hung in the air, holding the room in suspense. Even Yang Yang, standing on the periphery of the crowd, couldn't suppress his nerves, sensing he might be the likely candidate for this spot.

"But will it be him?"

"Nick!"

Vanpoer's declaration prompted a jubilant leap from Nick, the starting right back, amidst cheers from his teammates. Placing third secured him a coveted spot at the Ajax Talent Day.

Congratulations poured in, with many teasingly requesting autographs from future Ajax star players. Nick beamed with joy, promising to fulfill their requests.

Upon hearing Nick's name called for third place, Yang Yang felt a momentary pang of disappointment. He knew his own performance and realistically anticipated landing in third due to his deficient basic skills and critical evaluation. Yet, he hadn't expected Nick to clinch the spot.

With Henk Dimer's assured placement and fierce competition among the two strikers, Yang Yang acknowledged his slim chances.

Nevertheless, he drew a deep breath and swiftly recalibrated his mindset.

More than a month ago, Yang Yang had worried about his place in Almere, but now, assured of his position, he could focus on aiming for the top three spots.

His foremost goal was to strengthen his fundamentals swiftly and leverage his strengths.

Amidst the players' anticipation, Vanpoer gestured for quiet and proceeded to announce the next two positions.

Eyes darted between Henk Dimer and other standout performers, curious about who would secure the remaining spots.

"Second place in the overall rating... Henk!"

Vanpoer's declaration sparked another round of excitement.

Henk Dimer, upon hearing his name, appeared momentarily surprised but quickly rose to accept congratulations from his teammates.

Originally eyeing the top spot, coming in second exceeded Henk's expectations. Nevertheless, securing a spot at Ajax was still a significant achievement.

"Henk, your second-place ranking in this evaluation considers the additional assessment of your progress over the past period. There's room for improvement in this area, so continue working hard and focus on making strides by August," Vanpoer explained, offering Henk encouragement.

Henk had always been a pivotal figure in the team, the linchpin in midfield with undeniable talent. However, his recent performances, especially in critical matches like against Flevoland, had shown room for growth. His mood and public perception often hinged on these crucial performances.

After the match against Flevoland, Henk Dimer took his performance to heart and acknowledged that he hadn't shown much improvement recently.

"If it weren't for the lack of progress in those smaller segments, I might have secured first place. But I understand," Henk Dimer humbly admitted to Vanpoer. "I've decided with a few teammates that we'll participate in the summer amateur competition to further hone ourselves."

"Good decision, Henk," Coach John Rep chimed in with a smile. "That event provides invaluable experience, and we'll be closely watching your progress."

Almere's youth team had entered this competition before, but their results had been disappointing, often finishing near the bottom. With emerging talents like Henk Dimer, Nick, and the rising star Yang Yang, Rep believed they could show significant improvement this year.

Many players overheard this conversation. Some felt motivated by Henk Dimer's initiative, seeing it as a challenge to rise to his level. Others, however, understood their own limitations and didn't dare to volunteer themselves, feeling Henk didn't rate their skills highly enough.

Throughout the week, they trained together, fostering camaraderie and understanding among teammates who knew each other's strengths and weaknesses well.

After hearing Johnny Rep's words, Henk Dimer was indeed a bit disappointed to have secured only second place. However, his disappointment was tempered by his anticipation for the upcoming summer amateur competition. He looked forward to showcasing his skills, especially against formidable opponents.

"Okay, next we will announce the first place in this comprehensive evaluation," Vanpoer's voice broke the momentary silence, drawing everyone's attention back to him.

First place not only carried honor but also the final ticket to Ajax. Who would be the fortunate recipient?

Yang Yang didn't harbor much confidence. If Henk Dimer could only manage second place, how could he expect to clinch first? Besides, he recognized that many of his teammates were more talented than he was. His thoughts wandered briefly, contemplating the slim chances he had against the competition.

It was a bit uncomfortable, but he couldn't stop consoling himself. It was good to do it, and he would continue to inspire. If this year didn't work out, next year would. As Zax said in the Dream training system, as long as he was willing to work hard, sooner or later, there would be a chance.

Whether it's Van Basten, Ronaldo, or the stars of Ajax, sooner or later, he will get the chance to meet them and play on the same field.

As soon as he thought about it, his heart felt much better, and he took a step back and turned away.

It was then that Dick Vanpoer finally announced the first place.

"The first place in this year's overall evaluation results is..."