Echoes of Greatness: The Rise of a Global Football Sensation

As Yang Yang opened his eyes to greet a new day, sunlight filtered through the thin curtains of his bedroom window, casting a gentle glow into the otherwise dim room.

Yesterday, Almere had suffered a defeat, yet Yang Yang had managed to etch his name into the match with a splendid goal that sparked conversations among spectators and pundits alike.

In the end, Ajax's relentless attack proved too formidable for Almere to withstand, culminating in a 3-1 victory. Babel, who had been substituted, was absent from the scoring plays; instead, the goals came from Tom de Mul, Nordin Boukhari, and Hedwiges Maduro, showcasing Ajax's depth and prowess.

Despite his distaste for losing, Yang Yang recognized the vast disparity in strength between Almere and Ajax. Nonetheless, scoring a goal against such formidable opponents was a testament to Almere's resilience.

The swift departure of Ajax's staff, including Van Basten, before the match's conclusion underscored the definitive outcome, leaving many Almere players disheartened but Yang Yang with a contented smile. He had seized the opportunity to meet Van Basten before the game and capture a photograph together, a moment that now brought him joy amidst the defeat.

Ajax scout Fred Arroyo had promised to have the photos autographed by Van Basten and sent to Yang Yang after washing them. Delighted by the prospect, Yang Yang planned to frame and proudly display them on his wall upon their arrival.

After returning home, taking a refreshing shower, and settling into bed, Yang Yang followed his routine of entering the Dream Training System to review and analyze his match with Zax's guidance. This ritual had been part of his routine for the past two to three months, and he found each review session immensely beneficial. He firmly believed that the gradual accumulation of these insights would significantly enhance his footballing career.

A pivotal focus of his analysis was the moment he successfully broke through Vermaelen to score. Yang Yang felt satisfied with his performance during that crucial play, but Zax offered a more critical perspective.

"The Belgian defender operates at the level expected of a seasoned Eredivisie professional. Your success against him was due to a combination of unpredictability and a stroke of luck."

Yang Yang still found Zax's assessment surprising. After all, the Summer Youth Amateur Competition limits participation to players under eighteen, placing Thomas Vermaelen in the same age bracket.

Reflecting on the game, Yang Yang reluctantly admitted that overcoming Vermaelen had indeed been a formidable challenge. Despite Vermaelen's average stature and physical strength, his defensive awareness posed a formidable obstacle. The realization that he had managed to score against such a talented opponent was a source of pride for Yang Yang, especially considering his recent struggles that nearly led to his exclusion from the team. It fueled his determination to face future challenges with eagerness.

Vermaelen didn't appear significantly larger than Yang Yang, yet his superior strength served as a constant reminder of the need for Yang Yang to continue strengthening himself. With Ajax's talent selection day approaching rapidly, he understood the urgency of enhancing his physical abilities.

"Starting today, alongside your regular training program, we'll be adding an extra training regimen," Zax announced casually.

"Really? That's fantastic!" Yang Yang responded eagerly. The addition of a new training program indicated Zax's belief in his advancement to the next level.

Although he still needed to continue the wall training, Yang Yang now completed the familiar routines much quicker than when he started, thanks to his improved skills. Introducing something new would further aid his development and accelerate his progress.

"Bring out the training cones and begin practicing fundamental movements such as dribbling, pull-backs, forward pushes, acceleration, and maintaining balance," Zax instructed.

Yang Yang had evolved significantly from the player he was just a few months ago. Through rigorous training and real-game experience against formidable opponents like Vermaelen, who matched the caliber of an Eredivisie regular, he gained deeper insights into top-tier defenders.

He understood that seemingly intricate technical maneuvers were built upon basic movements, akin to Ronaldo's fluid changes of direction. Breaking down each motion revealed its inherent simplicity.

"Zax directed Yang Yang to refine basics like pushing, pulling, and dribbling with training cones, aiming to enhance his execution of Ronaldo's step-over for maximum impact in matches."

"Okay," Yang Yang agreed readily. "When can I start training against more challenging imaginary defenders?"

Despite feeling he'd made significant strides over the past month, Yang Yang was still matched against imaginary defenders at the Dutch third-division level. This left him somewhat dissatisfied, especially after overcoming Vermaelen, a seasoned Eredivisie-caliber player.

"Not yet," Zax replied firmly.

Yang Yang reluctantly accepted the decision but resolved to inquire again once he felt further progress.

...

...

"Why are you up so early today?" Shen Ming asked as Yang Yang came downstairs for breakfast, where they often coincided.

"After breakfast, I'm heading to the skate park to train," Yang Yang replied with a smile.

"Dedicated training is admirable, but don't push yourself too hard. You're still growing. You played a game last night, so just relax at home today. I'll whip up a good lunch for you," chuckled Uncle Shen Ming.

"Today, Yang Yang is like a walking advertisement for Shen Ji Chinese Restaurant. Not only do Almere's youth team players frequent here, but also many locals. The restaurant's business has flourished, even on weekday lunches. Shen Ming couldn't help but feel a mix of pride and satisfaction.

"What pleases him most is his nephew's progress, recognized not only by Almere but also by clubs like Eindhoven and Ajax. Maybe one day he'll hit the jackpot and become a professional player in the top league, fulfilling his potential.

Shen Ming now holds his nephew in higher regard than his own relatives, contemplating hiring extra help so Yang Yang can focus solely on football, not "helping out in the restaurant."

"Relax, uncle, I know my body well. I feel refreshed after a good night's sleep. I'm full of energy and ready to seize the day," Yang Yang chuckled.

"Full of energy? Ready to seize the day?" Shen Ming looked at his nephew curiously, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.

"Yes, like a dragon and a tiger!" Yang Yang joked.

Shen Ming raised an eyebrow. "Like a dragon and a tiger?"

Yang Yang laughed. "It means I feel strong and powerful!"

"Ah, I see," Shen Ming nodded, recalling something. "Remember last time I made you beef and steamed duck? It was supposed to give you strength."

Yang Yang scratched his head, amused. "Oh, I remember! Thanks, Uncle." Today, his uncle seemed a bit distracted. Why was their conversation so confusing?

"Cough, you're almost seventeen now. Perhaps it's time to think about finding a girlfriend. You can't just focus on training all day. They say I'm like a heavenly god, but since your parents aren't around, I feel I must handle these matters for you."

Yang Yang smiled wryly. "Are we changing topics again? We were just talking about training, and now we're onto girlfriends..."

"Uncle, are you switching subjects too quickly? I can't keep up," he joked. "I'll head out first. See you later, Uncle."

With that, Yang Yang hurried off, leaving Uncle Shen Ming to shake his head and sigh.

"Young people these days... cough..."

"Still, he played a full game last night and was up early this morning for practice. He's putting in the effort. What more can I say?

"If a kid like him can't succeed, maybe God is playing a trick on me."

...

...

"While Yang Yang diligently trained against the walls and boards of the skate park, Ajax's renowned training base, De Toekomst, situated over 20 kilometers away on the southeastern outskirts of Amsterdam, was abuzz with the arrival of its new technical director.

Louis van Gaal, a respected figure in Dutch football whose return to the game has made waves across Europe, officially assumed the role.

This marks Van Gaal's comeback as a technical director, greeted with great anticipation at the training base.

Accompanied by club president Michael van Praag, head coach Ronald Koeman, youth coach Marco van Basten, assistants Ruud Krol and Patrick Ladru, along with chief scout Tonny , the entire core management of De Toekomst assembled. Following a warm reception at the entrance, the chairman and the new technical director proceeded to the meeting room, initiating Ajax's preparations for the upcoming season with a 'high-level sports meeting.'

"The primary focus of the meeting centered on Ajax's summer transfer progress. Both Van der Meyde and Chivu have opted to depart, fetching Ajax a substantial transfer sum of 30 million euros, one of the highest in Eredivisie history.

However, Ajax cannot immediately reinvest these funds as several young first-team players are negotiating contract extensions and salary increases. This represents the financial commitment Ajax must make to retain these talents.

Regarding new signings, Ajax successfully secured French defender Julian Escudé on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract with Rennes. Despite no transfer fee, Ajax has agreed to a significantly higher salary for Escudé compared to his tenure at Rennes, underscoring the club's investment in his recruitment."

"The 23-year-old French defender has developed into a seasoned professional. Four years ago, he made the move from Cannes to Rennes on a free transfer, where he played a crucial role in their promotion from Ligue 2 to Ligue 1 during his debut season. Over the next three seasons, he established himself in Ligue 1 before making the decision to join Ajax in the Netherlands.

His career progression has been marked by steady advancement, each step meticulously planned.

Ajax holds high confidence in Escudé due to his clear determination and dedication—he consistently delivers his best on the field and commits fully to his training regimen. His arrival represents another positive stride forward for Ajax.

"The next stage for him is to compete in one of Europe's top 3 leagues, a goal he is poised to achieve based on his future performances with Ajax."

During the discussion of Escudé, Van Gaal suddenly realized that the next topic was someone he was familiar with: Yang Yang.

"I saw Piet de Visser last night at the Almere stadium," remarked Chief Scout Tonny Bruins Slot, his brow furrowed with concern. "This is the second time Eindhoven has closely monitored Yang Yang. I recommend we take swift action."

Almere serves as Ajax's satellite club, and Yang Yang holds Marco van Basten in high regard. Regardless of perspective, Ajax cannot afford to lose such a highly rated player, especially to their arch-rivals in Eindhoven.

If that were to occur, Ajax's reputation would suffer.

"I agree with Tonny," added Patrick Radru. "When Robben was at Groningen, we had a genuine opportunity, but Eindhoven beat us to it. If we had acted faster for Robben, today's circumstances would be different.

Robben emerged as one of Dutch football's most promising young talents in recent years. He was heralded as one of the Netherlands' new 'Three Musketeers,' alongside Feyenoord's Van Persie and Ajax's Van der Vaart.

Robben's rise attracted attention from the big three clubs, but ultimately, Eindhoven secured his services, leaving Ajax to lament missed opportunities. Picture Robben on the left flank, Van der Meyde on the right, Ibrahimovic leading the attack, and Van der Vaart orchestrating in midfield—it would have constituted an unstoppable offensive force. It's regrettable that Robben blossomed into a star at Eindhoven instead.

"I also believe Yang Yang has the potential to thrive at Ajax," added Ruud Krol. "From what I've gathered, he appears more inclined towards us compared to other teams, especially after spending a year at Almere. Despite its nominal status as a satellite club, Almere plays a crucial role in Ajax's youth training system."

"How did he perform in yesterday's match?" Van Gaal asked casually.

While pleased with Yang Yang's growing acclaim, Van Gaal maintained professionalism in discussing this public matter, setting aside personal sentiments.

"He performed admirably, particularly in the first half. He posed several threats and scored a goal, dribbling past Vermaelen and Emmanuelson to score unaided," Chief Scout Bruins Slot reported.

"Last night, Aaron Moy's football blog also echoed his stellar performance. He's been consistently impressive recently, and I believe many teams are closely monitoring him now," added Patrick Radru.

Van Gaal inquired further, "And how is his personal attitude?"

"I'm not certain, but I believe he's still eager to join Ajax."

"Why is that?"

"He arrived in the Netherlands a year ago and has been residing with his uncle, who operates a Chinese restaurant in Almere. Yang Yang attends Helen Parkhurst School. Joining Ajax would allow him to balance his studies with football. Moving to Eindhoven could significantly disrupt his current life."

Patrick Radru added with a smile, "I've been digging into Johnny Rep's background. Turns out, besides his football prowess, he's also a stellar academic. He topped his class at Helen Parkhurst School and even earned a scholarship."

"Really?" Everyone in the room looked surprised.

Even Van Gaal and Koeman appeared slightly taken aback.

While the Ajax youth team boasts many talented players, those who excel both on the pitch and in academics are exceptionally rare.

Surprisingly, Yang Yang was revealed to be an academic prodigy.

Van Gaal paused briefly before turning to Van Basten. "Marco, what's your take on this?"

Van Basten grinned broadly and chuckled. "I really like the kid."

With that, Van Basten's positive stance was crystal clear.

Van Gaal then glanced at first-team coach Koeman, who shrugged, indicating he had no strong opinion.

Although involved in youth development, Koeman's primary focus is nurturing first-team talent. Administrative matters are largely overseen by Ruud Krol, while Van Gaal, as technical director, manages all aspects of Ajax's athletic operations.

In essence, the Dutch coach was assessing everyone present, including Van Basten's immediate supervisor.

This moment could potentially sway Ajax's decision.

Van Gaal took his time, carefully reviewing the scout's report and the documents in his hands, his brow furrowed in concentration. After a moment, he set the documents aside.

"Based on the information here, Yang Yang has already secured a place in Ajax's Talent Day selection," Van Gaal began. "In my view, we should approach him to assess his interest and commitment, but it would be most advantageous to arrange for him to participate in the Talent Day selection. It offers a rare opportunity for close, systematic evaluation and invaluable experience."

Twice a year, Ajax hosts Talent Day selections, where first-team players train and compete alongside nearly a thousand participants from Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and beyond.

"This is unquestionably an excellent opportunity for self-assessment and expanding horizons," Van Gaal continued. "Moreover, when a 16-year-old player like Yang Yang signs directly with the club, he typically progresses through the youth ranks and may even start in the second team under Van Basten's guidance. This could be viewed as a strategic maneuver within our jurisdiction."

Van Gaal underscored that participating in the Talent Day selection would benefit both the club's scouting efforts and Yang Yang's personal growth.

"After all, the opportunity to compete alongside first-team players is not to be underestimated," Van Gaal concluded.

After listening to Van Gaal's cautious words, many in the room appreciated his characteristic prudence and rigorous standards, which were consistent with his usual approach.

"The crucial issue isn't whether he participates in the Talent Day selection; it's the competition we're currently facing," Chief Scout Slot remarked.

The urgency to secure Yang Yang stemmed directly from this concern.

"He's a smart young man. At this point, he's unlikely to entertain offers from Eindhoven, especially with his uncle based in Almere," someone argued. "If we commit to signing him after the Talent Day, regardless of the outcome, I believe he'll agree."

Everyone found this reasoning sound and maintained confidence in Ajax's position.

"Just to be safe, Patrick, visit Almere after the meeting," Van Gaal suggested.

Patrick Radru nodded in agreement. "I'll start at the Chinese restaurant to speak with his uncle."

"If he's not there, he might be at the skate park. You can approach him directly and convey my decision along the way," Van Gaal added casually.

The group was surprised by Van Gaal's precise knowledge of Yang Yang's whereabouts.

"How does Van Gaal know where to find him? Do they have a prior connection? What's their relationship?" These questions circulated among the group, but Van Gaal chose not to elaborate, leaving them to speculate among themselves.

...

...

Around midday, Ajax's youth assistant Patrick Radru and scout Fred Arroyo arrived at the Shenji Chinese restaurant in Almere, only to find Yang Yang absent.

After a lengthy discussion with Yang Yang's uncle, Shen Ming, they were directed to a nearby skateboard park where they discovered Yang Yang deeply engrossed in an intensive training session that had begun early in the morning.

At that moment, Yang Yang had just completed a demanding wall training routine. Positioned in front of a yellow marker, he deftly manipulated the ball with both feet—dribbling, pushing, pulling, flicking, and juggling it around the marker.

Radru and Arroyo, Ajax's youth development assistant and scout, recognized these drills as fundamental exercises for ball control. Despite their presence, Yang Yang remained intensely focused, completely absorbed in his training.

Observing Yang Yang's soaked jersey, the sweat streaming down his face, and the well-worn wall in front of him, Radru and Arroyo couldn't help but admire the young Chinese player's dedication and perseverance.

"This is almost like self-imposed training, especially these mundane basic drills, and yet he remains so focused," Radru remarked, visibly impressed.

"How long has he been training like this?" Patrick Radru asked, his voice tinged with admiration.

"Three months," Shen Yuzhu replied, her concern evident.

To her and her uncle, Yang Yang was like a son, and to Shen Yuzhu, he was akin to a younger brother.

Radru and Arroyo exchanged glances, both sharing a sense of astonishment. It dawned on them simultaneously: Yang Yang's remarkable ascent from Almere had commenced a mere three months ago. Since then, his rapid progression had left everyone astounded, showcasing noticeable improvements in nearly every match.

Initially, his surge was attributed to a sudden breakthrough in game understanding or a significant enhancement in fundamental skills. However, witnessing his rigorous training regimen at the skate park raised new questions.

"Van Gaal must have been aware of this, which is why he directed us here when Yang Yang wasn't at the restaurant," Radru mused aloud.

"What's his connection with Yang Yang? How does he possess this knowledge?" These queries lingered in their minds, unanswered yet intriguing.

"It appears we've underestimated him," Patrick Radru admitted with a rueful shake of his head.

Fred Arroyo nodded in agreement. "Seems we've underestimated not only his current capabilities but also his potential for the future."

In silence, they pondered how far Yang Yang's determination and hard work could propel him, given the strides he had already made.