The King Of Arsenal

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Francesco agreed, feeling a sense of calm settle over him. Wenger's words echoed in his mind, reinforcing his commitment to hard work and steady improvement. He knew he had a long road ahead, and he was ready to take it one step at a time.

As the conversation with Wenger faded, Francesco's mind shifted to the reality of his newfound fame. He looked over at his parents, still seated with him at the kitchen table. The thoughts he'd been mulling over since waking up—about the media attention, the responsibilities, and the possibilities that lay ahead—surfaced.

"Mom, Dad… I was thinking," Francesco began, glancing between them. "With all this attention, now that people know who I am, maybe it's time I find an agent. Someone who knows the ins and outs of football contracts and can look out for my interests."

His dad, Mike, nodded thoughtfully, a proud but pensive look on his face. "You're probably right, son. If I understood more about the football business, I'd handle everything for you myself." He chuckled, a touch of regret in his tone. "But all I know is how to cheer you on from the sidelines. Contracts, endorsements, negotiations—that's a different world."

His mom, Sarah, gave him a warm smile, resting her hand on his shoulder. "Francesco, with how well you played yesterday, I wouldn't be surprised if agents started contacting you. In fact," she added with a knowing look, "I'd bet someone's going to call you before the day is over."

Francesco nodded, grateful for their support. Having them by his side was a source of comfort, especially with all these new challenges on the horizon. Just as he was about to respond, his phone started vibrating again. He glanced down to see an unknown number flashing on the screen. His parents exchanged curious looks as he picked up the call.

"Hello, this is Francesco. Who is this?" he asked politely.

A rich, confident voice answered, one he instantly recognized. "Good morning, Francesco. This is Jorge Mendes."

Francesco's heart skipped a beat, and he froze, his mind reeling. Jorge Mendes? The name itself carried a weight of prestige and respect in the football world. Jorge Mendes was known as the agent behind legends—Cristiano Ronaldo, to name one—and he had an unparalleled reputation for representing top-tier talent.

"Mr. Mendes?" Francesco managed to say, his voice steady but his heart racing.

"Yes, I hope I'm not interrupting your morning." Mendes's tone was polite but direct. "I watched your debut yesterday, Francesco, and I must say, I was impressed. Your performance on the field wasn't just skilled—it showed maturity and potential well beyond your age."

"Thank you, sir," Francesco replied, still processing the fact that he was actually speaking with Jorge Mendes. He looked up at his parents, who were watching him with a mixture of pride and curiosity.

"I'm reaching out because I believe you have the potential for a remarkable career in football," Mendes continued. "And I'd like to offer my services as your agent. I want to help you navigate this journey, manage your career, and ensure your interests are protected."

Francesco could barely believe what he was hearing. Not only was he being offered representation, but by one of the most powerful agents in the world. "That… that sounds incredible, sir," he said, his voice full of awe.

Mendes chuckled, clearly sensing Francesco's surprise. "I know this must be a lot to take in, Francesco, but I believe in preparing my clients for every challenge and opportunity. We can discuss the details, of course, and your parents are welcome to be part of any meetings. Your career is yours to shape, and I'll be here to help make sure it goes in the direction you want."

Francesco nodded, feeling a surge of excitement and relief. Mendes's professionalism and experience were exactly what he'd been hoping for. "Thank you, Mr. Mendes. I'd really appreciate that."

"Good. I'll have my office arrange a meeting for us. We can go over everything, and I'll answer any questions you or your parents have," Mendes replied.

After a few more formalities, Francesco ended the call, a mixture of excitement and disbelief etched on his face. He looked up at his parents, who were eagerly waiting for an explanation.

"It was Jorge Mendes," he said, still in shock.

Mike's eyebrows shot up. "The Jorge Mendes? Cristiano Ronaldo's agent?"

Francesco nodded, grinning. "Yeah. He watched the game yesterday, and he offered to represent me."

A look of amazement spread across his parents' faces. Sarah's eyes sparkled with pride, while Mike let out a low whistle. "This is big, Francesco," Mike said, shaking his head. "Mendes doesn't take on just anyone. He must see something special in you."

Francesco's heart swelled with pride. "Yeah, it's… it's a lot to take in. But he sounded genuine, and he wants to meet us to discuss everything."

Sarah squeezed his hand, her eyes warm with encouragement. "Francesco, we're so proud of you. And we'll be there every step of the way, no matter what."

As he looked between his parents, Francesco felt the weight of the moment sink in. This was his dream coming to life, and he had a world-class agent by his side to help him navigate it.

As Francesco tried to settle from the excitement of Jorge Mendes's call, his phone vibrated with a new message. Opening it, he saw the address of a high-end restaurant in central London, with a note confirming the meeting time—2 p.m. today. His eyes widened. Mendes wasn't wasting any time.

Francesco looked up at his parents, his voice tinged with eagerness. "Mr. Mendes just sent me the meeting details. We're meeting him at 2 this afternoon at a restaurant in town."

Mike nodded, his eyes sparking with determination. "Alright, then. We need to be prepared." He pulled out his own phone, dialing a number with purpose.

"What are you doing, Dad?" Francesco asked.

"Calling Robert," Mike replied. "He's an old friend of mine and a lawyer. I want him to come with us to help review any paperwork Mendes might bring. We need someone who knows the ins and outs of these contracts to make sure everything's in your best interest."

Francesco smiled, grateful for his father's thoughtfulness. "That sounds perfect. Thanks, Dad."

Mike put the phone on speaker as it rang. Moments later, a deep voice answered, "Mike, good to hear from you!"

"Robert, I need a favor," Mike began, explaining the situation. He recounted Mendes's offer and their upcoming meeting, asking if Robert could review any agreements on Francesco's behalf.

"Congratulations, Francesco!" Robert's voice was warm and sincere. "Mike, of course I'll help. I know how significant this is, and we need to ensure Francesco has the best possible support. Send me the location, and I'll meet you there a bit early to look things over."

With that settled, the family turned their focus to getting ready for what could be a life-changing meeting. Francesco pulled out one of his smartest outfits—a crisp shirt and well-fitted trousers—while his parents dressed with equal care, aware of the importance of making a solid impression.

By 1 p.m., they were dressed, prepared, and seated in the car. As they drove through London's bustling streets, Francesco's thoughts swirled with excitement, nerves, and anticipation. He glanced at his parents, who were exchanging encouraging smiles, grounding him in their steady presence.

Arriving at the restaurant just before 2 p.m., they spotted Robert waiting near the entrance, a tall, polished figure with a friendly, reassuring smile. As they walked up, he greeted them warmly. "You all look ready. Francesco, you must be proud—it's not every day a young player gets the attention of someone like Jorge Mendes."

Francesco smiled, feeling his confidence grow with the support surrounding him. "Thank you, Robert. I'm grateful to have all of you here with me."

With a quick nod, Robert led the way into the restaurant, where the host escorted them to a private area toward the back. As they approached, Francesco felt his heart race a little faster. And then he saw him—Jorge Mendes, waiting at the table with the easy grace and self-assurance that came from years of handling the careers of top athletes.

Mendes stood to greet them, his handshake firm but friendly. "Francesco, Mr. and Mrs. Lee, Robert," he said, acknowledging each of them with a respectful nod. "Thank you all for coming. Please, have a seat."

Once everyone was settled, Mendes leaned forward, his gaze focused on Francesco. "Francesco, I'll be straightforward. I reached out to you because I believe you have extraordinary potential. My role as an agent is not just to negotiate contracts, but to protect and guide my clients' careers. You've already shown talent and poise on the field, and with the right team supporting you, I believe you could reach even greater heights."

Francesco felt his parents' supportive presence on either side, giving him the confidence to meet Mendes's gaze. "Thank you, Mr. Mendes. I want to reach my full potential, and I know there's a lot I don't understand yet about this world. That's why your guidance means so much."

Mendes smiled. "That's the attitude of a true professional. Now, I took the liberty of drafting a preliminary agreement that we can go over today. Robert," he said, passing a document to Francesco's lawyer, "please feel free to take all the time you need to review this."

Robert took the papers, carefully examining each page. As he went through the contract, Mendes explained key points, outlining how he intended to handle Francesco's career, from negotiating contracts with Arsenal to exploring endorsements and ensuring he remained protected in any agreements.

Robert occasionally paused to ask questions or clarify terms, making sure everything was transparent and fair. After a thorough review, he turned to Francesco and his parents with an approving nod. "This is a solid agreement, fair and in line with what we would want for Francesco."

Francesco felt a sense of relief. Knowing he had someone he trusted to look out for his interests made all the difference.

"Thank you, Robert," Mendes said, nodding respectfully. He turned to Francesco. "If you're ready, we can move forward. But I want you to know, Francesco, that the decision is entirely yours. I'm here to help you build your career as you envision it."

Francesco looked to his parents, who both gave him an encouraging nod. He took a deep breath, meeting Mendes's steady gaze. "I'm ready, Mr. Mendes. Let's do this."

Francesco took the pen from Mendes, feeling a renewed sense of purpose and anticipation for the path that lay ahead. With each stroke of his signature, he felt a growing connection to the commitment he was making—to his dreams, to his potential, and now, to this partnership with Jorge Mendes. When he finished, he set the pen down and extended his hand toward Mendes, who met it with a firm and confident grip.

"Welcome to the team, Francesco," Mendes said, his smile reflecting a genuine excitement. "Today marks the start of something special."

Francesco felt a swell of pride, but a lingering question surfaced in his mind. He hesitated briefly, then decided to voice it. "Mr. Mendes, I have to ask… Why did you choose me after just one match? Aren't you worried that I might turn out to be a flop, or… that I might not live up to the expectations?"

Mendes's expression softened as he leaned back in his chair, regarding Francesco with a mix of wisdom and understanding. "You know, Francesco, that's a fair question. But the truth is, my decision to approach you wasn't based solely on yesterday's performance. I've actually been following your progress since you were about thirteen."

Francesco's eyes widened in surprise. He hadn't realized anyone beyond his local coaches and family had been taking note of him for so long.

"You see," Mendes continued, "you were already making quite a name for yourself in the youth leagues. Your skill, your work ethic, and the way you read the game—it all set you apart. I saw a player who didn't just play to win but understood the game deeply. And yesterday's performance? It only confirmed what I'd already come to believe. You don't just have talent, Francesco—you have the kind of dedication and resilience that players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have. With the right support, you can reach those heights."

Hearing this comparison was both humbling and exhilarating. The idea that someone as renowned as Mendes saw in him the potential to be as impactful as some of the greatest players of all time was more than Francesco had ever dared to hope for.

"Thank you, Mr. Mendes," Francesco said, his voice filled with emotion. "I… I'll work as hard as I can. I won't let you down."

Mendes smiled. "I know you won't. That's why I'm here."

The agent's confidence had a calming effect on Francesco, who felt the weight of responsibility as both a challenge and an honor. Mendes, noticing the moment of reflection, softened his tone. "Remember, Francesco, football is a journey. You'll have victories, and there'll be tough days too. But I'll be here to guide you through it all. For now, let's take this one step at a time."

As they finished their conversation, Mendes pulled out his phone and nodded toward Francesco. "Now, before we leave, I'd like to take a quick photo with you. My agency wants to post it on social media—let the world know that Francesco Lee is now under my wing. Are you up for it?"

Francesco's eyes lit up, his excitement mirrored in the nods from his parents. "Of course."

Mendes called over a photographer, who had been waiting nearby, and they posed together, Mendes's hand on Francesco's shoulder as they both smiled for the camera. After a few shots, the photographer gave a thumbs-up, signaling they had what they needed.

Mendes looked over at Francesco with a smile. "This is just the beginning, Francesco. Today, we're not only announcing our partnership to the world but also giving them a glimpse of what's to come."

Francesco felt a surge of pride and determination. Surrounded by his family, Robert, and now Mendes, he knew he was in good hands. This wasn't just about becoming a football player—it was about making his mark, rising to the expectations of those who believed in him, and building a legacy.

As they left the restaurant, Francesco found himself thinking ahead, picturing himself in stadiums packed with fans, each game a step closer to his dreams. Mendes's belief in him was the spark he needed, and with his parents' unwavering support, he felt ready to take on whatever challenges awaited him.

In the days that followed, the announcement created a stir across social media. The photo of Francesco and Mendes was shared widely, with headlines calling Francesco the "next big talent" under Mendes's guidance. Fans and analysts alike were intrigued, buzzing with speculation about what this young player from London could bring to the world of football.

As the spotlight grew, so did Francesco's resolve. He knew that the road ahead would require dedication, sacrifice, and unrelenting hard work. But he also knew, with Mendes's support, his family by his side, and his dreams firmly in his sights, that he was ready to take that road, no matter how challenging it might be.

And as he returned to his home with his parents, his heart was set on one goal—to fulfill the potential he had within him, and to prove to himself and everyone watching that he was ready to rise to the challenge.

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Name : Francesco Lee

Age : 16 (2014)

Birthplace : London, England

Football Club : Arsenal First Team

Championship History : None