Chapter 36: The First Test
The sun rose over Camp Nou as match day arrived. It was the opening game of the league season, and the air buzzed with anticipation. The stadium, still undergoing renovations to accommodate the club's grand ambitions, was packed to capacity. Fans were eager to see the new-look Barcelona under Roberto De Zerbi's stewardship.
In the dressing room, the atmosphere was a mix of tension and excitement. Players laced their boots and adjusted their kits, while the coaching staff made final preparations. De Zerbi entered with his usual calm demeanor, clipboard in hand, his sharp eyes scanning the room.
"Listen," he began, his voice steady but commanding. "Today is our first step. All the work we've done in training leads to this moment. Trust in the system, trust in each other, and most importantly, trust in yourselves. We play with intensity, intelligence, and heart. From the first whistle, we dictate the game. This is Barcelona."
The squad nodded in unison. Ndicka and Baena, both starting, exchanged glances, silently encouraging one another. It was their chance to make an impression, not just on the fans but on their teammates and the coach. The starting XI reflected De Zerbi's philosophy:
Goalkeeper: Marc-André Ter Stegen (1)Defenders: Grimaldo (23), Evan Ndicka (20), Ronald Araujo (4), Sergiño Dest (2)Midfielders: Frenkie de Jong (21), Pedri (8), Alex Baena (16)Forwards: Lionel Messi (10), Julián Álvarez (11), Ansu Fati (22)
The opponents, a well-drilled Villarreal side, were no pushovers. They had come prepared, knowing that Barcelona would be eager to make a statement.
As the players walked onto the pitch, the roar of the crowd was deafening. The club's iconic motto, "Més que un club" (More than a club) stood out, the anthem echoed through the stadium as the fans sang with momentum, De Zerbi stood on the touchline, his eyes focused, his posture relaxed but attentive.
Kickoff
The match began at a frantic pace, with Barcelona immediately taking control of possession. The midfield trio of de Jong, Pedri, and Baena moved the ball with precision, creating pockets of space and dictating the tempo. Villarreal pressed high, but De Zerbi's instructions to build calmly under pressure were evident.
In the 12th minute, a sharp exchange between Pedri and Baena unlocked Villarreal's defense. Baena, cutting inside from the left, curled a shot toward the far post, only to be denied by a fingertip save. The crowd erupted in applause, sensing the team's intent.
At the back, Ndicka was a commanding presence. He won aerial duels, intercepted passes, and barked instructions to his defensive partners. His composure on the ball allowed Barcelona to transition smoothly from defense to attack.
De Zerbi was a constant presence on the sideline, issuing tactical adjustments and encouraging his players. "Quicker transitions!" he yelled. "Exploit the gaps!"
Breakthrough
The breakthrough came in the 27th minute when Messi, operating in his usual free role, threaded a perfectly timed through ball to Álvarez. The Argentine forward took a touch before coolly slotting the ball past the Villarreal keeper.
The stadium erupted as players mobbed Álvarez in celebration. On the sideline, De Zerbi allowed himself a small smile before quickly refocusing.
"Stay sharp!" he called out. "The game is far from over."
Second Half Resilience
Villarreal came out strong in the second half, pushing for an equalizer. De Zerbi's defensive setup was tested as the visitors launched wave after wave of attacks. Ter Stegen made a stunning save in the 62nd minute, diving low to his right to deny a thunderous strike.
Sensing the need for fresh legs, De Zerbi made substitutions. He brought on Dembélé (7) for Ansu Fati and Moriba (12) for Baena. "Play with intensity," De Zerbi told them. "But remember, every action must have purpose, every chance is an opportunity to score."
The changes added energy to Barcelona's play. In the 78th minute, a dazzling solo run by Dembélé drew a foul just outside the box. From the resulting free kick, Messi curled a stunning shot into the top corner, doubling Barcelona's lead.
De Zerbi applauded from the sideline, his satisfaction evident.
Full-Time: 2-0 Victory
As the final whistle blew, the players embraced, the crowd roared, and De Zerbi shook hands with his staff. It was a solid performance, a clean sheet, and a glimpse of what this Barcelona team could achieve.
In the post-match press conference, De Zerbi struck a measured tone. "It's a good start, but it's just one step. The season is long, and there's much work to be done. I'm proud of the players, especially the new signings. They showed they belong. Now, we keep building."
Back in the locker room, the mood was celebratory but focused. De Zerbi gathered the squad for a brief talk. "Enjoy this moment, but remember, this is only the beginning. We've set the standard today. Let's raise it every game."
As the players left the stadium, the city of Barcelona buzzed with excitement. The De Zerbi era had begun, and it promised to be a thrilling journey. For the fans, the board, and the players, one thing was clear: Barcelona was on the rise once more.
CREATORS' THOUGHTS 
superiordemon
superiordemon Have some idea about my story? Comment it and let me know. And i'm particularly sorry to my loyalist on the Rise of Fc Barcelona story.
Return of the DEMON
To all my readers, all I'll say is I'M BACK
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone