Chapitre 133: Chapter 133
On the fifteenth, in the morning.
As Yang Yang stepped out of the house with his luggage, he noticed Maxwell parked across the street.
"Hey buddy, let's cheer for a brand new day!" Brazil's left-back, Maxwell, rolled down his window and shouted with enthusiasm.
"You too!" Yang Yang smiled and waved back, his spirits lifted by the sight of his teammate.
Last night, after Yang Yang returned home, he had spent the entire evening chatting with Maxwell and Vermaelen, discussing the latest developments at Ajax. The transfer window had closed, and though no new players had joined or left the squad, there were changes within the coaching staff.
Ronald Koeman, Ajax's head coach, was reportedly unsatisfied with the current state of the team's physical conditioning and had decided to make adjustments. He brought in a new fitness coach, Jan Kruitenberg, a 42-year-old Dutchman who had been working at Vitesse. According to the news Maxwell had picked up, Kruitenberg was no ordinary coach. He was a key figure in the International Society of Sports Science and had made significant contributions at Vitesse before Ronald Koeman managed to bring him to Ajax.
"Koeman had been wanting to get Kruitenberg for a while," Maxwell shared during their conversation, "but he never had the chance. Now that there were some issues with the fitness staff, he seized the opportunity."
From what Maxwell and Vermaelen were saying, this new fitness coach seemed to be a real asset to the team.
But Kruitenberg wasn't the only addition. The club had also hired Winston Bogarde, a 31-year-old Amsterdam native, who had an impressive background. Bogarde had graduated from the prestigious University of Turin, renowned for its sports science program, and had worked with Juventus under the well-known European fitness coach Claudio Gaudino. After leaving Juventus, Bogarde spent three years in Amsterdam as a fitness coach before joining the Dutch national team, where he worked for two years as a specialist in physiotherapy and rehabilitation. After Euro 2004, Bogarde was hired by Ajax in September to assist in reshaping the team's physical preparation.
"He's built like a tank—about one and a half meters tall—and easily the fittest guy on the team," Maxwell said, laughing as he described Bogarde. "Even Charisteas can't compete with him."
With these new changes, it was clear that Koeman was trying to turn the team's recent poor physical condition around.
As for Yang Yang, he wasn't too concerned. Despite the shake-up in the coaching staff, his bond with assistant coach Ruud Krol, who had always been in his corner, remained strong. Krol's responsibilities had even been expanded, and he continued to oversee both the first team and the youth training camp, serving as Ronald Koeman's right-hand man.
At this point in his career, Yang Yang's place in the squad felt secure. Regardless of the changes happening around him, he knew they wouldn't affect his standing in the team.
…
Maxwell was known as a genuinely good guy, a rare quality in professional football. You could see it from the way his two Brazilian compatriots picked him up every day for training. Even though one of them, Filipe Luís, was a direct competitor for the left-back position, their camaraderie remained strong.
As the trio drove off, Vermaelen quickly followed, taking Yang Yang to De Toekmost, Ajax's training facility.
Yang Yang had flown into Amsterdam the previous afternoon and immediately made calls to both Ronald Koeman and Ruud Krol. Everyone knew he was returning to the squad, so there were no surprises when he showed up at training that morning.
Although teammates like Sneijder, Pienaar, Heitinga, and De Jong were momentarily caught off guard by his appearance, their happiness quickly overshadowed any surprise. Yang Yang's return felt like a ray of hope cutting through the gloom that had settled over Ajax in recent weeks.
The best stretch of football Ajax had played since the beginning of the season coincided with Yang Yang's involvement in four crucial matches: two wins, one draw, and one loss. That solitary defeat had come against Valencia, one of the powerhouses in La Liga. Managed by Claudio Ranieri, Valencia was currently second in the league, just a point behind Barcelona, a testament to their strength.
"It's great to have you back, mate," Sneijder said with genuine relief. "We've got some tough games ahead."
Yang Yang smiled. "Yeah, tomorrow's match against Roda JC at home won't be easy. A lot of the guys who played for their national teams are just starting to recover, but we'll have to manage."
Sneijder nodded. "After that, we've got Maccabi Tel Aviv at home. That one's critical."
Everyone in the locker room knew how important the Champions League was for Ajax. Their group draw this season had been brutal—pitted against European heavyweights Bayern Munich and Juventus. It was a nightmare group, no doubt. Juventus, in particular, was one of the most powerful clubs in Europe, possibly the strongest. Bayern Munich, although not as dominant as in previous years, were still formidable, evidenced by their 4-0 demolition of Ajax in Munich. That defeat left Ajax bottom of the group, staring at potential elimination.
The match against Maccabi Tel Aviv was a must-win. Anything less would likely spell the end of their Champions League campaign.
"Don't worry," Yang Yang reassured them. "We've faced tough times before. Let's give it everything we've got in these next few games."
Sneijder and the others nodded in agreement. The squad had been weakened over the summer due to several key departures, and realistically, it was always going to be difficult to compete with the likes of Juventus and Bayern Munich. But not being able to beat Maccabi Tel Aviv at home? That would be unacceptable.
The mood in the locker room lightened a bit, but everyone knew what was at stake. The coming weeks would define their season.
...
...
After packing up his things, Yang Yang left the locker room and made his way directly to the infirmary for a physical evaluation with the team doctor.
Upon entering, he was surprised to see a middle-aged man with slightly graying hair and a lean frame, standing alongside the familiar Ajax medical staff. The man smiled warmly as Yang Yang approached.
"Hello, Yang. I'm Jan Kruitenberg, the new fitness coach responsible for the first team's physical training."
"Oh, hello, Mr. Kruitenberg. It's a pleasure to meet you," Yang Yang responded, offering a polite handshake.
"The pleasure is mine." Kruitenberg nodded. "I'm here today to assess your physical condition. Do you mind?"
"Not at all. I actually feel like I'm in great shape."
Kruitenberg gave a faint smile but didn't respond. He had already heard plenty about Yang Yang's travel schedule from the media. The young player had been shuttling between Malaysia, Beijing, Amsterdam, Kuwait City, and back to Amsterdam in a matter of days. It was hard to believe that anyone could remain in top condition after such a grueling journey.
As the team doctor began a thorough examination, Kruitenberg carefully monitored the results, his expression becoming more serious with each passing moment.
"What's wrong?" the head of the medical department asked, noticing Kruitenberg's concern.
"Are you sure the data is correct?" Kruitenberg asked, looking puzzled.
"Absolutely. The equipment was just serviced. There shouldn't be any issues," the doctor confirmed.
Kruitenberg frowned and glanced toward the testing room, where Yang Yang stood with his upper body exposed, awaiting further instructions. Something didn't add up. The physical data was unusually good—better than what would be expected after such extensive travel. "Let's run the tests again," he ordered.
"Sorry, Yang," the doctor called over, "we're going to need to re-examine you. There seems to be a discrepancy in the data."
Yang Yang smiled and gave an "okay" gesture, his easygoing attitude leaving a positive impression on Kruitenberg. The coach noted that Yang Yang seemed humble and cooperative, a quality he admired.
The second round of tests produced almost identical results to the first. Kruitenberg's confusion deepened.
"You're sure you don't feel any abnormalities in your body?" Kruitenberg asked, still skeptical of the numbers in front of him.
"No, I feel fine," Yang Yang replied. "Actually, this is a bit worse than my usual condition."
Kruitenberg raised an eyebrow. Yang Yang's results were already better than the Dutch players who had stayed in Amsterdam during the international break. How could they be worse?
"This might be related to my sleep," Yang Yang added, chuckling. "I tend to fall asleep as soon as the plane takes off."
Yang Yang's sleeping habits had become a running joke among his teammates at Ajax. Whenever they traveled, whether by plane or bus, Yang Yang would always manage to fall into a deep sleep almost instantly.
Kruitenberg had heard the stories, but seeing it reflected in the data was something else entirely. It was the first time he had encountered a player who maintained such impressive physical stats after such a strenuous travel schedule.
Before leaving, Yang Yang spoke up again, hesitating slightly. "Mr. Kruitenberg…"
"Just call me Jan."
"Jan, I'm turning 18 in a few days, and I wanted to ask if I could focus more on strength and endurance training."
Kruitenberg's attention shifted from the data to Yang Yang's physique. He gave the young player a critical once-over and nodded. "You're definitely a bit on the lean side."
"I feel like if I improve my strength and stamina, I can elevate my performance even further," Yang Yang said confidently.
Kruitenberg examined the test results again. "Based on this data, it's certainly possible. But I'll need to discuss it with the head coach, the coaching staff, and the technical team before giving you a definitive answer."
Yang Yang nodded in understanding. He appreciated Ajax's thorough and responsible approach to player development.
"I've heard you have a reputation for working hard, Yang," Kruitenberg continued.
Yang Yang smiled. "Yes, I've been sticking to a strict routine. For about the last year and a half, I've been getting up early to train before and after every regular session."
Kruitenberg looked at him in disbelief. "Every day? For a year and a half?"
Yang Yang nodded, and the staff in the infirmary confirmed it with knowing smiles. Kruitenberg could hardly believe it. How could anyone maintain that level of dedication?
Realizing the truth, Kruitenberg shook his head, feeling a bit defeated. "I don't know how you manage it."
"Well, I suggest you go see our fitness coach. He's in the gym and has expertise in strength and speed training. He could help you push your limits even further."
Yang Yang's face lit up with excitement. "Thank you, Jan!"
As Yang Yang left the infirmary, Kruitenberg couldn't help but laugh and shake his head again. "Are you sure he's only 17? He's like a machine."
"No," the head of the infirmary smiled. "He's a genius. A hardworking genius."
...
When Yang Yang returned to the training ground and started joking with several of his teammates, fitness coach Jan Kruitenberg took the medical report to Ronald Koeman's office. Assistant coach Ruud Krol was already there, and the two were deep in conversation, going over the day's training plans.
"How is he? How's his physical condition?" Koeman asked, his concern evident as soon as he saw Kruitenberg enter.
Kruitenberg hesitated, unsure how to explain the anomaly he had observed, before handing over the medical report. "Honestly, I didn't expect this."
Koeman and Krol exchanged a knowing look before chuckling.
As they reviewed the medical report, both men nodded in agreement.
"It looks excellent," Krol remarked, a smile spreading across his face.
Kruitenberg nodded in approval. "It's very good. To be honest, I think he could play."
However, Ronald Koeman shook his head. "For safety, let's keep him on the bench for the next game. We need him to conserve energy for the midweek Champions League match."
There was no doubt that the Champions League was Ajax's priority. Despite the uphill battle they faced in a group that included European giants Juventus and Bayern Munich, Ajax needed to give their all. The losses in the first two rounds, including the 4-0 drubbing against Bayern, had made qualifying for the next round a near impossibility.
But Koeman knew the importance of maintaining a dream, even in tough times.
Even if Ajax couldn't advance, they at least had to secure third place to drop into the UEFA Cup. Finishing last in the group, especially as defending Champions League champions, would not only be humiliating but could also put Koeman's job at risk.
Kruitenberg, still mulling over Yang Yang's condition, interjected, "He mentioned he's been sleeping well on the flights, which has helped his recovery. No jet lag, no signs of fatigue."
Koeman and Krol burst out laughing.
"He's telling the truth," Krol said. "Yang has this talent—whenever he's on the bus or plane, he falls asleep right away."
"Really?" Kruitenberg asked, still finding it hard to believe.
Koeman nodded. "Last year, before his first Champions League match against Club Brugge, he slept all the way from Amsterdam to Bruges. It was a huge game for him—his debut in the first team and in Europe. But he slept like a baby the entire trip. We had to wake him up when we arrived. It was incredible."
Kruitenberg was astonished, his mouth slightly agape. "He really has nerves of steel."
Koeman grinned, holding up the medical report. "It's a good thing, though. His ability to rest so deeply during travel has definitely helped with his recovery. At least it means he bounces back faster than most players."
"He just asked me if he could focus on building his strength to improve his performance," Kruitenberg mentioned.
Koeman and Krol immediately perked up.
"I think it's worth considering," Kruitenberg continued. "He genuinely wants to improve his physical strength, but you both know how grueling that kind of training can be."
Ruud Krol nodded. "If anyone can handle it, it's Yang. He's been putting in extra training sessions for over a year and a half now. He practices relentlessly, to the point where it's no surprise he's become one of our best."
Kruitenberg was surprised by this revelation. "He's been training that hard for that long?"
Krol nodded. "Outside of eating and sleeping, he spends all his time working on his game. I've never seen a player with such dedication. If he says he wants to increase his strength, we should take him seriously and guide him properly."
Koeman agreed. "He's just about to turn 18, and now's the perfect time to focus on strengthening his body. If he can improve his physicality, particularly his ability to hold off challenges, he'll be even more formidable than he is now."
Kruitenberg, although still relatively unfamiliar with Yang Yang, was beginning to grasp why the coaching staff held the young player in such high regard. Koeman and Krol clearly understood the potential Yang had, and it was impressive how seriously they were taking his development.
"I suggested he see Bogarde," Kruitenberg said.
Koeman nodded thoughtfully. "Good idea. Have Bogarde design a specific training program to enhance his strength and physical confrontations while maintaining his speed and agility."
For a professional footballer, strength training needed to be done carefully. Certain muscle groups could be developed to improve physical performance, but overtraining or focusing on the wrong areas could result in reduced flexibility, slower speed, or even hinder footwork. The key was finding the right balance.
Koeman understood this well. Yang Yang was a promising talent, and they needed to ensure he developed properly without compromising his natural abilities. Customizing a program based on his unique physical attributes would be essential.
"Let's have Bogarde tailor the program to his needs, focusing on strength, speed, and maintaining his flexibility," Koeman added. "We can't afford to lose what makes him special."
Yang Yang was now the brightest prospect in Ajax's squad, and everyone knew it. He deserved every bit of the attention the club was giving him.
...
...
Since the game was scheduled for the following day, and many players had just returned from international duty, their bodies hadn't fully recovered yet. As a result, the morning training session was mainly focused on recovery and light adjustments.
The intensity of the training was low, which suited most of the players, but for Yang Yang, it wasn't nearly enough. It felt as though his body was craving more, much like someone who had grown used to eating large meals daily suddenly being put on a strict diet. He felt unfulfilled, eager for more.
After training wrapped up, Yang Yang spent some time chatting with Ronald Koeman and Ruud Krol. Both coaches were satisfied with how he was handling himself, particularly after his performances during the international break. Ajax had been closely monitoring his progress, and they wanted him to now shift his focus entirely to the club.
"I'm telling you right now," Koeman said, speaking with the firm authority of a coach, "for the November international break, even if Arie Haan himself asks me, I won't let you go. From now until the winter break, your full attention is on Ajax. No distractions, no national team. You should barely have time to think about school."
Koeman's tone was unusually commanding, signaling how serious he was about the club's priorities. The school had already inquired a few times about Yang Yang's availability, but although they didn't insist, Yang Yang still had to attend classes when he had the chance.
"Don't worry, boss. I'll give it everything I've got," Yang Yang replied with a grin, understanding the coach's concerns.
Koeman nodded firmly and turned to leave.
As soon as Koeman was out of earshot, Ruud Krol sighed, looking thoughtful. "This season, we have to at least secure a Champions League spot for next year. And in the Champions League, we need to finish third in the group to qualify for the UEFA Cup. If Koeman fails either of those two objectives, he'll almost certainly be sacked."
Yang Yang could feel the weight of Koeman's predicament. Normally, these goals wouldn't have seemed so daunting. But after the exodus of five key players over the summer and an exceptionally tough Champions League group featuring Juventus and Bayern Munich, the pressure had mounted significantly. The stakes were high, and the situation was precarious.
Sensing the gravity of the moment, Krol gave Yang Yang an encouraging smile. "Don't overthink it. Focus on what you can control. Winston Bogarde is waiting for you in the gym."
With that, Yang Yang bid the two coaches farewell, adjusted his mindset, and made his way to the gym. There was no point dwelling on things he couldn't change. All he could do was keep improving, give his best in every game, and work on his strength.
Both Ronald Koeman and Ruud Krol had been incredibly supportive of him. He owed it to them, and to himself, to stay committed and focused. No matter what, Yang Yang wouldn't just stand by and let Koeman get sacked. It went against his principles, both as a person and as a professional.
...
...
Each club has its own gym, and Ajax is no exception.
Since Ajax's squad is predominantly made up of younger players, the team doesn't spend as much time in the gym compared to other clubs. Most sessions here are focused on rehabilitation and injury recovery, rather than heavy strength training. However, the gym itself is state-of-the-art, equipped with the latest facilities that rival any top European club.
When Yang Yang arrived at the gym, he noticed two or three players who had missed the training session due to injury leaving the facility. They exchanged brief greetings as they passed by, leaving Yang Yang alone in the gym—except for a tall, muscular figure who was packing up equipment at the far end.
The man, wearing a black vest, had an imposing physique. His broad shoulders and bulging arms were hard to miss, while the muscles on his back, accentuated by the vest, gave off the aura of a bodybuilder. His build was reminiscent of Hollywood action stars like Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Sensing someone enter, the man looked up and saw Yang Yang at the entrance. Without hesitation, he stood up and walked over to greet him.
"Are you Yang?" the man asked, his voice deep and steady.
"Yes, it's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Bogarde," Yang Yang replied, extending his hand respectfully.
Up close, Winston Bogarde's muscular frame was even more impressive. His chest and abs exuded power and strength, resembling the physiques of professional bodybuilders. Yang Yang felt a surge of respect for the man in front of him.
"Just call me Winston," Bogarde said with a slight smile.
"Alright, Winston," Yang Yang responded.
As they shook hands, Yang Yang felt the strength radiating from Bogarde's grip—a firm, confident handshake that matched his powerful appearance.
"Kruitenberg told me you're looking to work on your strength and speed," Bogarde began.
"Yes," Yang Yang nodded. "I hope you can help me."
"That's what I'm here for. My job is to help you improve in any way I can."
Winston motioned for Yang Yang to follow him, leading him to a quieter corner of the gym where they sat down face-to-face. Bogarde studied Yang Yang carefully, his eyes sharp with curiosity.
"Most players try to avoid extra gym work whenever they can, yet here you are asking for more. Why? What drives you to want this?" Bogarde asked, his tone serious.
Yang Yang smiled, his confidence unwavering. "It's simple. I want to be stronger than I am now."
Bogarde nodded, clearly impressed by the directness of Yang Yang's answer. "That's a solid reason. But physical training is tough. It's not just about effort—it's about consistency, discipline, and pushing through discomfort."
"I'm not afraid of hard work," Yang Yang replied firmly.
"I've heard a lot about you since I arrived," Bogarde said, leaning back in his chair. "Everyone talks about how hard you train, how committed you are to improving. But understand this: strength training is a long-term process. It's not just about endurance—it's also about discipline in every aspect of your life, including diet and recovery."
"I'm ready for it," Yang Yang said with certainty.
Bogarde paused, sizing up the young player in front of him. Then he nodded, a look of approval crossing his face. "Alright. Starting the day after tomorrow, I want you here in the gym one hour in advance. We'll get to work."
L’AVIS DES CRÉATEURS 
GxDesailly
GxDesailly Comment and for those that didn't already review the book don't forget to go review it since we are already past 100 chapters l think you can already have an opinion about the book.
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État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
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