บท 6: Star skills
For several consecutive days, Yang Yang had dedicated himself tirelessly to his special training regimen, pushing himself to the limits both day and night. By the time Friday afternoon rolled around, after another grueling session, he found himself unexpectedly approached by the coaching staff. The head coach's assistant, Dick Van Poer, delivered the news that left Yang Yang both stunned and exhilarated: he would be included in the matchday squad for Saturday's game.
Dick Van Poer, who was to stand in as the head coach for the match due to Johnny Rep's absence, broke the news to him personally.
"We've all been pleasantly surprised by the progress you've shown during training recently," Van Poer began, his tone a mix of encouragement and seriousness. "Given the current situation of the team, Mr. Rep and I have decided to include you in the squad for tomorrow's match."
Yang Yang blinked, barely processing the words. It had been almost a year since he had arrived at Almere, and despite all his efforts, he had never been given the opportunity to represent Helen Parkhurst School's team in a competitive match. This would be his debut.
Van Poer's decision was, in truth, a mixture of practicality and recognition. While he agreed with Johnny Rep's assessment of Yang Yang's potential, he was also aware of the challenges the young player faced. Almere, though rapidly growing, was still a club in its infancy, less than seven years old, and with foundations not yet fully established. The youth system, in particular, was one of the club's weaker areas. Even though they had become a satellite club for Ajax and had begun receiving support from their prestigious academy, the fruits of this relationship were not yet fully visible.
"Don't put too much pressure on yourself," Van Poer added, placing a reassuring hand on Yang Yang's shoulder. "Whether you play or not will depend on how the match unfolds. Remember, ROC Flevoland is no pushover."
Indeed, ROC Flevoland was a formidable opponent, and despite Almere's rapid rise, they were still a relatively young club, heavily reliant on the influence and connections of Johnny Rep. The club president had entrusted Rep with significant authority, especially concerning the team's direction, but the youth development side was still catching up. The arrival of support from Ajax's youth academy was a recent development, and it would take time before any real impact could be seen. No Almere youth players had yet progressed to Ajax's youth team, although there was hope in players like Henk Dimer, a technically gifted midfielder hailed as the most promising talent in the squad.
"Prepare yourself well," Van Poer advised with a smile before walking away, leaving Yang Yang to process the enormity of the opportunity before him.
As the assistant coach's footsteps faded, Yang Yang stood rooted to the spot, a mixture of disbelief and excitement coursing through him. Was this really happening? Was he finally going to play?
"It's not as straightforward as you think," a familiar voice echoed in his mind. It was Zax, the voice of the Dream Training System, a constant companion in his journey since arriving in the Netherlands.
"What do you mean?" Yang Yang responded internally, still grappling with the reality of his situation.
"Being included in the squad doesn't guarantee anything," Zax explained. "The team has been dealing with several injuries lately, particularly in defense, which is why you've been called up."
"Defense?" Yang Yang was momentarily taken aback. He was a striker by nature, a forward who thrived on attacking opportunities. Since his arrival in the Netherlands, he had steadfastly focused on playing as a forward, even refining his skills as a right winger when needed. But now, he was being considered for a defensive role?
"It's likely because of how well you've been intercepting and controlling the ball in recent training sessions," Zax continued, his tone neutral.
Yang Yang couldn't help but let out a bitter smile. Back in China, he had always been a striker, a player who lived to score goals. Now, in the Netherlands, the prospect of switching to a defensive role felt like an ironic twist of fate. But he knew he didn't have a choice. If he wanted to play, he would have to follow the coaching staff's instructions, even if it meant playing out of position. Whether it was defense, midfield, or even goalkeeper, he had to seize any opportunity to get on the pitch.
For Yang Yang, simply being included in the squad was a step forward, a sign of progress.
"In your current situation," Zax interjected, "what you really need is the experience of an official match. This is an opportunity. Let's adjust your training plan accordingly, and you'll finally start learning a star skill."
"A star skill?" Yang Yang's eyes widened in surprise.
This was what he had been dreaming of since discovering the Dream Training System—a chance to acquire a special ability that could elevate his game to a new level. The prospect of learning a star skill filled him with renewed determination.
As he mulled over Zax's words, the reality of the situation began to sink in. This was no longer just about making the squad. It was about proving himself, about seizing the opportunity to show that he belonged on the pitch, no matter where he was asked to play.
With the match against ROC Flevoland looming, Yang Yang knew that this was just the beginning of a new chapter in his football journey.
...
...
The A6 highway serves as the main artery between Almere and Amsterdam, a vital link connecting the two cities. Exit 5, situated right in the heart of Almere, is a bustling hub of activity, especially during the peak hours of the day. To the north of this exit lies the vibrant city of Almere, a place that has grown rapidly in recent years.
Nestled within the dense residential area on the northern side of the city is Shen Ji Chinese Restaurant, a well-known establishment in the community. The restaurant is strategically located, making it easily accessible to both locals and visitors. Outside, there's a large open parking area, which quickly fills up as evening approaches, drawing in traffic from Amsterdam and Almere as people finish their workday. This is the restaurant's busiest time, the hours when business thrives.
Yang Yang, fresh out of school, made his way to the restaurant, slipping through the back door into the bustling kitchen. The scene was one of organized chaos—his uncle Shen Ming, along with the rest of the family, were already hard at work. His cousin, Shen Yuzhu, fluent in Dutch, expertly handled the front of the house, taking orders and managing payments with ease. Aunt Zhang Lan, along with another Chinese woman, managed the service, ensuring that the food was promptly delivered to the tables. Meanwhile, Uncle Shen Ming, along with two other cooks, was immersed in the whirlwind of the kitchen, cooking up dish after dish.
As soon as Yang Yang stepped into the restaurant, he set aside his school bag and football, quickly jumping in to help. He moved with practiced efficiency, greeting customers, serving dishes, and clearing tables with the same energy and enthusiasm as the rest of the staff.
Every evening, the restaurant transformed into a battleground of sorts, with the rush of customers turning the atmosphere electric. The kitchen clattered with the sounds of woks and knives, the dining area filled with the chatter of diners. It was a typical scene in the restaurant industry—business was good, the profits decent, but the work was relentless. The food at Shen Ji was renowned for its quality, drawing in regulars who returned time and again for a taste of home, or perhaps for the warmth of the family-run establishment.
It wasn't until the last customer left, and the doors were closed for the night, that the family could finally take a breather. After the restaurant had been cleaned and the kitchen tidied, they sat down together, using the day's leftovers to prepare a simple but hearty meal. The air was filled with the sound of laughter and the clink of chopsticks as they finally relaxed and shared stories from the day.
During the meal, Yang Yang shared the news that had been on his mind all evening. "I've been named in the squad for tomorrow's game," he said, trying to keep his voice steady.
Uncle Shen Ming, who had been quietly eating, looked up with a smile. "I don't know much about football," he admitted, "but it seems like all your hard work this past year is finally paying off."
There was a flicker of relief in Shen Ming's eyes as he spoke. He had always felt a twinge of guilt for encouraging Yang Yang to come to the Netherlands to pursue his football dreams. The journey had not been easy, and Shen Ming was well aware of the challenges Yang Yang had faced in the Almere team. Hearing that his nephew had finally made it onto the team's roster brought him a deep sense of satisfaction.
"Tomorrow is Saturday," Shen Ming continued, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "There aren't usually many customers. I think we should all go and cheer for Yang Yang at the match. What do you all think?"
His suggestion was met with immediate approval from Aunt Zhang Lan and Shen Yuzhu. They both had a deep affection for Yang Yang and were eager to show their support.
"Uncle," Yang Yang began hesitantly, "I've only just made the squad. I might not get a chance to play. I don't want you to get your hopes up too high."
Shen Ming waved off his concerns with a confident smile. "It doesn't matter. Just being named in the squad is a big deal. It means you're close. If not this game, then the next one. Remember, as our ancestors said, 'With enough skill and perseverance, even the hardest tasks can be accomplished.' I believe you can do it."
"Yes, we believe in you too," Shen Yuzhu added, nodding in agreement.
Yang Yang felt a swell of emotion. His uncle had always treated him like a son, especially since he had no sons of his own. Shen Ming had supported Yang Yang's dreams, even though it meant sending him far from home and into an uncertain future. The love and care his uncle showed were deeply moving, and Yang Yang was determined not to let him down.
"I understand, Uncle," Yang Yang replied, his voice firm with resolve. "I'll do my best not to disappoint you."
As they finished their meal, the warmth of the family's support enveloped Yang Yang. Tomorrow's match loomed large in his mind, but he felt ready to face whatever challenges awaited him on the pitch, knowing that his family would be there, cheering him on every step of the way.
...
...
After the meal, Shen Ming insisted on driving Yang Yang home, sparing him from the usual post-dinner cleanup. "Focus on preparing for tomorrow's game," Shen Ming said with a warm smile, sensing that Yang Yang's mind was elsewhere.
Throughout the drive, Yang Yang's thoughts were preoccupied with the star skills available in the Dream Training System. He barely registered the conversation, only responding with nods and monosyllabic answers as he envisioned the possibilities that awaited him. Once home, he quickly showered, eager to rest and dive into the Dream Training System. As soon as his head hit the pillow, he drifted off to sleep, his mind entering the familiar realm where dreams and training merged into one.
Zax, the ever-reliable guide of the Dream Training System, was already waiting for him when he arrived. The virtual training ground was more crowded than before, filled with the likenesses of football legends from every era. It was as if the greatest players in history had gathered to witness Yang Yang's next steps, each one representing a pinnacle of skill in their respective positions—strikers, midfielders, defenders, and even goalkeepers.
"Based on my analysis of your physical attributes," Zax began, his tone as precise and analytical as ever, "I've noted that you possess a typical oriental build—relatively low physical strength and a height of 176 centimeters. Although you are still in your developmental phase, it is unlikely that you will grow into a power player. For now, I recommend focusing on developing your speed."
Yang Yang nodded in agreement. The suggestion aligned well with his own self-assessment. Compared to the Dutch players of his age, the physical disparity was clear. Even the technically gifted players like Henk Dimer possessed a level of physicality that Yang Yang had yet to develop. Speed, therefore, was his best bet.
"You have the option to choose any star skill you desire," Zax continued, "but I must caution you. Acquiring too many skills at once can be counterproductive. It's better to specialize in one skill first, master it, and then gradually expand your repertoire."
Yang Yang understood the wisdom in Zax's advice. Just as a footballer must perfect the fundamentals before attempting more complex maneuvers, so too must he ensure his basic skills are solid before layering on advanced techniques. In the Dream Training System, learning a skill was one thing, but applying it effectively in a real match was an entirely different challenge.
With his current skill level, even mastering a single star skill could propel him forward significantly. However, overloading himself with too many new techniques might only serve to dilute his focus and hinder his development.
As he stood in the Dream Training System, Yang Yang's eyes scanned the array of legendary players surrounding him. Each one was a master of the game, their abilities unparalleled during their prime. He had always admired their prowess, dreaming of emulating them on the field. Now, faced with the reality of choosing a skill to learn, he had to make a decision.
While many defensive legends were present, Yang Yang's heart was set on the attacking roles in the midfield and front line. As a player who relied on speed, he instinctively bypassed the powerhouses like Patrick Vieira, gravitating instead toward the nimble and technically skilled forwards. Among the players that caught his eye were those whose skills were synonymous with the beautiful game: Maradona's dribbling, Zidane's ball control, Cruyff's turn, Ronaldo's step-overs, Pele's rhythm, Van Basten's finishing, and Bergkamp's first touch.
From a practical standpoint, these skills were invaluable.
Zidane's artistry on the ball was legendary, his performances at the 1998 World Cup in France a masterclass in elegance and effectiveness. His ability to control the tempo of the game, dictate play, and deliver precise passes made him one of the greatest midfielders of all time. His control and passing were lauded as the epitome of grace, underpinned by exceptional technique.
Then there was Maradona, whose dribbling was nothing short of magical. His solo goal against England in the 1986 World Cup, where he danced past five defenders before scoring, was a testament to his unmatched skill. Maradona's influence on Napoli, leading them to their first-ever Serie A title, and on Argentina, guiding them to World Cup glory, cemented his status as a legend, even if his personality often divided opinions.
And what of the others? Pele's unmatched sense of rhythm and timing, Cruyff's visionary turns that revolutionized the game, Ronaldo's explosive step-overs that left defenders in the dust, Van Basten's clinical finishing that turned half-chances into goals, and Bergkamp's first touch that could kill a ball dead from any angle—all were extraordinary skills that any player would dream of possessing.
But as much as Yang Yang admired these skills, he knew that not all of them were suited to his current stage of development. His basic skills were still too rudimentary to fully leverage the finesse of Zidane's ball control, the intricacies of Maradona's dribbling, or the precision of Bergkamp's first touch. These skills required a solid foundation, something Yang Yang was still working to build.
Understanding this, Yang Yang quickly assessed his options. He needed a skill that would complement his current abilities while allowing him to grow—a skill that would give him an edge on the field without overwhelming him. It was a pivotal decision, one that could shape his career trajectory from this point onward.
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