章節 30: Starter
In training, everyone noticed the rise in Louis's tactical status. He had become the team's primary scorer in the 4-4-2 system. Whether on the wing or in the middle, the objective was to create scoring opportunities for him. Louis's scoring ability had been fully recognized by everyone, so there was no resistance. Before Louis joined, Arsenal had scored zero goals in three games. After his arrival, the team scored five goals in two games, four of which were scored by Louis.
Giroud had no issue with his new tactical role. It was merely a shift from creating opportunities for Walcott to being a support for Louis. The team's other forwards, like Walcott and Podolski, had no complaints either, as they knew they would still have many chances to play.
After three days of training, it became evident that this system worked. Everyone understood that the upcoming home game against Southampton would be Louis's first professional-level start, even if the coaching staff hadn't explicitly said so. It was clear from the training focus on how to enable Louis to score.
There are no secrets in football. The media picked up on the clues from Arsenal's public training sessions.
"Louis will get the chance to start in the fifth round of the league!" stated Sky Sports confidently on their official social media.
Arsenal fans reacted with excitement, many tagging Gary Neville. "What a shame, Gary. Are you really not betting any more?" "I have a hunch that Louis is really going to start!" Arsenal fans were quite proud, especially given the team's recent good form. Manchester United fans quickly came to support Gary Neville, downplaying the significance of a young player getting a start.
While fans argued online, those who really cared about Louis starting were his family and neighbors.
"We are already preparing to buy air tickets. Me, your dad, your sister, your two uncles, cousins, and grandparents are all coming over. You have to prepare the tickets," his mother informed him over the phone.
"Mom, the first batch of tickets hasn't been released yet," Louis replied, a bit helpless.
Even though he was likely to start, he couldn't confirm it. The team's tactical changes were a secret, and he couldn't share locker room details, even with his family. Neighbors also asked him if he would start, but he excused himself, saying, "Mr. Wenger hasn't made a decision yet."
"It doesn't matter if you're not in the starting lineup. Anyway, you will definitely have a chance to play. Remember the tickets!"
"I know," Louis muttered before hanging up.
Getting the tickets was simple. The club issued tickets to players for their families. Although not many were given to Louis, he could ask other players who didn't need them, like foreign players such as Giroud or those like Wilshere whose families held season tickets.
Louis's family arrived in London the day before the game. Since he had to stay with the team at the hotel the night before the game, he couldn't see them yet. But his family, experienced travelers, enjoyed their day in London.
On game day, the team had no tactical training. The match was scheduled for noon, a prime time for Eastern audiences. After breakfast, there were only a few hours left before the game, so the players exercised in the hotel gym.
One hour before the game, the Emirates Stadium was buzzing with people. The media were eager to confirm the starting lineup. When Arsenal's starting list was announced, a reporter shouted, "Louis is starting!"
Reporters quickly translated and posted the news, sparking excitement among fans. Louis's family, sitting in the stands, cheered.
"Starting! He's really starting!" Eleven-year-old Tommaso Inzaghi, the son of Simone Inzaghi, cheered after seeing the news on his phone. The family joined in the excitement. Filippo Inzaghi, who had become a technical advisor for AC Milan, and his brother Simone, who worked for Lazio's youth team, both attended.
When players from both sides lined up in the tunnel, commentators began their work.
"As we can see, both Inzaghi brothers are in the stands today. It's worth noting that Louis's mother is their sister," commentator Zhang Jun informed the fans.
Players from both sides began to line up. Louis stood in the middle. The on-site DJ announced the players' names one by one. When it was Louis's turn, the fans collectively shouted, "Louis!!!"
The deafening sound almost overturned the stands. The camera locked on Louis, who raised his right hand and waved towards the stands. His family, friends, and neighbors were there to witness his first professional start.
The stadium was electric as the players took the field. Louis felt a mix of excitement and nerves. He knew his family and the fans had high expectations.
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