Interview

The reporters gathered eagerly in the mixed zone as the players and coaches began to emerge. Elian, still wearing his England jersey, stepped up to the microphones. The spotlight felt familiar now, though he approached it with the same calm he carried onto the pitch.

"Elian," the interviewer began, her voice steady but enthusiastic. "Another incredible performance from you tonight. England moves on, and you're at the heart of it. You're scoring in every match, and some are already saying you're on track to break the all-time goal-scoring record. How does that feel?"

Elian smiled, a modest tilt of his head preceding his response. "It's surreal, to be honest. Growing up, I dreamt about moments like this—playing at this level, contributing to my team, and making fans proud. Records, though, they're not my main focus. I'm here for the team and the journey. If those milestones come along the way, it's just the icing on the cake."