21: The Real Test

Carlos stood on the pristine training ground of Real Azul's academy, a stark contrast to the rough, dusty fields of San Azura. The manicured grass stretched out in every direction, surrounded by state-of-the-art facilities. He had arrived early, eager to make a good impression. Clutching Chico under his arm, he surveyed the pitch, taking a deep breath to calm his nerves.

"You made it," came a familiar voice from behind.

Carlos turned to see Javier Ortiz, the scout who had invited him. The man wore a friendly smile but had the air of someone who meant business.

"Welcome to Real Azul," Ortiz said. "Today is about showing us what you're capable of. You'll train with some of our academy players, and at the end, we'll see how you perform in a full-sided match."

Carlos nodded, his chest tightening with anticipation. "I'm ready."

Ortiz led him to a group of players already warming up. They eyed Carlos curiously but kept their distance, whispering among themselves. Carlos caught snippets of their conversation.

"Is he the trialist?"

"He doesn't look like much."

"Let's see if he can keep up."

Carlos ignored them, focusing on his stretches. He had faced skepticism before, and he knew the only way to silence doubters was through his performance.

The morning session began with technical drills. Carlos worked hard to keep up, matching the academy players in precision and effort. He impressed the coaches with his quick footwork and ball control, but the real test came during the small-sided games.

In his first match, Carlos struggled to find his rhythm. The academy players moved with an understanding that came from years of playing together. They passed around him effortlessly, their cohesion making Carlos feel like an outsider.

"Focus, Carlos," Navarro's words echoed in his mind. "Adapt and find your place."

Carlos started studying his teammates, noting their tendencies and preferences. He noticed that one winger favored cutting inside, while the striker thrived on through balls. Slowly, Carlos adjusted his game, positioning himself to complement their style.

The turning point came when Carlos intercepted a pass in midfield. He sprinted forward, evading a defender with a deft touch, and delivered a perfectly weighted pass to the striker, who finished with a powerful shot.

"Great ball!" the striker shouted, giving Carlos a nod of approval.

Encouraged, Carlos grew more confident. In the next match, he orchestrated plays, directing his teammates and creating opportunities. By the end of the session, the academy players were no longer ignoring him. Instead, they included him in their discussions, recognizing his potential.

After a short break, the full-sided match began. This was the real test—where scouts and coaches would decide if Carlos had what it took to join Real Azul's academy.

The game was intense, with both sides fighting for dominance. Carlos started cautiously, observing the flow of the game. The academy players were skilled, their movements precise and deliberate. But Carlos had something they didn't: the hunger to prove himself.

Midway through the first half, Carlos received the ball near the center circle. A defender charged toward him, but Carlos stayed calm, shielding the ball before turning sharply and sprinting down the field. Spotting the winger making a run, he sent a perfectly timed pass that split the defense. The winger crossed it into the box, and the striker headed it home.

"Brilliant vision!" one of the coaches shouted from the sideline.

Carlos' confidence soared. He continued to influence the game, dictating the tempo and linking up with his teammates. In the second half, with the score tied at 2-2, Carlos saw his chance.

The ball came to him just outside the box. Two defenders closed in, but Carlos feinted to his right before cutting left, leaving them behind. With a quick glance at the goal, he unleashed a curling shot that soared past the goalkeeper and into the top corner.

The crowd of coaches and staff erupted in applause. Carlos' teammates surrounded him, patting him on the back.

"Now that's how you make an impression," one of them said, grinning.

After the match, Carlos sat on the bench, his heart still racing. Ortiz approached, a satisfied smile on his face.

"You've exceeded our expectations, Carlos," Ortiz said. "The coaches are impressed, and we'd like to offer you a place in Real Azul's academy."

Carlos felt a surge of pride and relief. He had done it. All the years of hard work and sacrifice had led to this moment.

"Thank you," Carlos said, his voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions. "I won't let you down."

Ortiz extended his hand. "Welcome to Real Azul, Carlos. This is just the beginning."

As Carlos left the training ground, he thought about his journey—the dusty streets of San Azura, the struggles, the triumphs, and the lessons he had learned along the way.

Clutching Chico, he whispered, "We did it, buddy. But this is only the start."

With determination burning in his chest, Carlos stepped forward, ready to embrace the challenges ahead and chase his dream of becoming one of the greats.