Chapter 17: The Scout’s OfferOutside the Stadium – Moments After the Match

Jason stepped out of the locker room, still buzzing from the 3-1 victory against Valencia Youth.

His first start.

His first hat-trick.

And now, standing outside the tunnel, waiting for him—

A scout from FC Barcelona.

The man in the suit studied Jason with a calm, assessing gaze. His badge displayed the logo of La Masia, Barcelona's world-renowned youth academy.

Jason's heart pounded.

This was huge.

Rodrigo, standing beside him, nudged his shoulder. "Dude, do you know who that is?"

Jason nodded slowly. "Yeah."

The scout stepped forward, offering a handshake.

"Jason Cross?" His voice was smooth, professional. "I'm Miguel Peréz, scout for FC Barcelona's youth division. That was an impressive performance."

Jason shook his hand, trying to stay composed. "Thank you."

Miguel smiled slightly. "We've been monitoring top young talents across Spain, and after tonight's performance… I'd like to discuss an opportunity."

Rodrigo whistled. "Man, straight to business, huh?"

Miguel chuckled. "That's how it works at the top." He turned back to Jason. "Would you be interested in a trial at Barcelona B?"

Jason's breath caught in his throat.

Barcelona B—

The reserve team for one of the biggest clubs in the world.

A direct pathway to La Liga.

This was a dream opportunity.

But before he could answer—

Another voice cut in.

"That's a generous offer."

Jason turned.

Standing a few feet away was another scout.

His suit bore the emblem of Atlético Madrid.

A Rivalry Begins

Miguel frowned slightly. "And you are?"

The new scout smirked. "Javier Ruíz. Atlético Madrid's youth talent coordinator."

Jason's eyes widened.

Atlético Madrid—Barcelona's fierce rivals.

Ruíz turned to Jason. "I was at the match as well. And I have to say, you remind me of a certain young Diego Costa."

Rodrigo's eyes bulged. "Diego Costa?! Bro, they're comparing you to a monster."

Jason stayed silent, his mind racing.

Ruíz crossed his arms. "I won't waste your time. We have space in our Atlético B squad. If you're looking for a direct pathway to professional football, Madrid is the better option."

Miguel stepped forward. "Barcelona B is where technical players thrive. If you want to develop your game at the highest level, we offer world-class coaching and competition."

Ruíz scoffed. "You mean tiki-taka and endless passing? Jason's a killer in front of goal. Atlético forges warriors, not passers."

Jason exhaled slowly.

This was insane.

Two of Spain's biggest clubs—both offering him a future.

Rodrigo leaned in and whispered, "Bro… what are you gonna do?"

Jason didn't answer right away.

Because deep down—

He already knew.