Chapter 18: A Striker’s ChoiceOutside the Stadium – The Weight of a Decision

Jason stood frozen between two giants of Spanish football.

FC Barcelona. Atlético Madrid.

Two different philosophies. Two different paths to the top.

Miguel Peréz, the Barcelona scout, spoke first. "La Masia has developed some of the greatest footballers of all time. If you want to refine your technique, control the game, and become a modern forward, Barcelona B is the place for you."

Javier Ruíz, the Atlético scout, smirked. "Barcelona B is fine if you want to be another pass-first striker. But if you want to dominate physically, play direct football, and fight for a place in La Liga sooner, then come to Atlético."

Jason's mind was racing.

This was it.

His first major career decision.

Rodrigo nudged him. "Bro, this is crazy. Two of Spain's biggest clubs—fighting for you."

Jason exhaled. "Yeah… but I can only choose one."

Miguel adjusted his suit. "No pressure, Jason. Take your time."

Ruíz crossed his arms. "Or, don't. This level is ruthless. You hesitate, and you'll miss your chance."

Jason looked at both men.

And then he made his decision.

Jason Chooses… Atlético Madrid!

Jason extended his hand toward Javier Ruíz.

"I want to play for Atlético."

Ruíz's smirk widened. "Smart choice, kid."

Miguel's expression didn't change, but Jason could see the disappointment. "I respect your decision," the Barcelona scout said. "But just know—this door won't stay open forever."

Jason nodded. He understood.

Ruíz patted him on the back. "Pack your bags, kid. You're moving to Madrid."

Rodrigo whistled. "Damn, bro. Atlético? You're really about that warrior mindset, huh?"

Jason grinned. "I'm here to win."

Ruíz chuckled. "Good answer. But now, you need to prove you belong."

Jason clenched his fists.

This was just the beginning.

He had stepped onto the road toward La Liga.

Now, he had to walk it.

.....

Jason stepped off the train at Madrid-Chamartín Station, his duffel bag slung over his shoulder.

The air was crisp, and the city buzzed with energy.

This was his new home.

Rodrigo, walking beside him, stretched his arms. "Man, Madrid feels different from Valencia. Bigger, busier… more intense."

Jason smirked. "That's exactly what I need."

After accepting Atlético Madrid B's offer, Jason had been given a week to relocate.

Now, he was here—

Ready to prove himself.

A black SUV was waiting outside the station.

The driver rolled down the window. "Jason Cross?"

Jason nodded.

"Hop in. Coach wants to see you."

Jason and Rodrigo exchanged glances before sliding into the backseat.

This was really happening.

---

Atlético Madrid B Training Ground – First Impressions

The car pulled into Ciudad Deportiva Atlético de Madrid, the club's elite training center.

Jason stared out the window, taking it all in.

Multiple pristine pitches.

State-of-the-art facilities.

A massive Atlético Madrid crest on the main building.

This was a whole new level.

As they stepped out, a tall, stern-looking man approached.

Coach Santiago Burgos.

Atlético Madrid B's head coach.

Jason had seen him before on TV—

A hard-nosed coach known for demanding everything from his players.

Burgos didn't smile. He simply studied Jason with sharp eyes.

"So, you're the kid Ruíz wouldn't shut up about," he said.

Jason nodded. "Yes, coach."

Burgos folded his arms. "Hat-trick in your first start for Blue Phoenix Academy. Interesting. But here? That means nothing."

Jason met his gaze. "Then I'll prove it wasn't a fluke."

A brief pause.

Then—Burgos smirked. "Good. Because if you want to survive here, you'd better."

---

A Brutal Welcome

Jason changed into his training gear and stepped onto the training pitch.

The intensity was insane.

These weren't academy players anymore—they were men fighting for professional contracts.

And that meant one thing:

Nobody was here to make friends.

Jason barely had time to breathe before Burgos blew his whistle.

"Small-sided games!" he barked. "Three touches max. No fouls given."

Jason's team consisted of:

Nico Peralta – A tall, aggressive center-back.

Miguel Fernández – A skillful attacking midfielder.

Pablo Rojas – A quick left-winger.

Their opponents?

Emiliano Vázquez – Atlético B's star striker.

Luis Ortega – A tough defensive midfielder.

Rafael Díaz – The captain and enforcer of the squad.

From the moment the match started—

Jason felt the difference.

The pace was ruthless.

Every pass was challenged.

Every touch was contested.

Every moment was a battle.

And then—

BAM!

Jason barely turned before Díaz slammed into him, sending him to the ground.

No whistle.

No foul.

Just laughter from the other players.

Jason clenched his jaw.

He was the new guy.

The outsider.

And they wanted to break him.

But Jason had been through worse.

He pushed himself up, locking eyes with Díaz.

"Try that again," Jason said, smirking.

Díaz raised an eyebrow. "Tough guy, huh? Let's see how long that lasts."

The next play?

Jason was ready.

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