Chapter 17 : Premiere League

Lying down in his bed, Nico let out a deep breath as he stared at the ceiling. The weight of everything that had happened over the past few months settled on him. Winning the Segunda División, securing promotion for Betis, turning 15 years old, and now—preparing for the next chapter of his career.

His eyes drifted toward his phone, still buzzing from notifications, but he ignored it. Instead, he closed his eyes and whispered the word he hadn't used in a while.

"System."

Instantly, the familiar holographic interface appeared before him, illuminating his dimly lit room with a faint glow. His name, age, and stats were displayed in crisp detail, each number reflecting the growth he had achieved through relentless training and competition.

[System Interface]

[Name] Nico Cruyff

[Date of Birth] June 7, 2000

[Age] 15 years old

[Height] 174 cm

[Weight] 62 kg

[Attributes]

PaceAcceleration: 75Sprint Speed: 75

DribblingBall Control: 75Agility: 75Skill Moves: 75

ShootingFinishing: 75Shot Power: 89Long Shots: 89Volleys: 75

PassingShort Passing: 85Long Passing: 90Vision: 85Curve: 90Crossing: 85

DefendingTackling: 70Interceptions: 70Defensive Awareness: 70

PhysicalStamina: 85Strength: 83Balance: 84Jumping: 82

Free KicksFree Kick Accuracy: 97Set Piece Technique: 97

[Skills] (All at Advanced Level)S-Shaped Free KickPendulumRobben's Cut-InCruyff TurnRonaldo ChopLa CroquetaElevator Free KickMarseille TurnTrivelaElástico

[SP] 2000

[Shop] Unlocked

Nico decided to save the sp for now , there was a new ability in shop called superstar moment

The item grants him a unique ability:

Effect: After activation, the first shot within 30 meters of the goal will go in, regardless of the goalkeeper's position or defensive pressure.

Limitations: Can only be used once per game, meaning Nico must be strategic in choosing the right moment to activate it.

Potential Impact: This ability essentially guarantees one goal per match, making him a deadly asset in crucial situations.

___________

The next day, June 8, 2015, the sun was shining over Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, the heart of FC Barcelona's training operations. Nico and Johan Cruyff arrived at the facility, the young midfielder feeling a mix of excitement and anticipation. Today was an important day—he would finally meet with Luis Enrique, the head coach of Barcelona's first team, to discuss his future at the club.

As they walked through the corridors of the training complex, the familiar sight of Barcelona's crest on the walls, the trophies displayed in glass cases, and the occasional glimpse of first-team players passing by filled Nico with pride. This was home. But the question remained—would it be his home this season?

Stopping in front of the coach's office, Johan turned to his grandson and gave him an encouraging nod. "This is your moment, Nico. Go and speak your mind," he said, his voice calm but firm.

Nico nodded in return, taking a deep breath to steady himself. He raised his hand and knocked on the door. After a brief pause, a voice from inside called out, "Come in."

With that, Nico stepped forward, pushing the door open and entering the office where his future at Barcelona would be decided.

_______

Nico entered the room, closing the door behind him, and respectfully greeted Luis Enrique, who sat behind his desk, his expression warm yet serious.

The Barcelona coach leaned back in his chair, studying the young midfielder for a moment before speaking.

"First of all, congratulations, Nico," Enrique said with a small smile. "Winning the Segunda División, finishing as the top scorer, top assister, and best player—that's an incredible achievement for someone your age. You've proven yourself at a professional level."

Nico nodded, grateful for the recognition. "Thank you, Coach. It was a team effort, and I'm happy we were able to achieve our goal."

Enrique gave a nod of approval before continuing. "I've watched you play," he said. "You're exceptional on the ball, your control, vision, and striking ability are well beyond your years. You dictate the tempo of the game like a veteran, and your decision-making under pressure is remarkable."

He leaned forward, clasping his hands together. "That brings me to my next question—what do you expect from me?"

Nico took a moment to gather his thoughts before answering. He knew that this conversation could determine his immediate future at Barcelona. He met Luis Enrique's gaze, his emerald-green eyes filled with determination.

"Coach," he began, his voice steady, "what I expect from you is honesty. I want to know whether you see a place for me in the first team this season. I understand that Barcelona is filled with world-class players, and I'm not expecting to walk into the starting lineup, but I need to know if there's a realistic chance for me to get minutes and grow here."

Luis Enrique leaned back in his chair, nodding slightly as he listened. He appreciated Nico's direct approach—there was no arrogance, only a young player eager to prove himself.

"You're right, Nico," Enrique said after a brief pause. "Barcelona's midfield is stacked with some of the best players in the world. Iniesta, Busquets, Rakitic, Rafinha, Sergi Roberto, and even Arda Turan—all of them have experience at the highest level. Breaking into this team won't be easy."

He observed Nico's expression, searching for any sign of doubt, but the young midfielder remained composed, absorbing his words.

"That being said," Enrique continued, "you're a special talent. The way you control the ball, your intelligence, and your ability to handle pressure are not something I see in many players—even at your age. You could bring something different to this team, but my biggest concern is your development. If you stay, I can't guarantee you'll play every game. You'll have to fight for every single minute, and there will be times when you might not even make the squad."

Enrique paused, watching how Nico would react. The teenager didn't flinch.

"I understand, Coach," Nico said firmly. "I don't expect anything to be handed to me. I'll fight for my place, and I'll prove that I belong here. But if you think that I'd develop better with another year on loan, then I'll respect your decision."

Luis Enrique tapped his fingers on the desk, impressed by the maturity in Nico's response. It was rare to see a 15-year-old with such self-awareness and professionalism.

Luis Enrique remained silent for a moment, deep in thought. He had expected Nico to be ambitious, but what impressed him most was the boy's level-headedness. Many young players would demand game time outright, but Nico was different—he was willing to earn his place.

"You remind me of someone," Enrique finally said, a small smile forming on his lips. "A certain Argentine forward who came through La Masia years ago. He didn't demand anything either—he just proved himself on the pitch, day after day."

Nico smiled, knowing exactly who Enrique was talking about.

"But," Enrique continued, his tone turning serious again, "this decision isn't just about your talent. It's about what's best for your growth. If you stay, you'll train with the first team every day, learn from the best, and be in an environment that breeds champions. But again, I can't promise minutes. Not yet."

Nico nodded. He had expected this.

"However," Enrique added, "if you go out on loan, you'll be a guaranteed starter, playing every week, gaining valuable experience in a competitive league. You'll come back stronger, more refined, and more prepared to take a place in this team."

Nico took a deep breath. He appreciated Enrique's honesty, and he knew that whichever path he chose, it would come with challenges.

"So," Enrique said, leaning forward, "the choice is yours. Stay and fight for limited minutes, or go on loan and play every game. What do you want to do?"

Nico looked down for a moment, deep in thought. This was a huge decision, one that could shape his career.

__________________________

Back at home, Nico sat in the living room with Johan Cruyff, discussing the offers he had received. His grandfather listened carefully, nodding as Nico laid out his options.

"So, I have offers from Sporting Gijón, Real Valladolid, and Tenerife in the Segunda División. Then there are Real Sociedad, Celta Vigo, and Villarreal in La Liga. And then..." Nico hesitated for a moment before continuing, "Manchester City. Pep wants to talk to me."

Johan raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Guardiola personally wants to speak with you?"

Nico nodded. "Enrique gave me his number. He wants to explain his project and where I fit in."

Johan leaned back in his chair, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "It's a big decision," he said. "Staying in Spain means you'll continue adapting to La Liga's style, which suits you well. But England… that's a completely different challenge. It's faster, more physical."

Nico nodded, already aware of the differences. "I want to go where I'll develop the most. Where I'll play regularly, but also be challenged."

Johan smiled. "That's the right mindset. You should listen to what Guardiola has to say. He's one of the best coaches in the world. But remember, don't let the name alone sway you. Think about what's best for you right now."

Nico took a deep breath, absorbing his grandfather's advice. "I'll call him and see what he has in mind."

Johan patted his shoulder. "Good. Take your time with this decision. You have talent, Nico, but choosing the right path at the right time will define your career."

Nico nodded, determined. Tomorrow, he would speak to Pep Guardiola and see what the legendary coach had planned for him.

__________

Nico listened carefully, intrigued.

Guardiola's voice carried a tone of certainty as he continued, "Listen, I want to be clear—I'm not bringing you to City to sit on the bench. If you come here, you will play. You will be a starter in my system. I need a player like you, someone who can control the game, break lines with passing, and make decisive plays in the final third. You have that ability already, but I want to take you even further."

There was a brief pause before Pep chuckled softly. "Do you remember when you trained with us once? You were just eight years old."

Nico's eyebrows raised slightly. He did remember. A brief moment during a visit to Barcelona's first team training—he had joined in a small rondo, playing alongside world-class players. He hadn't thought much of it at the time.

"Even then, I knew," Pep continued. "I knew you had the talent to be the best in the world. I've wanted to coach you since that moment because I can see what you can become. If you trust me, I will make sure you reach the very top. I will make you the best in the world."

Nico felt a chill run through him. Coming from anyone else, such words might have felt like empty promises. But this was Pep Guardiola—one of the greatest football minds in history. If he said he could shape Nico into the best, then it wasn't just a dream. It was a possibility.

A silence settled between them for a moment before Nico exhaled.

"Mister… this is a lot to take in. I need to think about it."

"Of course," Pep replied without hesitation. "Take your time. Just know that if you choose City, I will do everything to help you become the player you're meant to be."

After a few more words, the call ended.

Nico placed his phone on the bedside table and lay back, staring at the ceiling.

This decision was bigger than just a loan—it could define the rest of his career.