Chapter 46 : Rest

In the CBS Sports post-match analysis, the panel of experts, including Kate Abdo, Micah Richards, Jamie Carragher, and Thierry Henry, gathered to break down Manchester City's impressive 4-1 victory over Arsenal.

Kate Abdo began by summarizing the match, clearly impressed with the attacking football on display from Manchester City.

"A dominant performance from Manchester City tonight. The way they pressed forward, with Aguero, De Bruyne, and the ever-impressive Nico Cruyff leading the charge, was simply too much for Arsenal to handle. Even at 15 years old, Cruyff is showing maturity beyond his years."

Micah Richards, who had played for Manchester City, nodded in agreement, noting how City's attacking play was fluid and relentless.

"Yeah, the tempo was incredible. From the first minute, you could see City were in control. They were moving the ball so quickly, it was hard for Arsenal to get any kind of foothold in the game. The key to their dominance was how well they spread the play, with De Bruyne dictating the game and Aguero finishing like the star he is. But let's not forget the young lad, Nico. What a player. His intelligence on the ball, his ability to find space, and his assists tonight were on a different level for someone his age."

Jamie Carragher chimed in, particularly focusing on Nico Cruyff's impact on the game.

"I can't stop watching the kid, to be honest. At just 15, he's already more than just a prospect—he's a real player. What we saw tonight was a glimpse of a future superstar. His ability to pick out Aguero with that through ball for the first goal, and his vision to help set up the second with that corner—he's not just playing for his age group, he's playing at the level of established professionals."

Thierry Henry, the former Arsenal striker, also gave his thoughts on Nico Cruyff, his appreciation clear.

"I think we're all in agreement here. This kid is special. His decision-making, the way he controls the ball, and his ability to link up with the more experienced players like Aguero and De Bruyne shows that he has the right mentality for the big stage. It's impressive how he is contributing at such a young age. I think, in the coming years, we'll see him as one of the top players in world football."

Kate Abdo brought the conversation back to the match as a whole, highlighting City's dominance.

"Absolutely, Thierry. It's hard to overstate how much control City had in this match. They were dominant from start to finish, and even though Arsenal got one goal, it never looked like they would be able to break through City's defense. Pep Guardiola has built a team that is not just attacking but very well-balanced."

Micah Richards added a final thought, touching on how City's attacking trio of Aguero, Cruyff, and De Bruyne was functioning like a well-oiled machine.

"You know, the link-up between those three is just incredible. They seem to know each other's game inside out. De Bruyne always knows where to find Aguero, and the way Nico Cruyff has adapted to this level of play and made himself a key part of the system is unbelievable. 

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Back at home, Nico was having dinner with the Guardiola family. As usual, Valentina was sitting on his lap, and he fed her while chatting with Maria, Marius, and Christina. The atmosphere was relaxed, everyone enjoying their meal after a long day. Valentina, as always, was full of energy, asking Nico about his match, while Marius teased him about being a football superstar.

Maria, sitting next to Nico, casually asked, "So, how did it feel to score that amazing goal today?" 

Nico, not one to brag, just shrugged with a modest smile, "It felt good, but it's all about the team. We played well, and I'm happy to contribute."

As the conversation flowed, Maria gave him a playful glance, noticing his humble attitude. "You always say that," she teased, "but we all know you're the one making the magic happen on the field."

Marius laughed, joining in, "Yeah, Nico. You're a machine! When will you stop making us all look bad?"

Nico chuckled, looking over at Christina, who was also in the conversation, "Well, I guess I just have some big shoes to fill around here. Just doing my job!"

Valentina, always eager to learn, asked, "When will I be able to play football like you, Nico?"

Nico paused for a moment before responding, "With dedication and hard work, you'll get there. Just remember, it's not about being the best on the field, it's about working hard and having fun with the game."

Christina smiled warmly at the interaction, proud of how Nico had become an important part of their family, not just for his football skills but also for the way he cared for them.

As they finished their meal, the conversation shifted to upcoming matches, with Nico talking about how excited he was for the next game. He knew the team's chemistry was only getting stronger, and he was eager to continue their unbeaten run in both the Premier League and Champions League.

After dinner, the family gathered in the living room, continuing to talk about football, with Marius asking Nico for more tips on how to improve his game. Nico patiently explained some drills and exercises that could help him improve his technique. Maria sat beside him, still smiling, glad to be spending these quiet moments with him after the hectic schedule.

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It was around 11 at night when Maria noticed Nico had left his phone on the couch. She figured he might need it, so she decided to bring it to him in his room. Quietly, she walked into his room and noticed he was peacefully asleep, his face relaxed and serene in the soft glow of the nightlight.

She carefully placed the phone on the desk, but as she stood there watching him sleep, a thought crossed her mind. Should I wake him up to give it to him, or just leave it here? Then she smiled to herself, realizing she didn't need to wake him. He's my boyfriend now, I can do this.

With that thought, Maria hesitated for a moment longer before climbing onto the bed beside him. She felt her heart race a little, unsure of what to do, but then decided to cuddle up with him. Nico wouldn't mind, she thought.

Maria gently slid into the bed, wrapped her arms around him, and nestled close. Nico, still deep in sleep, instinctively hugged her back, unaware. She smiled to herself as she relaxed in his arms, content and happy.

With a soft sigh, she rested her head on his chest, feeling safe and warm. Nico, still fast asleep, kept holding her close. She felt a wave of calm wash over her as she drifted off to sleep, snuggled in his embrace.

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The next morning, Nico woke up at his usual time of 4:30, feeling the familiar stretch in his muscles as he prepared for his morning routine. As he slowly opened his eyes, he was greeted with the sight of Maria nestled up close to him, her arms still wrapped around him as she slept peacefully.

For a moment, he paused, processing what had happened the night before. Wait... he thought, How did she end up here?

He remembered falling asleep alone, but now she was right there beside him. Nico quickly realized that she must have come in after he had fallen asleep, quietly cuddling up next to him. A small smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he gazed at her, still so peaceful in his arms.

He leaned down, gently kissing her on the forehead, the softness of her skin making him feel a sense of warmth. As he pulled back, he whispered, "Maria, hey... wake up, it's 4:30."

Maria stirred slightly, her eyes fluttering open. She looked up at him, still a little sleepy, but with a smile on her face. "Good morning," she mumbled, not letting go of him just yet.

Nico chuckled softly, brushing a lock of hair from her face. "Good morning, but I think it's time for me to get moving."

Maria, still clinging to him, whispered sleepily, "Just five more minutes, Nico. Please." She didn't let go of him, her arms wrapped around him tightly as she nestled closer, clearly not ready to get up.

Nico chuckled softly, but he knew his routine was non-negotiable. "I have to follow my daily routine, Maria," he said gently, trying to peel her arms off him. "You can sleep a little more, I have to go."

But Maria wasn't ready to let him go just yet. She tightened her hold on him and murmured, "Please, just stay a little longer."

With a soft sigh, Nico smiled, knowing he couldn't resist her for long. Instead of trying to convince her again, he gently scooped her up in his arms and stood up, carrying her toward her room.

"Alright, alright," he said with a grin. "I'll get you back to your bed, at least let me put you under the covers so you can sleep."

He placed her carefully on the bed and pulled the covers over her, making sure she was comfortable. As he tucked her in, he bent down to kiss her on the forehead, his lips lingering for just a moment.

"Sleep well," he whispered softly, before standing up and making his way out of the room.

___________

After finishing his usual morning routine—yoga, jogging, gym, and free kick practice—Nico headed off to training. It had been a long day, but the 15-year-old was used to the grind. He came back home around 5 PM, feeling the familiar mix of exhaustion and satisfaction from a productive day. 

After quickly taking a bath, he went down to the living room to unwind. As he entered, he saw Valentina and Marius sitting on the couch, eyes focused on the TV screen, completely absorbed in whatever they were watching. 

He made his way over and sat next to Valentina, who immediately looked up at him with a smile. "How was school today?" Nico asked, playfully ruffling her hair. 

Valentina's face lit up. "It was great! We did a fun project in art class today, and I think I did the best out of everyone!" she replied, excitement bubbling in her voice.

Marius, glancing over from the other side of the couch, teased, "I bet you did, Val. You're always the best at everything." 

Nico chuckled, giving Valentina a small nudge. "Sounds like you had a good day," he said, his voice light and warm.

Valentina beamed. "I did! And I can't wait to show you my drawing later," she said, her eyes already turning back to the TV as she proudly relaxed into the couch.

Nico smiled, feeling a sense of calm settle in as he enjoyed the peaceful moment with Valentina and Marius. Even with all the pressure and focus on his football career, moments like these kept him connected to what really mattered.

__________

Around 6:30, Maria came into the living room, noticing Nico, Valentina, and Marius were all engrossed in the TV. She walked over and sat next to Nico, giving him a playful nudge. 

"Hey, do you want to go for a walk?" Maria asked, her voice soft but full of curiosity. "It's a nice evening, and I figured we could get some fresh air."

Nico looked over at her, a smile tugging at his lips. "Sure, sounds good," he replied, glancing at Valentina and Marius. "You guys okay here? I'll be back soon."

Valentina waved without looking up from the TV, and Marius gave a thumbs up, clearly not interested in moving from his spot. 

Maria smiled and nodded as she stood up, holding out her hand for Nico. "Let's go," she said, her tone warm. Nico took her hand and followed her out the door, ready to spend some quiet time with her away from the house. 

It felt nice to get away for a moment, just the two of them, away from the hustle and bustle.