Art233

Manchester United, once a dominant force in world football, finds itself struggling under Erik ten Hag despite having the financial power to rebuild. 

Big-money transfers fail to restore the club’s glory, forcing Ten Hag to shift his focus to homegrown talent.

Among the overlooked prospects in the U18 squad is Leo Calderon, a 17-year-old central midfielder buried deep in the pecking order. 

Lacking physicality and dismissed by teammates as weak, Leo endures constant ridicule from those who dominate with strength and athleticism. 

But during one ordinary training session, everything changes—Leo suddenly sees passing lanes no one else can, angles of play invisible to even the most talented prospects.

Yet, there’s a problem. His vision surpasses his ability. The passes he attempts don’t connect, his technique unable to match his newfound awareness. 

Coaches dismiss his efforts as sloppy, and his struggles continue. But one unexpected observer—a visiting League One assistant coach—notices something different. 

He watches Leo’s movements, seeing potential where others see failure.

As Leo fights to prove himself in an unforgiving system, the question lingers—can he refine his raw talent before the club moves on without him?

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Also, all rights reserved for the companies and teams and also players I use in the novel since I don't know how image rights work and I'm too lazy to search it up on Bing-, I mean google

Harbinger Of Glory

"And now the Wigan captain is down again. This time, it looks more serious. You can see Dawson on the sideline — he's already turning to his bench."

Waving for cards, the atmosphere, and being a bit impatient all in all.

Leo leaned back slightly, heart racing.

Loftus Road — 63'

The change came quickly after the second collapse.

Darikwa sat down again, this time with a slow shake of the head.

He didn't call for the physios. Didn't need to.

A second later, his arm was up, waving.

Sze and Fletcher, now in their jerseys jogged toward the fourth official as the board went up.

Just A Start