Winter Break I

Within the Dream Training System, Yang Yang is putting in relentless work, pushing himself with the ball as he trains. 

Zax has crafted a unique virtual training zone at the center of the field. At first glance, the surface appears smooth and unremarkable, but it's actually divided into countless small grids, each one integral to the training challenge. 

As soon as Yang Yang enters this area with the ball, a virtual defender is simulated in one of the adjacent grids. The defender might attempt to body-block, tackle, intercept, or pressure him in various ways. Simultaneously, a different grid lights up nearby, indicating the optimal spot for Yang Yang to move into to evade the defender. His goal is to break free, control the ball, and reach the lit grid as quickly as possible. 

Regardless of whether Yang Yang succeeds or fails, the field resets instantly after each attempt, generating new defenders and lighting up a new grid. The continuous reset gives him no time to dwell on previous attempts, forcing him to stay fully engaged and prepared to respond instantly to each challenge. 

The training setup feels almost like a high-stakes version of whack-a-mole, where Yang Yang must stay alert, use his footwork to outmaneuver defenders, and reach the target grid—over and over again. 

The session runs for a full thirty minutes, with no breaks. This is a fresh program Zax introduced today, specifically designed to sharpen Yang Yang's agility, responsiveness, and ability to quickly transition between moves in tight spaces. By focusing on rapid reactions, it also improves his ability to control his body and ball under pressure. 

Though this was Yang Yang's first time attempting this drill, he immediately felt the intensity and value of the exercise. 

In this confined training zone, he's constantly surrounded by virtual defenders, pressing him from all angles, forcing him to make split-second decisions and react in confined spaces. Not only does he need fast reflexes and precise footwork, but he must also master control over his body to maneuver effectively. 

Zax informed him that this was only the initial level of the drill. As he progresses, the simulated defenders will grow tougher, exerting even greater pressure, and at times, Yang Yang may need to evade two or more defenders simultaneously. 

Fully recognizing the rare benefits of this training, Yang Yang was wholly absorbed in the challenge. He didn't dare to slack off, relentlessly pushing himself for the entire thirty minutes. When Zax finally called time, he felt a deep sense of mental fatigue—a result of maintaining intense focus for an extended period. But he knew that a short rest would help him recover, ready for the next round of improvement. 

... 

"This is only defensive pressure at the top Eredivisie level. If it ramps up any further, I'm not sure I'll be able to keep up," Yang Yang admitted with a bitter smile. 

So far, his success rate in the drill was below fifty percent, and he often found himself making errors under the intense pressure. Even in a live game, he knew he couldn't guarantee perfect success against Dutch defenders, let alone within this challenging, high-intensity simulation. 

"This is just the beginning. Take it slowly," Zax replied, his tone calm but encouraging. 

"The human body has an incredible ability to adapt. Right now, the pressure feels overwhelming because you're not used to it. But as you adjust, this level won't challenge you anymore, and we'll increase the intensity." 

Yang Yang nodded, fully understanding Zax's words. He'd experienced this progressive growth before. 

Thinking back to his days in Almere, he remembered how demanding his self-made training plans had seemed back then. Now, though, he could see that those exercises were only the basics, barely scratching the surface of his potential. His progress was the real difference. 

"Starting today, the defenders we simulate for you in one-on-one training will be upgraded to a European level," Zax announced. 

Yang Yang's eyes lit up with excitement. He hadn't expected another upgrade so soon. Then, doing a quick mental calculation, he realized it had taken him a full year to advance from facing defenders at the Eredivisie level to facing those at the European standard. The road forward was getting tougher, with improvement harder to achieve. 

But Yang Yang knew football followed a pyramid structure. The higher up you go, the fewer players make it to that level, and each is more formidable, more refined in both skill and mentality. 

Looking back on his journey from Almere, he could feel how much he had changed. Now, he was more confident, resilient, and collected in the face of challenges. 

He recalled something Zax had once told him: "Without a strong spirit, even the strongest body is just an empty shell." 

Yang Yang understood this better now than ever. His ambition, his desire to improve, was the driving force behind his discipline. He wasn't willing to let up—not for a moment. 

He had a singular goal: to become stronger. 

He wanted to ensure that what had happened in the Champions League would never happen again. He hoped to deliver victories to the fans who stood by him, who cheered and supported him. He couldn't bear to let them down. 

With that thought igniting a fire within him, Yang Yang took a deep breath, feeling a renewed surge of determination. He rose, ready for the next round. 

"Let's go, Zax. Start the next drill," he said, resolve evident in his voice. 

... 

... 

While Yang Yang was immersed in his Dream Training System, in reality, he was on a flight from Tokyo, Japan, back to Amsterdam. 

After their success in the Toyota Cup, Ajax returned to Amsterdam before breaking for the winter. The club had initially offered Yang Yang the option to leave the team from Tokyo and fly directly to China, but he chose to return to Amsterdam with his teammates. He had scheduled a training plan with Winston Bogarde, aiming to maintain and strengthen his physical conditioning throughout the break. 

Yang Yang's goal was clear: to elevate his performance for the remainder of the season, leading Ajax to an Eredivisie title and making a deep run in the UEFA Cup. After the team's early Champions League exit, he felt a sense of responsibility and wanted to make up for it by performing well in Europe's secondary competition. 

As he "slept," the other Ajax players were scattered throughout the plane, chatting in small groups. Captains Galásek and Heitinga were still holding the Toyota Cup trophy, and laughter could be heard as teammates occasionally teased Yang Yang about his prize—a Toyota car—for winning the tournament's Best Player award. 

Sitting in the front row, head coach Ronald Koeman glanced back, observing his players, his gaze lingering on Yang Yang, who appeared deep in rest. At the season's start, Koeman and his coaching staff had planned for Yang Yang to make an impact, but they didn't expect him to become such a pivotal player so quickly. They'd originally anticipated his breakout season would come next year, focusing this season's attacking strategy around Wesley Sonck to optimize Ajax's offensive efficiency. 

To everyone's surprise, Yang Yang had far exceeded expectations. With 11 goals and 8 assists in the Eredivisie so far, his numbers had stunned even the coaching staff. Even Ruud Krol, one of his staunchest supporters, hadn't imagined Yang Yang's rise would be this remarkable. 

Yet, there was concern within the team. Yang Yang's form had been outstanding, but the season had only reached its midpoint. His heavy workload—from the long travels, frequent matches, and intense training—had everyone wondering if he could sustain this level. After all, he was only eighteen, and even seasoned professionals would find such demands taxing. 

"Recently, Winston mentioned that Yang Yang wants to work with him over the break for personal training," Jan Kruitenberg, head of Ajax's fitness team, remarked quietly. "I approved it." 

Winston Bogarde, a respected fitness coach at Ajax, often took on private training during breaks, a practice the club permitted during off-seasons. 

"Winston said Yang Yang is serious about maintaining his form through the winter break, hoping to carry his first-half performance into the season's latter half," Kruitenberg continued. 

Koeman and Krol exchanged looks of admiration. Yang Yang's self-discipline and work ethic had always set a high standard, making him an example for the entire squad. 

"And I suggest they use the facilities at De Toekomst," Krol added, referring to Ajax's top training complex. "It's better to ensure he has access to professional equipment and a controlled environment." 

Koeman nodded in agreement. "Good idea. We'll notify Winston when we get back. Let's avoid any risk by keeping them in a familiar setting." 

The conversation turned as Koeman furrowed his brow. "I've been thinking about adjusting our tactics," he said, carefully choosing his words. 

Krol and Kruitenberg both caught on. The idea of placing more tactical emphasis on Yang Yang's strengths had been circulating among the coaching staff. With Yang Yang emerging as a genuine offensive force, the thought of reshaping Ajax's strategy around him was becoming increasingly appealing. 

The proposed adjustments included shifting Sonck out of the starting lineup in favor of Pienaar on the left wing, alongside Yang Yang and Charisteas up front. In midfield, Koeman considered pairing Galásek and De Jong as defensive anchors, which would allow more freedom for the wingers to attack and create dynamic chances with Yang Yang. 

The coaching staff had initially hesitated to explore this setup. Sonck had joined Ajax with high expectations, and benching him would likely mean relegating him to a substitute role or even considering a transfer. Plus, Yang Yang had only begun showing his current level of skill midway through the season, so the staff hadn't felt confident relying solely on him at the outset. 

But now? The timing felt right. 

"I think it could work," Krol voiced his support for the tactical shift. 

"I agree," Kruitenberg added, though he voiced a concern. "The only issue I see is Yang Yang's endurance. We need to monitor his fitness closely." 

"Then we'll keep it under wraps for now," Koeman decided. "After the winter break, we'll reevaluate and see how things look." 

They knew that adjustments of this nature in a professional league couldn't be taken lightly. Careful planning and timing would be crucial to ensure they made the right moves for the team's success. 

... 

... 

In the depths of winter, the world appeared stark and desolate. 

Once lush and green, the trees now stood bare, their branches skeletal against the cold sky, while the grass had faded to a dull, frost-bitten brown. Even the waters of Ouderkerk Lake, which connects to the Amstel Canal through its winding tributaries, had developed a thin layer of ice, with drifting floes scattered across the surface. Beneath the ice, the lake's tranquil depths were faintly visible. 

With last year's experience behind him, Yang Yang had better prepared himself this season for the challenges of winter training. Dressed warmly, he set out from his home, dribbling and running along the small lakeside path in Ouderkerk. Few people ventured out in the frigid air, leaving the narrow trail peaceful and empty. 

As he trained, the winter conditions added an extra layer of difficulty. The football, quickly becoming damp and slippery, was harder to control, demanding greater focus and precision. Yang Yang welcomed the challenge, knowing that these small obstacles only sharpened his skills. He dribbled with intense concentration, determined not to lose control on the icy ground. 

He wasn't the same young player who had struggled in the Almere youth camp. His ball control had grown remarkably refined over the past year and a half, a result of his relentless, disciplined training. 

Yang Yang completed three laps around the lake, the cold air filling his lungs while his body warmed with the steady rhythm of his workout. As he headed home, he spotted a Fiat parked outside—courtesy of the club, arranged for his convenience. Smiling, he entered the house, already anticipating his training plans for the day. 

Most of Ajax was on Christmas break now, with players scattered across Europe and beyond to celebrate with family. Vermaelen and Nicklas Bendtner had gone back to their homelands, while Maxwell and Maicon had returned to Brazil. In Europe, this holiday carried the same weight as the Chinese New Year, marking a special time of year for family and celebration. 

Yang Yang, however, had already discussed his plans with his parents. Instead of returning home, he'd chosen to stay in Amsterdam to focus fully on his training. With access to the professional facilities at De Toekomst, he knew he'd be able to immerse himself in practice, pushing himself further and preparing for the season's second half. 

... 

"Good morning, Winston," Yang Yang greeted as he stepped into the living room, smiling warmly at Winston Bogarde. 

Bogarde glanced at his watch and nodded approvingly. "Right on time." 

"I'll take a quick shower first." 

"I'll have breakfast ready for you on the table," Bogarde replied with a slight smile. 

"Thanks a lot." 

Yang Yang headed upstairs to freshen up, changing quickly and washing off the morning chill. 

Today marked the official start of Winston Bogarde's role as Yang Yang's personal trainer. In addition to overseeing Yang Yang's strength training, Bogarde was taking charge of his daily meals, aiming to optimize Yang Yang's nutrition to support his fitness goals. This comprehensive approach would allow Bogarde to fine-tune Yang Yang's physical conditioning down to the smallest detail. 

The training plan would continue the foundation Bogarde had established with him at Ajax, but now it would be tailored for off-season development, with targeted adjustments to refine Yang Yang's endurance and flexibility. 

Yang Yang was determined to perform at an even higher level in the second half of the season, and he knew that enhancing his stamina and strength would be crucial. Sometimes he wondered if the improvements he noticed were just psychological, but the results on the field convinced him otherwise. Since working with Bogarde, he felt faster, more agile, and increasingly confident in his physical capabilities. 

A significant advantage of working with Bogarde was his role as Ajax's fitness coach. Bogarde had access to all of Yang Yang's data, allowing him to track his progress meticulously. With Ajax's upcoming winter training camp in Portugal, Bogarde would ensure Yang Yang's individual fitness regimen aligned seamlessly with the team's overall training, something an external trainer wouldn't be able to offer. 

This integration between individual and team training gave Yang Yang an invaluable edge, helping him push his development to the next level. 

... 

... 

After breakfast, Yang Yang joined Winston Bogarde in the car, and they headed to De Toekomst. 

Upon Ajax's return to Amsterdam, the coaching staff had informed Yang Yang that he could continue training at De Toekomst during the winter break, provided he was accompanied by Bogarde. Yang Yang and Bogarde agreed to take only Christmas Day and the following day off, with the rest of the schedule remaining unchanged. 

Upon arriving at De Toekomst, the two went directly to the gym, resuming their regular routine. 

Yang Yang's bench press weight had steadily increased to 50 kg, a significant improvement that now showed in his physique. His muscles were becoming more defined, lending him a sturdier appearance and diminishing the lean frame he had once been known for. With each session, he grew more confident that he would soon be able to hold his own in physical confrontations on the pitch. 

During these one-on-one sessions, Bogarde also made a point of sharing his knowledge of strength training. As a fitness coach with both a professional background and extensive experience, Bogarde had a systematic approach to physical conditioning, covering everything from muscle development to flexibility and explosive power. 

He imparted all of this to Yang Yang, explaining concepts like muscle structure, body fat composition, and bulk, as well as how to balance resistance, agility, and strength. Bogarde believed that understanding the science behind his training would help Yang Yang commit more fully to his physical development. 

Yang Yang, who had once known little about fitness, absorbed everything Bogarde taught him like a sponge, envisioning a future where he possessed a perfectly balanced athlete's physique, tailored for peak performance. 

While Bogarde admired Yang Yang's dedication, he also offered a reality check. 

"Your discipline and scientific training can absolutely extend your career to the fullest, but remember, there's no such thing as a perfect physique—only what suits you best," he said, as they worked through a set. "At different stages, your playing style, tactical role, and physical requirements will change. You'll need to adjust accordingly." 

He paused, seeing Yang Yang's determination. "But one thing is certain: long-term, consistent strength training will help protect you from injuries and maintain your form." 

Yang Yang took Bogarde's words to heart, though his drive to build his strength remained undeterred. He believed that with a stronger physique, he could perform at an even higher level. Alongside strength training, he was committed to improving his speed, refining his basic skills, and honing his specialized techniques. All of these would require his total focus and energy. 

With his goals set, Yang Yang knew that every moment spent training would bring him closer to becoming the player he envisioned. 

... 

... 

From morning until evening, Yang Yang had been training at De Toekomst. Lunch, like the other meals, was prepared by Winston Bogarde, who ensured that Yang Yang's nutrition was balanced and optimized to maximize the impact of his winter training. 

After finishing dinner, Yang Yang received a phone call and left De Toekomst shortly afterward. The caller was the well-connected Dutch agent Guido Albers. 

Though Albers wasn't widely known outside the Netherlands, he held considerable influence in Dutch, Belgian, and German football circles. He represented prominent Dutch players, including the De Boer brothers, Sneijder, Van der Vaart, and Heitinga. 

Yang Yang's agent was still Mino Raiola, and he had no plans to change representation at the moment. However, with Yang Yang's rapid rise in European football, Guido Albers was eager to establish a connection. And, given that Albers represented some of Yang Yang's close teammates, the relationship felt mutually beneficial. 

Moreover, Albers had recently shown a growing interest in Chinese players, particularly after hearing about Yang Yang's success. Yang Yang's teammate, Zheng Zhi, had recently been invited for training with Bundesliga club Hertha Berlin. However, while he was there, Hertha signed a player in Zheng's position, greatly reducing his prospects with the club. 

During this time, Zheng Zhi confided his frustrations to Yang Yang, who reached out to a few trusted contacts, including Albers. From these discussions, Yang Yang learned that Hertha Berlin's invitation was largely driven by marketing considerations in the Chinese market, rather than genuine interest in Zheng Zhi's abilities. 

Albers then suggested that Zheng Zhi try out with Mainz, a club that actually needed a player with his skillset. Trusting Albers's advice, Yang Yang encouraged Zheng Zhi to pursue the opportunity, and Zheng decided to extend his stay in Germany for a trial with Mainz. 

Now that the trial was over, Zheng Zhi was set to return to China, and Guido Albers had arranged for Yang Yang to meet them before his departure. 

As Yang Yang exited De Toekomst, he spotted a sleek black Audi parked outside, with Guido Albers and Zheng Zhi standing beside it. 

"Hey, Zheng Zhi! Guido!" Yang Yang greeted them with a warm smile. 

Both men noticed Yang Yang's training attire and were clearly impressed by his dedication during the break. 

Yang Yang wasted no time. "How did it go? How was the trial at Mainz?" 

Zheng Zhi and Guido exchanged glances, both nodding with broad smiles. 

"Well?" Yang Yang asked, unable to hide his anticipation. 

Seeing Yang Yang's genuine concern, Zheng Zhi felt deeply grateful. Without Yang Yang's support, he wouldn't have had this opportunity. Instead of answering directly, he walked over and hugged Yang Yang tightly. 

"Thank you! You helped me achieve my dream of playing abroad. I couldn't have done this without you!" Zheng Zhi said, his voice full of emotion. 

Yang Yang looked momentarily puzzled until Guido stepped in with an explanation. 

"Mainz's head coach, Klopp, really appreciates Zheng's versatility. He values players who can cover multiple positions in midfield, both in attack and defense," Guido said with a proud smile. 

Yang Yang's face lit up. "So, it's official?" 

Zheng Zhi nodded. "It's done!" 

Yang Yang let out a sigh of relief, thrilled for his friend. Zheng Zhi had the talent to play in Europe, and seeing him miss out would have been disappointing. 

"Klopp is a very astute coach," Guido added. "He led Mainz to promotion, and he's keen on players like Zheng Zhi, who can adapt to various roles. He told me directly that he wants Zheng on the squad, so there's no doubt." 

Yang Yang nodded thoughtfully. "That's fantastic news! But you can't take it easy now. As soon as you're back in China, get the paperwork done quickly so you can join Mainz for their winter training camp. The sooner you settle in, the faster you'll adapt to the team." 

Zheng Zhi and Guido exchanged another smile, amused by Yang Yang's eagerness. 

"Thank you, really," Zheng Zhi said once more, his gratitude evident.