Chapter 5:- Recognizing Kabir's Talent

Booom!!!!

[What a goal!!!!!]

[It's 4 - 0]

[The Sunderland team is getting destroyed by a 17-year-old teenager. Just magnificent.]

Kabir clenched his fists tightly and let out a triumphant shout, gazing up at the sky. It was a moment of pure joy for him as he had just scored his first-ever official goal, despite his primary role as the playmaker on the team. This overwhelming sense of happiness reaffirmed why he had chosen to become a footballer in the first place.

As the ball hit the back of the net, the goalkeeper's face dropped in shame, realizing that Kabir had outwitted him. Meanwhile, Kabir's teammates rushed towards him, enveloping him in tight hugs, their excitement evident. Among them, Arvin, who had become particularly close to Kabir this week, couldn't contain his joy and leaped onto Kabir's back, shouting with delight.

Arvin's genuine happiness for his brother's achievement was evident to all. The captain, displaying a mixture of surprise and admiration, looked at Kabir and voiced his astonishment. The rest of the teammates, curious and eager for an explanation, directed their gaze towards Kabir, awaiting his response.

"I didn't know you had such exceptional dribbling skills," the captain exclaimed, his astonishment palpable. The others nodded in agreement, their eyes fixed on Kabir.

With a humble smile, Kabir replied, "I've been diligently training to master this move throughout the week." His teammates readily believed his words, as they knew Kabir to be the first one to arrive at the training ground and the last one to leave. This dedication and hard work had paid off, leaving everyone impressed.

Observing the scene unfold, Coach Gareth couldn't hide his surprise. Kabir's newfound ability to dribble opened up a plethora of possibilities. If he could maneuver past opponents with such skill, he would be able to create even more opportunities for goal-scoring chances.

"This young man continues to amaze me," Coach Gareth remarked, his voice tinged with admiration. The progress Kabir was making surpassed all expectations, leaving the coach filled with anticipation for what more Kabir could achieve in the future.

When Kabir received the Step over skill, it came with a description.

[Step over]

[B rank]

[- When this skill is used, the user's pace and dribbling stats will be increased by 30%.]

"Micheal, I must admit, Kabir's dribbling skills have taken me by surprise."

"This young man certainly knows how to keep us on our toes."

"Indeed, if he had been with us from the start of the season, he could have had a significant impact on our results."

A few minutes later, it was time for halftime. The team made their way back to the locker room, seeking a moment of respite and reflection.

Clap! Clap!

The coach clapped his hands, signaling the start of the halftime discussion. "Well done, everyone. I want to give special recognition to Kabir for his outstanding performance. Today marks the first time this season that we've managed to score four goals in a single match."

Kabir's teammates joined in, offering their praise and commendations, before shifting their attention back to the coach, eager to hear his plans for the second half. "As we discussed earlier, Kabir will be substituted in the second half of the game. Keith, you'll be taking Kabir's place. Our strategy for the remainder of the match will be to play cautiously, focusing on a slower and more defensive approach."

Following the halftime break, Kabir returned to the pitch for a brief five minutes before being substituted. As he made his way off the field, the fans erupted into applause, cheering his name in appreciation of his contribution.

[Ding! As this is your debuting match, you have earned a bonus of 100 points.]

[Ding! You have obtained 10 points for scoring a goal. As this is your first goal, you have earned an extra 100 points.]

[Ding! As you have provided three assists you have obtained 15 points.]

[Ding! The system has awarded you 25 points because of your overall performance.]

"I can't believe I earned a whopping 250 points in a single match. I have a feeling that this number will decrease soon," Kabir contemplated, contemplating what he should do with this abundance of points.

"I have the option to convert 10 points into 1 free stats point. By doing so, I can enhance my skills and improve my overall stats," Kabir reminded himself of his original goal. His aim for the upcoming season was to secure a spot in the first team. To achieve that, he needed to elevate his stats.

"To make it into the first team, my stats must reach above 65 or even 70. Otherwise, I'll be regarded as a substitute player with limited opportunities," Kabir acknowledged the importance of his performance and stats in determining his priority within the team.

"I should let the system convert these 250 points into attribute points," Kabir decided, determined to make the most of his hard-earned points and leverage them to enhance his abilities.

[Ding! The host has gained 25 free attribute points. The host can freely distribute your points.]

"With 12 games remaining before the season concludes, I have a strong desire to play the full 90 minutes. However, my stamina has become a significant obstacle," Kabir acknowledged, recognizing that improving his stamina was crucial to achieving his goal. Playing the entire duration of the matches would not only benefit his performance but also increase the number of points he could earn.

"I've decided to allocate all of my free attribute points into enhancing my Physique," Kabir declared with determination, realizing that improving his physical condition was essential to overcome his stamina limitations. He issued the command to the system, directing it to focus on enhancing his overall physical capabilities.

[Ding! The host's Physique has improved.]

[ Name - Kabir Ali

Pace - 48

Dribbling - 35

Pass - 92

Defense - 28

Physique - 30 → 55

Vision - 80

Penalty - 21

Free kick - 19

Long shot - 41

Possession - 37

Header - 40

Preferred foot - Left foot

Skills - [B] Stepover]

As Kabir infused his physique with the additional attribute points, a comforting warmth enveloped his body, revitalizing him and banishing the exhaustion that had previously burdened him.

"Now, with my improved stamina, I am confident that I can effectively play for the full 90 minutes," Kabir thought, a newfound assurance settling within him. Redirecting his attention to the ongoing game, he recognized the value of observing and learning from his teammates' performances, realizing there was still much to glean from watching the match unfold.

When the game concluded, Kabir's exceptional display earned him the title of Man of the Match. With three assists and a goal to his name, he was celebrated for his contributions on the field. Accompanied by his teammates, Kabir expressed his gratitude to the dedicated fans who had come to witness the match.

Approaching him with admiration, a young 7-year-old fan requested Kabir's autograph on his T-shirt. Kabir graciously nodded, flashing a warm smile, and proceeded to sign the young fan's shirt. Afterward, he affectionately rubbed the boy's head. Witnessing this heartwarming interaction, other fans joined in, eager to receive Kabir's signature. Obliging their requests, Kabir kindly signed a few more T-shirts before being gently ushered away.

Unbeknownst to Kabir, his actions had caught the attention of the online community, swiftly turning him into an internet sensation. Particularly, the clip of his skillful dribble past two defenders, culminating in a stunning goal, became a viral sensation on platforms like TikTok. One passionate fan shared the clip, igniting widespread interest among Nottingham and Premier League enthusiasts. Eventually, Kabir's background and accomplishments were unveiled to the internet, prompting various Bangladeshi news channels to cover the news with great excitement.

Following the match, as the coach granted everyone permission to rest, Arvin and other teammates extended an invitation to Kabir, urging him to join them at the local club for some fun. Grateful for their offer, Kabir politely declined, opting to spend his time at home indulging in video games or enjoying anime. The allure of a club atmosphere held little appeal to him. Swearing off alcohol, smoking, and drugs for his entire life, Kabir remained steadfast in his commitment to a clean and healthy lifestyle. Moreover, he acknowledged his introverted nature, finding social gatherings with unfamiliar individuals to be draining. He admitted to feeling awkward around girls, often finding it challenging to engage in smooth conversations.

However, later in the evening, as Kabir stepped out of his dormitory to grab a refreshing cold drink, he noticed a man enjoying a burger nearby. Clad in a sleek black suit and donning black sunglasses, the man exuded an air of sophistication as he leaned against his black Mercedes-Benz.

The stranger's attention immediately shifted to Kabir, causing him to hastily discard his half-eaten burger and approach Kabir with a friendly smile.

"Hello there! My name is Khalid. I have a mixed British-Arab heritage and I'm 47 years old. Arvin's brother happens to be my colleague as an agent. Arvin highly recommended you to me, which led me to seek you out for a conversation," Khalid introduced himself, standing at around 5 feet 9 inches tall. His fair complexion and handsome face were accentuated by the allure of his black suit.

"Would you mind joining me at the nearest café for a chat?" Considering that Arvin had sent this individual, Kabir agreed, thinking it might be a good opportunity to discuss the possibility of securing an agent.

Within 10 minutes, Kabir and Khalid found themselves seated in a cozy café. Kabir opted for a cup of tea while Khalid chose coffee.

"Let's keep things straightforward, Kabir. What is it that you desire? What is your ultimate goal?" Khalid inquired, looking directly at Kabir.

"My goal is to secure a spot in the Premier League's first team starting from next season," Kabir confidently replied.

"No offense, but I observed your performance today. I must admit, your passing skills and vision are impressive, but your stamina, speed, and strength fall short of the level required to secure a place in the first team. I believe it would be beneficial for you to continue playing with the youth team for another season and further develop yourself," Khalid stated, drawing from his experience as a former assistant coach, offering his honest assessment of Kabir's current abilities.

"I understand that my current stats may not be sufficient, but what if I work hard and improve enough to be ready for the first team next season? I have confidence in my ability to achieve that," Kabir asserted, his determined gaze meeting Khalid's with conviction.

"Mr. Kabir, I would like to become your agent. What are your thoughts on this? I have been working as an agent for the past eight years, accumulating valuable experience in my field. I am confident that I can secure the best contract for you. In return, I only request a modest commission of 4%," Khalid proposed, extending his offer.

Deep in thought, Kabir carefully considered Khalid's character and credentials. After a moment of contemplation, Kabir found no reason to doubt Khalid's sincerity. "Alright," he agreed, sealing their agreement with a firm handshake and a nod of mutual understanding.

"If you maintain your outstanding performance until the end of the season, I promise you that the next season will bring an opportunity to play for a prominent club," Khalid assured, garnering Kabir's nod of affirmation.

Later that same night, Kabir received a phone call from his mother, who expressed her immense pride in his achievements. Learning that even his father had watched the game and smiled filled Kabir's heart with joy. However, the tide shifted when his mother urged him to call his fiancée and engage in a conversation. Without a moment's hesitation, Kabir abruptly ended the call, his actions driven by a surge of conflicting emotions.

Four days had elapsed, and it was time for Nottingham Forest to face their fierce rivals, Leicester City, at their home stadium. This highly anticipated match drew a substantial number of viewers, thanks to Kabir's viral clip. Over 5,000 enthusiastic fans gathered to witness the intense clash, with an additional 1,500 supporters traveling all the way to Leicester City to show their unwavering support. Throughout the years, Leicester City had consistently outperformed Nottingham Forest, holding a superior position in the U18 Premier League table. However, the Nottingham Forest faithful were filled with hope and optimism, firmly believing that their latest addition could lead them to victory. The impressive performance in the previous match convinced many fans that they had a fighting chance against their rival.

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