Beginning of The Eredivisie 2004-2005

Arke Stadion, home of FC Twente, Enschede, Netherlands. 

Inside the visiting team's locker room, Yang Yang sat in silence, his focus entirely on the task at hand. He meticulously tied the laces of his new red boots, ensuring they were snug around his feet, providing both comfort and support. The distinctive black swoosh on the side of the boots was unmistakable—Nike's iconic logo. 

The boots Yang Yang wore were no ordinary pair; they were the second-generation Nike Mercurial Vapors, custom-made for him by the global sports giant. These were express-shipped to Amsterdam just yesterday, arriving in time for his debut in them tonight. Nike had locked him in for the next three years, ensuring that Yang Yang would grace the pitch with their boots as he continued to carve out his reputation on the European stage. 

He ran his fingers over the smooth surface of the synthetic upper, feeling the lightweight material designed to enhance speed and control. As for the difference between Nike's Mercurials and Adidas' F50s, Yang Yang couldn't really tell—both were top-tier boots. The comfort, the flexibility—they were virtually identical. If there was a difference, it was likely more psychological than anything else. After all, big sponsorship deals often came with a weight of expectation, and Nike was paying handsomely for the privilege of having him in their gear. 

But tonight, Yang Yang's mind wasn't on endorsements. His thoughts drifted back to this very stadium, the Arke Stadion, where his career had truly kicked off. It was here, in front of the Twente fans, that he scored his first professional goal. That moment last season had etched his name into the record books as the third-youngest scorer in Eredivisie history. It was a goal that changed everything, launching him into the limelight and making him one of the rising stars of Dutch football. 

Now, more than half a year later, he found himself back at the Arke Stadion, though much had changed since that night. FC Twente had undergone a significant transformation. The once-assistant coach, Rini Coolen, had stepped up to take over as head coach midway through the season. And on the field, one of the players who gave him the toughest time, left-back Jeroen Heubach, would be absent tonight, replaced by the young and eager Ramon Zomer, who had been a substitute last season. Zomer had talent, but his inexperience was something Yang Yang was ready to exploit. 

This wasn't just any game—it was the first match of the new Eredivisie season, and for Ajax, it carried extra weight. Inside the locker room, the tension was palpable. Every player knew how crucial it was to get off to a strong start, especially after the disastrous performance in the Johan Cruyff Shield against Utrecht. Ajax had lost 2-4 in humiliating fashion, conceding three goals in the last three minutes of the game—a collapse that was hard to forget. That defeat still hung over the squad, a dark cloud they were desperate to clear away. 

Ronald Koeman had named his strongest possible lineup for this match, a clear indication of how seriously he was taking it. Maarten Stekelenburg would guard the goalposts, with a defensive line of Maxwell, Thomas Vermaelen, Johnny Heitinga, and the new Brazilian right-back, Maicon. In midfield, the experienced Tomáš Galásek would anchor the play, alongside the energetic Steven Pienaar and the dynamic playmaker Wesley Sneijder. Up front, Wesley Sonck and Angelos Charisteas were tasked with leading the attack, while Yang Yang would operate in his familiar role on the wing, cutting in with his pace and skill to create chances. 

For Koeman, this was more than just a season opener. The cracks in Ajax's game had been exposed early in the preseason—the lack of sharpness up front, the uncertainty at the back. The departures of stars like Zlatan Ibrahimović and Rafael van der Vaart had severely weakened their attacking threat, and Yang Yang had missed much of the build-up due to his participation in the Asian Cup. Offensively, Ajax had been struggling to find its rhythm, and the responsibility to reignite the spark now fell on the likes of Sneijder, Charisteas, and Yang Yang. 

The defensive situation was equally concerning. The loss of key defenders like Bogdan Lobont, Julien Escudé, and Hatem Trabelsi had left gaping holes in the backline. The defense had been hastily reshuffled, but Maicon, though talented, was still adjusting to the defensive rigors of Dutch football. Vermaelen had shown promise, but he needed to step up and prove he could anchor the defense consistently throughout the season. This was a team in transition, and tonight's game against Twente—especially away from home—was far from a comfortable fixture. 

Twente, with its home crowd behind them and a new coach eager to make a mark, would be a tough opponent. The Arke Stadion was never an easy place to play, and Yang Yang could feel the pressure mounting as kickoff approached. It was a pivotal moment in the season already, a chance for Ajax to silence their critics and put the preseason stumbles behind them. 

As Yang Yang adjusted his shin guards and stood up, the familiar adrenaline began to course through his veins. The stadium lights, the roar of the crowd above, the anticipation of battle—all of it was intoxicating. He had come a long way since his first goal here, but he knew there was still so much to prove. 

... 

... 

The two teams, led by referee Ruud Bösen, stepped onto the pitch at the Arke Stadion. The atmosphere was electric, with the stands packed to capacity. As soon as the players emerged, the home crowd erupted into a wave of warm applause, eager to see Twente start the new Eredivisie season on the front foot. There was a sense of optimism in the air, and the fans' energy reflected their hope for a strong performance from their team. 

Among the sea of Twente supporters, a noticeable contingent of Ajax fans had also made the journey to Enschede. Their presence was impossible to miss, as many proudly held up banners emblazoned with Yang Yang's name. The young Ajax forward had already become something of a sensation, and his fans were keen to show their support tonight. 

To the surprise of many, Yang Yang, fresh off his return to the team, was included in the starting lineup. His appearance came as a bit of a shock, especially considering his international commitments during the summer. 

"Last season, Yang Yang was primarily used as a substitute," one of the commentators remarked. "Although he often came on in the second half, his impact on the team was undeniable." 

Ajax's dramatic victory over Porto to clinch the treble last season was still fresh in everyone's memory, and Yang Yang's contributions had been crucial during that campaign. His rise had been swift, and now it seemed that Ronald Koeman was ready to give him a more prominent role in the squad. 

"Koeman clearly has big plans for Yang Yang," the commentator continued. "He's turning eighteen soon, and his performances over the summer have only reinforced his growing reputation." 

Yang Yang had shone on the international stage, particularly during the Toulon Tournament and the Asian Cup, where his performances had earned him the title of Best Player. At just 17, he was already turning heads in European and international football, a rarity for someone so young. 

But with that success came questions. "There are concerns that Yang Yang might have played too much too soon during the Asian Cup," the commentator added. "Could his workload over the summer affect his performance in the new Eredivisie season?" 

Tonight's match would provide the first answers to those questions. As the teams took their positions on the pitch, all eyes were on the Ajax starlet. The game promised to be a fascinating test, not just for the team, but for Yang Yang's readiness to carry the burden of expectation. 

"Let's see how the young talent performs tonight," the commentator concluded. "The new season has just begun, and we have plenty to look forward to." 

... 

... 

With the sharp blast of Ruud Bossen's whistle, the match officially kicked off. The tension in the air was palpable, as both sides knew how crucial the first moments of the game would be. 

Charisteas immediately passed the ball to Wesley Sonck, the Belgian forward, who made a quick, composed move by sending the ball into the midfield before it was cycled back to the defensive line. Ajax, in no hurry to launch a direct attack, displayed their typical patience, building from the back with controlled, deliberate passing. They were clearly focused on settling into a rhythm rather than pushing forward recklessly. 

Meanwhile, Twente seemed intent on capitalizing on the energy of the opening stages. They pressed high up the pitch, aiming to disrupt Ajax's possession early on. The Twente players were quick to close down space, hoping that their aggressive press might force a mistake. 

After a series of short passes, the ball eventually found its way to Maicon on the right flank. The Brazilian full-back looked up, surveying his options before taking a chance. With a well-placed long ball, he drove it forward into space, aiming for Yang Yang, who was positioned on the right wing. 

Yang Yang, aware of the pressing threat, took the ball from behind with calm precision. Immediately, he sensed Ramon Zomer, the Twente defender, closing in. Knowing that lingering on the ball could invite trouble, Yang Yang quickly played a one-touch pass back to Sneijder, before pivoting and bursting into space behind Zomer with a quick turn of pace. 

Sneijder, ever the visionary, read Yang Yang's movement perfectly. With the deftest of touches, he lofted the ball over Twente's back line, bypassing their defensive setup with a precise half-volley that curled into the open space behind. 

"Ajax is threatening early on!" The commentator's voice crackled with excitement. 

Yang Yang, sprinting onto the ball, had found himself in a pocket of space near the right edge of the box. Twente's defenders scrambled to get back into position, but Yang Yang was already a step ahead. With a quick glance up, he spotted Wesley Sonck at the far post, arriving late into the penalty area. Yang Yang wasted no time, whipping a low cross across the face of goal. 

"Yang Yang delivers a dangerous ball into the box!" 

Sonck, unmarked, rushed to meet it. His timing was perfect, but his execution faltered. He opted to strike the ball first-time, hoping to catch the Twente goalkeeper off guard. However, his technique betrayed him. The ball sailed high over the crossbar, drawing collective gasps from the crowd before a wave of relief swept over the Twente fans. 

A golden opportunity had gone begging. 

"Sonck shoots! But it's over! Twente fans breathe a sigh of relief!" 

Sonck stood there for a moment, visibly frustrated with himself. He knew he should have done better. The Belgian striker gave a thumbs-up toward Yang Yang, acknowledging the quality of the pass. It had been a perfectly placed ball, and the responsibility for missing the chance was entirely on him. 

Yang Yang, calm and focused, knew it wasn't his fault. The pass had been spot on, a dangerous delivery that had unsettled Twente's defense. Ajax had started the match brightly, showing that they could carve out chances. Now, it was just a matter of taking them. 

... 

... 

After Ajax's early opportunity, Twente quickly adjusted their approach. They no longer pressed recklessly, instead opting to retreat and shore up their defense. Clearly, they had taken note of the danger Ajax posed, particularly from the wings. 

Yang Yang, who had carefully studied Ramon Zomer from pre-match intelligence and the super training ground simulation, was aware of the defender's strengths and weaknesses. Zomer was solid defensively, especially in aerial duels, a quality that stemmed from his ability to play as a center-back. However, his lack of speed and agility made him vulnerable against quick, nimble attackers—especially someone like Yang Yang, who thrived on pace and sharp turns. 

The earlier play was a perfect example. Yang Yang had easily beaten Zomer with a quick turn, but Sonck had squandered the chance. Had the Belgian taken advantage, the game could have opened up much more in Ajax's favor. 

Now, with Twente tightening their defense and paying closer attention to Yang Yang, Ajax's attack faced new challenges. The young winger could feel the increased pressure on him, just as Ronald Koeman had warned. Opponents were beginning to focus their defensive efforts on neutralizing him, giving him little room to operate. 

Yang Yang understood that this was a necessary hurdle in his career. If he wanted to prove himself, to earn the prestigious number 10 jersey for Ajax, he would have to overcome these challenges, even when defenses honed in on him. 

Determined, Yang Yang became more active. Despite having just played in the Asian Cup final a week ago and enduring a long journey back to Amsterdam, his determination remained unshaken. He knew that even if he didn't perform well, no one would blame him. But that wasn't enough for Yang Yang—he wasn't playing for others, he was playing for himself. Pushing his limits and constantly improving were his ultimate goals. 

With a steely resolve, Yang Yang threw himself into the game. He darted between Twente's lines, trying to find gaps in their defense, remaining patient as he waited for his chance. 

But Twente, under the guidance of Rini Coolen, were no easy opposition. They had vastly improved defensively, especially after a strong preseason. Ajax struggled to break through, and for a while, meaningful opportunities were few and far between. 

It wasn't until the 31st minute that Yang Yang found his breakthrough. 

After a build-up from Ajax's backline, the ball was sent forward. In the penalty area, Charisteas rose high to meet it, winning the aerial duel and nodding the ball down toward Yang Yang, who was positioned just outside the box. The ball bounced perfectly into his path. 

Yang Yang controlled it deftly with his left foot, quickly evading a Twente defender who had rushed back to cover. With the ball under control, he surged into the penalty area, just as Zomer attempted to close him down. But before Zomer could react, Yang Yang struck the ball cleanly with his right foot. 

The shot was low and precise, flying past the outstretched arms of Twente's goalkeeper, who could only watch helplessly as the ball nestled into the back of the net. 

"Goooooooooooal!!!" The commentator's voice echoed across the stadium. 

"In the 31st minute of the first half, Ajax has finally broken through Twente's defense!" 

"The 17-year-old Yang Yang scores! 1-0 to Ajax!" 

"This is also Ajax's first league goal of the new season—a perfect start!" 

Ecstatic, Yang Yang immediately turned and sprinted toward the corner flag. With his arms spread wide, he rushed to the section of the stands where the Ajax fans were seated, inviting their applause and cheers. His celebration was met with a deafening roar from the traveling supporters, their enthusiasm rivaling that of the home fans. 

Behind him, his teammates raced to join the celebration. They surrounded him, patting him on the back, acknowledging the decisive impact he had made. 

"No one can doubt now that Yang Yang is becoming an increasingly vital player for Ajax." 

"For the first 30 minutes, Ajax had the upper hand, but they struggled to convert their dominance into goals." 

"Their best chance came from Yang Yang's earlier cross, which Sonck failed to capitalize on. Yang Yang continued to push, trying to create opportunities, but Twente's defense held firm." 

"Perhaps recognizing that his teammates were struggling, Yang Yang decided to take matters into his own hands. He has now scored the first goal of Ajax's new season, and his first league goal as well." 

"Any concerns about his form after the Asian Cup can now be put to rest." 

"From these opening 30 minutes, it's clear that Yang Yang has carried over his brilliant form from the Asian Cup. His return will undoubtedly strengthen Ajax's attack this season." 

... 

... 

Despite Ajax's one-goal advantage, Yang Yang remained unsatisfied. He understood all too well that a 1-0 lead was fragile, especially in a game as unpredictable as football. Ajax had the firepower to extend their lead, and Yang Yang was determined to help make that happen. 

As the match progressed, it became clear that Twente was struggling to regain their defensive focus. The breakthrough goal had disrupted their rhythm, and Ajax began to find more spaces as Twente's defensive organization faltered. 

Just nine minutes after his first goal, Yang Yang found himself with another opportunity. This time, he received a precise pass from Sneijder on the right wing. With Zomer once again marking him, Yang Yang used his pace and agility to leave the defender behind, cutting into the right side of the penalty area. 

His eyes scanned the box, and seeing Wesley Sonck in a prime position, Yang Yang delivered a perfectly weighted low cross. This time, Sonck didn't let the opportunity slip. The Belgian forward calmly slotted the ball past the Twente goalkeeper from close range. 

2-0! 

The second goal sent a wave of energy through the Ajax players, and the momentum shifted decisively in their favor. The attack grew more fluid, with crisp passing and sharper movements, as they sensed Twente's vulnerability. 

As the clock ticked toward halftime, Ajax showed no signs of slowing down. Even with the two-goal cushion, they pressed for more. 

In the first minute of stoppage time, Yang Yang once again found himself at the heart of Ajax's attack. Hugging the right touchline, he received the ball and immediately drove forward, drawing Zomer and another Twente defender toward him. It was a familiar sight—Yang Yang versus the defense, with the crowd holding its breath. 

But just as the defenders closed in, Yang Yang surprised them with a clever cutback, finding Maicon, who had surged forward from the back. The Brazilian fullback, with space to operate, didn't hesitate. He whipped in a pinpoint cross from a 45-degree angle, sending the ball curling toward the penalty area. 

Charisteas, the towering striker, timed his run to perfection. Leaping above the Twente defenders, he met the cross with a powerful header, directing the ball into the back of the net from close range. 

3-0! 

The Ajax players celebrated enthusiastically as Charisteas' header effectively sealed the match before halftime. The clinical combination of Yang Yang, Maicon, and Charisteas was a testament to Ajax's attacking prowess. 

"Ajax's attack is in full swing now!" the commentator exclaimed. "Twente simply cannot contain them, and with Yang Yang pulling the strings on the right flank, it's hard to see how they'll find a way back into this match." 

As the halftime whistle approached, Ajax had not only secured a commanding lead but also sent a clear message that their attacking threat was relentless. Yang Yang's involvement in all three goals further underscored his rising influence in the team. 

With his pace, vision, and decision-making, Yang Yang had orchestrated Ajax's offense, ensuring they headed into the break with a dominant 3-0 lead. 

... 

... 

Ajax secured a narrow 3-2 victory in their season opener, despite a late surge from Twente. 

The day after the first round of competition, major Dutch media outlets were abuzz with commentary on the treble-winning Ajax's debut in the new season. The focus was on how the team, after selling several key players over the summer, appeared to struggle in the opening stages of the match. This reduction in squad strength was widely acknowledged, and many had predicted a challenging start for Ajax. Some pundits even suggested that Ajax had mentally prepared themselves for a rough first game. 

"The first 30 minutes of the game unfolded as many expected," reported one outlet. "Ajax's offense was disjointed, and they failed to break Twente's defense. However, the dynamics shifted in the 30th minute." 

That moment was when Yang Yang delivered his first major impact of the match. 

"Yang Yang broke the deadlock with a brilliant goal," another report highlighted. "His individual ability was on full display as he evaded a Twente defender with ease, drove the ball into the penalty area, and finished calmly. It was the poise of a cold-blooded finisher." 

The young star's influence didn't stop there. After his goal, Ajax's attacking momentum improved significantly. 

"Yang Yang's presence transformed the game," one commentator noted. "He set up Wesley Sonck's goal with a precise assist and was instrumental in creating the play that led to Charisteas's header. All three of Ajax's goals bore his mark, showcasing his ability to orchestrate from the right wing." 

Despite Ajax's early dominance, the second half told a different story. The turning point of the game came in the 60th minute when Ronald Koeman made a controversial substitution, replacing Yang Yang with Tom De Mul. 

"That substitution changed the flow of the game," the media observed. "According to Koeman's post-match comments, Yang Yang had only just returned from the Asian Cup and hadn't fully recovered physically. At just 17, Koeman felt it was wise to limit his playing time to 60 minutes." 

Unfortunately for Ajax, Yang Yang's exit left a gaping hole on the right flank. Only six minutes after his departure, Twente's left winger took full advantage of the weakened defense, driving forward to score. 

"Maicon's defensive vulnerabilities were laid bare after Yang Yang left the pitch. With Twente's relentless attack, the right side of Ajax's defense, which has long been a concern, crumbled under pressure." 

Things worsened for Ajax in the 76th minute when Blaise N'Kufo netted Twente's second goal, putting them within striking distance of an equalizer. Ajax's defense continued to struggle, leaving them on the back foot for the remainder of the match. 

Although Ajax managed to hold on for a 3-2 victory, the defensive frailties were evident. 

"Their long-standing right-back issues have reemerged," analysts pointed out. "With Maicon stepping in to replace Hatem Trabelsi, Ajax's defense once again looks shaky. If Ronald Koeman's team hopes to seriously contend for the Eredivisie title this season, stabilizing the backline must be a top priority." 

Despite the defensive concerns, Yang Yang's performance received widespread acclaim. His contributions—one goal and one assist—were pivotal in securing Ajax's win, silencing any doubts about his readiness to take on a more prominent role this season. 

"Yang Yang has shown that he has the talent and composure to be a key player for Ajax moving forward," one Dutch outlet wrote. "His performance, especially at such a young age, is turning heads among Ajax fans and the Dutch media alike." 

... 

... 

In contrast to Ajax's challenging first-round win, PSV Eindhoven experienced a completely different trajectory in their season opener. 

While Ajax surged ahead with a 3-0 lead in the first half but then allowed their opponents, Twente, to claw back two goals in the second half, PSV displayed an impressive comeback performance. After falling behind by two goals in the first half, Eindhoven roared back with a stunning five-goal spree in the second, ultimately defeating Rosendal 5-2. The highlight of the match was a hat-trick from Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, showcasing PSV's attacking prowess despite losing key players like Arjen Robben and Mateja Kežman to Chelsea during the summer transfer window. 

Similarly, Feyenoord also underwent significant changes after losing Robin van Persie to Arsenal, but they retained the services of their local star, Dirk Kuyt. Kuyt responded in emphatic fashion, netting a hat-trick to guide Feyenoord to a commanding 6-1 victory over De Graafschap. 

All three of the traditional Dutch powerhouses—Ajax, PSV, and Feyenoord—secured wins and three points in the first round, but their performances revealed different challenges and strengths. 

For Ajax, despite the early dominance, their second-half struggles raised concerns about defensive stability. In contrast, PSV's second-half resurgence demonstrated their offensive depth, even without Robben and Kežman. Feyenoord's commanding win, powered by Kuyt, highlighted their continuing attacking threat despite offseason departures. 

However, in the eyes of the media and fans, Ajax's overall performance lagged behind their rivals. PSV and Feyenoord appeared more composed and dominant, while Ajax's defensive issues, particularly after Yang Yang was substituted, remained a significant concern. 

The one consistent bright spot for Ajax was Yang Yang, who was widely recognized as one of the few standout performers. His goal and assist cemented his growing reputation, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the team's broader uncertainties. 

... 

... 

Despite stumbling in the first round of the Eredivisie, Ajax managed to secure three crucial points. The next morning, after a restorative training session, the team was granted a short holiday, starting that afternoon and lasting for a day. 

It was the weekend, and since there were no classes at school, Yang Yang asked Vermaelen to drive him to Almere. 

Ever since returning to the Netherlands, Yang Yang had been busy preparing for the upcoming season, with little time to spare for anything else. He hadn't had the chance to visit Almere to see his aunt, and now that he had a day off, he was determined to make the trip. Besides, he had another reason to go—Almere City FC. 

Johnny Rep, the head coach at Almere, had called him some time ago, mentioning that the club wanted to use his name and photo for their youth recruitment campaign. Yang Yang had eagerly agreed, but due to his commitment to the Asian Cup, he hadn't been able to participate in any of the club's events. 

Now that he finally had a break, he saw this as the perfect opportunity to visit the club and reconnect with his roots, adding a touch of nostalgia to his journey. 

Although it was a weekend, Almere City FC's training ground was bustling with activity. Weekend training sessions were in full swing, and several youth teams were playing matches. The club's base, usually calm, was now lively with young players and their families. 

When Yang Yang arrived unexpectedly, the atmosphere shifted instantly. Word spread quickly that the rising star from Ajax was on-site, and soon enough, children and even some parents gathered around him, eager for a photo or an autograph. Yang, ever gracious, patiently posed for pictures, smiling warmly as he signed jerseys and answered a few questions from wide-eyed fans. 

"Thanks to you, we've had a fantastic recruitment this summer," Johnny Rep said, his face lit up with a smile as he greeted Yang Yang warmly. 

Walking between Johnny Rep and Dick van Poer, Almere's assistant coach, Yang shook his head modestly, smiling. "That's all your hard work. I hardly did anything." 

"Nonsense!" Van Poer chuckled. "Everyone around here knows you came from Almere, Yang. The more you succeed at Ajax, the more attention we get as a club. Now, kids from all over the region want to play for us." 

"Exactly," Johnny Rep added, grinning. "So, whether it's for yourself or for us, you have to keep pushing. The better you do, the more we shine." 

Yang Yang nodded, appreciating their words. But despite the smiles, a shadow of concern clouded his thoughts. 

Johnny Rep noticed the shift in his expression. "What's on your mind?" he asked, his tone growing serious. 

Yang hesitated for a moment before speaking. "I have this feeling… that the team is weaker this season than last." 

Johnny Rep nodded understandingly. "That's to be expected. We lost five key players over the summer. How could the team not feel weaker? Even if the new signings have potential, it's hard to replace the experience and chemistry of those who left. It takes time for new players to settle and perform at their best." 

Yang Yang had suspected as much. 

Players like Charisteas, Pienaar, Maicon, and Vermaelen, while talented, couldn't immediately fill the void left by the likes of Ibrahimovic, Van der Vaart, Trabelsi, and Escudé. And while Stekelenburg had shown promise, he was still a step behind Lobont, the experienced goalkeeper he replaced. 

With five starting players replaced, the team's cohesion was inevitably impacted, and Yang Yang had felt this acutely. He recalled the recent match against Twente, where Ajax had raced to a 3-0 lead, only to concede twice in quick succession. Watching from the bench as Twente nearly equalized left a sour taste in his mouth. 

"It felt terrible," Yang admitted. "We were cruising, but then… we almost threw it away. It's like we're vulnerable now." 

"Van Gaal's reforms have shifted Ajax's focus to youth development," Johnny Rep explained, his tone more pragmatic. "You'll have to get used to these kinds of changes. In the current Eredivisie, no team can afford to hold onto their best players for long. Every season, players leave, and new ones come in. It's the nature of the business." 

Yang Yang understood that, but understanding didn't make the reality any easier to accept. 

"Look at what's happening around the league," Johnny continued. "PSV sold Kezman and Robben. Feyenoord had to let go of Van Persie. It's not just Ajax—none of the Eredivisie clubs can hold onto their top talents anymore." 

Yang Yang nodded, the weight of the situation settling on him. Even so, the thought sparked something new within him—an idea that had been forming in the back of his mind. 

Johnny Rep, sensing the shift in Yang's mood, placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "You're a hard worker, Yang. Focus on improving yourself and doing what you can for the team. Don't carry the weight of the club on your shoulders. We're all in this together." 

Yang knew he was right. But the thought of losing gnawed at him. The bitter taste of near-defeat was something he couldn't shake. 

"I just hate losing," he muttered under his breath, his voice barely audible. 

Johnny Rep smiled. "Then don't lose. Keep pushing yourself and your teammates. That's the only way forward." 

... 

... 

Yang Yang's return to Almere was a rare occasion, and his cousins, Shen Yuzhu and Wei Zheng, made sure to join him. His uncle, Shen Ming, personally prepared a lavish dinner, carefully adapting the dishes to suit Yang Yang's dietary preferences as an athlete. The table was filled with flavorful, yet nutritious dishes, showcasing a blend of traditional flavors with a modern, health-conscious twist. The family gathered around the table, the warm glow of the evening sunlight filtering through the windows, creating an intimate and joyful atmosphere. Laughter echoed through the room as they caught up on stories, reminisced about old times, and shared their hopes for the future. 

For Yang Yang, this family time was precious. The demands of his football career had kept him from visiting more often, and he relished the comfort of being surrounded by loved ones. 

Wei Zheng and Shen Yuzhu, both on extended stays in Europe, mentioned their plans to leave sometime in early September. Coincidentally, Yang Yang was set to return to China around the same time to prepare for the Asian Youth Championship, meaning they might find themselves on the same flight back home. 

After dinner, as the family began to unwind, word spread that Yang Yang was back in town. It didn't take long for some of his former teammates from Almere, including Henk Dimer and Nick, to show up at the door. Their arrival brought a new wave of excitement to the evening. 

When they saw Yang Yang, there were smiles and exclamations of disbelief. Despite having witnessed his rise over the past year, Henk and Nick couldn't help but express their amazement every time they saw him. 

"Man, I still can't believe it sometimes," Henk said, shaking his head with a grin. "You're out there winning Player of the Tournament at the Asian Cup, scoring goals in the Eredivisie like it's nothing… It's the stuff we all dream of!" 

Nick nodded in agreement. "Exactly. I mean, at seventeen, you're already doing things most pros can only wish for. One goal and one assist in the first round of the new season? Unbelievable!" 

The awe in their voices was genuine. These were friends who had seen Yang Yang struggle, train, and fight for every opportunity. To see him now, a rising star on the global stage, felt almost surreal. For Henk, Nick, and the others, it was like watching someone live out a dream that had once seemed so far out of reach. 

Joining them were two or three other players who had been loaned from the Ajax youth camp to Almere. They, too, had heard about Yang Yang's incredible progress and wanted to meet him in person. Most of these players had come through the famed Ajax youth academy, and now, loaned to Almere, they were eager to get to know the player who had so quickly become a role model for young talents. 

From their conversation, Yang Yang learned that Johnny Rep, Almere's head coach, had ambitious goals this season. Rep was determined to secure promotion to the Eerste Divisie, and to that end, he had carefully selected several loan players from Ajax's academy, ensuring they were strong enough to bolster Almere's campaign. 

As they talked, the contrast between the past and present struck Yang Yang. Not long ago, his biggest ambition had been to break into Almere's first team and help the club fight for promotion. Back then, playing in the Eredivisie seemed like a distant dream, let alone competing in the Champions League. 

But life had taken a different path. Instead of staying at Almere, Yang Yang had moved to Ajax, quickly progressing from their second team to the first, playing on the grandest stage in European football, and even lifting the Champions League trophy. 

Reflecting on the journey, it all felt like a whirlwind—a dream he hadn't yet fully woken up from. But as he sat there, surrounded by old friends, he realized just how much he had grown, how far he had come. 

The memories of those early days—long hours of training, the tough matches, the heartbreak of losses—flooded back. It hadn't been easy. Every step of the way had been a battle, both physically and mentally. He had bled, sweat, and pushed himself beyond his limits. No matter how strong the competition or how difficult the situation, he had never allowed himself to quit. 

And now, looking back, he cherished every hardship. Every obstacle had been a stepping stone, shaping him into the player he had become. The road had been long, and the sacrifices had been many, but the rewards—moments like these, surrounded by family and friends, with a career filled with promise—made it all worth it. 

"If you lose a game," Yang thought to himself, "you always get another chance to win it back. But if you give up on something, you might never get it back." 

He knew that was the secret. The determination to never give up, to keep pushing forward, no matter the odds. It was this mindset that had carried him through the most difficult moments, and it was what would continue to guide him as he faced whatever came next in his career.