Settling In and Standing Out

Louis opened the system.

The discovery system, in addition to modules obtained by bonding with players, now included three basic modules: Basic Shooting, Basic Dribbling, and Basic Passing.

"Completing the basic shooting module training can improve basic shooting skills to an A-level evaluation. Completing the basic dribbling module training can improve basic dribbling skills to an A-level evaluation. Completing the basic passing module training can improve basic passing skills to an A-level evaluation."

"Completing all basic skills training modules can upgrade all basic skills to S level. The basic skills score reaches S level, and with eight player bonding modules, the system upgrade can be activated!"

Louis looked at the content of these basic training modules and couldn't help but sigh. "Just practice," he thought to himself.

That afternoon, the logistics staff told Louis he no longer had to stay in a hotel. The club found him a house near the training base. The landlords, a couple, were loyal Arsenal fans and season ticket holders for three generations—absolutely trustworthy.

The club would pay the family to take care of Louis, as he was still a minor. Louis didn't practice extra that afternoon. Instead, he moved his belongings from the hotel and headed to his new home for the season.

In a North London community full of Arsenal fans, the news of Louis moving in had already spread among his future neighbors.

"This is the Victor community. The people here are native Londoners, their ancestors have lived here for a long time. By the way, the Victor community is a typical 'red community,' and most residents support Arsenal. Louis, you should try to avoid wearing white jackets and T-shirts here," Mr. Enna said nonchalantly.

Louis nodded repeatedly, unsure of what to say.

The car stopped, and not far away stood a white couple.

"This is Mr. Russell, and this is Mrs. Russell," said Enna, the logistics supervisor, as they approached the small courtyard.

The Russells, smiling warmly, greeted them. Mr. Russell was a rosy-faced man in his fifties, and Mrs. Russell was an Englishwoman who seemed quite friendly.

"Hello, Mr. Russell, Mrs. Russell," Louis said, stepping forward.

"Welcome, kid. It's great that you have chosen to live in this community. We have a real first-team player here!" Mr. Russell was obviously delighted.

As Arsenal's first-team players are usually millionaires living in suburban villas, it was rare to have one like Louis staying with them.

"Child, just tell me what you want to eat. I am the best cook in the whole community!" Mrs. Russell said, opening her arms.

Louis hugged the Russell couple but was cautious about Mrs. Russell's cooking skills, given she was English.

"Tonight, for example," Mrs. Russell blinked.

"Kid, don't be polite. You have to know that the club paid us. If you have any requests, just ask," Mr. Russell said.

A first-team player who helps the club by living with fans? As die-hard fans, the Russells were thrilled.

"Well, I prefer fish, Mrs. Russell," Louis said, thinking about his diet needs.

"No problem," Mrs. Russell smiled so broadly that her eyes were squeezed shut.

"By the way, the neighbors will also come tonight. There may be more people."

"No problem, Mr. Russell."

That night, Louis enjoyed the star treatment of an Arsenal first-team player living in an Arsenal fan community. Everyone even discussed forming a special cheering group for him, with Uncle Russell seriously considering slogans and songs.

Early the next morning, Louis got up, washed, and went out.

"Hey, Louis! Good morning," his little neighbor, six-year-old Serena, called from the fence.

"Hi, Serena," Louis replied, having met most of his neighbors the previous night.

Louis smiled and started running towards the Kearney training base, about four kilometers away—just a warm-up for him.

He ate breakfast and lunch at the club's first-team canteen, which had a variety of boiled vegetables, beef, chicken breast, spaghetti, fruits, and milk.

Louis arrived at the base an hour and a half before team training, did individual training, then joined the team. After team training, he practiced until six in the evening.

Every day followed this routine, earning him recognition from his neighbors. His English improved, and he settled into the rhythm of life in London smoothly.

However, this peaceful life ended with the conclusion of the national team match day. Most of the first-team players returned from national duty, curious about the new addition to their squad.

"I never expected the boss to sign another player on the last day of the transfer deadline."

"Louis is the guy who scored two goals in the International Champions Cup."

"His ability to seize opportunities seems quite strong."

"Where is he?"

"He's training. He arrives at the training ground an hour and a half early every day and practices for another two hours after training!" said substitute central defender Djourou.

"So diligent?!"

The team's main goalkeeper, Szczesny, was surprised. He had been with the Polish national team during the match days.

"Yeah, the boss brought him here to solve our scoring problems. Theo is probably feeling the pressure."

Theo Walcott, the England international known as the "Little Tiger," was indeed under pressure. Although the media criticized Giroud, the Arsenal players knew Giroud's role was to be a tactical center, creating opportunities for Walcott.

But Walcott, who scored twenty goals last season, suddenly seemed to have lost his scoring touch. Many Arsenal players believed this was because Walcott thrived under Van Persie's presence last season. Now, as the main shooter, the pressure had affected his performance.

As Walcott entered the dressing room, his face reflected his frustration. He heard his teammates' discussions. Although Louis couldn't take his place now, what if Walcott continued to miss opportunities?

The arrival of Louis certainly created competitive pressure for Walcott.