A New Beginning

The transfer window had just closed, and the club had secured its key targets: Alex Baena and Evan Ndicka. The new signings were present, eager to make a strong first impression, while the rest of the squad was focused and ready to absorb the tactical instructions of their head coach, Roberto De Zerbi.

On the sidelines, Barcelona's president Alex, along with sporting director Giuseppe Marotta and technical director Michael Edwards, watched intently. They had worked tirelessly to assemble this squad, and now it was time to see De Zerbi's vision come to life on the training pitch.

Roberto De Zerbi stood at the center of the field, clipboard in hand, surveying his players as they warmed up. He was a figure of quiet authority, his eyes sharp and observant. This wasn't just another training session—it was the first step toward building the team they have envisioned, a team that could reclaim Barcelona's place at the pinnacle of football. 

He gathered the players in a semi-circle, his voice carrying clear and confident across the pitch. "This season, we play with purpose," he began, his gaze sweeping across the squad. "Every movement, every pass, every decision must serve a purpose. We control the game—not just with the ball, but with our minds. Today, we start laying the foundation."

De Zerbi wasted no time as he split the players into groups based on their positions. The session was meticulously planned, each drill designed to emphasize the core principles of his philosophy: possession, quick transitions, and positional discipline. His approach was hands-on; he moved between groups, offering personalized feedback and corrections. 

The first part of the training focused on situational play. De Zerbi had set up various scenarios on the pitch to drill specific responses into his players. He started with defensive shape and pressing triggers, calling on the backline and midfielders to maintain tight lines and press aggressively as a unit. Ndicka, the new defensive recruit, was keenly attentive, absorbing every detail as De Zerbi demonstrated the pressing angles and the positioning required to shut down opposition attacks.

"Press high, but smartly," De Zerbi emphasized, addressing the defensive group. "We win the ball back in their half, and from there, we strike quickly. Don't give them time to breathe. Always be ready to move, to anticipate. The first defender triggers the press, the rest follow. Communication is key." 

He then shifted to ball retention and buildup play from the back, a cornerstone of his game model. Goalkeepers, defenders, and midfielders were tasked with progressing the ball under pressure. De Zerbi wanted composure and precise decision-making in these critical moments. He personally guided Marc-André Ter Stegen on when to play short, when to go long, and how to act as an auxiliary playmaker. 

"Build calmly, but don't be predictable," he instructed, his eyes fixed on Ter Stegen. "Invite the press, but be ready to exploit the spaces they leave behind. We play through them, not around them."

As the players rotated through the drills, De Zerbi's voice was a constant presence, offering praise, corrections, and tactical insights. The younger players, in particular, were the focus of his keen eye. De Zerbi understood the importance of integrating youth, not just as squad fillers but as future pillars of the team. 

For the younger members of the squad, De Zerbi had arranged a separate, structured training segment. Promising talents like Alejandro Balde, Gavi, and Lamine Yamal were put through their paces with specific drills tailored to their development. De Zerbi's coaching team, including his trusted assistants, took charge of these sessions, each coach focusing on different aspects of the game. 

For Balde, the emphasis was on defensive positioning and overlapping runs—crucial skills for a modern full-back. Gavi worked on spatial awareness and decision-making under pressure, while Lamine Yamal, the exciting forward talent, focused on finishing drills, quick feet in tight spaces, and reading defensive lines.

De Zerbi joined the young group frequently, offering pointers and encouragement. He pulled Yamal aside during a break, showing him how to adjust his body positioning to maximize his shooting angles. "Don't rush. Feel the defender's movement, then strike. You have the talent; now it's about refining the details."

The coach's meticulous approach was apparent in every interaction. He was not just drilling skills—he was instilling confidence, shaping mindsets, and encouraging his players to think and react with clarity. The younger players, in turn, responded positively, energized by the attention and the belief that their contributions were valued.

Alex Baena and Evan Ndicka were thrust into the mix without hesitation. De Zerbi knew the importance of integrating new signings quickly, ensuring they felt part of the team from day one. Laurienté, with his speed and flair, was tasked with cutting inside and linking up play, working closely with the forwards to create scoring opportunities.

"Baena, you need to read the full-back's body language," De Zerbi coached as Alex ran through a dribbling drill. "If they overcommit, you cut in. If they hesitate, go wide and stretch the play. Make them uncomfortable, make them chase you." 

Ndicka, on the other hand, was put through defensive scenarios—handling aerial duels, positioning during set-pieces, and coordinating with his defensive partners. De Zerbi stressed the importance of communication and leadership at the back, qualities that Ndicka was expected to bring to the squad.

"Evan, don't just defend—lead," De Zerbi called out during a defensive drill. "You're the anchor. Keep the line tight, push forward when we press, and be the first to step up when the ball comes near. Own your space."

Both Baena and Ndicka impressed with their work rate and eagerness to adapt. It was clear that De Zerbi had high expectations, but it was equally clear that he believed in the potential of his new signings to make an immediate impact. 

From the sidelines, President Alex and the board members watched with satisfaction. They had invested in De Zerbi's vision, and seeing it take shape on the training pitch was gratifying. The coach's energy and attention to detail were infectious, resonating with both players and staff alike.

Marotta turned to Alex with a smile. "This is what we hoped for. A fresh start with a clear direction." 

Alex nodded, his eyes following the rapid exchanges on the pitch. "De Zerbi is the right man for this job. It's not just about tactics; it's about culture. He's creating an environment where every player knows their role and believes in the Barcelona system. 

As the session drew to a close, De Zerbi gathered the squad once more. Sweat dripped from their brows, but there was a sense of camaraderie and purpose among the players. They had been tested, pushed, and, most importantly, guided.

"This is just the beginning," De Zerbi said, his voice carrying a mixture of pride and determination. "We have the talent, and now we have to get the structure. If we trust the process and each other, we can achieve great things. We're not just building a team; we're building a legacy, a legacy in which years to come would be looked on by all of us while telling our grandkids how this Barcelona conquered Spain and Europe, but we'll have to start somewhere as Rome wasn't built in a day." 

With those words, the players dispersed, energized for the season ahead. De Zerbi's first training session had set the tone—one of hard work, clear expectations, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As the coach and his team walked off the field, the board members exchanged approving glances. The vision was clear, the plan was in motion, and the Rise of FC Barcelona was well underway.