32. Againts Stoke City PT.1

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As he left the field with his teammates, Francesco felt a surge of pride and confidence. He'd always dreamed of moments like these—playing alongside the stars, proving himself with every touch, every goal. Today was a taste of what was possible, and he knew he'd give everything to make his mark.

After a quick cool-down and some stretches on the field, Arsene Wenger gathered the players and led them toward the tactics room. The atmosphere among the team was buzzing, a blend of residual adrenaline from training and anticipation for the next game. Francesco took a seat near the front, still catching his breath but eager to see what Wenger had planned for their upcoming match.

As the lights dimmed, Wenger moved to the front of the room, and the projector displayed Stoke City's recent formations, key players, and match statistics. He folded his hands, leaning against the table, his gaze scanning each player.

"Alright, gentlemen, tomorrow we face Stoke City," Wenger began, his voice calm but carrying a tone of caution. "This is a match where we must maintain focus. We've had only three days since our last game against Southampton, and fatigue could easily become an issue if we're not careful. Stoke may not be a 'big club,' but they are a resilient team with their own strengths."

He gestured to the screen, where Stoke's recent game against Manchester City played in highlights. "Look here," he said, pausing the video on a close-up of Stoke's defensive line. "They play a physical, high-press style. They are known for their aggression and their aerial dominance. If we lose concentration, they will capitalize."

The screen shifted to a slow-motion replay of Stoke's recent goal—a quick break leading to a well-placed cross from their right winger, which their towering striker headed into the net with power. The players exchanged glances, well aware of the danger that Stoke's physicality could present.

Wenger straightened up, hands on his hips. "We have to be sharp, quick on our feet, and even quicker in our minds. Stoke's players are strong and won't hesitate to use that strength. But we have speed, technical ability, and tactical flexibility. If we keep the ball on the ground and stay quick in transition, we can avoid getting drawn into a physical contest that favors them."

Wenger's eyes met Francesco's for a brief moment, as if silently challenging him to apply the same composure he'd shown in training to tomorrow's game. Then he continued, "Our fullbacks will need to be cautious, especially on the wings. Stoke's wingers are fast and will try to whip in crosses, so don't give them the space. Mesut," Wenger addressed Özil, "we'll look to you to control the midfield. Keep the tempo high, create the passing lanes, and pull their midfield out of position. They'll struggle to keep up if we can keep our pace high."

Mesut nodded, his usual composed demeanor unwavering. "Got it, boss," he replied, already running the tactics through his mind.

Then Wenger turned to Francesco. "Francesco, tomorrow is another chance for you to shine from the bench. Stay aware of their defensive line—they are aggressive, especially on set pieces, and may try to muscle you off the ball. Use your speed and stay alert for those through balls. Mesut and Aaron will be watching for your runs, so be ready to time them well."

Francesco's pulse quickened. Playing against a team known for its physical style would test his composure and resilience. He knew he'd have to be strategic, moving quickly and avoiding unnecessary duels with defenders who'd be looking to overpower him.

Wenger shifted his focus back to the group, his expression serious. "One last thing. The match against Southampton drained us, but that's no excuse. We'll need stamina and mental endurance. Stoke will exploit any moment of weakness. We have to stay sharp for ninety minutes, no less."

As the video ended, Wenger went on to outline a more detailed game plan. The team would start with a high-pressing approach, aiming to unsettle Stoke early and control the ball in their half. Alexis Sanchez and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain were tasked with keeping Stoke's defenders busy on the wings, stretching their formation to open up the middle. Mesut Özil would act as the creative pivot, distributing the ball to exploit gaps in Stoke's defense. The emphasis was on speed, accuracy, and keeping the ball low to avoid being drawn into aerial duels.

The meeting continued with Wenger addressing each player's role, detailing how he expected them to operate under Stoke's physical pressure. He stressed the importance of avoiding unnecessary fouls, staying calm under provocation, and maintaining possession. "If we're quick and clever, they'll have a hard time keeping up," Wenger emphasized.

As the session wrapped up, Wenger left them with one final message. "Remember, every game is an opportunity. Each of you has a role, and every role is crucial. Tomorrow, play smart, play with discipline, and stay focused. We are Arsenal—we don't underestimate any team, and we don't back down."

The lights flicked back on, and the players rose from their seats. A wave of determination rippled through the room. For Francesco, it was a surreal moment—one that felt monumental as he prepared for his first real test against a team known for its toughness.

Once dismissed, Francesco headed back to the locker room, where he felt the weight of anticipation from his teammates. As he packed his gear, Jack Wilshere walked over, clapping him on the shoulder.

"Stoke's no easy match, mate," Jack said, his tone serious. "They'll come at us hard. But stick to the plan and keep your cool, and you'll be alright."

Olivier Giroud, overhearing their conversation, chimed in. "And don't let them push you around. They'll try, but you've got the skill to get past them. Just remember, we're all backing you."

Francesco nodded, absorbing their advice. The weight of expectation settled on his shoulders, but it was balanced by the steady support of his teammates. He was ready for tomorrow's match, determined to prove himself once more.

The following day, Francesco stepped off the team bus and took in the sight of the Britannia Stadium, home to Stoke City. It was a crisp, chilly morning, and the stadium loomed ahead, a fortress for a team known for its rugged, no-nonsense approach to football. Francesco pulled his jacket tighter, feeling a surge of excitement and focus. This would be a challenging match, and he was ready to prove himself.

As he walked with his teammates toward the entrance, Arsene Wenger led the way, quietly confident and calm as ever. Inside, the stadium's labyrinthine hallways opened up to the visitors' locker room. The air buzzed with the sounds of teammates chatting, preparing their kits, and stretching in anticipation.

Wenger gathered everyone around. "Alright, let's start with our warm-up on the pitch," he announced. "Get loose, get focused. The cold will be a factor, so don't let it catch you off guard."

The players followed him out onto the pitch. The stands were empty, but the roar of an impending crowd seemed to linger in the air, just out of reach. Francesco jogged alongside Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere, moving through their warm-up routines. The chill bit at his skin, but he forced himself to push through, knowing that in-game, adrenaline would replace the discomfort.

They stretched, jogged, and went through passing drills, moving as a cohesive unit under the watchful eyes of the coaching staff. Wenger stood at the sidelines, giving the occasional nod or quiet word of advice, but mostly letting the players settle into their routines. After thirty minutes, he signaled for them to return to the locker room.

Back inside, the players caught their breath, hydrating and focusing as Wenger gathered everyone for the starting lineup announcement. He looked around the room, a glint of steely determination in his eyes.

"Today's starting eleven," he began, as the players listened intently. "Emiliano Martinez will be in goal. Our defense, from left to right, will be Kieran Gibbs, Calum Chambers, Per Mertesacker, and Hector Bellerin."

The defensive lineup nodded, understanding the importance of containing Stoke's physical attackers and keeping the flanks secure.

"In midfield," Wenger continued, "Mesut Özil will take the attacking role. Mathieu Flamini and Aaron Ramsey will hold the defensive line. Keep the tempo high, stay disciplined, and manage their midfield pressure."

Mesut and Aaron exchanged a quick glance, a silent promise to control the game's flow with speed and finesse.

"On the wings, we'll have Alexis Sanchez on the left and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain on the right. And leading the attack as striker will be Olivier Giroud," Wenger announced. The energy in the room rose as the starting players readied themselves for the challenge.

Then, he turned his attention to the bench. "Our substitutes will be Wojciech Szczęsny, Semi Ajayi, Laurent Koscielny, Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Francesco Lee, Lukas Podolski, and Danny Welbeck."

Francesco felt a surge of anticipation at hearing his name, mixed with a resolve to make the most of his opportunity if it came. He knew Wenger didn't hand out chances lightly, especially not in a physical game like this.

Once the starting lineup was set, Wenger addressed the group as a whole. "This match will test your stamina, focus, and discipline. Stoke will press us, they'll challenge us in the air, and they'll try to slow us down with fouls. Don't let them dictate the tempo. Move quickly, keep the ball low, and stay one step ahead."

He glanced around the room, his gaze steady and reassuring. "If we play our game, if we keep our heads and stay united, we'll come out of this with three points. Let's go out there and prove ourselves."

With the final words, Wenger clapped his hands. The team collectively rose, exchanging high-fives and pats on the back, a quiet current of determination running through them. Francesco watched as the starting eleven headed out, followed closely by the substitutes and coaching staff.

As they made their way through the stadium's tunnel, the muffled noise of the crowd grew louder, becoming a roar that reverberated around them. The stands were filling quickly, and the fans' energy added to the excitement and tension. The players lined up in the tunnel, each one focused on the battle ahead.

Standing just behind Giroud, Francesco took in the atmosphere of his first Premier League away game. Stoke City's reputation for intimidating home crowds and physical play made it one of the league's toughest venues, and Francesco couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nerves.

As the starting eleven walked out onto the field, the roar of the crowd reached a fever pitch. Francesco and the other substitutes settled onto the bench, keeping themselves warm and focused. He knew he'd have to stay ready for Wenger's call, especially in a game as intense as this one.

The whistle blew, and the match kicked off with Stoke launching into a high-energy press, looking to unsettle Arsenal's backline right from the start. The game quickly turned into a gritty contest, with Stoke's midfielders and defenders pushing Arsenal's players at every turn. But Arsenal responded with skill and resilience, keeping the ball moving, looking for gaps, and refusing to be dragged into the physical battles Stoke was trying to create.

Francesco watched intently, studying the movement of his teammates and the way Stoke's defense reacted to each play. Wenger's advice echoed in his mind: "Use your speed, stay out of their reach, and keep your focus." This was a match where patience and timing would be crucial, and Francesco mentally prepared himself, going over the patterns he'd seen in training and his anticipation for Mesut or Aaron's passes.

The first half quickly spiraled into a nightmare for Arsenal. Barely a minute into the game, Stoke exploited a lapse in Arsenal's defense. With an intense high press, they quickly dispossessed Aaron Ramsey in the middle of the pitch. Stoke's Mame Diouf capitalized on the error, sending a swift pass down the right wing toward Peter Crouch. Towering over Arsenal's defenders, Crouch timed his run perfectly, evading Per Mertesacker's marking. With a powerful right-footed strike, he fired the ball past Emiliano Martinez into the net, putting Stoke City up 1-0 before Arsenal had even managed to settle into their rhythm.

The early goal rattled Arsenal, who found themselves struggling to maintain possession and dictate the tempo. Stoke's aggressive, no-nonsense approach was forcing them into rushed decisions and uncharacteristic mistakes. Arsenal's typical fluidity and cohesion were noticeably absent as Stoke's defenders closed down Mesut Özil and Alexis Sanchez, disrupting their flow. Every pass was contested, every attempt to advance met with a physical battle that left Arsenal struggling to gain any real momentum.

As the minutes ticked by, Stoke's confidence grew. Their midfield, led by Jonathan Walters and Steven N'Zonzi, exerted a suffocating presence, intercepting passes and outmuscling Arsenal's players at nearly every turn. Arsenal attempted to regain control by slowing the game's pace, passing around the back to settle their nerves, but Stoke's relentless pressure kept forcing them into mistakes.

In the 35th minute, Stoke struck again. Jonathan Walters, operating just outside Arsenal's penalty area, intercepted a weak clearance from Hector Bellerin. Walters wasted no time and launched a quick, incisive pass to Bojan Krkic, who was positioned on the edge of the box. Bojan took a deft touch, slipping past Mathieu Flamini with ease. With just enough space, he unleashed a powerful left-footed strike that curled past Martinez into the bottom right corner. The Britannia Stadium erupted as the scoreboard displayed a shocking 2-0 lead for the hosts.

Arsenal's frustration was evident. Olivier Giroud and Alexis Sanchez argued over a missed connection, while Calum Chambers and Kieran Gibbs gestured at each other in confusion, trying to reorganize an increasingly frazzled defense. Wenger, pacing along the sideline, watched with concern as his team struggled to regain composure.

Despite the mounting pressure, Arsenal attempted to push forward. Mesut Özil managed to break free from Stoke's midfield trap and sent a promising ball toward Oxlade-Chamberlain on the right. Oxlade-Chamberlain sprinted down the wing, delivering a low cross intended for Giroud, but Stoke's defense was quick to clear it away. Arsenal's attacks continued to be stifled, with each attempt blunted by Stoke's unyielding backline.

As halftime approached, Arsenal's urgency became increasingly apparent, but their desperation only served to invite more mistakes. In the 42nd minute, another defensive lapse allowed Stoke to capitalize once again. Steven N'Zonzi launched a long pass upfield, catching Arsenal off guard as they scrambled to reorganize. Jonathan Walters, who had been tirelessly hounding Arsenal's defenders all game, latched onto the ball, maneuvering into the box with surprising speed.

With Mertesacker and Chambers closing in on him, Walters took a sharp turn, creating just enough space to strike. With his right foot, he blasted the ball past Martinez and into the net, giving Stoke a commanding 3-0 lead. Arsenal's defense looked shattered, their confidence visibly drained as the home crowd roared in approval.

The atmosphere in the Britannia Stadium was electric, with Stoke's fans reveling in their team's dominance over one of England's elite clubs. Arsenal's players were visibly shaken, frustration and disbelief etched on their faces as they looked up at the scoreboard. Three goals conceded in a single half against Stoke was a brutal reality, and it was clear that Arsenal would have to dig deep if they were to salvage anything from this match.

Francesco sat on the bench, watching the game unfold with a mixture of dismay and determination. He had anticipated a tough, physical battle, but this was far worse than he had expected. Stoke was running circles around Arsenal, using their physicality and grit to completely disrupt Wenger's game plan. Francesco could see his teammates' frustration and knew the team needed a spark, someone to change the momentum. His fingers itched with anticipation, silently hoping Wenger would call upon him in the second half to help turn the tide.

As the halftime whistle blew, the Arsenal players trudged off the field, heads down, visibly deflated. Wenger gathered them quickly, his expression a mix of disappointment and steely resolve. "We're not out of this yet," he said firmly as they headed into the locker room.

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Name : Francesco Lee

Age : 16 (2014)

Birthplace : London, England

Football Club : Arsenal First Team

Championship History : None