Chapter 175

"How do you feel about yourself?" 

After returning to Oude Kerk's house, Raiola asked with genuine concern, his voice measured yet inquisitive. 

At this moment, even Maicon's laughter from across the street seemed to fade into the background as Vermaelen, Yang Yang's roommate, excused himself to visit Maicon, leaving Yang Yang and Raiola alone in the modest living room. The atmosphere was charged with unspoken anticipation. 

"I feel sincerity," Yang Yang admitted after a pause, his tone contemplative. "From the way Ronald Koeman looked at me, I could tell he really wants me to stay." 

Raiola nodded knowingly, his expression betraying little surprise. "If Koeman didn't want you to stay, that would be the strange thing," he remarked with a faint chuckle. 

Yang Yang shifted in his seat, his gaze fixed on Raiola. "Mino, I need your analysis. What do you think of my current situation?" 

The Italian agent leaned back into the couch, frowning thoughtfully for a moment before he began speaking with measured precision. 

"Your situation is tricky, Yang," Raiola admitted. "The main issue is that while you've made waves in the UEFA Cup, it's not the Champions League. If you had shone in the Champions League, even at 70% of your current level, every major club in Europe would be clamoring to sign you. The UEFA Cup is respectable, but it doesn't carry the same weight." 

Yang Yang frowned slightly. "So… does that mean the big clubs aren't interested in me now?" 

"Interested? Of course," Raiola said, nodding firmly. "But they see you as an 18-year-old prodigy, a talent for the future. They might buy you, but they won't guarantee you a starting position. Take Real Madrid as an example." 

Raiola leaned forward, his tone more serious. "The Galacticos want you, no question about it. But think about their squad. Zidane controls the left, Raul commands the center, and Figo dominates the right. Where do you fit into that lineup? Real Madrid's plan is simple—they see you as an investment, someone to groom as their current superstars age. But during that period, you'd have to bide your time on the bench, sidelined from the action. 

"On top of that," Raiola added, his voice lowering conspiratorially, "Real Madrid's locker room is a political minefield right now. Florentino Perez is under fire from his own management, and the team dynamics are… chaotic, to put it politely. If Perez falls, who knows what direction Real Madrid will take? Do you want to gamble your future on a club in turmoil?" 

Yang Yang nodded, digesting Raiola's words. The agent's analysis was brutally honest, but it resonated with the young player. 

"The same applies to Barcelona," Raiola continued. "Ronaldinho is the beating heart of that team, pulling the strings with his magic. Then there's Giuly on the right, and rumors suggest they're pursuing Robinho and Henry as well. Do you think you'd secure a starting spot in that environment?" 

Yang Yang exhaled sharply. The picture Raiola painted was becoming all too clear. 

"Chelsea is no different," Raiola said. "If they sign you, it'll be to compete with Robben and Duff. Mourinho is ruthless—he'll make you fight for every minute on the pitch, and honestly, I'm not convinced he's the best coach for your development." 

Raiola paused before shifting to other clubs. "Manchester United? They're bogged down by ownership battles and internal chaos. Arsenal and Liverpool? Both have tight budgets and can't afford your transfer fee. Serie A isn't the right fit for you right now—the league's style doesn't suit your strengths. As for Bayern Munich, while the Bundesliga could be a good stepping stone, Bayern simply doesn't have the financial power to match Ajax's valuation." 

Yang Yang let out a slow breath. Raiola's words were sobering, but they gave clarity to the tangled web of possibilities. 

"So… you're saying I should stay with Ajax for now?" Yang Yang asked, his voice steady. 

Raiola nodded decisively. "For the moment, yes. It's the smartest option. You're a key player here, and staying gives you consistent playing time and a platform to grow." 

Yang Yang mulled this over. He wasn't disappointed; in fact, he felt a sense of relief. Deep down, he had been leaning toward staying at Ajax, and Raiola's analysis only reinforced that instinct. 

"But remember," Raiola cautioned, "this is only my judgment based on today's circumstances. The transfer market is unpredictable—what seems certain today can change tomorrow. One thing I do know is that next year is a World Cup year, and the market always shifts dramatically after a World Cup." 

Yang Yang nodded, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. He needed to stay sharp, both for Ajax and for the Chinese national team, which was on the verge of qualifying for the World Cup after a strong showing in the AFC qualifiers. 

"I'll take things step by step," Raiola continued. "First, I'll keep scouting for opportunities with other clubs. If something promising arises, you'll be the first to know. Second, I'll maintain communication with Ajax, but if we decide to renew your contract, I strongly suggest adding a release clause." 

"A release clause?" Yang Yang echoed, intrigued. 

"Yes. A clause stating that starting next summer, Ajax must release you if a club meets a specific transfer fee. This way, you secure your future without closing any doors." 

Yang Yang nodded slowly. The idea wasn't new to him, but it made perfect sense. 

Last season, players like Hatem Trabelsi, Rafael van der Vaart, and Zlatan Ibrahimović had similar release clauses written into their contracts at Ajax. Their terms weren't exceptionally high by the standards of European football, but they were fair for the time. Van der Vaart and Ibrahimović both had clauses set at €25 million, while Trabelsi's was slightly lower at €20 million. For Ajax, these figures represented strong valuations, and they reflected the club's pragmatic approach to player negotiations. 

Noticing Yang Yang's puzzled expression, Raiola leaned forward, his tone shifting into an explanatory mode. 

"Let me clarify," Raiola began. "The advantage of having a release clause like this is that it safeguards your interests. If a club genuinely wants to sign you, Ajax can't inflate your price to an unreasonable level. As long as the buying club meets the specified fee, you're free to leave. That's crucial for maintaining control over your career." 

Raiola paused, ensuring Yang Yang was following his reasoning before continuing. "In the transfer market, the ability to choose gives you leverage—negotiating power, if you will. That's why players who leave on free transfers often command much higher salaries. Clubs know they're saving on transfer fees, so they're willing to pay more in wages. For a clause like this, I'd even advise making a slight compromise on salary, if necessary. The flexibility it provides is worth it." 

While Raiola mentioned compromise, Yang Yang knew the Italian agent well enough to take that with a grain of salt. Raiola wasn't one to settle for less, and it was unlikely he'd even glance at Ajax's €20,000-per-week salary offer without demanding more. 

"At the very least," Raiola added with a sly grin, "your salary will be the highest at Ajax by the time I'm done negotiating." 

Yang Yang couldn't help but nod in agreement. Raiola's logic was sound, and Yang Yang valued having control over his career trajectory. A release clause like the ones his former teammates had would provide a sense of security while keeping future opportunities open. 

"Alright," Yang Yang said after a moment's thought. "I'll authorize you to handle this." 

"Leave it to me," Raiola replied confidently, his expression exuding self-assurance. "Your job is simple—focus on the pitch and keep performing at your best. I'll make sure we secure a deal that matches your talent. I'll negotiate until Ajax gives you a contract that protects your interests and ensures your value is respected." 

The situation was clear: Yang Yang was an indispensable asset to Ajax, and the club was eager to retain him. At the same time, Yang Yang's rising influence on the field meant he held significant bargaining power. As long as he continued to deliver consistent performances, he could leave Ajax at a moment's notice, should the right opportunity arise. 

For Raiola, this summer's negotiations promised to be far smoother than last year's. Yang Yang's development and growing reputation had shifted the balance of power in their favor. Now, it was only a matter of finding common ground that satisfied both player and club. 

... 

... 

After concluding negotiations, Raiola departed Amsterdam around midday, leaving Yang Yang with much to ponder. 

Later that afternoon, Yang Yang paid a visit to Louis van Gaal, the head coach of AZ Alkmaar. However, it was clear from the moment they met that Van Gaal was not in the best of spirits. His team had spent much of the season at the top of the Eredivisie table, only to falter in the final stretch and finish third—a disappointing end to what had once seemed a promising campaign. 

To make matters worse, the team's leading striker, Robin Nelisse, had decided to leave. With Nelisse gone, Alkmaar's attack for the upcoming season looked uncertain, leaving Van Gaal grappling with how to strengthen his squad. Although the 22-year-old Belgian forward Stein Huysegems had shown flashes of promise during the past season, Van Gaal clearly did not view him as a reliable solution for the role of a primary striker. 

Yang Yang, not one to meddle in recruitment matters, could only offer polite encouragement. His visit to Van Gaal wasn't about Alkmaar's transfer headaches but rather to seek advice on his own career situation. 

Van Gaal, always forthright, echoed much of what Raiola had already told him. The experienced manager agreed that Yang Yang's transfer value wasn't yet at its peak. "You've had a good season, but the real bargaining chips come from consistent performances on the biggest stage," Van Gaal explained. "You need to show your quality in the Champions League. That's where the giants of European football will take notice—and come knocking on their own." 

The veteran coach leaned back in his chair, a faint smile softening his otherwise stern demeanor. "Let me ask you something: isn't it better to have clubs coming to you rather than your agent trying to sell you to them? If they approach you, the negotiations are in your favor. At 18 years old, you've already accomplished so much, but staying another season at Ajax will only make you more mature, more polished. Why rush?" 

Yang Yang nodded thoughtfully. Van Gaal's reasoning mirrored his own growing realization: patience could be the key to unlocking even greater opportunities. 

Van Gaal continued, his tone becoming more animated. "At the start of the season, I predicted PSV Eindhoven would dominate the league. They had depth, talent, and balance. But from what I've seen in the second half of the season, Ajax has shown they're capable of competing on equal terms. With the right reinforcements in midfield, I believe Ajax could even outmatch PSV next year and perform strongly in the Champions League." 

The coach leaned forward, his gaze piercing. "And if Ajax performs well in Europe, do you think the big clubs will overlook the star of the team? Play your part, shine on the Champions League stage, and you won't have to worry about attracting the attention of Europe's elite." 

Van Gaal's words struck a chord. He was right. Yang Yang's best course of action was to focus on improving his game rather than fretting over transfer speculation. 

"I understand," Yang Yang said earnestly. "I've already taken steps to ensure I keep progressing. I've hired a private fitness coach, and I won't let myself slack off, even during the off-season." 

Van Gaal nodded approvingly. "Good. Knowing you, I wasn't worried about that. You've always been one of the most disciplined and hardworking players I've ever encountered." 

After bidding farewell to Van Gaal, Yang Yang made a detour to Almere. He would be heading home the next day, and his uncle Shen Ming and aunt had asked him to deliver some items to his cousin, Shen Yuzhu. It was a small task, but it gave him an excuse to revisit his hometown. 

That evening, Yang Yang stayed for dinner in Almere and caught up with familiar faces. Among them were Johnny Rep, a local football figure, and Nick, an old friend from his youth days. Conversations inevitably turned nostalgic as they reflected on the rapid changes of the past two years. 

In that short time, Almere's football team had yet to achieve promotion to the Eerste Divisie, remaining stuck in the lower tiers of Dutch football. In stark contrast, Yang Yang had risen to prominence, his name now recognized across European football. It was a bittersweet realization for the locals. While they were proud of Yang Yang's achievements, his success served as a reminder of what they themselves had yet to accomplish. 

As Yang Yang walked through the familiar streets of Almere that night, memories of his humble beginnings played in his mind. He felt a deep sense of gratitude for the journey he had undertaken and the people who had supported him along the way. Tomorrow, he would return home, but tonight, he embraced the warmth of a place that had shaped him into the player he was today. 

... 

... 

Despite learning from previous experiences and keeping his flight details confidential from everyone except Wei Zhen, Yang Yang was still caught off guard upon his arrival at Beijing Capital Airport. A throng of media reporters and enthusiastic fans had somehow managed to gather, waiting to greet him. Their persistence and resourcefulness never failed to amaze him. 

"They really are everywhere," Yang Yang muttered under his breath, adjusting the strap of his bag. 

As always, Yang Yang traveled light. He carried only a single bag, but the attention he drew wasn't limited to his fame. Beside him stood a tall, muscular Dutchman with a commanding presence, causing onlookers to mistakenly assume he was a personal bodyguard. 

In reality, the man was Winston Bogarde, Ajax's fitness coach. Known for his robust physique and expertise, Bogarde had been working with Yang Yang for over six months at the club. Yang Yang deeply valued his professionalism and had personally invited him to China during the winter break last year, a move that had paid dividends in his physical performance. This summer, Bogarde had returned to assist Yang Yang once more, serving as a personal trainer during the off-season. 

Bogarde's role extended beyond fitness training. He also helped Yang Yang with ball practice and even prepared nutritional meals—a skill that pleasantly surprised Yang Yang. "For a man of his size," Yang Yang had once joked, "he's quite the chef." 

After posing for a few photos and answering questions from the gathered reporters and fans, Yang Yang quickly exited the airport, where Wei Zhen was waiting to pick him up. They climbed into the car and began the drive toward the Summer Palace. 

This time, Yang Yang wouldn't be staying at Wei Zhen's place. He now had a home of his own. 

Last year, Yang Yang had purchased an apartment in a serene community near the Summer Palace, though he had left it untouched for months. In December, Wei Zhen and Yang Yang's cousin, Shen Yuzhu, had taken up residence in Beijing and overseen its renovation. With assistance from Wei Zhen's father, Su Wenhong, the renovation had been carried out smoothly. 

Yang Yang had given them free rein on the project, trusting their judgment. His only requirements were that the design be simple, practical, and warm. He emphasized quality materials and fine craftsmanship but didn't insist on anything extravagant. 

As Yang Yang entered the gated community and stepped into his apartment for the first time since the renovations, he couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. The space was everything he had hoped for. 

The apartment was a spacious four-bedroom unit, filled with natural light and designed for comfort. Double balconies stretched from the north to the south, offering sweeping views of the surrounding area. 

"This is great—spacious, bright, and airy. The double balconies are a fantastic touch," Bogarde said, nodding appreciatively as he took in the layout. 

Yang Yang chuckled. "I was thinking about converting one of the rooms into a home gym, but they talked me out of it. I decided to let that idea go for now." 

Bogarde shrugged, a grin tugging at his lips. "I suppose that makes sense. This kind of residential floor isn't ideal for heavy gym equipment. But one day, when you move into a villa, you can have a full setup—a gym, a swimming pool, maybe even a practice room. Then you won't need to leave home at all." 

Wei Zhen, standing nearby, laughed. "Exactly. You'll have everything you need in one place, and you can avoid the hassle of going out." 

Yang Yang smiled but couldn't deny the appeal of that vision. He wasn't particularly fond of the attention he attracted whenever he stepped outside. Having a private space to train and relax sounded increasingly appealing. 

The reason Yang Yang had chosen this community was its proximity to the Summer Palace, a place he had always admired. He often spoke about its beauty, even inspiring Bogarde to visit it someday. 

While he couldn't set up a gym in the apartment, Wei Zhen had arranged for a membership at a nearby fitness club. The facility included a well-equipped gym and a swimming pool, ensuring Yang Yang and Bogarde could maintain their training regimen during his stay. "It's not as convenient as having everything at home," Yang Yang admitted, "but it'll do for now." 

By the time Yang Yang and Bogarde unpacked and settled in, night had fallen. Shortly after, Wei Zhen informed him that Su Ye had heard about his return and was on her way over from school. 

When Su Ye arrived, Yang Yang was momentarily taken aback. It had been over six months since they last saw each other, and in that time, the young girl had blossomed into a strikingly beautiful young woman. 

Dressed in a crisp blue-and-white school uniform, her long hair tied neatly into a ponytail, Su Ye exuded an effortless elegance. Her complexion was flawless, her face untouched by makeup yet radiant with natural beauty. Yang Yang couldn't help but notice how her tall, slender figure added to her striking appearance, especially her long legs beneath the uniform skirt. It was no wonder she would be considered a "school goddess" anywhere she went. 

"Wow," Yang Yang exclaimed, his grin widening. "The little girl's all grown up—taller, prettier, and definitely more elegant!" 

Su Ye, who had been beaming with joy at seeing Yang Yang, immediately blushed, her cheeks turning a delicate shade of pink as she lowered her gaze shyly. "You're teasing me again," she murmured, her voice barely audible. 

Su Wenhong and Ye Qingqing welcomed Yang Yang warmly, their smiles radiating pride as they exchanged glances about their daughter, Su Ye. Recently, their family of three had settled on Su Ye's choices for her upcoming college entrance examination, and the atmosphere at home had been filled with a mix of hope and preparation. 

"Yang Yang, your performance in the Eredivisie this season has been phenomenal! You've done so much to bring pride to us Chinese people!" Su Wenhong exclaimed, his enthusiasm lighting up the room as he showered Yang Yang with praise. 

Yang Yang smiled sheepishly, scratching the back of his head with his left hand—a gesture Su Ye couldn't help but notice. Her gaze fell on the colorful handwoven bracelet still adorning his wrist, and her heart skipped a beat. Her cheeks flushed slightly as a flicker of surprise and joy appeared in her eyes. He still wore it. 

"Uncle, please don't keep praising me," Yang Yang said awkwardly, trying to deflect the attention. "I'll start feeling self-conscious." 

"Nonsense! I'm not exaggerating," Su Wenhong replied, his pride undeterred. "You're the best topic of conversation I've got these days. My students and I talk about you all the time!" 

"Ignore him, Yang Yang. He's been going on about you to anyone who'll listen," Ye Qingqing chimed in, shaking her head fondly at her husband. 

"What do you know?" Su Wenhong defended himself. "It's called connecting with the younger generation! The college entrance exam is stressful. Watching football now and then is a great way to relax and recharge. Balance is key to achieving good results." 

"Of course, you're always right," Ye Qingqing replied, her tone playful but conceding. 

Yang Yang laughed, trying to smooth over the exchange. His gaze shifted to Su Ye, who stood quietly to the side, her posture demure but poised. "Hey, little girl," he teased, "why so quiet? Are you unhappy to see me?" 

Su Ye's cheeks flushed even redder, and she hurriedly shook her head. "No, not at all!" she replied in a soft voice, her tone betraying her shyness. 

"She's just excited," Su Wenhong interjected with a chuckle. "Yesterday, when the housekeeper came to clean, she was telling me you might come back in a couple of days. She didn't expect you to show up today, though." 

Yang Yang smiled warmly, turning his attention back to Su Ye. "How's it going? The college entrance exam must be putting a lot of pressure on you, huh?" 

Su Ye nodded solemnly. "It feels like a thousand troops crossing a single-log bridge," she said, using a common metaphor to describe the fierce competition. 

"You'll be fine," Yang Yang said confidently, his tone steady and reassuring. "You've got this, little girl. Just keep working hard—I believe in you." 

Su Ye's eyes lit up at his words, and she nodded again, this time with more determination. 

"Alright," Yang Yang said with a grin, clapping his hands together. "Tonight, dinner's on me. My treat!" 

"There's no need for that!" Su Wenhong protested. "You're already doing so much—just come to our place. Ye Qingqing will cook—" 

"Uncle," Yang Yang interrupted gently, "you've all done so much for me already. You, Auntie, and Su Ye have worked hard while I was away. Let me thank you properly. If I don't, I'll feel embarrassed to face you next time." 

Hearing his sincerity, both Su Wenhong and Ye Qingqing relented, smiling at his insistence. 

Just before they left for dinner, Yang Yang paused, as if suddenly remembering something. He excused himself briefly, returning moments later with a small bag. Inside were three sleek, brand-new mobile phones he had picked up in Europe. Handing two to Su Wenhong and Ye Qingqing, he turned to Su Ye with a smile. 

"Here, little girl," he said, presenting the third phone to her. "This one's for you. It's the latest model in Europe—not even available in China yet. It's got all sorts of cool features. I got one for myself too, so now we can chat on QQ more easily." 

Su Ye's eyes widened as she accepted the gift, her fingers trembling slightly. "Thank you," she said softly, her voice tinged with shyness. 

"You're welcome," Yang Yang replied casually, flashing her a warm smile. 

As he explained the phones' features to Su Wenhong and discussed their use in managing football schedules, Ye Qingqing stood quietly to the side. Her sharp eyes caught sight of the colorful bracelet on Yang Yang's wrist, and her mind wandered. She vaguely remembered her daughter learning to make bracelets like that not long ago. At the time, she had thought it odd—Su Ye had never been one for arts and crafts. 

Now, seeing the bracelet on Yang Yang's arm and recalling Su Ye's flustered behavior, a subtle realization dawned on her. She suspected there might be more to the situation than met the eye. 

Still, Yang Yang appeared blissfully unaware, engrossed in conversation with Su Wenhong about football and gadgets. Ye Qingqing's lips curled into a faint smile. Men, she thought to herself with quiet amusement. 

... 

... 

The next morning, Yang Yang rose early, energized by the plans for the day. He wasted no time pulling Winston Bogard out of bed, much to the Dutchman's groggy dismay. 

"Come on, Winston, it's worth it," Yang Yang teased as Bogard reluctantly got ready. 

Before heading out, Yang Yang sent a quick message to Su Ye on QQ, confirming their plan. The three of them had agreed the previous night to meet for a morning jog at the Summer Palace. 

Jogging all the way to the south gate, the trio made an unusual sight. Su Ye, radiant in her casual yet elegant attire, looked as though she had stepped out of a painting—graceful and serene. Yang Yang followed her lead, his pace steady and relaxed as he occasionally dribbled a small football along the path with casual skill. Trailing slightly behind was Winston Bogard, his towering frame and bulging muscles drawing curious glances from passersby. 

Together, they were impossible to ignore. The young woman like a fairy, the football star with undeniable charm, and the imposing foreigner with an athletic build—they turned heads wherever they went. 

It wasn't long before some of the early-morning visitors recognized Yang Yang. However, the Summer Palace's early crowd was composed mostly of elderly people practicing tai chi or enjoying morning walks. While a few greeted him warmly from a distance, no one interrupted their group, allowing them to enjoy the tranquility of the gardens. 

For Bogard, it was his first visit to the Summer Palace, and he was utterly captivated. As they wandered through its winding paths, surrounded by serene lakes, ancient pavilions, and lush greenery, he couldn't contain his amazement. 

"This place is incredible," Bogard said, his voice tinged with awe. "I never imagined such a beautiful garden could exist." 

Su Ye took on the role of guide with ease. Walking alongside Bogard, she introduced him to the history and stories of the Summer Palace, her fluent English flowing effortlessly. Her knowledge and poise impressed Bogard, but to Yang Yang, she looked like something out of a dream—a figure that blended seamlessly with the stunning scenery. Her presence transported him back to their first meeting, evoking a wave of nostalgia. 

"Yang Yang," Su Ye said softly, breaking his reverie, "how long will you be in China this time?" 

He glanced at her, momentarily distracted by the way the morning sunlight framed her face. "A little over half a month," he replied. "But I'll have to report to the national team in a few days." 

"For the World Cup qualifiers?" she asked. 

He nodded. "Yeah. We've got two games in June, both at home—one against North Korea and the other against Iran. If we win just one of them, we'll qualify for the World Cup early. These matches are really important." 

Su Ye's eyes lit up. She knew how significant the World Cup was for the national team and its fans. Qualifying would be a moment of national pride, an event that would send waves of excitement across the country. 

Yang Yang, however, remained grounded. "The game against North Korea should be manageable," he said. "But we can't afford to be careless. The national team isn't exactly world-class, and it only takes a moment of complacency for things to fall apart." 

His tone carried the weight of experience, and she could sense his determination not to let the team repeat past mistakes. China's football history had its fair share of unexpected setbacks, and Yang Yang was resolute in ensuring those weren't repeated under his watch. 

"What happens after the qualifiers?" Su Ye asked, her voice tinged with curiosity. 

"After that, I'll head back to the Netherlands for the World Youth Championship. Then it'll be back to training and the new season," he explained. 

"Oh," Su Ye replied, her tone faltering slightly. She had hoped he would stay in China longer, but now she realized his visit would be brief. 

Yang Yang noticed her disappointment and offered her a reassuring smile. "Hey, little girl, don't forget—we'll both be busy. When you're taking your college entrance exams, I'll be playing in the World Cup qualifiers. We'll both have something important to focus on." 

Her mood brightened at his encouragement. At the start of the year, Su Ye had already passed the art exam interview for the prestigious Central Academy of Drama, and her academic preparation was going well. Still, his words carried a special weight, boosting her confidence. 

"I'll do my best," Su Ye promised, her expression firm. 

Yang Yang chuckled. "Good. Tell you what—if I score in either of those two games, I'll dedicate the goal to you." 

Su Ye's cheeks flushed crimson at his words, and she nodded, unable to hide the shy smile tugging at her lips. 

Bogard, returning from admiring the nearby scenery, joined them just as the conversation wound down. Oblivious to the subtle exchange between Yang Yang and Su Ye, he simply marveled at the beauty of the gardens. As the three continued their walk, the peaceful surroundings seemed to mirror the harmony within their small group.