Gifts

In the Dream Training System, Yang Yang sat cross-legged, watching as the stadium around him transformed into a massive screen, repeatedly playing the long-range goal he had scored against Alkmaar. The vivid detail on the screen made the replay feel remarkably lifelike, as if he were witnessing it live, right before his eyes. 

"Can't believe I actually pulled off a shot like that!" Yang Yang marveled, a proud grin spreading across his face. 

Over the past few months, Yang Yang had been studying the renowned shots of Van Basten, analyzing the Dutch legend's technique, body positioning, and precision. The Dream Training System had made it possible for him to acquire Van Basten's Master Strike as a star skill, though Yang Yang had to train hard to master it fully. With the system's guidance, he had worked tirelessly to get closer to executing this skill as naturally as his own. 

During the match, his shot had felt instinctive, just another strike on goal. But now, under Zax's mentorship, he was beginning to see nuances he hadn't noticed before, each replay revealing subtle yet powerful insights. Every small detail was essential, and together, they had made this shot possible. 

Zax encouraged him to study the goal from start to finish, uncovering the intricacies he could apply consistently. Van Basten's Master Strike was like a powerful tool, but Yang Yang needed control and strength to use it effectively. 

Ajax's coaching staff had once told him, "Every goal seems like a stroke of luck, but behind it lies a certain inevitability, built on practice and precision." 

Yang Yang was beginning to understand the truth of that statement. What had felt like a spontaneous strike during the game was now revealed as a blend of training and situational awareness, an intersection of chance and preparation. 

It was the finer details, he realized, that made all the difference. 

"Have you picked up anything new?" Zax's voice cut through the silence of the training ground. 

"Quite a few things," Yang Yang replied thoughtfully. 

"Go on, then. Explain." 

Yang Yang gestured, and the screen zoomed in to the exact moment of his shot. 

"I hadn't noticed this during the match, but the way my right foot positioned itself before the left-footed volley was key to generating power." 

"You've done well with that," Zax replied calmly. 

Fundamentals like foot placement were vital in football. When training another star skill, Beckham's Technique, Yang Yang had come to understand the importance of positioning the plant foot just right—too close and he lost power, too far and he risked accuracy. 

"Winston Bogarde once taught me about core strength," Yang Yang continued. "By engaging the core, I can use my entire body to maximize power through coordinated movement." 

"Correct," Zax confirmed. 

In the past, Yang Yang's long-range shots had often lacked power, which he'd attributed to insufficient strength. But now he realized that strength was only one factor; proper technique was just as critical. His recent strength training sessions with Bogarde had begun unlocking this understanding. 

For a powerful shot, he needed to plant his supporting foot correctly, coil his body, and release force through a twisting motion that flowed from his waist down to his legs and into the ball. With a precise strike on the right part of the ball, this coordinated power resulted in both speed and control. 

This revelation provided him a clear focus moving forward. He would continue refining his star skills, honing his first touch and footwork, while also intensifying his strength training. 

This whole process of channeling power—from core engagement through the legs and, finally, into the ball—applied not only to shooting but to other aspects of his game. 

At that moment, Yang Yang fully understood why Bogarde had prescribed exercises like bench presses, deadlifts, and squats. Building core, leg, and upper body strength wasn't just about power; it enhanced his aerial ability and resilience in tackles too. 

"You're right," Zax acknowledged, "but remember, don't overdo it. Maintaining muscle flexibility is essential. Speed and flexibility are still your most valuable assets." 

"I understand," Yang Yang nodded. Bogarde had always emphasized balance in strength training, and Yang Yang had learned to trust the structured regimen Bogarde had set for him at the gym and pool. 

That long-range goal had shown him his progress in a tangible way, reinforcing his confidence and inspiring him to reach new heights. 

... 

... 

"Stunning long-range strike!" 

"A brace!" 

"Wonder boy!" 

These headlines and more filled the pages of the Dutch newspapers the day after the match. 

Yang Yang's two goals had led Ajax to victory over league leaders Alkmaar, pushing Ajax up one place in the Eredivisie standings and securing them a spot in the Champions League qualification zone. The media's response was unanimous, filled with admiration and praise for the young player's performance. 

The media and fans had already been captivated by Yang Yang's exceptional season, but his stunning first goal against Alkmaar sparked a fresh wave of accolades. Many commentators even labeled it the best goal of the season in the Eredivisie so far, making Ajax's clash with Alkmaar one of the most thrilling matches to date. 

At the same time, several outlets highlighted Yang Yang's remarkable progress. 

De Telegraaf's correspondent, Michel Vandersma, noted in his analysis that Yang Yang's dedication to improvement over the past two years was evident in his increasingly refined technique and more rounded skills. 

"Last season, Yang Yang faced criticism for his ball control, with some even counting his mistakes. But this season, we're seeing a transformed player—his first touch has become impressively consistent and often brilliant," Vandersma wrote. 

"Earlier, there were concerns about his physical strength. Yet within half a season, he's developed enough to score a spectacular goal against Alkmaar." 

"It's also worth noting," Vandersma continued, "that Yang Yang, a natural right-footer, scored that incredible goal with his left foot." 

Vandersma went on to emphasize that, at just 18, Yang Yang's potential was still unfolding. "It's too early to predict his limits. Next year, we may see a whole new Yang Yang, one that surprises us all." 

"He has a way of surprising fans and creating unforgettable moments." 

Previously, Dutch media had focused on Kuyt, especially after his recent brace and hat trick performances. But with this round where Kuyt didn't score and Feyenoord suffered a heavy 4-1 loss, the public's confidence wavered. Meanwhile, Yang Yang's consistent scoring kept him firmly in contention, his tally now reaching 20 goals. 

With ten games left, the race between Yang Yang and Kuyt for the Eredivisie's top scorer has become a hot topic among Dutch media and fans alike. 

More fans and analysts believe that Yang Yang, who has now achieved Ajax's best single-season goal count in a decade, is a strong challenger for Kuyt's top scorer title. 

The media has also begun drawing comparisons with Yang Yang's idol, Ronaldo, who set a remarkable record in 1995. At just eighteen, Ronaldo won the Dutch Golden Boot, becoming the youngest player in Eredivisie history to score over 25 and then 30 goals in a single season. 

With his 20-goal count, Yang Yang is now within striking distance of that historic milestone, needing just one goal per game to equal Ronaldo's record. 

Of course, many in the media still support Kuyt. Feyenoord's star forward is known for his sharp form and remains a prolific scorer. With Feyenoord's attack-oriented playstyle, Kuyt has ample opportunities to add to his goal count, making the race all the more intense. 

The debate has effectively split Dutch fans and media into two camps—some backing Ajax's Yang Yang, while others stand firmly behind Feyenoord's Kuyt. It reflects the Netherlands' tradition of internal football rivalries, bringing a lively atmosphere to the season's final stretch. 

Meanwhile, Yang Yang seemed unfazed by the media frenzy. Emerging from the swimming pool the afternoon after the Alkmaar match, he received a call from his agent, Raiola, confirming that the carefully prepared gifts had arrived for the Ajax staff, coaching team, and his fellow first-team players. 

... 

... 

Although Raiola was often criticized by club staff and had even angered Van Gaal, who once dismissed him as mercenary, Yang Yang was fully satisfied with his agent. 

A key reason was Raiola's dedication; he always prioritized his players' interests, which was rare in the business. 

Yang Yang met Raiola in the player's restaurant at De Toekomst. The Italian agent was dressed casually in a plaid shirt, white T-shirt, and loose jeans, looking even more rotund than usual. 

"You should lose a little weight, Mino," Yang Yang chuckled. 

"I've been exercising a lot, but I'm still hefty. It's just how I am—'fat-fit,' you know? I gain weight even just drinking water." 

Yang Yang shook his head, smiling, knowing it was futile to talk to Raiola about weight loss. 

"Well, here's what you wanted," Raiola said, pushing a large bag across the floor to Yang Yang, who lifted it and felt the weight. 

Inside were Motorola Razr V3 phones, the sleek new model endorsed by Beckham. Before, Yang Yang had mentioned to Raiola that if he scored over 20 goals, he wanted to gift something to the team—not too expensive but practical. 

After some thought, Raiola had suggested the phones. As Europe was now in the 3G era, mobile phones had become widely popular. 

At the Toyota Cup, Yang Yang had won a Toyota as the best player, which he sold for cash. Combined with his goal bonus for reaching 20 goals, he could easily afford this gesture. 

"To be honest, it's great that you thought of this," Raiola said approvingly. "You're Ajax's star; you don't need to win people over. But football is a team sport, and building good relationships with teammates, coaches, and staff is essential." 

Yang Yang knew that his achievements depended on the team's support. He'd taken over the offensive mantle left by Van der Vaart and Ibrahimovic and was now Ajax's main star. But he understood that for Ajax's collective success, he needed the entire team behind him. 

Gifting something to everyone was a perfect way to show appreciation, so Raiola had been fully supportive of the idea. 

As they continued talking, Raiola observed how different Yang Yang was from Ibrahimovic. If it were Ibrahimovic in Yang Yang's place, Raiola doubted the Swedish forward would think of giving gifts to everyone. 

"Oh, by the way, a few teams have been reaching out," Raiola added, glancing at Yang Yang with a smile. "Your breakthrough this season, especially the goals, has caught the eye of several clubs across the top leagues." 

Yang Yang nodded calmly. "What's your take?" 

He knew the appeal of the top leagues was hard to ignore for any Ajax player. Competing in one of Europe's top four leagues was a dream for almost every professional player, including him. 

While he had deep ties with Ajax, he knew that leaving a good transfer fee for the club would be his best way to repay them, avoiding situations where Ajax lost players for free, as they had with Kluivert. 

"Right now, things are still taking shape. Ajax reached out and expressed interest in discussing a contract renewal." 

Yang Yang nodded, understanding. His current performance practically demanded a renewal, especially as he would expect a pay increase to reflect his status as Ajax's star player. 

Raiola would undoubtedly negotiate for a top-level salary, not only for the present but also to make Yang Yang's position clear to prospective clubs. If a move to a Champions League-caliber team in the top leagues came, Yang Yang wanted to be a core player. 

In those leagues, his current weekly salary of €10,000 would be considered low. Even doubling it to €20,000 wouldn't be impressive, but renegotiating with Ajax for a higher rate would help position him favorably for future talks with top clubs. 

"There are Champions League teams showing interest in you," Raiola continued, "Manchester United's Ferguson, Chelsea's Mourinho, Arsenal's Wenger—although Arsenal's budget is tight—and Benitez at Liverpool." 

"Real Madrid, Barcelona, Inter, AC Milan, Bayern Munich… Almost all the top European clubs are following your progress. And there are mid-table sides like Valencia and Everton." 

"Right now, it's early March, and teams are just laying out their summer plans, so nothing's set in stone. But I expect Champions League teams will tread carefully." 

"How so?" Yang Yang asked, intrigued. 

"Top teams need proven Champions League performers, but remember, you were mostly a substitute last season, and although you've done well this season, your performance against Juventus didn't stand out. They're looking for more evidence of your consistency." 

Yang Yang understood. Much like Raiola had mentioned previously, Ibrahimovic had his scoring stats to back his abilities. To make a similar impression, Yang Yang needed to demonstrate his skills in high-stakes matches, not just as a substitute but as a core player. 

Ajax's early exit from the Champions League this season was a disadvantage. While the UEFA Cup held some prestige, Ajax prioritized securing Champions League qualification for next season, even if it meant deprioritizing the UEFA Cup. 

If Yang Yang were willing to accept a rotational role, he could move more easily, but he aimed to join a Champions League club as a starting player, which narrowed his options. 

"Teams have grown cautious," Raiola explained. "Look at recent Dutch exports: Eindhoven's Robben and Kežman joined Chelsea, but while Robben has talent, his injury record is concerning, and Kežman struggled to adapt. Even Ajax's van der Vaart had a tough time breaking through at Real Madrid." 

"Ibrahimovic did earn a place at Juventus, but his scoring rate has been underwhelming, which isn't ideal for a center-forward." 

Raiola explained that as the gap in quality between the Eredivisie and the top leagues widened, skepticism about players' adaptability was growing. Strikers like Kežman, who had excelled in the Eredivisie, had found it hard to replicate that success elsewhere. 

"Even Kuyt, who's scored over 20 goals for three consecutive seasons, isn't attracting much interest at the moment," Raiola pointed out. 

Yang Yang understood Raiola's intention—to give him a grounded view of his situation and avoid any unrealistic expectations. 

"All in all, stay focused on your game, and I'll handle the negotiations. Your performance on the pitch is my strongest bargaining tool," Raiola said earnestly. 

Yang Yang nodded firmly. "I'll give it my all." 

Raiola's face broke into a broad smile, his cheeks jiggling with the gesture. To Yang Yang, the Italian agent's familiar smile added a reassuring warmth. 

... 

... 

Yang Yang carried the large bag of mobile phones from one area of De Toekomst to another, distributing them generously to almost every department. From the players' lounge to the coaching offices, the equipment room, the gym, and the medical office—he made his way through each part of Ajax's facilities. 

With each stop, the bag grew lighter as he handed out the phones, leaving smiles in his wake. 

Yang Yang managed to gift almost everyone at De Toekomst a phone, including head coach Ronald Koeman. The only exception was the youth team, which was simply too large in number for him to include without stretching beyond his limits. 

In fulfilling his promise, Yang Yang brought cheer to the entire facility. After all, who doesn't enjoy receiving a gift, especially when it's the latest Motorola Razr V3 model, recently released and endorsed by Beckham himself? 

Yang Yang's thoughtfulness was well-received, earning him heartfelt thanks from teammates, staff, and coaches alike. His gesture naturally strengthened his standing within the team, reflecting his growing influence. 

"Keep up the great work, Yang Yang—and don't let Kuyt get ahead!" Coach Ronald Koeman said with an encouraging smile.