Title: Curve to Save the Nation
"I'm sorry to have kept you waiting so long, Alberto!" Levi apologized with a smile, then sat down, as if he were talking to a longtime friend.
In fact, they had talked for a long time and were very happy.
"Oh, it doesn't matter, Levi, I'm not in a hurry anyway!" Alberto responded with a smile.
Sitting in front of Levi was a middle-aged Italian man of about forty. He was of moderate build, which might have something to do with playing football from an early age, but his football career was not glorious. He could only play in third-tier and lower teams.
After retiring at a young age, he chose to be a football coach. He is currently a member of the coaching staff at Ostia Mare Club, a local amateur club in Ostia, but he chose this club because of his son.
In fact, Alberto's son is not excelling at Ostia Mare. He is 16 years old this year but has never shown the characteristics of a good forward. This is why Alberto often takes his son to youth training camps in Rome to participate in trials, but he was not selected for any reason.
Sixteen years old can be a very sensitive age. At this age, excellent players are able to play in the first team. Even if they are not that good, they can at least show their advantages and abilities in some aspects.
But Alberto's son has almost nothing to praise. He is thin, rough, and not tall or strong. He is even worse than an average 16-year-old player. The only thing to praise is his enthusiasm after playing.
Although he is a full striker, in fact, he almost rushes around the court, which is one of the two reasons this amateur club is willing to keep him: physical fitness and hard work; and his father who works at this club.
But Levi, as someone from the future, knows that this kid, who is not even willing to be accepted by an amateur club, is the future
Good player.
"Frankly, Alberto, I understand that you are not willing to leave Rome or Italy, but this situation is not sustainable. You know, this is just an amateur club, you are a good youth team coach, and our team is vigorously forming a youth team, and we really hope you can join us."
Although Levi wanted De Rossi, he approached Alberto De Rossi first.
For now, in terms of fame and potential, the older De Rossi is better. It is said that even the Roma youth team invited him for a trial, and if De Rossi joins the Roma youth training camp, his father would become the coach of the Roma youth team.
Not to mention that old De Rossi should have good ability, even if not, just hiring him to retain De Rossi is enough for Levi to decide.
It's a bit like how Levi hired Jorge to retain Messi!
"Levi, I'm very happy to be appreciated by your club, but I'm fine in Rome, and I don't quite understand why your English team would come to Italy to select a youth team coach?" Alberto was clearly thoughtful.
"Alberto, you mentioned that you have received professional training in football theory, so I think you should know that the future of football development will become more and more complex. It is no longer possible to pursue a single style, such as Italy's reinforced concrete defense."
"England's football style is wide-open, and long-passing is very impressive, but in the next few years, the English teams, especially clubs, will become more technical. Look at Arsenal in the Premier League and Manchester United, who won the treble last year. Do you think they are just pure English football style?"
"On the basis of retaining the core football philosophy, we can learn from each other's strengths and make up for the shortcomings, so that we can flourish." Levi thought of Ferguson and Barcelona. Although their tactical systems have been passed down, they have also been changing in practice.
In contrast, Arsene Wenger's football literacy is no problem, but why did Arsenal never achieve the previous brilliant results? Can you say that Arsenal players are young?
To paraphrase Mourinho, Arsenal say the players are young every year, but in reality? After so many years, Fabregas matured, Van Persie matured, and even Walcott began to mature.
Are these players still young?
Wenger is a very outstanding coach, but he is still difficult to reach the greatness of Ferguson!
"Your idea is very special, drawing on each other's strengths and making up for the shortcomings. I am afraid that few Italian teams will notice this." Alberto praised admirably.
Levi felt a bit ashamed, but with more than 20 years of football knowledge compared to others, and some knowledge from football forums on the Internet before, this was enough to impress.
"So, Alberto, I think you should take a look at England. Although Italian football is brilliant now, I can assure you that the focus of the fans in the world over the next ten years will be the Premier League, and our club's goal is the Premier League!"
When speaking these words, Levi was confident.
If Levi didn't have much confidence when he was in the Northwestern District Amateur League before, then jumping from the Northwest Division B League to the National League, Levi feels like he suddenly broke a lot of restraints and entered a wider world.
What's more, Levi is pleased that the labor certification problem that has caused headaches for Premier League teams in future generations does not apply to the English National League. It is only limited to the professional league. Aid is not troubled by labor certification.
Of course, this does not mean that Levi can recklessly sign up for help. After all, he also needs to consider the current situation of the team and whether people are willing to come!
"Seriously, Levi, your ambitions are tempting. I also believe in your sincerity and your understanding of future football, but I still want to say, I'm sorry, my family and I have already gotten used to living in Rome. I'm afraid they will have a hard time adapting if we change places suddenly."
Levi laughed immediately when he heard this. "Alberto, I can guess some of your worries."
Staring at Levi, the older De Rossi felt as if he had been seen through and couldn't help but feel a little uneasy.
"Is it because of your son, Daniel?" Levi asked suddenly.
The older De Rossi was obviously taken aback, but soon changed to a bitter smile and nodded, "He is very attached to football."
"What if I also give him a youth contract?" Levi asked again.
The older De Rossi was taken aback again, "This..."
"Don't worry, Alberto, I'm not doing this because of you, but because I trust you, and frankly, you always thought Daniel could be a great player, so you took him to camps in Rome every time. But he disappoints you every time, but you still haven't given up, have you?"
"Have you heard of Ivan Gattuso?" Levi asked.
"Of course, I heard that AC Milan fancy him!" The older De Rossi was obviously familiar with Serie A.
Levi smiled and nodded, "Yes, that's him. I think Daniel has a trait similar to his. If Daniel joins our team, I will consider letting him serve as a defensive midfielder. You know his running ability has always been excellent. As for his physical fitness, I think it can be improved with reasonable training and a scientific diet. Our club is always equipped with experts in this area."
The older De Rossi was shocked because De Rossi has always been a striker, but it is clear that the older De Rossi is not the kind of stubborn person who soon wanted to understand what Levi meant.
Since he didn't show his talent in the forward position, he might as well try another position.
"Seriously, Alberto, our club really needs you to join. You can give your opinion, or if you have any ideas about our club, we will satisfy you as much as possible!" Levi can say that he has given his greatest sincerity.
Alberto thought for a while, obviously moved by Levi's rhetoric, and finally nodded.
"Well, Levi, I agree to consider your proposal, but I can't guarantee anything for you right now, and I have to discuss it with my family, especially my wife, who also has a job here."
Levi laughed suddenly after hearing this, "That's no problem, our club will come forward to help your wife find a job. You know, the fans in England are very fanatical and loyal. Once they hear that the wife of the club coach is looking for a job, there will be a lot of people rushing to hire her, and she can take her time to pick."
Levi was funny, and Alberto laughed a lot.
He went to another heartbroken older De Rossi, and it became obvious that he was interested in Levi's offer, and Levi also introduced the determination to run the club to him.
When the older De Rossi heard that Levi spent 3 million pounds to buy a training base, his surprised expression could be stuffed with an egg, which made him intend to tell his intention to buy the district sports stadium. Levi swallowed it back immediately.
After a long conversation, both said goodbye.
Levi temporarily stayed in the hotel in Ostia, waiting for news from the older De Rossi.
But what Levi didn't expect is that in the early morning the next day, the older De Rossi found Levi directly.
@@@I apologize for that oversight. Let's continue from where Levi is about to negotiate with Alberto and focus on the financial and logistical aspects:
---
"Levi, I have discussed with my family, and we are willing to give it a try," Alberto said, a mixture of resolve and uncertainty in his eyes.
Levi couldn't help but smile, "That's great news, Alberto! I promise you won't regret this decision. We'll take good care of your family, and I'm confident you'll find a new sense of purpose with our club."
Alberto nodded, "I hope so too. Daniel is excited about the opportunity, and my wife has been very supportive."
"Wonderful," Levi said, feeling a surge of satisfaction. "Let's make the necessary arrangements then. I'll have my team assist you with the move and anything else you need."
The older De Rossi looked visibly relieved, "Thank you, Levi. This means a lot to us."
As they finalized their agreement, Levi knew he needed to address the financial aspects clearly. "Alberto, regarding your contract, we will offer you a competitive salary that reflects your experience and the crucial role you'll play in our team. Additionally, we will provide housing assistance to ensure your family is comfortable during the transition."
Alberto raised an eyebrow, pleasantly surprised. "That sounds very generous, Levi. And for Daniel?"
Levi smiled, "Daniel will receive a youth contract. While it's modest, it will cover his expenses and provide a stipend. More importantly, it gives him the opportunity to develop in a professional environment, which is invaluable at his age."
Alberto nodded, "I appreciate that, Levi. It's reassuring to know that you value not just my contribution but my family's well-being as well."
"Absolutely, Alberto," Levi assured him. "Your family's comfort and stability are as important to us as the success of our club. We also understand the importance of having a supportive environment, especially when making such a significant move."
In the following weeks, Levi made sure that the De Rossi family was well-settled in England. He introduced Alberto to the coaching staff and ensured that Daniel was integrated into the youth team with a tailored training program aimed at leveraging his strengths and improving his weaknesses.
Levi's club, now more robust with the addition of an experienced coach like Alberto, began to show marked improvements. The players responded well to the new training regimes, and the team's performance on the field reflected the fresh influx of ideas and strategies.
Alberto, who initially had reservations, found himself increasingly immersed in his new role. His innovative training techniques and keen eye for talent helped the youth team flourish. He often found himself marveling at the dedication and potential within the squad.
Meanwhile, Daniel, adapting to his new role as a defensive midfielder, began to show significant progress. His running ability and endurance made him a natural fit for the position. Under the guidance of both Levi and his father, Daniel started to develop the tactical awareness and technical skills necessary for the role.
Levi watched all this with a sense of fulfillment. His vision for the club was gradually coming to life. The blend of different footballing philosophies was beginning to pay off, and the team's newfound versatility made them formidable opponents.
During a particularly intense training session, Levi pulled Alberto aside. "You know, Alberto, seeing Daniel out there, improving every day, it just reaffirms why I wanted you here. Your experience, your insights, they're invaluable."
Alberto, wiping sweat from his brow, nodded. "I have to admit, Levi, I was skeptical at first. But now, seeing the progress, the dedication of the players, and Daniel's growth... I believe we made the right decision."
Levi grinned, "And this is just the beginning. With your help, I'm confident we can build something truly special here."
As the season progressed, the club's performances steadily improved. The fans began to take notice, filling the stands with renewed enthusiasm. The team's success on the field was matched by the growing sense of unity and purpose within the club.
Levi, always the visionary, continued to look ahead. He knew that the path to the Premier League would be challenging, but with the right people by his side, anything was possible.
One evening, as Levi was going over some notes in his office, he received a call from Alberto. "Levi, I just wanted to thank you again. For believing in me, in Daniel, and for giving us this opportunity. It's more than I could have hoped for."
Levi felt a surge of warmth. "No need to thank me, Alberto. We're in this together. And with the way things are going, I have no doubt we're on the right track. Here's to the future, my friend."
"To the future," Alberto echoed, a smile evident in his voice.
And so, with determination, passion, and a shared vision, Levi and Alberto set their sights on new horizons, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing that together, they could achieve greatness.