Chapter 21 - The Red Devil's Call

December 2021 – Champions League Group Stage Final Matchday

The night was crisp as the Allianz Arena buzzed with anticipation. FC Bayernfels München was set to face AC Milan in the final group stage match of the Champions League. Bayernfels had already secured their qualification, but for Alex, this game carried personal significance. It would be his last for the club that had shaped his journey into the world of professional football. He was already looking forward to the knockout rounds, but tonight he had one more mission—to leave a lasting legacy.

From the first whistle, Alex was in full flow. Milan's defense, led by the legendary Zlatan Ibrahimović, tried to contain him, but it was a futile effort. Within 30 minutes, Alex had already found the back of the net, curling a shot from outside the box that left the Milan keeper with no chance. The crowd erupted, and Alex celebrated with his usual cool confidence.

In the second half, Milan pressed harder, but Bayernfels' defense held strong, and Alex, always lurking, struck again. This time it was a clinical finish from a cross by Kimmich, and just like that, Bayernfels was up 2-0. The stadium roared as Alex jogged back to the center, focused but knowing he had done his job.

After the match, as both teams gathered on the field, Ibrahimović approached Alex with a nod of respect. The towering striker, a living legend, smiled before speaking. "Kid, you've beaten me," Zlatan said, his voice filled with the weight of years at the top. "I've seen many players, but you…you're something else. I think it's time I retire now. I've done enough."

Alex was stunned but honored. "It's been an honor to play against you, Zlatan. You've been an inspiration."

Zlatan nodded. "Friends now? We'll need to play golf or something once I'm done. Keep this up, Alex, and you'll be number one in no time." The two shared a handshake, and as Zlatan walked off, several other Milan players came to congratulate Alex, expressing their admiration for his skills.

After the game, Alex's name was all over the football world. Ronaldinho, one of the most legendary players in football history, made a public statement: "Watching Alex is like watching a blend of all the greats I've ever played with or against. His passing, his dribbling, his awareness—it's frightening. The world won't know how to handle him soon enough."

Alex's performance throughout the Champions League group stages had been nothing short of magical, and now he had cemented his status as one of the brightest young stars in the game.

When the knockout stages of the Champions League began, Alex was unstoppable. In the Round of 16, he scored an incredible four goals across two legs, sending Bayernfels cruising past their opposition. The quarterfinals brought even more magic as Alex netted a hat-trick to push Bayernfels into the semifinals. By the time they reached the final in May 2022, Alex had scored 20 goals in the tournament—an unbelievable feat that had the world talking.

In the final, Alex didn't just play; he dominated. Bayernfels won convincingly, with Alex contributing two crucial goals and setting up another. As he lifted the trophy, his second consecutive Champions League title, he knew that he had made history. On his social media, Alex posted a picture of himself with the trophy and cheekily captioned it: "This cup needs my name engraved on it. 2/2 sounds about right 😏." Fans adored the playful side of Alex, and his popularity continued to soar.

Just days after winning the Champions League, Alex received a phone call that would change his career. It wasn't just any offer—it was from the English Premier League's Red Devils FC, the most storied club in England. The offer was astronomical—90 million euros—and it was clear that Red Devils wanted Alex to lead their attack alongside the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo.

This time, Alex didn't hesitate. It was the opportunity he had dreamed of—to play for a club of that stature, to train alongside his childhood idol, and to cement his place as one of the best in the world. The decision to leave Bayernfels was difficult, but Alex knew it was time. After two years of incredible success, it was time for a new challenge.

When Alex arrived in Manchester, the city was buzzing with excitement. Red Devils fans couldn't wait to see their new star in action. At the club's training ground, Alex was greeted by the club's manager, a sharp-eyed tactician with a reputation for developing top talent. The manager wasted no time, sitting Alex down for a conversation about what was expected of him.

"Alex," the manager began, "we've seen what you can do in Germany. But this is the Premier League. It's faster, more physical, and relentless. I have no doubt you'll excel here, but we're going to push you even harder than before. I'm going to craft a special regimen for you to ensure you reach your potential."

Alex nodded. He was ready for the challenge.

As he stepped out onto the training pitch, he met his new teammates—many of them stars in their own right. Ronaldo, the Portuguese legend, was the first to greet him with a knowing smile. "I've heard about you," Ronaldo said. "Let's see what you can do."

Training was intense, but Alex kept up with the squad, impressing his new teammates with his pace, finishing, and work ethic. In one of the drills, Alex managed to outpace even Ronaldo himself, sparking laughter and applause from the rest of the squad.

After training, Ronaldo pulled Alex aside. "You've got the talent," Ronaldo said seriously. "But remember, it's consistency that matters. Every game, every minute—stay focused, and you'll be unstoppable."

With Red Devils FC, Alex's star continued to rise. The team's coach immediately integrated Alex into a special training regimen, focusing on honing his physicality and tactical awareness for the faster-paced Premier League. The training was brutal but rewarding, and Alex could feel himself growing as a player.

By the end of the year, Alex had become a key figure in the Red Devils' lineup, delivering match-winning performances week after week. His name was on the lips of every football fan in the world.

As he reflected on his journey from Bayernfels to the Premier League, Alex knew one thing for sure—he was just getting started. The next step was clear: to become the best striker in the world. And with his drive, talent, and the support of his new teammates, he knew it was only a matter of time before he achieved his goal.

The Black Hole had arrived on the biggest stage, and the world was watching.