Carlos woke up to the sound of his alarm blaring. The light filtering through the blinds illuminated his room at the academy. Today was the aftermath of the showcase match, and the energy in the dormitory was electric. Players buzzed with speculation about which scouts were impressed and what opportunities might come next.
Santiago barged into the room, already dressed and beaming. "Wake up, superstar! Word is some scouts are asking about you specifically."
Carlos groaned, pulling the blanket over his head. "Let me sleep a little longer, Santi."
"Sleep? After a performance like yesterday's? Get up, man! This is your time!"
Carlos rolled out of bed, rubbing his eyes. Though Santiago's enthusiasm was contagious, a knot of uncertainty tightened in Carlos' stomach. What if he couldn't live up to the growing expectations?
At breakfast, the academy was abuzz with rumors. Some players speculated about offers; others worried they hadn't done enough to stand out. Carlos tried to focus on his plate, but whispers about his name floated around the room.
"Vargas played like a pro yesterday," one player said.
"He'll probably get a call from Real Azul," another chimed in.
Santiago nudged him with a grin. "See? Everyone knows you're going places."
Carlos smiled weakly. While he appreciated the praise, it also amplified the pressure he felt.
Later that day, Coach Martínez gathered the team in the training room. The players sat quietly as the coach strode to the front, holding a clipboard.
"Good work yesterday," Martínez began. "You all gave the scouts plenty to think about. Some of you have caught their attention, but remember, this is just the start. You'll need to keep proving yourselves every day."
Carlos felt the room tense as Martínez began reading out names. One by one, players were called to meet with scouts who had expressed interest in them.
Finally, Martínez looked up and said, "Carlos Vargas, you'll meet with Javier Ortiz after lunch. He's here on behalf of Real Azul."
Carlos' heart skipped a beat. He glanced at Santiago, who gave him a thumbs-up.
The meeting with Javier Ortiz took place in a small conference room at the academy. Carlos entered nervously, his palms damp. Ortiz greeted him warmly and motioned for him to sit.
"Carlos, you impressed a lot of people yesterday," Ortiz began. "Your vision, composure, and ability to adapt under pressure stood out. Real Azul is interested in offering you a spot in our youth development program."
Carlos blinked, struggling to process the words. "A spot... at Real Azul?"
Ortiz nodded. "Yes, but there's a condition. You'll need to commit fully to the program, which means moving to our training facility and balancing football with your education. It won't be easy, but I believe you have what it takes to succeed."
Carlos felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. This was everything he had worked for, yet the thought of leaving behind the life he knew filled him with uncertainty.
"I understand, Señor Ortiz," Carlos said finally. "Thank you for this opportunity. I'll do whatever it takes."
That evening, Carlos called his mamá to share the news. Her voice trembled with emotion as he explained the offer.
"I'm so proud of you, mi hijo," she said. "But remember, this is your dream. Follow your heart, and I'll support you no matter what."
Carlos smiled, her words giving him strength. "Gracias, Mamá. I'll make you proud."
The days that followed were a whirlwind of preparation. Carlos trained harder than ever, knowing he would soon face even tougher competition at Real Azul. His bond with Santiago deepened as they spent hours on the pitch, pushing each other to be better.
"You're going to crush it at Real Azul," Santiago said one evening. "Just don't forget about us little guys when you're famous."
Carlos laughed, tossing Chico at him. "You're coming with me, remember? We'll both make it big."
As the day of his departure approached, Carlos reflected on his journey. He thought about the dusty courtyard where it all began, the sacrifices his mamá had made, and the challenges he had overcome.
Standing in the middle of the academy pitch, Chico under his arm, Carlos whispered to himself, "This is just the beginning."
On the day of his departure, his teammates gathered to bid him farewell. Navarro was there too, his stern expression softened by pride.
"Go show them what you're made of, Carlos," Navarro said, shaking his hand. "You've earned this."
Carlos nodded, his determination unwavering. "Thank you, Coach. I won't let you down."
As the car pulled away from the academy, Carlos looked back one last time. The weight of the journey ahead was heavy, but so was the fire in his heart.
The road to greatness stretched out before him, and Carlos was ready to take the next step.