A/N
Hello!
Finally, we're diving into some matches! Before we start, let me answer a few reviews -
Flaming Devil – None of them. Naruto will be more like Johan Cruyff, focusing on a unique genius.
sopojarwo401 – I'll aim for weekly updates! Naruto will develop his own unique style of genius as the story progresses.
Lichi Sechino – Absolutely, I want to focus on the dynamic between Sae and Naruto. Sae will lose his dream of being a striker and transition into a midfielder, while Naruto will rise as the striker. Meta Vision? Nah, Naruto's eyes will surpass that… something entirely new is in store.
diazwilton524 – Naruto se convertirá en delantero a medida que avancemos en la historia.
nicoex18 – Sae tiene metavisión, pero los ojos de Naruto serán algo completamente nuevo. Veremos eso pronto. Sus ojos no son normales. Sae ya es una bestia, pero Naruto crecerá rápidamente debido al nivel de jugadores que lo rodean.
sopojarwo401 – Yup! I won't be following the Blue Lock storyline closely until the U-20s match versus Japan.
taiwoeretan1 – There are similarities for now, but as the story progresses, you'll notice significant changes.
Alright, let's get into the chapter!
Chapter 3 – Unstoppable Duo
Naruto adjusted his boots as he sat on the bench, the crisp morning air of the Spanish training grounds biting against his skin. The past few weeks at Re Al Academy had been a whirlwind. After showing flashes of tactical insight during scrimmages, the coaches had started experimenting with his position, shifting him further back on the pitch.
Today, just before training began, the head coach pulled Naruto aside.
"You're playing central attacking midfielder again," the coach said, his tone flat but firm.
Naruto frowned. "But I'm a forward, I want to be the one scoring goals."
"You don't have the tools for that yet," the coach replied bluntly, his eyes scanning Naruto's face for signs of resistance. "You've got a decent eye for space and movement. Use that to help the team. For now, this is where you'll grow the most."
Naruto clenched his fists, biting back his frustration. He had dreamed of being the one at the tip of the spear, the player who delivered the winning blow. Being pulled into the midfield felt like a step back, like the coaches didn't believe he could lead the line.
But deep down, he couldn't deny that something was changing in the way he saw the game. He didn't understand it fully yet, but in those moments when the ball was in play, it was as if his eyes could pick apart the patterns of the pitch. Perhaps this role would help him figure it out.
The whistle blew, signalling the start of the scrimmage. Naruto took his position just behind the striker, his eyes scanning the field. The team he was up against was aggressive, pressing high and forcing turnovers to launch quick counterattacks.
At first, Naruto struggled. The tempo of the game in midfield was faster than he was used to, and he found himself getting closed down before he could make the right pass.
"Think faster, Uzumaki!" one of his teammates shouted after another turnover.
Naruto growled under his breath, frustrated with himself. But as the minutes passed, he began to adjust. Instead of rushing his decisions, he started focusing on the game around him, letting his instincts guide him.
Naruto's breakthrough came during the second half of the scrimmage. As his team transitioned into attack, he received the ball in space, his back to goal. A defender rushed in to close him down, but instead of panicking, Naruto's eyes flicked to the flanks.
The left winger had dropped deep to help defend, leaving a gap near the touchline. Without hesitating, Naruto turned and sent a perfectly weighted pass into that space. His teammate sprinted onto it, cutting inside, and delivering a cross that led to a goal.
Naruto grinned, his heart pounding. It wasn't just luck he had seen that space open up before it happened.
As the game went on, Naruto began to lean into his instincts. He directed his teammates, calling for overlaps and quick switches. He started noticing patterns in the opposing team's defence, when their centre back stepped out, when their full back drifted too wide. It was like solving a puzzle in real time, and for the first time, he felt like he was in control.
On the sideline, the coaches watched Naruto closely.
"Look at him," one of them said, nodding toward the pitch. "He's seeing things others don't."
"He's got a knack for reading the game," another coach added. "Not just playing it. It's not flashy, but it's effective."
The head coach stroked his chin thoughtfully. "If he keeps this up, he could become the brain of the team. A player who controls the tempo and dictates play. Every great team needs someone like that."
After training, Naruto lingered on the pitch, kicking a stray ball as the sun began to set. The scrimmage had gone well, but he couldn't shake the annoyance of being forced into a position he hadn't chosen.
"I'm supposed to be scoring goals," he muttered to himself, dribbling the ball idly. "Not setting them up."
"You're seeing the game better, though," a voice said behind him.
Naruto turned to see Kaiya Riku, one of his teammates, leaning against the goalpost. Kaiya had a habit of speaking his mind, often to Naruto's irritation.
"What do you mean?" Naruto asked.
Kaiya shrugged. "You're not scoring, sure. But you're making the team better. Those passes today? Half the guys out there wouldn't even think of them. You're reading the game in a way most people can't."
Naruto sighed, rolling the ball under his foot. "I don't want to just make the team better. I want to be the one who wins the game."
Kaiya smirked. "Then maybe this is how you get there. You're learning how to see the whole field, not just the goal. Keep doing that, and you'll be unstoppable."
Naruto stared at him for a moment, then nodded slowly. Maybe Kaiya had a point. If he could master this role if he could see the game better than anyone else he might eventually find his way back to the front line.
Later at night on the pitch, the floodlights of Re Al Academy cast a cold, glow over the empty training ground. The other players had long since retired to their dorms, but Naruto remained, his lone figure moving tirelessly across the pitch. He was drenched in sweat, his Re Al Academy kit sticking to his skin as he retrieved a ball from the net and jogged back to the edge of the penalty box.
For awhile now, Naruto had focused on sharpening his tactical mind, embracing his role as a central attacking midfielder. But tonight, he wasn't working on passing or vision. Tonight, he was chasing his original dream, scoring goals.
In the solitude of the training ground, Naruto stood still, the ball at his feet. He closed his eyes, replaying every missed opportunity in his mind. Those moments when he hesitated, when his shot lacked precision, when goalkeepers had read him easily. It wasn't just about power anyone could strike the ball hard. He needed something else, something perfect.
Curved finesse shots...
The kind that bend away from the keeper and into the top corner...
Naruto took a deep breath, his eyes snapping open as he lined up his shot. He took two steps forward, struck the ball with the inside of his foot, and watched as it soared toward the goal. It bent beautifully until it veered just wide of the post.
"Damn it," Naruto muttered, running a hand through his sweat soaked hair.
Naruto jogged to retrieve the ball, muttering under his breath. He placed it back on the ground, positioning it carefully at the edge of the box. This time, he adjusted his angle, focusing on the mechanics of his strike: the position of his plant foot, the angle of his approach, the part of the ball he was aiming to hit.
With a sharp inhale, he struck the ball again. It bent more cleanly this time, curling toward the far corner but it still sailed just over the crossbar.
Frustration bubbled up, but Naruto tamped it down. For every miss, 100 more shots. That was his promise to himself. He wouldn't leave this pitch until he mastered the shot.
And so, he began again. For every miscalculation, for every shot that didn't meet his standards, Naruto planted the ball again and again. His feet ached, his muscles screamed, but he refused to stop.
"I'll master this shot," Naruto muttered to himself. "No matter how long it takes."
As he placed the ball down again, the sound of approaching footsteps broke his focus. He turned to see Sae, standing at the edge of the pitch. The faint glow of the floodlights illuminated Sae's calm, detached expression.
"Practicing late again, Naruto?" Sae asked, his voice carrying a hint of amusement.
Naruto narrowed his eyes. "What do you want, Sae?"
Sae walked closer, his hands in his pockets. "I was passing by and saw you out here. Figured I'd see what you're working on."
"Not like you'd care," Naruto muttered, positioning himself for another shot. He struck the ball cleanly, sending it curling into the top corner of the net.
Sae watched the shot, his expression unreadable. "That's not bad."
Naruto turned to face him, his jaw tightening. "What do you mean, 'not bad'? That's going to win us matches one day."
Sae's lips curled into a faint smirk. "You might get the chance sooner than you think."
Naruto frowned, his curiosity piqued despite himself. "What are you talking about?"
Sae's smirk grew slightly as he stopped a few feet away. "The lineup for the next U-20 match was announced. We're playing against Ajajax next week."
Naruto's eyes widened in surprise. "Wait… how do you know?"
"Because I'm the striker," Sae said matter of factly, his tone dripping with confidence. "Of course they told me first."
Naruto's heart skipped a beat. The idea of being part of a match at that level was both thrilling and daunting. But before he could respond, Sae tilted his head, his sharp eyes locking onto Naruto's.
"Looks like you'll be on the roster too," Sae continued. "As a midfielder."
Naruto froze. "What?"
Sae's smirk didn't waver. "I've been watching you. You've started playing deeper, focusing on reading the game and setting up others. It suits you better than trying to score all the time."
Naruto clenched his fists, his frustration bubbling to the surface. "That's not true. I'm a striker, I've always been a striker."
Sae chuckled, a low, condescending sound that made Naruto's blood boil. "You can tell yourself that if it makes you feel better. But the way you're playing now? You're better off as a midfielder. Just make sure I get the best passes, alright?"
Naruto stepped forward, his blue eyes blazing with defiance. "Shut up, Sae. You think you're so untouchable, don't you? You think this is your team?"
Sae's smirk faded slightly, his calm expression hardening. "It is my team. And as long as I'm on the pitch, I'm the one who decides the outcome."
Naruto's chest heaved as he stared at Sae, the weight of his words settling over him. But instead of backing down, he straightened his posture, his voice steady. "Then watch me. Watch what I do on the pitch. I don't care if I'm in midfield or up front I'll be the one to win this game."
Sae studied him for a moment, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly. "Bold words, Naruto. But words don't win matches. We'll see if you can back them up."
Naruto didn't respond. He grabbed the ball and jogged toward the sideline, his movements deliberate. As he reached the edge of the pitch, he glanced back at Sae one last time.
"You'd better be ready, Sae," Naruto said. "Because I'm not just here to pass to you. I'm here to prove I'm better than you."
Sae didn't reply, but his gaze lingered on Naruto as he walked away. For the first time, there was a flicker of something in his eyes, not irritation or arrogance, but curiosity.
Later as Naruto collapsed onto his dorm bed, his body aching from the night's training, his mind raced with thoughts of the upcoming match. The idea of playing alongside Sae in a U-20 game was both exhilarating and terrifying, but he couldn't let fear hold him back.
The dorm room was dark, the glow of Naruto's phone screen the only source of light as he lay sprawled on his bed. The upcoming match against Ajajax U-20 loomed over him like a storm cloud, the thought of stepping onto the pitch with players of that calibre sending a mix of adrenaline and anxiety through his veins. But Naruto had long since learned to channel those feelings into motivation. He would train harder, think smarter, and show the coaches and Sae that he could hold his own.
The clock on his phone read 10:03 PM. Most of the academy was already asleep, preparing for the rigorous training schedule of the following day. But Naruto's mind was too restless. His fingers hovered over his phone screen, scrolling through his contacts until they landed on a name...
Mikasa Ackerman.
It had been a few weeks since they exchanged numbers at the Mikage party, and Naruto hadn't messaged her since. Partly because of his busy schedule, but mostly because he wasn't sure what to say. Tonight, though, he felt like reaching out.
With a deep breath, Naruto typed out a message.
Naruto: Hey, are you awake?
He stared at the screen, his thumb hovering over the send button. For a moment, he considered deleting it, but before he could overthink, he hit send. The message went through, and Naruto immediately felt the nervous anticipation of waiting for a reply.
The response came quicker than he expected.
Mikasa - Yeah, just woke up. Weird time to send your first message.
Naruto chuckled to himself, imagining her deadpan expression as she typed. He quickly replied.
Naruto - Sorry, I've been busy. I know Japan is 8 hours ahead. Didn't mean to wake you up. It's like 10 PM here.
Mikasa - 6 AM here. I was getting up for school anyway.
Naruto laughed softly to himself, picturing Mikasa's no nonsense attitude. She wasn't one to mince words, and that made her responses feel even more real.
Naruto - How've you been? How's school?
Mikasa - Same old. Nothing new.
Naruto frowned slightly, sensing that she might be bored with the conversation. The last thing he wanted was for their first real exchange to fall flat. Taking a deep breath, he typed another message, his thumb hesitating over the keyboard before hitting send.
Naruto - Is texting boring? Can I call for 20 minutes? Please?
He watched the screen, waiting nervously for her reply. His heart skipped a beat when the three little dots appeared, indicating she was typing.
Mikasa - Sure. I have to get ready for school soon anyway.
Naruto grinned, immediately hitting the call button. The phone rang only twice before Mikasa's voice came through, calm and steady.
"Hello?"
"Hey," Naruto said, his tone lighter now that the call had connected. "Thanks for letting me call. I figured texting wasn't doing the trick."
Mikasa let out a soft laugh, barely audible but enough to make Naruto smile. "It's fine. You're not wrong, though I'm not much of a texter."
"I kind of got that vibe," Naruto said, chuckling. "So… how's school?
Mikasa's voice remained steady, though there was a hint of amusement. "You already asked that."
Naruto scratched the back of his head. "Right, right. Sorry. Uh… what's new with you?"
"Same as always," Mikasa replied. "Classes, homework, and watching Reo try to outdo himself in every PE lesson."
Naruto laughed. "Sounds about right for him."
"What about you?" Mikasa asked. "I'm guessing your schedule isn't much easier."
Naruto let out a dramatic sigh. "You have no idea. Training here is brutal. The coaches don't let up, and the competition is insane. Sometimes I feel like I'm barely keeping up."
"You're still there," Mikasa pointed out. "That says something."
Naruto paused, surprised by the quiet confidence in her words. "Yeah… I guess it does."
The conversation lulled for a moment, and Naruto leaned back against his pillow, staring up at the ceiling. "Hey, Mikasa?"
"Yeah?"
"I'm playing in a big match soon," Naruto said, his voice softening. "Against Ajajax U-20. It's a huge deal, and I'll be on the same pitch as Sae. It's… a lot."
Mikasa's tone didn't change, but there was a certain steadiness in her reply. "You've worked hard for this. Just focus on what you do best."
Naruto smiled, feeling a warmth spread through his chest. "Thanks. That actually helps."
"You'll be fine," Mikasa said simply. "You don't seem like the type to back down from a challenge."
"Not a chance," Naruto said, grinning. "Speaking of challenges, how's that smile of yours? Have you been practicing since the party?"
Mikasa let out a small huff of laughter. "No."
Naruto laughed. "Come on, you're killing me here. I'm trying to keep my streak alive."
Mikasa didn't reply immediately, but Naruto thought he heard the faintest hint of a smile in her tone. "You're ridiculous, Naruto."
"I get that a lot," Naruto said, his grin widening.
As the conversation wound down, Mikasa sighed softly. "I should go. I need to get ready for school."
"Right," Naruto said, sitting up. "Thanks for letting me call. It was nice to talk to someone who's not obsessed with football for once."
Mikasa chuckled. "Good luck with your match."
"Thanks," Naruto said, his voice warm. "I'll let you know how it goes."
"Alright," Mikasa said. "Talk later, Naruto."
"Talk later," Naruto echoed, his grin lingering long after the call ended.
Naruto set his phone down, staring at the ceiling with a newfound sense of calm. Talking to Mikasa had cleared his mind in a way he hadn't expected. She didn't sugarcoat things or try to offer empty reassurances. She just… listened. And that made all the difference.
The thought of the match against Ajajax still loomed large, but now, Naruto felt ready. He would train harder, think sharper, and prove that he deserved to be on that pitch.
And maybe, just maybe, he'd have something worth telling Mikasa about the next time they talked.
The air in the locker room was heavy with tension and quiet anticipation. The muffled roar of the crowd outside the tunnel echoed faintly through the walls, a reminder of the magnitude of the match awaiting them. Naruto sat on the bench, his mind steady as he reached for his kit, it was all white with black outlines. This wasn't just another scrimmage, this was a U-20 match against Ajajax, one of the most renowned youth teams in Europe.
Naruto picked up his jersey, turning it over in his hands. The number 7 was stitched boldly on the back, the white fabric almost gleaming under the fluorescent lights. Seven was a strong number, one often associated with legendary wingers and attackers. But for Naruto, it wasn't quite right.
His gaze flicked across the locker room, landing on Sae, who was leaning casually against the wall. Sae's kit bore the number 10, the number Naruto had always dreamed of wearing the number of the ace, the leader, the difference maker.
Sae thinks he's untouchable, Naruto thought. He thinks I'm just here to pass the ball to him. Today, I'll show him he's wrong.
With renewed determination, Naruto pulled the jersey over his head, the material fitting snugly as he adjusted it. He stared down at the number on his chest. Seven. A good number. But not yet the one he wanted.
"I'll earn it," Naruto muttered to himself. "One game at a time."
The head coach entered the locker room, clipboard in hand and a stern look on his face. The chatter among the players died instantly as everyone turned their attention to him.
"Alright, listen up," the coach began, his voice steady but commanding. "This is a huge opportunity for all of you. Ajajax is one of the toughest teams in Europe. Their players are fast, disciplined, and relentless. If you're not sharp, they'll tear you apart."
He walked to the tactics board, tapping a marker against it as he continued. "Naruto, you'll be playing as the central attacking midfielder. Your job is to link the play, exploit their weaknesses, and feed Sae. He's our main striker keep him supplied, and we'll break them down."
Naruto nodded, though his jaw tightened slightly at the mention of feeding Sae. He knew his role, but he also knew he couldn't let himself fade into the background. He had to leave his mark.
The coach's eyes scanned the room. "This is your chance to prove you belong here. Give me everything you've got. Now get out there and show them what Re Al Academy is made of.
As the team filed out of the locker room, the atmosphere grew electric. The sound of the crowd swelled as they approached the tunnel, a mixture of cheers and chants filling the air. Naruto walked in the middle of the group, his head held high. His heart was pounding, but he didn't let it show.
Beside him, Sae walked with his usual calm, almost detached demeanour. The two hadn't spoken since their brief exchange at the training pitch a few days ago, but Naruto could feel Sae's presence like a weight on his shoulders.
"You ready for this, Naruto?" Sae asked suddenly, his tone casual.
Naruto glanced at him, his blue eyes sharp. "More than ready."
Sae smirked faintly. "Good. Don't screw it up."
Naruto didn't reply, but his grip on his fists tightened. I won't just keep up, Sae. I'll outshine you.
The players emerged from the tunnel to a deafening roar. The stadium lights blazed down on the perfectly manicured pitch, and the sheer scale of the crowd made Naruto's chest tighten. But as he stepped onto the grass, a strange calm washed over him. This was where he belonged on the pitch, in the heart of the game.
The team lined up for the anthem, and Naruto scanned the opposing lineup. Ajajax's players were tall, athletic, and brimming with confidence. They moved with precision even during the pre-match rituals.
But Naruto didn't waver. He adjusted his kit one last time, his gaze fixed on the ball in the centre circle.
The whistle echoed across the stadium, signalling the start of the match. Naruto stood in the centre circle, his heart pounding in his chest. The deafening roar of the crowd surrounded him, a constant reminder of the stakes. But as he closed his eyes, the noise faded, replaced by a focused silence.
This wasn't just a game. This was his chance to show the world what he could do to prove that he belonged on the same stage as Sae. He took a deep breath, letting the familiar fire ignite in his chest. When his eyes snapped open, they burned with determination.
It wasn't just Naruto standing there anymore. This was the side of him that came alive in real matches a version of himself driven by ego, ambition, and the unshakable belief that he could dominate the game.
It's time to show them what I can do...
Ajajax started with the ball, immediately pressing forward with their signature high tempo play. Their passes were sharp, their movements precise, and within seconds, they were bearing down on Re Al defence.
Naruto dropped back into the midfield, reading the play. His eyes scanned the field, and he saw it a brief hesitation from the Ajajax midfielder. Naruto darted forward, intercepting the ball cleanly before spinning away from his opponent.
"Move!" he shouted, his voice cutting through the chaos as he surged up field.
The crowd roared as Naruto advanced, weaving through two defenders before spotting Sae making a diagonal run behind the backline. The path was clear. For a moment, Naruto hesitated, the urge to take the shot himself burning in his chest. But the better option was obvious.
Naruto slipped the ball through the defence with pinpoint precision, splitting the centre backs. Sae latched onto it effortlessly, taking one touch before blasting the ball into the top corner.
The stadium erupted as Sae jogged back, his expression calm but confident. Naruto met him near the centre circle, his breathing heavy.
"Good pass," Sae said simply.
"Just finish what I give you," Naruto replied, his eyes glinting with determination.
Ajajax wasn't going to let Re Al Academy dominate easily. They adjusted their press, targeting Naruto every time he received the ball. For several tense minutes, the midfield became a battlefield, with Naruto forced to fend off relentless challenges.
Despite the pressure, Naruto began to shine. He used quick touches and sharp turns to escape markers, creating space where there was none. His vision was razor-sharp, and every pass carried purpose.
The crowd began to murmur as Naruto threaded another ball through the defence, this time from a deeper position. Once again, Sae was there, timing his run perfectly to beat the offside trap. He took the pass in stride and buried the shot with clinical precision.
"Another one!" the commentator shouted. "Itoshi Sae with the finish, but that pass from Uzumaki Naruto … incredible vision!"
As Sae celebrated, the cameras lingered on Naruto, whose steely expression betrayed no satisfaction. The commentators picked up on the moment.
"Isn't Uzumaki from Japan, too?" one of them said. "What's happening with Japanese football? First Sae, and now this?"
"It's incredible," another replied. "Two players from the same country, dominating at this level. They're becoming an unstoppable duo!"
Ajajax fought back hard, their players testing Re Al defence with dangerous crosses and slick combinations. But every time they gained momentum, Naruto disrupted it. He intercepted passes, broke up plays, and orchestrated counterattacks with a calm that belied his age.
As the first half wore on, Naruto found himself at a crossroads. His instincts screamed at him to take the game into his own hands, to drive forward and find the back of the net himself. But every time he saw an opening, another path revealed itself a pass that would create an even better chance for Sae.
Naruto's jaw tightened as he released yet another perfectly weighted through ball, watching Sae sprint onto it and score with ease. The crowd erupted, the commentators losing their minds.
"Unbelievable! Sae with a first half hat trick, and every goal has been set up by Naruto Uzumaki! What an incredible partnership!"
Naruto jogged back to his position, the cheers ringing in his ears. Despite the praise, a small part of him burned with frustration. He wanted the glory. He wanted to score. But the logical part of him knew this was the right way to win.
As the halftime whistle blew, the players walked off the pitch to thunderous applause. Naruto wiped the sweat from his brow, his legs heavy but his mind sharper than ever.
The coach met him near the tunnel, clapping him on the shoulder. "That's the best I've seen from you, Uzumaki. Keep this up, and you'll be unstoppable."
Naruto nodded, but his eyes drifted to Sae, who was surrounded by teammates and reporters near the touchline. Despite his own stellar performance, it was Sae who was stealing the spotlight.
As the team headed into the locker room, Naruto sat down on the bench, taking off his shirt staring at the number 7. He clenched his fists, a mix of pride and determination swirling within him.
This is just the first half, Naruto thought.
I'm not done yet.
The locker room was alive with energy as the players regrouped, their first half performance against Ajajax U-20 fuelling their confidence. Naruto sat on the bench, catching his breath as beads of sweat trickled down his face. The chatter of his teammates was a dull hum in the background, but his focus remained razor-sharp.
The coach stepped into the centre of the room, silencing the noise with a single clap of his hands. "That was a strong first half," he said, his tone firm but encouraging. "Sae, excellent finishing. Naruto, your vision and control in the midfield exceptional. But this game isn't over yet."
His eyes scanned the room, landing briefly on Naruto and Sae. "Keep the pressure on. Don't get comfortable. Ajajax will come out swinging in the second half. Make sure you're ready to respond."
Naruto and Sae exchanged a brief glance. Sae's expression was calm, almost smug, but Naruto could sense the same fire burning beneath his exterior. He nodded, tightening the laces on his boots.
As the team filed out of the locker room, Naruto stayed close to Sae. "Let's finish this," he said, his voice low but resolute.
Sae smirked, his ego as present as ever. "Just make sure you don't fall behind."
Naruto's eyes narrowed. "I'll do more than that."
The whistle blew, and the second half kicked off with even more intensity than the first. Ajajax came out with a vengeance, pressing high and crowding the midfield to cut off Naruto's passing lanes. The game became a physical battle, with players clashing shoulder-to-shoulder in a struggle for dominance.
Naruto thrived in the chaos. His tactical mind and growing instincts allowed him to navigate the pressure, releasing quick passes and finding space where there seemed to be none. But as the minutes ticked by, Ajajax adapted, marking Sae more tightly and cutting off the routes Naruto had exploited so effectively in the first half.
In the 62nd minute, Naruto received the ball just outside the box. He turned sharply, evading one defender before a second came crashing into him, sending him sprawling to the ground. The referee's whistle blew immediately, signalling a free kick on the edge of the area.
Naruto pushed himself up, shaking off the sting of the tackle. His eyes flicked to the ball, already calculating the angle. The spot was on the left side of the box, about 25 meters out the perfect range for his Dead Ball technique. He had practiced this shot endlessly, imagining moments just like this.
As he stepped forward, Sae approached, his calm expression replaced with something more serious. "I'll take it."
Naruto's jaw tightened, his ego flaring. "Back off, This one's mine."
Sae's eyes narrowed, but after a tense pause, he shrugged. "Fine. Don't screw it up."
Naruto ignored him, focusing entirely on the ball. He planted it carefully, stepped back, and closed his eyes for a brief moment. The noise of the crowd faded, replaced by the rhythm of his breathing. He visualized the shot the curve, the power, the trajectory into the top right corner.
As the referee blew his whistle, Naruto opened his eyes, stepped forward, and struck the ball cleanly. The stadium seemed to hold its breath as the ball curled through the air, bending impossibly toward the top right corner. It kissed the post before rippling the net.
The crowd erupted, the roar deafening as Naruto raised his hand and screamed, "YES!"
He sprinted toward the corner flag, his teammates swarming him in celebration. The announcer's voice boomed over the speakers: "What a free kick! Uzumaki Naruto with his first goal! Incredible!"
Naruto's heart swelled as he soaked in the cheers. For the first time, he felt like the world was beginning to see him not just as a supporting player, but as a force of his own.
The intensity of the game only grew as Ajajax fought desperately to close the gap. They marked Sae with two defenders, effectively neutralizing his ability to break through. Naruto quickly realized that he couldn't rely on his usual passes to create opportunities.
"Sae!" Naruto shouted, gesturing for him to drop deeper. Sae hesitated for a split second before following his lead. The two began playing quick one twos, darting around their markers with rapid, synchronized movements. The crowd gasped as the pair sliced through the midfield like a hot knife through butter.
Naruto received the ball just outside the box, the Ajajax defenders scrambling to close him down. He didn't hesitate. His instincts screamed at him, showing him the golden path the perfect angle.
With his weaker left foot, Naruto struck the ball with precision. It floated through the air, curving at a wild angle that left the goalkeeper rooted to the spot. The ball dipped sharply before slamming into the back of the net.
The stadium exploded. Naruto threw his arms wide, sprinting toward the corner flag as his teammates chased after him. The roar of the crowd was deafening, and the announcer's voice barely cut through the noise: "Uzumaki Naruto, AGAIN! What a goal! The curve on that shot was unbelievable!"
Sae jogged over, his usual smugness replaced with a faint smirk. "Not bad."
Naruto grinned, his chest heaving. "Told you I'm not just here to pass."
As the final whistle blew, Re Al Academy emerged victorious. The players celebrated wildly, but the focus was on two names, Itoshi Sae and Uzumaki Naruto. Sae's clinical finishing and Naruto's tactical brilliance had dismantled one of the strongest youth teams in Europe.
In the stands, murmurs spread like wildfire. "Who is that kid? He's from Japan too? Unreal!"
As Naruto walked off the pitch, his heart swelled with pride. He had proven himself—not just to Sae or the team, but to the world. The cameras followed him closely, capturing the moment as he raised his hand in acknowledgment of the roaring crowd.
For the first time, the name Uzumaki Naruto was on everyone's lips.
The locker room buzzed with energy as the players celebrated their hard fought victory. Laughter and cheers echoed off the walls, and the scent of sweat and triumph hung thick in the air. Naruto sat quietly on the bench, a towel draped over his shoulders as he leaned back, catching his breath. The glow of his two goals still lingered, but his mind was already spinning with the events of the match.
Across the room, Sae leaned casually against a row of lockers, his expression calm as always. Sae was the centre of attention, teammates crowding around to congratulate him on his hat trick. But Naruto couldn't ignore the occasional glances cast his way glances filled with a mix of surprise and curiosity.
"Uzumaki!" one of his teammates called out, clapping him on the shoulder. "That free kick, man unreal. Where the hell have you been hiding that?"
Naruto chuckled softly. "Just something I've been working on."
The teammate grinned, shaking his head. "Well, keep working on it. That was insane."
From across the room, Sae's voice cut through the noise. "You looked good out there, Naruto. For a midfielder."
Naruto smirked, looking up to meet Sae's sharp gaze. "Midfielder or not, I scored twice. Guess you're not the only one who can finish."
Sae's smirk deepened. "Keep that up, and you might just keep up with me."
The banter drew a few chuckles from their teammates, but Naruto knew the weight of Sae's words. It wasn't praise it was a challenge.
As the players left the locker room, the bright lights of cameras and the chaotic buzz of reporters greeted them in the tunnel. Sae, used to the attention, walked ahead with his usual confidence. Naruto hesitated for a moment, the reality of the situation sinking in.
"Uzumaki!" one reporter shouted, pushing past others to get closer. "Incredible performance today! How does it feel to score two goals in such a high profile match?"
Naruto blinked, momentarily caught off guard. "Uh, it feels… great. I've been working hard for moments like this, so it's good to see it pay off."
Another reporter chimed in. "Your partnership with Itoshi Sae was electric tonight. Is this something we can expect to see more of in the future?"
Naruto glanced toward Sae, who was surrounded by his own group of reporters. "Sae's a great player," Naruto replied, choosing his words carefully. "It's easy to play alongside someone like him. But I'm not just here to support I'm here to make my own impact."
The reporters scribbled furiously, sensing the competitive edge in Naruto's tone.
One reporter, clearly intrigued, asked, "You're from Japan, like Sae. What's happening there? Two players from the same country dominating at this level it's unprecedented."
Naruto smiled faintly. "Japan has a lot of untapped potential. I think you'll be seeing more of us in the future."
The next morning, the headlines were dominated by the match. Naruto sat in the cafeteria, scrolling through his phone as his teammates chatted around him.
"The Rising Star - Naruto Uzumaki Shines Alongside Itoshi Sae"
"Japan's Prodigies Dominate Ajajax"
"Naruto Uzumaki's Free Kick Stuns the Crowd"
One article caught Naruto's attention. The headline read: "Naruto Uzumaki - A Playmaker or a Striker in the Making?"
The piece highlighted his ability to read the game, his tactical vision, and his potential as both a creator and a finisher. It praised his Dead Ball technique and his second goal, calling it "a moment of brilliance that sealed the victory."
Naruto couldn't help but grin. For the first time, the world wasn't just talking about Sae they were talking about him too.
Two days later, the sharp crack of a ball striking the net echoed across the empty training pitch. Naruto wiped the sweat from his brow, his chest heaving as he jogged to retrieve the ball. The floodlights cast a stark glow over the field, and the cool evening air carried the faint scent of freshly cut grass.
It was moments like these, alone with his thoughts and the ball at his feet, that Naruto felt most at ease. But tonight, his solitude was interrupted by the sound of footsteps behind him. He turned to see Sae, his usual calm demeanour accompanied by something… different. He wasn't just passing by this time.
Sae walked toward Naruto, his hands tucked into the pockets of his tracksuit. "Still practicing?"
"Always," Naruto replied, setting the ball down again. "What are you doing out here?"
Sae stopped a few feet away, his sharp eyes locking onto Naruto. "Wanted to tell you something."
Naruto tilted his head, curiosity sparking in his gaze. "What's up?"
Sae's expression didn't change, but his words carried weight. "I've been called up to train with the first team. Just for a month to get some more experience."
Naruto blinked, the news hitting him harder than expected. The first team. It was every player's dream, the ultimate goal. Even though it was temporary, the significance wasn't lost on him.
"That's huge," Naruto said, his voice steady but tinged with a mix of admiration and competitive fire. "Congrats."
Sae nodded, his tone cool. "It's not about congratulations. It's just the next step."
Naruto smirked, his ego rising to meet the challenge. "You know I'm coming after you, right? As a striker."
Sae's lips curled into a faint smile, one that carried both amusement and a hint of acknowledgment. "Not a chance."
"Not yet," Naruto said confidently. "But I'll be there soon. Just watch."
For a moment, they stood in silence, the weight of their rivalry hanging between them. Sae's small smile lingered as he adjusted his stance, his hands still in his pockets.
"You're bold, Naruto," Sae said finally. "But if you're serious, you'll need more than words. This isn't some dream you chase half heartedly."
Naruto's eyes narrowed, his voice firm. "I don't chase anything half heartedly. You'll see."
Sae turned, taking a few steps toward the edge of the pitch before pausing. He glanced back, his usual calmness replaced by something faintly sharper. "Make sure you don't screw up while I'm gone. I'd hate to come back and see you've fallen behind."
Naruto chuckled, his grin wide. "I should be saying that to you. Make sure you don't fail, Sae."
Sae's smirk returned, his voice as cold and confident as ever. "I don't fail."
Naruto nodded, his voice carrying a rare seriousness. "Good. Don't. Because when I catch up to you, I want you at your best."
Sae turned fully, his expression unreadable as he spoke his final words. "We'll see."
As Sae walked away, disappearing into the shadows of the stadium, Naruto stood alone on the pitch, the ball still at his feet. His chest was tight with a mix of emotions pride for his rival, determination to match him, and a burning desire to surpass him.
He glanced down at the ball, his fists clenching. "First team, huh?" he muttered to himself. "I'll get there too. Not as a midfielder, but as a striker."
Naruto struck the ball cleanly, sending it soaring into the net. The sound of the net rippling echoed in the empty air, a promise to himself and to Sae.
One step at a time, I'm coming...
Japan, Hakuho High School
The classroom buzzed with excitement as the morning sunlight streamed through the windows. A group of students huddled around a phone at the back of the room, their excited chatter drawing the attention of nearly everyone in class.
"Look at this pass!" one boy exclaimed, pointing at the screen. "And that free kick! Man, Uzumaki Naruto is insane."
Reo, leaned casually against a desk, his phone held out for the growing crowd to see. His purple highlighted hair made him stand out even more than the video he was playing a compilation of Naruto Uzumaki's highlights from the recent match against Ajajax U20.
"He's playing with Sae," another student said, awe evident in their voice. "Can you believe that? Two Japanese players at Re Al Academy, tearing it up in Europe."
Reo smirked, enjoying the attention. "Of course he's insane. I told you, Naruto's one of a kind. I've known it for years."
From her seat near the window, Mikasa listened quietly, her expression calm but intrigued. She turned her gaze toward the screen as Reo waved her over.
"Hey, Mikasa," Reo called, grinning. "You've got to see this. Your boy Uzumaki's making waves."
Mikasa raised an eyebrow but stood, walking over to join the group. Reo replayed the clip, showing Naruto's pinpoint assist for Sae's first goal, followed by his stunning Dead Ball free kick.
She watched silently, her gray eyes narrowing slightly as she studied Naruto's movements on the screen. The precision of his passing, the curve of his shot it was undeniable. When the second clip played, showing Naruto's second goal from outside the box, her lips pressed together in faint approval.
"That's impressive," Mikasa said, her tone even.
Reo leaned closer, his grin widening. "Impressive? That's all you've got to say? Come on, he's dominating out there. He's practically a prodigy now."
Mikasa glanced at Reo, her expression unreadable. "He's good. I'll give him that."
As the bell rang, signalling the start of class, Mikasa returned to her seat. Pulling out her phone, she opened her messages. After a moment's hesitation, she typed:
Mikasa - Saw your highlights. Not bad, Naruto. Keep it up :)
In Tokyo's bustling business district, the offices of Minato and Kushina Uzumaki were alive with energy. Instead of working they, had been swept up in the excitement of their son's recent success.
Kushina sat in the conference room, her red hair tied back as she scrolled through her phone. A proud smile spread across her face as she watched a replay of Naruto's free kick. She turned the screen toward her colleagues, her voice brimming with pride.
"Look at this!" Kushina exclaimed. "That's my son, Naruto. He's playing at Re Al Academy in Spain, and he just scored two incredible goals against Ajajax U-20s."
The room erupted in impressed murmurs, with several of her co-workers leaning in to get a better look.
"That's amazing, Kushina-san," one of them said. "He's really making a name for himself."
Minato entered the room moments later, holding a tablet with another clip of Naruto's highlights queued up. His usually calm demeanour was tinged with excitement as he approached his wife.
"Have you shown them this one yet?" Minato asked, pressing play. The clip showed Naruto's second goal the stunning long-range strike that curved impossibly into the net.
Kushina beamed, her pride practically radiating from her. "I've been showing everyone! Minato, can you believe how much he's grown?"
"He's worked hard for this," Minato replied, his voice steady but warm. "And now the whole world is starting to see it."
As the day progressed, Naruto's name continued to dominate social media and sports news outlets. Headlines popped up across various platforms -
"Naruto Uzumaki - Japan's Rising Star"
"Uzumaki's Stunning Free Kick Against Ajajax"
"Re Al Academy's New Duo - Itoshi Sae and Uzumaki Naruto"
Naruto's social media accounts, once modestly followed, began to skyrocket. Notifications poured in as fans from around the world shared clips of his performance, tagged him in posts, and sent messages of support.
FootballFanatics - "Naruto Uzumaki is a name to remember. That free kick was unreal!"
AjajaxForever11 - "Ajajax lost, but respect to Uzumaki. Kid's got talent."
RisingStarsJapan - "First Sae, now Uzumaki? Japanese football is on fire!"
Naruto's phone buzzed constantly with messages, most of them from people he didn't know. But one notification caught his attention.
Mikasa - Saw your highlights. Not bad, Naruto. Keep it up :)
Naruto couldn't help but grin as he read her message. He typed back quickly
Naruto - Not bad? Come on, Mikasa, give me more than that. I scored twice.
A reply came almost instantly.
Mikasa - Fine. You were great. Happy now?
Naruto laughed, his spirits lifting.
Naruto - Now we're talking. Thanks, Mikasa. I'll keep working hard.
The overwhelming flood of attention was new to him, but it only fuelled his determination. He scrolled through the clips and articles, letting the praise sink in but not too deeply. He knew this was just the beginning.
As he leaned back in his chair, his phone buzzed again. This time, it was from his father.
Minato - Your mom's been showing your highlights to everyone at the office. We're so proud of you. Keep going, Naruto.
Naruto smiled, a wave of warmth washing over him. He replied quickly -
Naruto - Thanks, Dad. I won't let you down.
With that, Naruto set his phone down, his focus shifting back to the task at hand. The match against Ajajax had been a milestone, but it wasn't enough. Not yet.
He will continue to grow until the world finally sees him for the best striker in the world.
Chapter 3 – Unstoppable Duo End
A/N
That's the end, dudes...
This match was meant to highlight some small details. Future matches will definitely be longer and have much more detail, so stay tuned!
Naruto and Sae are shaping up to be an incredible duo for now...
At the moment, Sae is still a striker, but as we all know, his dream will eventually shift. When that happens, Re Al will need someone to step up as the main striker, and that someone is our boy, Naruto.
As for Naruto's eyes… those will be revealed in a later chapter, so get ready for it!
Thanks for reading, and until next time,
Byebye!