A/N

Hello!

Welcome to another chapter of the story. This one starts off slow, as I wanted to focus on building Naruto and Inori's relationship. However, don't worry, things pick up rather quickly as the chapter progresses.

Now, onto the reviews -

Anti-weeaboo Faction – That match was solid, but nope, Naruto won't play for Barcelona. Re Al and Barca don't mix, lol.

Antezana06 – I might explore that idea down the line. It really depends on how things evolve.

Lichi Sechino – Your reviews always make me smile and think ahead! I appreciate the thoughtful input. On the pitch, Naruto will definitely start channelling Akashi vibes that's the plan as he develops. And yes, Inori is locked in as Naruto's go to reporter :)

DarkxKitsune15 – Haha, Cole Palmer, eh? I see where you got that, but the celebration was something different—an inside joke from the Discord server. I'll save the Palmer idea for another time. Lorenzo and Naruto share some great moments in this chapter, so I hope you enjoy!

EvilKidz – Maaann, Liverpool is the best. YNWA, always. Thanks for the support, glad you're enjoying the story!

darkwolfz – Happy to see you're still invested plenty more to come!

MajesticMonde16 – May he rise to even greater heights indeed.

Nox Vergus – You'll see more Blue Lock connections soon. I'll be skipping certain parts since Naruto isn't in Blue Lock.

Yohnos – That's coming next chapter.

OFARiolu – You should definitely rewatch, it's just as much of a banger as I remember.

The Man Sitting Under A Tree – Let's hope we don't choke… fingers crossed.

BNRBC – Ah, my mistake! I'll go back and fix it, thanks so much for pointing that out. I appreciate it. This chapter deepens Naruto and Lorenzo's friendship, and we get a little more insight into Sae and Loki through Naruto's POV. Thanks for reading!

Guest1 – Meeting Akashi? Hmm… you might be onto something there.

That's all for now. I hope you enjoy the chapter!

Chapter 9 – Call to Greatness

A Week Later – Training Ground

Naruto completed a gruelling series of drills. His movements were sharper, more deliberate, a testament to the confidence he had gained from his recent performance.

From the sidelines, Inori stood with her camera, snapping photos of the session. She had secured permission to observe Ubers training sessions for a new piece she was working on a deep dive into the club's tactical brilliance and its rising stars. Naruto, of course, was the focal point.

As Naruto jogged toward the water station during a break, he caught sight of Inori adjusting her camera lens. Grinning, he approached her.

"Still following me, huh?" Naruto teased, grabbing a bottle of water and taking a long sip.

Inori lowered her camera, smirking. "Following is a strong word. Reporting, maybe."

Naruto chuckled, wiping sweat from his forehead. "Guess I should be flattered. What are you writing this time?"

"Your journey," Inori said simply, tilting her head as she regarded him. "How you've adapted to Ubers system, the chemistry with Lorenzo, your return from injury it's all fascinating."

Naruto raised an eyebrow, leaning casually on the water station. "Fascinating? That's a first."

Inori rolled her eyes. "Don't let it go to your head, Emperor."

Naruto laughed, shaking his head. "Too late."

Later that day, after training wrapped up, Inori approached Naruto with her notebook in hand. They sat on the bleachers overlooking the empty pitch, the fading sunlight casting a warm glow over the scene.

"Mind if I ask you a few questions for the piece?" Inori asked.

Naruto shrugged. "Sure. Fire away."

Inori glanced down at her notes. "Alright, let's start with this: how does it feel to be back after the injury? Did you ever doubt you'd reach this point?"

Naruto's expression grew thoughtful. "It was tough. There were moments when I wondered if I'd be the same player again. But I kept reminding myself why I started in the first place. Being the best, that's my goal. And if I let doubts hold me back, I'd never get there."

Inori nodded, jotting down his words. "And how about Ubers? What's been the biggest challenge since joining the team?"

"Adapting to their system," Naruto admitted. "At Re Al, it was more about individual brilliance. Here, it's about teamwork, discipline, and precision. It's not just about scoring—it's about understanding the entire game. But honestly? I think it's making me a better player."

Inori smiled faintly. "That's what I thought."

Naruto leaned back slightly, crossing his arms. "Alright, my turn. Why do you care so much about my story?"

Caught off guard, Inori hesitated for a moment. Then she shrugged, her voice calm but sincere. "Because it's real. You're not just a player, you're someone people can relate to. You've faced setbacks, doubts, and challenges, but you keep moving forward. That's inspiring."

Naruto stared at her for a moment, then grinned. "Flattering me again, huh?"

Inori smirked. "Don't get used to it."

Over the next few weeks, Inori continued to cover Naruto's journey, attending his matches and writing detailed articles that highlighted his growth as a player. Her posts on Funeral Parlor gained traction, with fans praising her ability to capture the nuances of the game and Naruto's personality.

Naruto began engaging more with her posts, liking and occasionally commenting on them. Their interactions didn't go unnoticed by fans, who quickly began shipping the two.

UzumakiNation - Naruto and Inori would make such a power couple. Just saying.

FootyInsider88 - Loving the way Funeral Parlor covers Uzumaki's journey. Real talent recognizing real talent.

DreamsOfU - Naruto x Inori? Make it happen!

While Naruto found the comments amusing, he kept things professional with Inori, focusing on building mutual respect and trust.

As Naruto sat on the edge of his bed, staring down at his worn boots. The scuffed leather, frayed stitching, and thinning soles were a testament to how much they had been through. These boots had carried him through recovery, training, and his dominant return to the pitch. But now, it was time for a change.

He grabbed his phone and opened his contacts, scrolling until he found Inori . Smirking slightly, he typed out a message.

Naruto - Hey, I need new boots. Want to come with me? Still don't know the area that well.

It didn't take long for Inori to reply.

Inori - Sure. I can show you around.

Naruto grinned, standing up and grabbing a cap from his dresser. His name was growing rapidly in Italy due to his performances with Ubers, and he didn't want to draw unnecessary attention.

Naruto arrived at the mall dressed in a black hoodie, matching joggers, and a cap pulled low over his face. The outfit was simple but effective at keeping his identity low-key. He stood near the entrance, glancing around until he spotted Inori approaching.

She wore a casual yet cute outfit a white sweater tucked into a pleated skirt, paired with ankle boots. Her pinkish hair framed her face perfectly, making her stand out in the crowd. Naruto found himself staring for a moment before quickly looking away.

"Hey," Inori said, smiling as she walked up. "Ready?"

"Yeah," Naruto replied, returning the smile. "Thanks for coming."

"No problem," she said, adjusting her bag. "It's about time someone helped you find your way around."

Naruto chuckled. "Guess I should feel lucky to have a guide like you."

The pair made their way to a large sports store, where rows of boots lined the walls. Naruto's eyes lit up as he scanned the selection. The store had everything from the latest releases to classic models.

Naruto walked over to a display featuring Adidas Predators, picking up a pair and inspecting them closely. He tried them on and took a few test kicks against a nearby target setup.

"Not bad," Naruto said, slipping them off. "But they don't feel right when I strike the ball."

Next, he moved on to a pair of F50s, renowned for their lightweight design. He liked the feel but shook his head after testing them.

"Still not it," he muttered.

Inori, who had been watching him with amusement, stepped forward. "Picky, aren't you?"

Naruto smirked. "When it comes to boots? Yeah. They have to be perfect."

"Well, try these," Inori said, pointing to a display at the corner of the shop. The boots were Nike Air Zoom Mercurial Superflys, their design sleek and eye-catching. The colour started as a soft, light pink near the toe and gradually darkened into a deeper shade of pink toward the heel.

Naruto raised an eyebrow. "Flashy."

"Too flashy?" Inori asked, tilting her head.

Naruto shook his head, picking up the boots and examining them. "Nah. They're different. Let's see how they feel."

He tried them on, jogging a few steps before striking a practice ball. The moment his foot connected with the ball, his eyes lit up. The boots felt light, almost like an extension of his own body.

"These are it," Naruto said, grinning. "I'm getting these."

As Naruto walked back toward the counter, Inori glanced at the boots and raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure about the colour? They're… pink."

Naruto smirked, turning to her. "Yeah, I'm sure."

"Why pink?" she asked, genuinely curious.

Naruto shrugged, his grin widening. "They remind me of you."

Inori blinked, caught off guard. "What?"

"You've been here from the beginning," Naruto said, his tone more serious now. "Covering my time at Ubers, telling my story. These boots? They'll make sure you're always a part of my style."

For the first time, Inori's composed demeanour faltered. Her cheeks flushed a light shade of pink, matching her hair, as she looked away briefly. "That's… thoughtful."

Naruto chuckled, enjoying her reaction. "Don't get too flattered now."

Inori crossed her arms, regaining her composure. "I won't. But you better make those boots look good on the pitch."

"Oh, I will," Naruto said confidently. "Just watch."

After purchasing the boots, the pair wandered through the mall for a while longer, with Inori pointing out her favourite spots. Naruto appreciated her company it felt natural, easy, like they had been friends for much longer than they actually had.

"So, what's next for you, Emperor?" Inori teased as they approached the parking lot.

"Keep winning, keep scoring, and keep giving you something to write about," Naruto replied with a grin.

Inori rolled her eyes. "You're impossible."

"And you're stuck with me now," Naruto shot back, holding up the bag with the pink boots. "These prove it."

As they said their goodbyes and parted ways, Naruto couldn't help but glance back at Inori. There was something about her her sharp wit, her passion for storytelling, and the way she could make him feel like just another guy despite his growing fame.

Sliding into the backseat of his car, Naruto stared at the boots for a moment before muttering to himself, "Guess I better make these legendary." As his driver took him back to the Ubers dorms.

Naruto stood on the training pitch, his new Nike Air Zoom Mercurial Superflys gleaming under the bright sunlight. The light pink boots, fading into a deeper shade of pink, added a flash of flair to his appearance. He felt good…more than good, actually. After recent successes on the field and the confidence boost from his evolving abilities, Naruto's was at an all-time high.

Standing opposite him were Snuffy and Lorenzo. Snuffy, Ubers' "King," exuded a quiet dominance that could be felt even in his relaxed stance. Lorenzo, the "Ace Eater," stood beside him, his golden teeth flashing as he grinned lazily.

The setup was clear – Naruto vs Snuffy and Lorenzo

A simple test.

As Naruto laced up his boots, he glanced at Snuffy before him. "Two-on-one? That doesn't seem fair."

Snuffy raised an eyebrow, his calm expression unchanging. "Why? Do you think you can take me on your own?"

Naruto grinned, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Yeah. I could."

Lorenzo let out a low chuckle, clearly entertained by Naruto's audacity. "Bold words, Uzumaki."

Snuffy's lips curved into a faint smile, the kind that hinted at amusement and a challenge. "Are you interested in succeeding me as Ubers next king, Uzumaki?"

Naruto straightened, his grin fading into a more serious expression. "Nah," he said, his voice firm. "I don't plan on being just the king of Ubers. I'm aiming to be the emperor of all football."

For a moment, Snuffy simply stared at Naruto, as if weighing his words. Then he nodded, his smile widening. "Very well. Let this be a lesson for you."

Naruto started with the ball. He dribbled forward confidently, his Emperor's Eye flickering as he scanned the field. Every micro-movement, every subtle shift in weight from Snuffy and Lorenzo was processed and analysed in an instant.

But Snuffy wasn't just any opponent. As Naruto tried to dart past him, Snuffy moved with effortless precision, positioning himself perfectly to block Naruto's path. His Exquisite Ball Control was immediately apparent as he used his body to shield the ball, preventing Naruto from advancing.

"Too predictable," Snuffy said calmly, pivoting and passing the ball to Lorenzo with a perfectly weighted touch.

Lorenzo, with his unorthodox Zombie Dribbling, advanced down the field in a way that should have been easy to predict but wasn't. His upper and lower body moved in such disjointed, unpredictable patterns that Naruto found himself momentarily thrown off.

"Come on, Uzumaki," Lorenzo taunted, flicking the ball away from Naruto with ease. "You're making this too easy."

Naruto gritted his teeth, quickly adjusting. He focused on the ball, ignoring Lorenzo's feints, and darted in at just the right moment to steal it back.

"Gotcha!" Naruto smirked, pivoting sharply to evade Lorenzo's reach.

As Naruto charged forward, he saw the path to the goal clear, open. But just as he prepared to take his shot, Snuffy appeared, seemingly out of nowhere, cutting him off with a perfectly timed interception.

"Your eyes see a lot," Snuffy said, his tone measured. "But seeing isn't enough."

Naruto's eyes widened as Snuffy used his Metavision to read Naruto's movements, anticipating his every decision before it happened. With world-class precision, Snuffy shielded the ball, his balance and positioning making it impossible for Naruto to recover possession.

"Football isn't just about speed or skill," Snuffy continued, effortlessly keeping the ball away from Naruto. "It's about controlling the flow of the game. That's what makes a emperor."

Naruto stepped back, his mind racing. He wasn't used to being outplayed like this. But instead of feeling discouraged, he felt a surge of determination.

"Alright, old man," Naruto muttered, a grin tugging at his lips. "Let's see how you handle this."

Naruto's Emperor's Eye activated again, sharper this time. He began predicting Snuffy's movements with greater accuracy, waiting for the exact moment when Snuffy's balance shifted slightly. When it did, Naruto pounced, slipping around Snuffy and regaining control of the ball.

For a split second, Naruto had a clear shot on goal. He planted his foot and struck the ball with his signature trivela. The ball curled beautifully toward the top corner.

But Lorenzo was there.

With a perfectly timed leap, Lorenzo headed the ball away, landing gracefully. "Nice try, Uzumaki. But you're not scoring today."

As the session continued, Naruto found himself pushed to his limits. Snuffy's world-class ball control and superior physicality made him nearly impossible to get past, while Lorenzo's Ace Eater instincts and defensive brilliance ensured that every attack Naruto launched was met with resistance.

By the end of the session, Naruto was drenched in sweat, breathing heavily. But his eyes still burned with determination.

"You've got a long way to go," Snuffy said, tossing Naruto the ball. "But you've got the fire. That's a start."

Naruto caught the ball, his grin returning. "Don't worry. I'll get there."

Snuffy smirked. "We'll see."

Later that evening, Naruto sat in his room, replaying the session in his mind. Snuffy's words echoed in his ears "Football isn't just about speed or skill. It's about controlling the flow of the game."

Naruto clenched his fists, a determined smile forming on his face. "Control the flow, huh? Alright, Snuffy. I'll master that too."

Naruto and Lorenzo jogged a few laps around the pitch, the crisp morning air filling their lungs. It was a light training day, meant to focus on stamina and tactical discussions rather than high-intensity drills.

Beside him, Lorenzo jogged with an easy gait, his lanky frame moving fluidly despite his casual demeanour. Naruto glanced at him, curious about the man who had become such a critical part of Ubers defence.

"Hey, Lorenzo," Naruto said, breaking the comfortable silence. "Why do you play football?"

Lorenzo tilted his head slightly, as if the question amused him. His signature golden teeth flashed in the sunlight as he gave Naruto a lazy grin. "You really wanna know, Uzumaki?"

"Yeah," Naruto said, his gaze steady. "I want to know what drives you."

Lorenzo slowed to a walk, motioning for Naruto to follow. His usually carefree expression softened, replaced by something deeper, more reflective.

"Alright," Lorenzo began, his voice calm but tinged with emotion. "I'll tell you. But don't say I didn't warn you—it's not a happy story, okay?"

Naruto nodded, his curiosity piqued.

"I grew up in a miserable household," Lorenzo said, his purple eyes gazing into the distance. "No money, no stability just chaos. My parents? They left me behind like trash. I had to survive on my own, okay?"

Naruto frowned, listening intently.

"I lived on the streets, swindling people out of their money just to eat," Lorenzo continued, his tone matter of fact. "At first, I thought it was fun, you know? Outsmarting people, surviving. But eventually, it got old. No matter how much I hustled, it was never enough. I lost hope, I was ready to give up."

Naruto's chest tightened at the rawness in Lorenzo's voice. "And then?"

Lorenzo smirked, though it lacked his usual humour. "And then I met Snuffy. He found me when I was at my lowest and said something crazy, 'Play football with me, and I'll help you turn your life around.' I thought he was nuts. But I had nothing to lose, so I agreed."

Lorenzo tapped his golden teeth, the grin returning to his face. "These? Snuffy paid for them. Said they were a fresh start. Ever since, I've followed him without question. He's the only person I truly respect."

Naruto was quiet for a moment, processing Lorenzo's story. "So… that's why you're so obsessed with money?"

Lorenzo shrugged. "Yeah. Money makes the world go round, It's the only thing that really matters. You can buy food, power, influence even freedom with enough money. And people? They only have value if they bring something to the table."

"That's a pretty cold way to see things," Naruto said, his voice thoughtful.

Lorenzo smirked. "Maybe. But it's how I survived. And now that I've made it this far, I'm not stopping until I've got everything I need."

Naruto stopped walking, turning to face Lorenzo fully. "I get it. You've been through a lot. But let me tell you this if you stick with me, I'll help you make all the money you'll ever need."

Lorenzo raised an eyebrow. "Oh, yeah? How's that?"

"Simple," Naruto said, grinning. "We're gonna win every game we play. When I become the best striker in the world, you'll be right there with me as the best defender. The endorsements, the contracts, the fame it'll all come pouring in."

Lorenzo's grin widened, his golden teeth catching the light. "Alright, Uzumaki. As long as we keep winning and I keep getting paid, I'll do whatever it takes."

As they resumed jogging, Naruto asked another question. "By the way, who's your favourite player?"

Lorenzo didn't hesitate. "Paolo Maldini. He's the ultimate defender, graceful, intelligent, unshakable. The guy was a wall, and he did it all with class."

"Not bad," Naruto said, nodding in approval. "Mine are George Best, Johan Cruyff, and Lionel Messi."

Lorenzo laughed. "Big names, huh? Guess that fits you."

"Damn right it does," Naruto replied, grinning. "I'll take the best parts of all of them and make something even better."

As they finished their laps, Naruto held out a fist. "So, what do you say, Lorenzo? Let's make a deal. You help me dominate on the pitch, and I'll make sure you get everything you're after."

Lorenzo stared at Naruto's outstretched fist for a moment before smirking and bumping it with his own. "Deal."

The two of them exchanged a nod, a silent understanding passing between them. Naruto's drive to become the emperor of football and Lorenzo's hunger for success had aligned, forming a bond that would make them an unstoppable force.

From the sidelines, Snuffy watched the interaction between Naruto and Lorenzo with a faint smile. He didn't need to hear their words to know that something important had just transpired.

"Interesting," Snuffy muttered to himself. "They're starting to understand what it means to rely on each other. This could be the beginning of something special."

Matchday – UEFA Youth League

the players prepared for their next UEFA Youth League match. Their opponents, Berserk Dortmund, weren't the toughest challenge on paper, but in football, no match was ever truly easy. For Naruto, this wasn't just about winning, it was about showing the world why he belonged at the top.

Naruto laced up his boots, the vibrant colour catching the light. As he stood, his thoughts drifted to the past week, the headlines, and the growing buzz around his name. But there was something else gnawing at the back of his mind.

Naruto had spent the night before watching highlights of recent matches, not just of Berserk Dortmund, but of Itoshi Sae. The once dreaming striker had transformed into a world-class midfielder, orchestrating plays with pinpoint precision and executing his trademark Perfect Kick Technique.

The way Sae bent the ball around defenders or sent it hurtling into the net from impossible angles it was nothing short of breath taking. It was also infuriating.

Naruto leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, a scowl on his face as he replayed one particularly brilliant assist from Sae. "Why did you change?" he muttered to himself. "You had everything to be the best striker."

But as much as it annoyed him, Naruto couldn't deny Sae's brilliance. Watching him play wasn't just inspiring it was unsettling. For the first time in a long while, Naruto questioned who was better between the two of them.

Sae's growing popularity didn't help either. Though Naruto's own fame was on the rise, Sae still stood ahead. He had experience, a year's advantage in age, and the pedigree of being a trailblazer in Japanese football. But Naruto didn't dwell on that too long. His focus was always forward.

One thing, however, was clear in his mind, if they ever played together again, the results would be devastating for their opponents. The mere thought of reuniting with Sae on the pitch sent a thrill through Naruto, but he quickly shoved it aside.

This wasn't about Sae, not yet.

As Naruto stared out at the pitch before the match, his jaw tightened as another name crossed his mind, Julian Loki. The man who had started it all.

Naruto's last encounter with Loki had been a bitter memory, one that fuelled his drive every single day. Loki's words still echoed in his head: "What's the point of seeing if you can't react on it?"

That humiliating loss, compounded by the injury that followed, had been a turning point for Naruto. He clenched his fists, the dark look in his eyes returning. "Next time we meet, Loki," Naruto whispered, "you'll pay, ten times over."

The UEFA Youth League match between Ubers and Berserk Dortmund kicked off under clear skies. The stadium hummed with energy, the small but passionate crowd eager to see Ubers rising star, Naruto Uzumaki, in action. The coach's instructions had been clear, control the tempo, exploit Dortmund's weaknesses, and finish decisively.

Naruto stood in the centre circle, exuding confidence, his body language screamed dominance. Lorenzo stood behind him, ready to lock down any threat Dortmund tried to muster.

"Welcome to tonight's UEFA Youth League clash between Ubers and Berserk Dortmund. It's a chilly evening here, but the action on the pitch promises to heat things up!"

"That's right. All eyes are on one player in particular Naruto Uzumaki. The Japanese prodigy has been making waves recently, and fans are eager to see if he can deliver another standout performance."

From the first whistle, Naruto took command of the match. His Emperor's Eye flickered to life as he read the movements of Dortmund's defenders, exploiting their positioning with clinical precision. Within minutes, he was orchestrating Ubers attacks, dictating the flow of the game like a maestro.

In the 12th minute, a quick one-two with his winger on the left flank sent Naruto charging into Dortmund's box. Two defenders closed in, but Naruto's Emperors eye allowed him to anticipate their moves. He faked a shot, cutting inside as the defenders slid past him.

With the goal in his sights, Naruto unleashed his Golden Finesse Shot, curving the ball with surgical precision into the top corner. The keeper stretched desperately but couldn't reach it.

"That's absolutely sublime from Naruto Uzumaki! A finesse shot with pinpoint accuracy into the top corner. The keeper had no chance!" the Commentator added.

1-0

Naruto turned to the crowd, raising his forearm and slapping it as he grinned. The fans roared, and Lorenzo jogged over with a wide grin.

"First of many," Lorenzo said, clapping him on the back.

Dortmund tried to recover, pushing forward aggressively, but their attempts were futile against Ubers' defensive wall. Lorenzo, playing the role of the Ace Eater, intercepted pass after pass, his unorthodox movements confusing Dortmund's attackers.

In the 28th minute, Ubers earned a corner. Naruto jogged over to take it, scanning the box for targets. He locked eyes with Lorenzo, who nodded subtly.

Naruto's delivery was perfect a high, curling ball that dropped right in the heart of the six-yard box. Lorenzo rose above everyone else, his height and timing giving him a clear advantage. He met the ball with a thunderous header that crashed into the back of the net.

"The Ace Eater strikes! Lorenzo rises above everyone, and it's a textbook header! Ubers double their lead!" the Commentator added.

"Naruto gets the assist, but let's give credit to Lorenzo here perfect timing, unstoppable power. Dortmund's defence had no answer for that." Another Commentator added.

2-0

The second half began with Ubers leading 2-0, and Naruto was determined to leave no doubt about his dominance. In the 57th minute, Ubers won another corner, this time on the right side. Naruto jogged over to take it, his eyes narrowing as he analysed the positioning of Dortmund's defenders and their goalkeeper.

A thought crossed his mind.

Why not?

He adjusted the ball carefully, took a few steps back, and inhaled deeply. As he approached, his golden light flickered in his vision. With perfect technique, Naruto struck the ball with the outside of his foot, curling it sharply.

The ball swerved through the air, arcing directly toward the goal. The keeper, realizing too late, scrambled to adjust, but the ball dipped under the crossbar and into the net.

The stadium erupted in disbelief. Scoring directly from a corner was rare, and Naruto had just pulled it off with style.

"What can't this kid do? Naruto Uzumaki with a moment of magic that will be talked about for years to come. Look at him cool as you like!"

"The confidence, the technique it's all there. This is why people call him 'The Emperor.' He's not just playing football he's rewriting the rules!"

3-0

Lorenzo, grinning from ear to ear, dropped to his knees in front of Naruto, pretending to shine his boots theatrically. Naruto smirked, pointing to his boots with a wink, hoping Inori had caught the celebration.

The game was firmly in Ubers control, but Naruto wasn't done yet. In the 74th minute, a Dortmund defender made a desperate clearance, only for Lorenzo to intercept and send a long ball back into the box. Naruto, perfectly positioned, controlled it with his chest.

One defender rushed toward him, but Naruto used his Emperor's Eye to read his intentions. With a quick feint, Naruto left him stumbling before slotting the ball past the keeper with a composed finish.

4-0

"And he's done it, Naruto Uzumaki completes his hat trick!"

"We're witnessing the rise of a superstar…. at this rate, Uzumaki won't just be dominating the Youth League he'll be a household name in no time."

Naruto raised his hands, soaking in the applause. The crowd chanted his name, and his teammates swarmed him, celebrating their unstoppable star.

The match ended with a dominant 4-0 victory for Ubers. Naruto's hat trick and Lorenzo's commanding performance at the back solidified their status as a lethal duo. The players left the pitch to a standing ovation, their confidence soaring.

Watching from the stands, Inori had captured every moment with her camera. She couldn't help but smile as Naruto pointed to his boots after the Olimpico an unmistakable gesture for her.

You really are something, Uzumaki, she thought, shaking her head in amusement as she reviewed her photos. This story keeps getting better.

"A masterclass from Ubers today, led by the brilliance of Naruto Uzumaki. Three goals, an assist, and a performance that will be remembered." Another commentor added, "And let's not forget Don Lorenzo. His header and defensive dominance made this a complete team effort. Ubers are looking like a serious contender for the title."

"But the spotlight will inevitably be on Uzumaki. The Olimpico alone would have made this match legendary. He's proving that he's not just good he's special."

Back in the locker room, Naruto sat with his boots in hand, a satisfied grin on his face. Lorenzo plopped down beside him, laughing.

"You're insane, Uzumaki," Lorenzo said. "An Olimpico? Seriously?"

Naruto shrugged, smirking. "Had to make it interesting."

Lorenzo leaned back, crossing his arms. "Keep playing like that, and I'll keep shining your boots."

Naruto laughed, slapping Lorenzo on the back. "Deal. Just make sure you're ready for the next one. We've got a lot more to win."

Lorenzo grinned. "Always."

As Naruto leaned back, letting the cheers from outside wash over him, he thought about everything still ahead the rivals to face, the goals to score, and the legacy he wanted to build.

The Morning After

the buzz from their dominant 4-0 victory against Berserk Dortmund hadn't subsided. Naruto's hat trick, particularly his audacious Olimpico, had captured the imagination of fans, pundits, and media outlets worldwide.

Naruto scrolled through his phone in his room, his timeline flooded with reactions, highlight reels, and endless praise. His follower count, once a respectable 60,000, had skyrocketed to 90,000 overnight and was climbing by the second.

Naruto's performance dominated the sports pages, his name plastered across headlines.

"The Emperor's Stage: Naruto Uzumaki Stuns with Hat Trick, Including an Olimpico" (Football Italia)

In one of the most jaw-dropping performances of the UEFA Youth League season, Naruto Uzumaki delivered a hat trick of brilliance against Berserk Dortmund. His Olimpico scoring directly from a corner solidified his place as one of football's rising stars.

"The Emperor's Eye Strikes Again: Uzumaki's Tactical Brilliance on Full Display" (Goal Report)

Naruto Uzumaki is more than a scorer he's a commander on the field. His ability to read the game and execute with precision makes him a unique talent in modern football.

"Olimpico of the Year? Uzumaki's Stunning Corner Goal Has Fans Talking" (Sports View Global)

Scoring from a corner is no small feat, but Uzumaki made it look effortless. His audacity and execution have fans wondering: how far can this kid go?

The hashtags #UzumakiChills, #EmperorsEye, and #NarutoUzumaki began trending globally, with fans and analysts alike flooding social media with clips and reactions.

FootyKing - That Olimpico was ridiculous. Uzumaki isn't just good—he's revolutionary.

NarutoFanboy - The Emperor of football has arrived. You're watching the future GOAT, people.

JapanSoccerNews - Japanese players making waves in Europe! Uzumaki and Itoshi Sae are putting Japan on the football map.

Even other players began to take notice, with several commenting on his performance.

Julian Loki posted cryptically - "Audacity on the pitch… we'll see how long it lasts."

Mohamed Salah"Uzumaki's got the flair. Looking forward to seeing what he does next."

As always, Inori, under her Funeral Parlor, was among the first to dissect Naruto's performance. Her Instagram post featured a photo of Naruto mid-shot, with a glowing caption -

"Naruto Uzumaki continues to defy expectations. Three goals, including a masterful Olimpico, in a single match. His confidence, vision, and execution set him apart. The Emperor isn't just making a statement he's carving his legacy."

The post exploded with likes and comments, cementing Inori as a trusted voice in Naruto's growing narrative. Fans noticed her frequent coverage of him, and speculation about their connection grew.

The media began drawing comparisons between Naruto and other legendary players. Some saw flashes of Lionel Messi in his dribbling, while others likened his vision and tactical play to Johan Cruyff. But most agreed that Naruto was forging a unique path, blending the best elements of football's greatest with his own flair.

FootballObsessed -Is it too early to say Uzumaki is Japan's answer to Messi?

LegendTalk - Naruto Uzumaki plays with the creativity of George Best and the dominance of Ronaldo Nazário. He's scary good.

While the world buzzed about him, Naruto remained grounded. Sitting in his room, he scrolled through the endless posts and articles but refused to let them get to his head.

"It's not enough," Naruto muttered, his Emperor's Eye sparking to life momentarily as he messaged Inori,

Naruto - Saw your post. Not bad. Think I lived up to the hype?

Moments later, a reply came through.

Inori - You didn't just live up to it you set the bar higher.

Naruto grinned, typing back quickly.

Naruto - Guess I'll have to keep raising it, then. Don't blink you might miss something.

Inori - Wouldn't dream of it, Emperor.

It was a quiet afternoon at the Ubers training complex, the kind of day meant for recovery and light drills. Naruto was mid-stretch in the locker room when an assistant coach walked in, clipboard in hand.

"Uzumaki," the coach called, his tone clipped but professional. "Marcello wants to see you in his office."

Naruto straightened, curiosity flickering in his eyes. "Now?"

The coach nodded. "Now."

As Naruto grabbed his training jacket and made his way toward the office, his mind raced. Marcello wasn't the type to call players in casually. Whatever this was, it had to be big.

Marcello's office was a mix of utilitarian efficiency and football nostalgia, with tactical charts pinned to the walls and signed jerseys from past legends framed neatly. Marcello himself sat behind his desk, a small, unreadable smile on his face.

"Sit down, Naruto," he said, gesturing to the chair opposite him.

Naruto obliged, his posture relaxed but his mind sharp. "What's up, Coach?"

Marcello folded his hands, leaning forward slightly. "Naruto, I just received a call from the Japan Football Association. They've been monitoring your performances closely, and they've decided to call you up to the senior national team for the upcoming World Cup."

Naruto blinked, the weight of the words hitting him like a truck. For a moment, he just stared at Marcello, processing.

"The… senior team?" Naruto repeated, his voice tinged with disbelief. "For the World Cup?"

Marcello nodded. "That's right. It's rare for a player your age to be called up, but you've proven yourself on the pitch. They want you as part of the squad."

Naruto leaned back in his chair, a grin slowly spreading across his face. "Well… guess they couldn't ignore me forever."

Marcello chuckled. "That ego of yours will serve you well but remember this is a huge step up. You'll be playing with and against some of the best players in the world. The pace, the physicality, the stakes it's all on another level."

Naruto's grin didn't waver. "I know, Coach. But I'm ready. This is what I've been working for."

Marcello's expression softened slightly. "I believe you are. But I'll give you one piece of advice, remember what got you here. Your talent, yes, but also your drive and your ability to adapt. Don't let the occasion overwhelm you."

Naruto nodded, standing up. "Got it. Thanks, Coach."

As he turned to leave, Marcello called out, "Oh, and Naruto?"

Naruto glanced back over his shoulder.

"Make Japan proud."

Word spread quickly among the Ubers players, and by the time Naruto returned to the locker room, the atmosphere was buzzing.

Lorenzo was the first to approach him, grinning widely. "Look at you, Mr. International. Big time already, huh?"

Naruto smirked, playfully punching Lorenzo's arm. "You're just jealous you're not representing Italy."

Lorenzo laughed, holding up his hands. "Fair enough, okay? But seriously, congrats. You deserve it."

The rest of the team chimed in with their congratulations, the camaraderie palpable. Despite the teasing and banter, it was clear that Naruto had earned their respect.

Later that evening, Naruto called his parents to share the news. The video call connected, and Kushina's face appeared on the screen, her expression lighting up when she saw her son.

"Naruto! How are you?" Kushina asked, her voice full of warmth.

"I'm good, Mom. Actually, I've got some news," Naruto said, unable to suppress his grin.

Minato's face joined the frame, his expression curious. "What's the news?"

Naruto took a deep breath. "I've been called up to the senior Japan national team. For the World Cup."

For a moment, there was silence. Then Kushina let out a squeal of excitement, clapping her hands. "That's amazing, Naruto! I'm so proud of you!"

Minato smiled, his pride more understated but no less genuine. "You've earned it, son."

Later that night, Naruto opened Instagram and found himself typing a message to Inori.

Naruto - Guess what? I'm going to the World Cup. Senior Japan team. They called me up today.

The reply came quickly.

Inori - That's incredible! Congratulations, Emperor. You're really making your mark.

Naruto - Thanks. I'll make sure you've got plenty to write about.

Inori - Looking forward to it. Just don't forget us small-time reporters when you're a global superstar.

Naruto - Never.

As he sat there in deep thought, Naruto had begun to see her as more than just a reporter. She was someone who understood his drive, his struggles, and his goals.

Naruto stared at the screen, her name highlighted in his messages. He took a deep breath before typing again.

Naruto - Hey, you free tomorrow?

Inori - Depends. What's up?

Naruto - I was thinking… before I head off to Japan, maybe we could hang out. You know, something casual.

There was a brief pause, and Naruto tapped his fingers against his desk, waiting.

Inori - You mean like… a date?

Naruto - Exactly like that.

Inori - Bold, Uzumaki. Alright, I'm in. Where are we going?

Naruto - Leave that to me. I'll pick you up at 6.

Naruto grinned, setting his phone down. The Emperor wasn't one to back down from a challenge, and this felt like the start of something important.

Chapter 9 – Call to Greatness End

A/N

And that's the end…

This one leaned heavily into slice of life moments, but these scenes are necessary as I'm not strictly following the canon right now. It gives me the creative freedom to think outside the box and expand the story in unique ways.

Up next, The World Cup.

I've got a lot of ideas—so let me cook! I'm not sure how many chapters the World Cup arc will take, but once it's wrapped up, we'll dive into the main Blue Lock storyline.

Quick reminder - Naruto will not be entering the Blue Lock project.

Thank you so much for reading and supporting the story.

Until next time,

byebye!