God Of football

Chapter 106: If Only They Knew

The opening theme music of La Liga Analysis Tonight faded as the studio lights brightened.

Three pundits sat around a sleek glass table, their names and titles appearing on the screen: Carlos Ruiz (Former Spanish International), Elena Torres (Football Journalist), and Luis Mateo (Analyst and Statistician).

On the screen behind them, a highlight reel played of Izan’s recent exploits against RCD Mallorca. The footage of his goal—a dazzling solo effort finished with a strike into the top corner—replayed in slow motion.

Host: ”Welcome back to La Liga Analysis Tonight. The name on everyone’s lips is Izan Hernandez, Valencia’s 15-year-old prodigy.

His performance against RCD Mallorca has sparked a whirlwind of attention. But can he live up to the hype?

And how will he fare in this weekend’s clash with Athletic Bilbao, a team known for their physicality and high press? Let’s get right into it. Carlos, you first. What do you think of Izan’s potential?”

Carlos leaned back in his chair, a smirk playing on his face.

Carlos Ruiz: ”Look, there’s no denying the kid is talented. That goal was sensational, and he’s got great instincts.

But let’s not get carried away. He’s 15. One great game doesn’t make him the next Messi or Ronaldo. Athletic Bilbao will be a much tougher test—physically and tactically. I’m not sure he’s ready.”

Elena Torres: ”Come on, Carlos. Give the boy some credit. One game, Huh, Carlos? This boy dismantled Atlético Madrid.

I don’t know if you saw that match but in pre-season, he did the same with Tottenham.

Once again in this match, what impressed me most wasn’t just the goal but his composure and decision-making.

He didn’t shy away from the big moment, and that’s rare at his age. Athletic Bilbao will be a challenge, sure, but this is a chance for him to prove himself against a tougher opponent.”

Luis, the analyst, gestured toward the screen where Izan’s stats were displayed.

Luis Mateo: ”Let’s bring some data into the conversation. In his last match, Izan completed 91% of his passes, created three chances, and had five successful dribbles.

Not forgetting, this kid now tops Laliga in both Goals and assists. This has never happened. The teams he met on the way to accomplishing this task weren’t ordinary.

Real Sociedad, Atlético and Sevilla among others.

For a player his age, those numbers are extraordinary. However, Carlos is also right about Athletic’s physicality.

They’ll target him. If he can handle that pressure, we might be looking at a generational talent and I think he can do it.

If he did it with Atlético Madrid, why not against Bilbao”.

Carlos Ruiz: ”That’s a big ’if,’ Luis. Kids like Izan often crumble under the weight of expectations.

He’s suddenly the centre of media attention, and Bilbao’s defenders will make sure he feels every tackle. It’s too soon to call him a generational talent.”

Elena Torres: ”I disagree. Football is about moments, and Izan has already shown he can deliver when it counts. Yes, he’s young, but sometimes youth brings fearlessness. I think he’ll rise to the occasion.”

The host interjected, his voice tinged with amusement.

Host: ”So, Carlos thinks he’ll struggle, Elena sees him shining, and Luis is cautiously optimistic. Let’s see how this unfolds on Sunday.

Meanwhile, social media is buzzing with opinions. Let’s take a look at what the fans are saying.”

---

On Twitter, the hashtag #Izan Hernandez was trending, with fans and critics sharing their opinions in droves.

(@ValenciaDieHard):

”Izan is the future of Valencia. Forget the haters—this kid’s got it all. Can’t wait to see him tear Bilbao apart! #AmuntValencia”

(@BilbaoArmy):

”Bilbao’s defence is going to eat this kid alive. He’s not ready for the big leagues. Stay in your lane, Izan. #AthleticBilbao”

(@FootballNeutral):

”15 years old and already making headlines? Izan Martínez is a joy to watch. Let’s hope the pressure doesn’t crush him. #LaLigaWonderkid”

(@CriticCentral):

”The media’s overhyping another teenager. We’ve seen this story before. Give it a few months, and he’ll disappear like so many others. #IzanMiura”

---

Izan, lying on his bed with his phone in hand, scrolled through the tweets. ”If only they knew,” he said with a smile.

For Izan, this match was just another means to stamp his name in the minds of the crowd. With the system, coupled with his efforts, Izan couldn’t fail even if he wanted to.

A direct message notification popped up. It was from a fan.

DM from @YoungValenciaFan:

”Hi Izan, I just wanted to say you’re my hero. Watching you play gives me hope that I can make it, too, someday. Don’t let the critics get to you. We believe in you!”

Izan smiled. He typed a quick reply:

”Thanks for the kind words. I’ll do my best on Sunday!”

...

The next morning, another popular football show, Tactical Talk, aired an in-depth analysis of Izan’s upcoming match against Athletic Bilbao.

The analyst pointed to a heatmap of Izan’s movements against RCD Mallorca.

Analyst 1: ”This is where Izan excels—finding pockets of space between the lines and exploiting them.

However, Bilbao’s midfield will be far more disciplined, and their defence is known for closing down space quickly.”

Analyst 2: ”Agreed, but it’s also worth noting how calm Izan is under pressure. Watch this clip from his last game.”

The screen showed Izan receiving the ball with two defenders closing in. A quick flick of his foot took him past both before he delivered a pinpoint pass to a teammate.

Analyst 1: ”If he can replicate this level of composure, he could unlock Bilbao’s defence. But the question remains: Can he handle the physical challenges they’ll throw at him?”

...

On YouTube, a group of Valencia fans hosted a livestream discussing Izan’s potential.

Host: ”Alright, chat, let’s talk about Izan Hernandez Is he ready for Bilbao, or are we setting him up to fail?”

The chat exploded with comments:

”Izan’s got the talent. He just needs to keep his head down and play his game.”

”Bilbao’s defence will humble him. Mark my words.”

”He’s 15! Why are we putting so much pressure on him already?”

”Pressure makes diamonds. Izan will shine!”

The host chuckled. ”Seems like the opinions are as divided as the pundits’. I think he’ll do well. But even if he struggles, he’s young. This is just the beginning for him.”

.....

The training session had ended, but the adrenaline still pulsed through Izan’s veins. The scrimmage match had been intense, but he had thrived under the pressure.

Two goals, an assist, and a flick that left a Cenk Ozkacar in his wake had his teammates talking. A few, like Pietro and Sosa, also stood laughing at Cenk, who always bodied Pietro in training.

”He was able to beat me. Why don’t you try?” Cenk said with a smirk, but Pietro just turned and walked away. ”Coward” the former said while getting up.

As the players dispersed, some patted him on the back. The players hadn’t jumped to anyone’s side during Izan’s scuffle with the club because they didn’t know what had gone on.

To them, there was nothing wrong as none of the nonsense the media spewed had gone on.

So when the smoke was cleared, they finally understood what had gone on.

Izan was bending down to tie his laces when he heard footsteps crunching on the grass.

Looking up, he saw Coach Ruben Baraja walking toward him, his hands tucked into the pockets of his black Valencia jacket.

Baraja stopped a few feet away, his piercing gaze softened by the faintest hint of a smile. For a moment, he didn’t say anything, letting the silence settle.

”You were brilliant out there today, Izan,” Baraja said finally, his voice calm but firm. ”Confident. Sharp.

That second goal—taking on two defenders and finishing like that? That’s the kind of football we need this weekend.”

Izan straightened, his chest swelling with pride. Being praised was always good.”Thank you, Coach. I’ve been working on staying calm in front of goal.”

Baraja nodded, his expression thoughtful. ”I can see that. But it’s not just about the goals. Your movement, your vision—it’s like you’re reading the game a second ahead of everyone else. That’s special, Izan. Not many players have that.”

A loud silence descended after Baraja finished speaking. ”Haaaah, I’m so sorry, Izan. The greed of the club almost created havoc. Now, on orders of the chairman, I can use you how I want and I hope you’re ready” Baraja broke the silence.

Izan felt a surge of warmth at Baraja’s words. ”I understand, Coach, and it’s okay; I just want to help the team, Coach. Whatever it takes.”

Baraja studied him for a moment, then stepped closer, his tone lowering slightly. ”How are you feeling, Izan? Not just physically—but mentally.

There’s a lot of noise around you right now. The media, the fans, the critics. Are you ready for what’s coming?”

Izan hesitated, caught off guard by the question. He looked down at his boots, scuffed from the session, then back at Baraja. ”It’s... a lot,” he admitted. ”But I’m trying to block it out. Focus on my game.”

Baraja’s smile widened, faint but genuine. ”Good. Well, since you’re good, then I’m starting you against Athletic Bilbao.”

Izan’s smiled at his words before saying a curt ”thank you”.

Baraja nodded ”Bilbao will be tough—they’ll press hard, they’ll be physical, and they’ll try to intimidate you. But I believe you can handle it. And I need you to believe it too.”

”I do,” Izan said, his voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions swirling inside him. ”I won’t let you down, Coach.”

Baraja placed a hand on his shoulder, his grip firm but reassuring. ”I know you won’t. Remember—stay calm, trust your instincts, and play your game. The rest will take care of itself.”

As Baraja turned to leave, he called over his shoulder, ”Get some rest, Izan. Sunday’s your stage. Make it count.”

Izan stood there for a moment, watching his coach walk away. The weight of the opportunity pressed down on him, but so did the thrill. This was his chance—not just to play but to prove he belonged.

Clenching his fists, Izan whispered to himself, ”Ooh, I’mma bout to make for myself”[ Bro turned into the Gambit]

A/n: 1st Bonus chapter. Courtesy of Harith_TM. Have fun reading