Chapter 9 – Two Sides of the Same Pitch
The weather flipped again by midweek.
Dry heat returned like it owned the place, baking the pitch in a slow simmer. The synthetic turf radiated warmth through Thiago’s boots, and even at 8 a.m., the lines drawn on the field shimmered like they’d been painted with sunlight.
Thiago stood at the edge of the training ground, balancing on one leg, stretching his hamstring. Around him, voices buzzed—players swapping jokes, coaches barking warm-up orders, cleats tapping against grass and turf.
He barely heard any of it.
Because today, the staff posted two squad lists.
Match A: U17 vs U16, full match simulation.
Match B: Academy U16 vs Trialists – rotation match.
His name was on both.
Winger in Match A.Fullback in Match B.
Two matches. Two roles. Same day.
He barely had time to think before they were called into a huddle.