Backstreet No. 7

Lucas stood amidst a sea of young hopefuls on one of FC Seoul Academy's pristine pitches just on the outskirts of the city.

FC Seoul was more than just a football club it was a beacon. As one of the most notable Asian clubs, it had become a hub for exceptional talent, not only from Korea but from across the region.

The academy grounds were alive with diversity. Young players from Southeast Asian countries—Malaysia, the Philippines, and Indonesia—had journeyed far, chasing dreams of greatness. Their accents and languages mingled on the field, a testament to the club's reach.

Among them were a few Japanese youths, many having left home to try out for a chance at FC Seoul's renowned program. Their disciplined playstyle and sharp technique added to the academy's competitive edge.

For these teenagers it wasn't just about football—it was about opportunity. FC Seoul represented a gateway to something bigger, professional careers, national team call-ups, and the chance to carve their names into the fabric of Asian football history.

Among the young talents, one name stood out equally as much as Lucas's. He was Marco Rodriguez. A Filipino hot prospect, Marco's journey to the academy was as unique as his talent..

In the Philippines, where basketball reigned supreme, soccer often took a backseat. Yet, Marco was an anomaly, a prodigy who thrived in the sport from an early age.

By the time he was 12, stories of his talent had already spread. He was competing against 18-year-olds, holding his own and often outshining them.

Marco's appearance made him just as striking as his skills on the pitch. His black, sideswept hair framed a face defined by sharp cheekbones and a chiseled jawline.

His tanned skin bore the mark of countless hours spent under the sun, perfecting his craft. And then there was his physique—tall, lean, and powerful—making him the ideal center forward.

He moved with purpose, a predator on the field, always seeking the next opportunity to strike. For Marco, this wasn't just a game; it was a calling.

His presence at FC Seoul Academy wasn't just about proving himself. It was about representing his country, defying expectations, and showing the world that the Philippines, too, could produce football greatness.

For Lucas, Marco was more than just a rival, he was a reminder that this stage demanded everything they had—and more.

The players stood in rows, the chilly morning air filled with nervous energy as they stretched and jogged lightly in place. Some whispered quietly among themselves, others remained silent, their focus locked on the trial ahead.

Dong-Yul, FC Seoul Academy's head scout, walked onto the pitch with an air of authority. Clad in the academy's signature tracksuit, his sharp gaze swept over the 28 hopefuls before him.

"Welcome to FC Seoul's Academy trials," he began, his voice steady but commanding. "This is where your football career either starts or ends."

A murmur rippled through the group, but Dong-Yul's expression remained impassive. He continued, "Here at FC Seoul, we look for exceptional talents. If you do not meet or exceed our standards, you will be dropped without hesitation. So, fight for your place in this career you so desire."

The weight of his words hung heavy in the air. Some players stood straighter, their determination ignited, while others visibly tensed, their confidence wavering.

Lucas, standing in the second row, felt a mix of excitement and nerves swirling in his chest. This was it, the moment he had been waiting for.

Dong-Yul glanced at the clipboard in his hand. "Seeing as there are exactly 28 of you, you'll be split into four groups. Each group will play a maximum of three matches, during which you will be assessed. Your teamwork, decision-making, technical skills, and composure will all be under scrutiny."

Dong-Yul paused for a moment, letting the tension build before speaking again. "This year, we only have spaces for five players. We do not discriminate against your position. Do your best and you will be selected. Is that understood?"

Again a collective murmur rippled through the group, and Lucas nodded, locking eyes with a few of the other participants. It was clear this would be no easy feat. The competition would be fierce, and only the best would survive.

"Remember, these trials are not just about scoring goals or making flashy plays. It's about showing us that you belong here, that you can adapt to our system and grow into a player who can compete at the highest level of Korean football."

The players nodded, some more confidently than others. Lucas clenched his fists, his resolve firm. To him, this was more than just a trial—it was a battle to prove his worth, not just to the academy but to himself.

"Groups will be posted in five minutes," Dong-Yul concluded. "Prepare yourselves. The next few hours will decide your future."

As he walked off, the players exchanged glances, the tension palpable. Lucas exhaled deeply, glancing at Marco Rodriguez, who stood a few feet away.

The Filipino prodigy didn't seem fazed at all, his calm demeanor a stark contrast to the nervous energy surrounding them.

This was the beginning. And for Lucas, it was time to show what he was made of.

The trials had officially commenced, and the air buzzed with the intensity of competition. Every player sought to impress, their determination palpable.