The Manchester United youth squad was ruthless. Older players fought for positions like
wolves over meat. But Ronaldo didn't just survive-he thrived. In a tight 2v2 drill, he
nutmegged the academy captain, then chipped the keeper from a sharp angle. [SYSTEM
UPDATE] Flair Rating: +3 Rival Awareness: High Coach Ryan nodded from the sideline.
"He's not scared of anyone. I like that." He was called into an office larger than any
classroom he had known. Sir Alex Ferguson sat behind the desk. "You're confident, lad."
"Yes, sir." "Why?" Ronaldo met his gaze. "Because I know I'm going to be the best." Sir Alex
smiled. "Then prove it. Starting tomorrow, you're training with the U21s." [SYSTEM NOTICE]
Reputation Boost: Coach Affinity (Ferguson): +15 Quest Progress: Rise of a Red Devil
(Phase 1 Complete) The U21s weren't thrilled. "Why's a kid training with us?" one player
muttered. Ronaldo let his feet answer. He danced through defenders in rondos, fired
accurate shots off both feet, and made it look easy. By the end of the session, the muttering
had stopped. [SYSTEM BONUS] Skill Unlocked: Off-the-Ball Intelligence I Training Grade: A
Ronaldo wasn't just improving-he was absorbing. He stayed after practice to watch drills,
took notes on opponents, and even helped younger trialists with their footing. Sir Alex took
note. "He's got a work ethic like I've never seen," he told the staff. [SYSTEM UPDATE]
Leadership Trait Detected Captaincy Potential: Activated In a closed-door friendly against
Birmingham U21s, Ronaldo was given 30 minutes. He scored twice. One was a header from
an impossible angle. The assistant manager whistled. "We've got something special here."
[SYSTEM ANALYSIS] Match Rating: A+ Heading Accuracy +4 Pace +2 Local sports columns
lit up. "Portuguese Prodigy Shines at United Trial" The name Cristiano Ronaldo echoed
through training grounds and cafés. Meanwhile, Tiago Freitas back in Lisbon scowled at the
article. "Cristiano thinks he's already made it" [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] Rival Activity
Detected: Tiago Freitas Rivalry Progression: Passive > Active Against Leeds United
Reserves, Ronaldo was named in the starting lineup. It was raining. The pitch was slick. The
pressure was real. But Ronaldo was sharper. He assisted the opening goal and curled in a
match-winner in stoppage time. The coaching staff was silent-until they applauded. [SYSTEM
UPDATE] Tactical Awareness: +3 Performance Review: 9.2/10 His mother's letter arrived
that night. "My son don't forget your heart, even as you chase greatness." He read it twice.
Folded it carefully. Then went to the gym. [SYSTEM NOTICE] Emotional Anchor: Family
Affinity +10 Motivation Multiplier (72 hrs.): Active A formal letter sat on the desk. Manchester
United wanted to sign him into their full academy roster. His hands trembled as he signed.
Not from nerves-from belief. This was always the plan. [SYSTEM UNLOCKED] Youth
Contract Signed: Manchester United Academy Quest Phase 2 Unlocked: U18 Debut Ronaldo
stared at a jersey in the academy office-No. 7. Not yet his, but one day. "Someday," he
whispered. His journey had only just begun. And the world had no idea what was coming.
[SYSTEM UPDATE] Legacy Flag Activated: 'Future Icon - No. 7' Next Milestone: Senior
Team Exposure