An hour later, Pierre completed his medical examination. Once his results were approved, he accompanied Edwards and Mendes to the training ground, where Klopp was waiting.
The Liverpool first team was already in the middle of their session. As Pierre stepped onto the field, he immediately recognized familiar faces—Salah, Firmino, Mané, Van Dijk, Milner, and the young Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool's rising star.
While Pierre observed them, they also turned their attention to him. Their expressions showed a hint of surprise at seeing an unfamiliar face from Asia among them.
Klopp quickly gathered everyone's attention.
"This is Pierre," he announced. "A new midfielder we've just signed. He came from Portugal, previously part of Barcelona's youth system."
There was no round of applause to welcome him, but Klopp wasn't finished.
"And let me tell you something—this guy is confident," Klopp continued, his voice carrying across the pitch. "He walked in and asked for the No. 10 jersey immediately."
A few players exchanged glances.
"I told him he can have it—but he has to prove he deserves it!"
Pierre smiled. He understood that Klopp wasn't trying to put pressure on him or single him out. This was a message to everyone: in his team, players earned their roles through performance, not reputation.
"Alright," Klopp clapped his hands twice. "Enough talk. Let's get to it! Training match—get your vests when I call your name!"
---
Henderson approached Pierre after collecting his red vest.
"Hey, I'm Jordan. Welcome to the team!"
"Pierre," he replied with a nod.
"We'll be playing midfield together, so let's link up. Don't worry—I'll cover for you when needed," Henderson said with a friendly smile. As captain, he made it a point to support new players.
"Thanks, I appreciate it."
A moment later, Van Dijk walked over.
"I'm Virgil. Just joined recently too," the Dutch defender said.
Pierre nodded. "Nice to meet you."
"You look Asian. Do you have any Asian heritage?"
"Yeah, my mother is from China."
Van Dijk's face lit up. "No way! My mother's ancestors were from China too!"
Pierre chuckled. "Then we must have been family five hundred years ago."
Van Dijk laughed loudly. "From now on, we're family! Don't worry—I'll be behind you. Play your game, and I'll cover for you if needed."
Pierre appreciated the sentiment, but he had no intention of relying on anyone else. He was eager to test his skills—especially the combination of his elite defensive ability and his tactical awareness.
---
On the sidelines, Edwards and Mendes observed closely.
"Looks like Pierre is fitting in well," Edwards noted, relieved.
A player's ability to integrate into a team was crucial, especially after a transfer. A new environment, unfamiliar teammates, and a different tactical system could be overwhelming. Players who struggled to adapt often saw their careers stall or even decline. Coutinho was a prime example—after moving to Barcelona, he never quite fit into their system, leading to loan spells and an unfulfilled career.
Mendes, however, had no concerns. "Pierre will be fine. He can adapt anywhere."
Edwards glanced at him. "Do you really think he can claim the No. 10 jersey?"
Mendes smiled confidently. "I have no doubt. Pierre has the potential to become the best defensive midfielder in the world—and maybe even the best box-to-box player."
Edwards raised an eyebrow, intrigued.
---
The teams were set. Pierre was placed on the red team, while the yellow team was led by Liverpool's formidable attacking trio—Salah, Firmino, and Mané.
The King of Steals versus the Three Red Arrows.
The match was about to begin.
A whistle blew.
The red team had the first possession.
Solanke, the center forward, tapped the ball to Chamberlain on the left. The former Arsenal man had fully adapted to Liverpool's system and was having a strong season, with two goals and five assists so far.
As soon as he received the ball, he accelerated forward.
Klopp's system demanded relentless pressing and quick transitions. No player was exempt from pressing high up the pitch—not even the forwards.
Salah immediately rushed in to press Chamberlain, and Milner quickly joined him, cutting off passing options.
Realizing he couldn't dribble past both, Chamberlain opted to pass.
But his pass was slightly off.
Salah managed to block it with his body.
Milner reacted instantly, taking control of the ball.
In a flash, Salah sprinted forward.
Milner shielded the ball from Chamberlain before threading a pass through.
The play was seamless.
Like a sharp blade, Liverpool's attack sliced through the left side of the pitch.
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