NOVEL NEXT Chapter 14: Goodbyes
Richard's next match arrived on a frosty December evening, the kind where every breath turns to mist under the stadium's bright lights. Beecroft were set to face RWD Tournai—a gritty, hard-nosed side known for their physicality. The tension in the air was palpable as fans, bundled up in scarves and jerseys, filled the stands, their voices echoing off the cold concrete walls of the arena.
From the opening whistle, it was clear that tonight was different. Richard stepped onto the pitch with a quiet confidence that belied the intensity of the challenge ahead. The crisp air seemed to heighten his senses. Within moments, he assumed command of the midfield, orchestrating the play with the finesse of a seasoned maestro.
Almost immediately, Richard's brilliance shone through. A perfectly timed interception in the center of the field saw him regain possession. Instead of turning to run at the opposition, he surveyed the pitch with hawk-like precision. In one fluid motion, he spun away from an onrushing tackler and unleashed a pass that danced through the gap between two defenders, finding Luka sprinting down the right flank. The pass was so exact that even the opposing fans couldn't help but applaud its beauty, and the commentators were on their feet.
"Richard Blake, with that magical pass, reminds us why he's one of the most exciting talents in the league!" one commentator bellowed, his voice crackling with excitement. "His vision is unparalleled—he sees openings where others only see chaos!"
As the match unfolded, Richard continued to dazzle. In the 27th minute, after a sequence of quick one-twos, he received the ball on the edge of the box. With a deft touch, he feinted a shot and instead floated a delicate chip over the heads of two defenders. The ball arced perfectly into the path of Jasper, who controlled it with sublime finesse before slotting it past the goalkeeper. The stadium erupted into cheers, and even RWD Tournai's supporters couldn't help but admire the artistry on display.
Throughout the first half, his movements were a blend of instinct and calculated genius—each dribble, each pass, executed as if rehearsed in his mind a thousand times. His agent, Ethan Caldwell, watched from the VIP section, his eyes gleaming with pride as he scribbled notes and shared nods of approval with nearby scouts. Every touch Richard made was a statement; every decision was a reminder of his growing status as a true playmaker.
As the first half neared its end, Richard orchestrated another moment of brilliance. A quick turnover in midfield led to a sudden counterattack. Under intense pressure from Tournai's aggressive press, Richard evaded a sliding tackle by a nimble shimmy, then found space to thread a bullet pass through a crack in the defense. The ball split the field, landing at the feet of the striker, who made no mistake in converting it into a goal. The score now read 2-0, and the roar from the crowd was deafening—a mix of disbelief and pure elation at witnessing world-class skill in a lower-league match.
During halftime, the buzz among the fans was electric, and whispers of "Blake magic" rippled through the stands. Social media was already lighting up with clips of his highlights, and the commentators predicted that this match might well be remembered as the night Richard Blake announced himself as a future star of European football.
The second half saw Tournai trying desperately to claw their way back into the game, but Richard's influence was simply too strong. In the 62nd minute, he picked up the ball near the center circle and, with a stunning display of close control, maneuvered past three defenders with a series of lightning-quick feints. The way he glided past them was mesmerizing—a symphony of footwork that left the opposition scrambling. With the space he created, he drove forward and, without hesitation, unleashed a powerful, curling shot from 25 yards out. The ball rocketed towards the top corner, leaving the keeper with no chance. The goal wasn't just a point on the scoreboard; it was a declaration of his burgeoning talent, a moment that sent shockwaves through the stadium.
"Absolutely phenomenal!" the commentator roared, his voice thick with emotion. "That goal from Blake is nothing short of a masterpiece. You don't see that level of brilliance every day!"
The match ended 3-0 in favor of Beecroft, and as the final whistle blew, the players swarmed Richard in celebration. His teammates lifted him on their shoulders, chanting his name amid the cascade of applause. In that moment, the blend of skill, determination, and pure joy on his face told everyone exactly who the game belonged to.
Back in the dressing room, amidst the laughter and teasing, the updated system stats flashed on his phone—another subtle reminder of how his skill was being quantified. His numbers had surged, confirming what everyone on the pitch already knew: Richard Blake was a force to be reckoned with.
And as Ethan congratulated him in hushed tones amid the clamor, Richard couldn't help but smile. Tonight wasn't just a victory—it was the vivid proof that he was ready for the next stage, that his dreams were well within reach. Every pass, every goal, every moment of magic brought him one step closer to the spotlight he knew he deserved.
After the match, as the adrenaline began to fade and the stadium lights dimmed, Richard found himself alone with Coach Marquez in a quiet corner of the training facility's office. The air was cool, and the muted hum of the evening shifted the mood to one of introspection.
Coach Marquez sat across from him, his eyes serious yet gentle. "Richard, you played tonight like a man possessed. Your skill, your vision—they're beyond what we'd hoped for. But you know the club is starting to worry. Big clubs are circling you, and we need to discuss your future."
Richard listened carefully, the weight of every word mingling with his own determination. He had learned much under the coach's guidance, and his gratitude for the opportunities and the wisdom imparted was deep. "Coach, I want you to know how much I appreciate everything you've done for me. You've given me a platform to grow and taught me how to play with intelligence and heart. I'll always be grateful for that."
Marquez leaned forward, his tone earnest. "I just want what's best for you, Richard. Sometimes staying can build a legacy, and sometimes leaving is the only way to truly reach your potential. What are you thinking?"
Richard paused for a moment, his eyes steady as he met the coach's gaze. The decision had been simmering inside him for weeks now—a decision that would change the course of his career. Taking a deep breath, he said, "Coach, thank you for all your guidance and for believing in me. But I have already made my choice."
A heavy silence fell over the room as the words echoed between them. Coach Marquez's eyes held a mixture of pride and sadness, knowing that this was both an end and a beginning. Richard's tone was calm and resolute—a young man ready to step into his future, wherever it might lead.
"I have already made my choice," Richard repeated softly, the finality in his voice marking the moment his future was sealed.
Richard sat across from Evan in a private office, the agent leaning back with a confident smirk. A thick folder sat on the table between them, no doubt filled with offers, negotiations, and club details.
"Alright, Richard," Evan started, tapping the folder. "It's official. The sharks are circling. We've got offers. But before we go into details, I need to know—are you set on leaving in January, or do you want to finish the season here?"
Richard leaned back, exhaling. "If I stay, I finish strong, maybe win something. If I leave, I step up to the big leagues immediately. No more second division. No more small crowds. Just top-tier football."
Evan nodded. "Exactly. But think carefully. A rushed move can kill momentum. A well-timed one? That makes a legend."
Richard smirked. "You know me, Evan. I don't do small moves."
Evan chuckled. "That's why they're fighting over you."
Across Europe, clubs were making their final moves before going public. The next few days would determine everything.
January had arrived, and the winter transfer window was in full swing. Rumors flooded the footballing world, but one name kept appearing in Bundesliga and Premier League discussions—Richard Blake. His performances for Beecroft had turned heads across Europe, and now, two clubs were making serious moves: Borussia Dortmund and Tottenham Hotspur.
Dortmund, known for developing young talents into world-class players, had a specific reason for their interest. Injuries had ravaged their midfield. Their star playmaker, Julian Brandt, had been ruled out for months due to a knee ligament injury, while Marcel Sabitzer struggled with persistent muscle problems. Even Gio Reyna, a talented attacking midfielder, had just recovered from an injury and was not yet at full fitness. Dortmund needed fresh legs—and someone who could step up immediately.
Seated in a sleek, modern office, Richard sat across from his agent, Evan Caldwell, as they reviewed the official offer from Borussia Dortmund.
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The Offer Details
Transfer Fee: €15 million
Signing Bonus: €3 million
Annual Salary: €4 million
Contract Length: 4.5 years (until June 2029)
Squad Role: "Rotational First-Team Player" (expected to fight for a starting spot)
Bonuses & Incentives:
€25,000 per match played
€20,000 per goal or assist
€1 million if Dortmund wins the Bundesliga
€500,000 if they reach the Champions League quarter-finals
---
Evan leaned back, watching Richard closely. "Dortmund isn't just interested, they need you. Brandt's injury has left a gap in their midfield, and they want you to help fill it."
Richard exhaled, his fingers tapping the table. "Immediate impact…" he muttered.
Evan smirked. "Exactly what you wanted. They aren't buying you as a long-term project. They expect you to contribute immediately."
Richard's eyes flickered with determination. He had come too far to let this moment pass. Tottenham was tempting, but Dortmund had one clear advantage—he would get playing time immediately. Spurs had James Maddison and Giovani Lo Celso in similar positions, meaning he'd likely start on the bench in London.
He pushed the contract forward. "I've made my decision."
Evan raised an eyebrow. "You're sure?"
Richard met his gaze. "I choose Dortmund."
Evan grinned, pulling out his phone to inform the club. Richard Blake was heading to the Bundesliga.
---
This decision would change his life. New league, new challenges, and a chance to shine on an even bigger stage. But one thing was certain—Richard wasn't going to Dortmund to sit on the bench. He was going to make an impact.
And the world was about to take notice.
Sky Sports Transfer News Special – January Deadline Day
Live from the Sky Sports studio in London, transfer expert David Morrison and former Premier League midfielder Chris Templeton sit at the desk, discussing the biggest moves of the winter window.
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David Morrison (Host):
"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to our Transfer Deadline Day Special! We've seen some jaw-dropping moves already, and with just hours left before the window slams shut, clubs are making their final pushes to strengthen their squads for the rest of the season."
"Chris, let's start with the Premier League giants. Manchester City have just finalized a deal for young Brazilian wonderkid Felipe Duarte from Flamengo for €60 million. They're already stacked, but somehow, Pep Guardiola just keeps adding firepower."
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Chris Templeton (Pundit):
"City never stop, do they? They're building for the future, and Duarte looks like the next big thing. Meanwhile, over at Chelsea, they've signed yet another midfielder—Juan Esteban from Atlético Madrid. That's their 25th signing in the last two years!"
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David Morrison (chuckles):
"At this rate, Chelsea will have more midfielders than matchdays in a season!"
"But let's shift focus to a historic deal that has just been confirmed. It's not Manchester United, it's not Real Madrid, but it's a transfer that has stunned European football."
"Borussia Dortmund have pulled off what could be one of the best January signings in recent history, signing a young English-Nigerian playmaker who has been tearing up Belgium's League 2."
"That's right, folks—Beecroft's midfield sensation Richard Blake is officially a Borussia Dortmund player!"
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BREAKING NEWS: BORUSSIA DORTMUND SIGNS RICHARD BLAKE FOR A RECORD FEE
A massive graphic appears on screen with the headline:
🚨 BREAKING: Borussia Dortmund complete €15 million signing of 18-year-old sensation Richard Blake from Beecroft! 🚨
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Chris Templeton (excitedly):
"David, I have to say—this is huge! Blake has been absolutely phenomenal in Belgium. He's only 18, but his vision, passing, and composure on the ball are beyond his years. Dortmund have a reputation for signing world-class youngsters, and this could be the start of another superstar's journey!"
"The fact that Dortmund paid a record fee for a League 2 player—€15 million plus bonuses—shows just how much they believe in him. And let's not forget, they beat Tottenham to his signature!"
---
David Morrison:
"Yes! And let's break down the deal for our viewers."
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🔍 Richard Blake's Dortmund Contract Details:
Transfer Fee: €15 million (record fee for a second-division Belgian club)
Signing Bonus: €3 million
Annual Salary: €4 million
Contract Length: 4.5 years (until June 2029)
Squad Role: Rotational First-Team Player
Performance Bonuses:
€25,000 per match played
€20,000 per goal or assist
€1 million if Dortmund wins the Bundesliga
€500,000 if they reach the Champions League quarter-finals
---
Chris Templeton:
"It's a statement signing from Dortmund. With injuries plaguing their midfield—Brandt, Sabitzer, and Reyna struggling with fitness—Blake could get serious minutes from day one!"
"And let's not forget: he's the first Nigerian player Dortmund have signed in over a decade. The Nigerian fanbase is already buzzing, calling him 'the next Jay-Jay Okocha.'"
---
David Morrison:
"That's high praise! Blake still has a long way to go, but one thing is certain—he's no ordinary talent."
"Up next, we discuss the top 5 transfers of the window and what Richard Blake's arrival could mean for Borussia Dortmund's title hopes!"
[CUT TO COMMERCIAL BREAK]
The training ground was alive with the usual buzz of activity, but a different energy filled the air today. Richard Blake, the sensation of Beecroft FC, was about to bid farewell. His transfer to Borussia Dortmund had been confirmed, and this would be his last training session with the club.
Coach Marquez called the players together as the warm-up session came to a close. His face was a mix of pride and solemnity as he addressed the team. "Alright, everyone, before we get started today, there's something important to discuss," Coach Marquez said, his tone both authoritative and respectful.
"Richard is off to Dortmund," he continued, pausing for a moment to let the words sink in. "He's been an incredible player for us, and he deserves this opportunity. Today, we're going to give him the send-off he deserves."
Richard stood up and walked forward, feeling the weight of his teammates' eyes on him. There was a mix of emotions swirling within him—excitement for the future, but also sadness at leaving behind a club that had given him so much.
"I just want to say thank you," Richard said, his voice clear but filled with emotion. "From the first day I joined Beecroft, you all made me feel like part of the family. I've grown so much here, both as a player and as a person, and I'll always be grateful for everything you've done for me."
The room was silent for a moment, and then Luka, one of Richard's closest teammates, grinned and stepped forward. "Don't forget us when you're playing Champions League football, yeah?"
The team laughed, but it was clear that behind the joking, they all respected and admired Richard. Jasper, who had been with Richard from the start, clapped him on the back. "You've earned this, mate. Go show the world what you can do."
Coach Marquez gave a small, approving nod as he spoke. "You've been a credit to this club, Richard. Your work ethic and professionalism have been second to none. You've made an impact here, and I know you'll make an even bigger one in Dortmund. Don't forget your roots, and always keep pushing yourself."
Richard's heart swelled with gratitude as he took in the words from his coach. He had been given an opportunity that most players could only dream of, and he owed much of his success to the guidance and support he'd received at Beecroft.
"Thank you, Coach," Richard said sincerely. "I won't forget Beecroft. This club will always be special to me."
The team surrounded him for one last group hug. There were no more jokes, just a sense of unity and support. The bond they'd formed over the past months was evident, and Richard felt a deep appreciation for the people who had been part of his journey.
As he walked toward the locker room to collect his things, Richard took a final look around the familiar space. It was a bittersweet moment, but he knew that this was just the beginning of the next chapter in his career.