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Chapter 28 - Rising Through the Ranks — Primavera and Italy U18

Back at Milanello — Embracing the Primavera Life

After his explosive debut, Enzo Sky Vito's world shifted into a new gear.

Training with the Primavera was no longer a trial — it was the norm. The physicality was tougher, the tactics sharper, and every player fighting for the same dream: a shot at the senior team.

Coach Conti expected excellence.

During sessions, Enzo pushed himself harder than ever, studying opponents, learning positioning, and honing his signature flair — that unpredictable mix of raw power and elegant skill, inspired by El Fenômeno himself.

The older players in the squad, initially wary of the prodigy, began warming up to him.

"You've got talent," said veteran midfielder Davide Russo during a cool-down jog one afternoon. "But it's your work ethic that will take you further."

Enzo smiled. "I'm ready."

Friendship and Team Chemistry

One face stood out: Matteo Leão — a quick, relentless winger with a mischievous grin. The two bonded fast, trading stories about growing up in Italy and Portugal, sharing meals, and teasing each other during training drills.

Leão's presence made the pressure lighter, the days more fun.

"When you're on the pitch, make 'em dance, Enzo," Leão joked. "But off it? Let's keep it chill."

International Stage — Italy U18

Meanwhile, Enzo's star continued to rise on the national scene.

Called up again to the Italy U18 squad for a series of friendly matches across Europe, he found himself facing new challenges.

The pace was faster, the opponents more diverse — from the tactical discipline of Germany to the physical toughness of England.

But Enzo thrived.

In a match against France U18, he scored a beautiful curling shot from outside the box — a goal that landed on highlight reels and earned praise from coaches and fans alike.

More than the goals, it was his leadership that caught attention.

His teammates looked to him in critical moments, sensing his calm under pressure and infectious enthusiasm.

Balancing Act — Club and Country

Balancing club and international duties tested Enzo's resilience.

Travel drained him. Training doubled. Expectations soared.

Yet every time he returned to Milanello, his teammates noticed a subtle change — more maturity, a deeper understanding of the game, and an ever-burning hunger.

Coach Conti noticed, too.

"You carry the future on your shoulders, Enzo," he said one evening after a grueling practice. "But don't forget: to inspire, you must also enjoy. Keep that smile. Keep that fire."

Off the Pitch — Family Anchor

Through it all, Enzo's family remained his foundation.

Evenings filled with laughter, home-cooked meals, and stories from his older brother about life outside football reminded him of who he was — a kid chasing a dream but never forgetting where he came from.

His parents' quiet pride was a constant source of strength.

"You are our star," his mother whispered once after dinner.

Enzo nodded, feeling the weight and warmth of those words.

The Road Ahead

With every sprint, every pass, every goal, Enzo moved closer to the dream that had propelled him since his first touch at Milanello.

Primavera matches, Italy U18 tournaments, and the growing buzz of scouts and media — all signs that the next chapter of his story was unfolding.

The nickname still waited in the wings, ready for the moment the world truly understood: a new football alien had arrived.

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