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Chapter 31 - Rising Stardom

The days after his debut flew by in a whirlwind. Training with the seniors was now routine, but the hunger in Enzo's eyes had only sharpened. Every touch, every sprint, every moment on the pitch was his chance to prove that he belonged — not just as a guest, but as a rising star.

Milanello's training pitches echoed with Enzo's footsteps, faster and more confident each day. Leão remained a constant mentor, pushing him to perfect his shooting, his positioning, his vision. "You have the flair, the instincts. Now add coldness. The killer touch."

Enzo took the advice seriously. Long hours after official sessions, he stayed back alone, repeating shots, practicing free kicks, perfecting his dribbling until his legs burned.

Media whispers started too. "Milan's teenage prodigy" — "The new Fenômeno in the making." But Enzo stayed focused, knowing that hype could disappear overnight if results didn't follow.

The Moment: Matchday vs. Roma

Two months after his debut, AC Milan faced Roma in a crucial Serie A match. The stadium was buzzing — a packed San Siro with fans hungry for a win.

The game was tense. Milan's attack sputtered, Roma's defense stout. Enzo watched from the bench, heart pounding, waiting for his chance.

Then, in the 68th minute, Pioli waved him on. "Go show them why you're here."

The Goal: A Star Is Born

Enzo's feet met the ball with fierce determination. Minutes later, he intercepted a sloppy pass near midfield. With a burst of speed and dazzling footwork reminiscent of El Fenômeno himself, he danced past two defenders.

The crowd held its breath as Enzo approached the penalty area. With a subtle fake, he sent the goalkeeper the wrong way and slotted the ball into the net.

San Siro erupted.

His teammates rushed over, crowd roaring his name. Leão lifted him up in celebration — the golden boy had arrived.

The media went wild. Headlines screamed "Enzo Sky Vito: Milan's New Phenom!" and "El Fenômeno's Heir Strikes First Goal."

But with the spotlight came expectations.

Interviews, social media attention, fan scrutiny — all intensified.

At home, his family reminded him to stay grounded. His mother smiled, "Enjoy this moment, but remember why you started."

His father, proud yet firm, said, "Hard work is never done. Champions are made every day, not just in matches."

Off the pitch, Enzo's bond with Rafael Leão grew deeper. They shared laughs, meals, and moments of reflection.

"Keep your feet on the ground," Leão advised one evening. "Fame comes and goes, but loyalty and hard work last forever."

Enzo nodded, knowing the journey was only beginning.

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