From Reject to Legend Chapter 75: Journey Towards a new future

*** Genuinely curious, how many of you are still reading from the beginning days when I started ? How do prefer the new version compared to earlier? I know a lot of people are gone cz I never see them anymore. 💀

I honestly didn't want to upload today, as the ranking is falling behind my expectations despite my efforts, but I'll do it one last ti. I an, I have increased the size and content quality as much possible.

But if results are worse, might as well work less and enjoy the sa results lol.

In future, I don't mind even if there's no stones at all , just know that my efforts would also reflect the support I received. I'm no longer checking most stuff as I prefer my ntal peace.

Honestly, maybe I should just move this to patreon like other writers and make money out of this. When you are making so cash, that's atleast worth the suffering .

Anyways, enjoy the 4,000 word chapter. Keep voting to make pump up those chapters. Or not, upto you. ***

After our festive celebrations in Lisbon, my transfer saga took on a new height. I had just finished a short, relaxing trip with my parents across Portugal—a journey filled with heartfelt conversations, scenic drives, and promises of family reunions.

But as our ti together drew to a close, the reality of my future lood large. My parents, ever supportive, hugged tightly at the airport.

"My son, promise you'll always rember where you co from. Don't let the fa and money change you from the kind and good boy you are my love." my mother said, her voice soft yet resolute.

"I promise, Mom. I'll co back often, and I'll definitely not change." I replied, squeezing her hand.

My father patted my shoulder with a proud grin. "Go chase your dreams, but never forget, we'll be here waiting for you."

With that, I bid them farewell and boarded the team plane bound for Malaga, Spain. The flight was a delightful respite—a ti to relax and bond with my Portuguese teammates before the storm of transfer drama hit.

Ronaldo, Coentrao and Bruno also was in sa flight, heading to Spain. Bruno was the latest signing of Malaga, suggested by myself.

Malaga have gotten him for 15 million from Udinese before the world Cup, Along with Sadio Mane for 12 Million from RB Salzburg and N'golo Kante for 6 million from Caen .

In the cramped cabin, laughter echoed as we reminisced about our recent victory and joked about our upcoming vacations. Coentrao and Ronaldo traded humorous jabs, each trying to outdo the other in wit.

Amid our jokes, we discussed our plans for a long-overdue break, the joy of reuniting with family, and the simple pleasures we'd enjoy once the relentless schedule of international football was behind us.

When the plane finally descended over Spain, I knew what awaited was far more complex than our carefree flight banter. As the plane touched down in Spain, the dia had already been buzzing about my potential transfer from Malaga.

Malaga had received offer after offer: Real Madrid had just increased their bid to €125 million euros, while Manchester City's offer had climbed to €130 million. The numbers were astronomical, and every channel seed to be speculating wildly about my future.

No sooner had I stepped off the plane than my phone rang. It was a call from the Malaga owner, his tone formal yet curious. "Adriano, we'd like to know your wishes regarding this transfer," he said. I arranged a quiet mont later with my agent ndes to discuss the call.

"ndes, what do you think? They want to finalize details next week," I said, my voice thoughtful.

ndes replied, "It's all about timing. We tell Malaga managent to hold on until next week. You need ti to reflect on these offers."

I nodded. "Yes. I'll call them back and say, 'Wait till next week,' so I can make a clear decision."

When, I arrived in Málaga. The airport was a scene of pure emotion. As soon as I stepped off the plane, I was t by a flood of fans. The terminal was crowded, and every face turned toward .

So fans cheered loudly, clapping and shouting my na, while others—tearful and desperate—asked to stay.

I could see fans, both young and old, and the emotions they held for . Security struggled to control the surging crowd, and all of this adoration was focused on .

When, the reporters crowded , asking questions, I decided to clear things up for Myself and these fans. They deserved to know.

Standing amidst the chaos, I took a deep breath and stepped up to a makeshift stage in the arrivals hall. I grabbed the microphone and addressed the crowd in a steady, emotional voice.

"Thank you, people of Málaga. I am truly blessed and happy to see the love you've shown . Although I played only one season with you, the mories we've made together will live on in my heart forever.

This move is a chance for to spread my wings and challenge myself further. It is also an opportunity for Málaga to grow—both financially and as a team. Our journey doesn't end here.

With new signings and the boost this transfer brings, I believe Málaga will beco one of the top La Liga teams, maybe even shine in the Champions League."

The crowd's reaction was mixed—so cheered in agreent, while others wept quietly, lanting the loss of a local hero.

I felt a pang of sadness; I knew I was leaving behind a part of my identity, a city that had supported long before I was famous.

After the emotional farewell, I joined my agent ndes for a eting with Malaga managent in a private conference room in the club.

The room was hushed and serious as they congratulated on my achievents. One of the board mbers began, "Adriano, first of all, thank you for the glory you've brought to Málaga. Our fans will never forget your ti here."

ndes added, "We've been following the offers closely. Real Madrid has upped their bid to €135 million, and now Manchester City is apparently preparing an offer of €150 million."

I leaned forward, considering the numbers carefully. "I have thought about this deeply," I said, my voice steady.

"Personally, Manchester City is where I want to go, not Real Madrid. I would rather not play against Málaga so soon, and I feel the sincerity of Manchester City's approach is more in line with my own vision for the future.

But I won't rule out Madrid is they make an offer that surpasses City's . They have been anable to so of the changes I proposed. Let's see how much Real Madrid is willing to spend—if Manchester City outbids them, then we'll accept that offer."

There was a mont of silence as the managent exchanged glances. Finally, the president of the club stood and placed a hand on my shoulder.

"Adriano, we support your decision. Though it saddens us to see you leave, we are grateful for everything you've given this club. Even now, you are considering for our club's best interest, which is sothing that has earned our respect.

As a token of our appreciation, we will offer you honorary mbership of Málaga Club. You will always be part of our family. We hope soday evennif it's for a single minute, we will get to see you in the pitch wearing our colors."

I embraced him warmly. "Thank you. I'll always cherish my ti here, and I hope Málaga will continue to thrive."

After that, I visited my teammates and bid my farewell. Most of them already knew my departure, so it wasn't entirely unexpected. I talked with each of them, shared hugs and promised to keep in touch, and gathered together for a final night out.

Griezmann and Oblak had settled in nicely. This also served as a bonding mont for the new arrivals Bruno, Mane, and Kante. We shared laughter and jokes and decided have fun for one last ti together rather than focusing on the sadness of leaving.

Days before my arrival in Málaga, the dia had reported that Real Madrid's bid had increased to €135 million in a desperate bid to outpace Manchester City.

But just as that offer was announced, days later Manchester City responded with an even more staggering proposal—€150 million euros! A figure that nearly surpassed the previous record transfer by 1.5 tis !

Global dia outlets and fans were shocked. Every sports channel and newspaper buzzed with headlines: "Adriano's Record Transfer offer: Manchester City's €150 Million Offer Shocks the World!"

The next day, I held a press conference with Malaga managent. Reporters crowded around, microphones thrust forward.

One journalist asked, "Adriano, what are your feelings about being one of the youngest players to win both the World Cup and the Golden Ball?"

I answered calmly, "It is an honor beyond words, but my focus remains on performing on the pitch. The numbers are impressive, but they do not define my love for the ga."

Another reporter probed, "Do you feel imnse pressure now that you might beco the world's most expensive player?"

I maintained a composed smile. "Pressure exists, of course, but it is the challenge that drives . I am ready for it."

A particularly bold journalist inquired about my personal life, " What about your dating life, Adriano? Is there any special woman who might decide your next kove? Have you spoken with Blanca after returning to Spain?"

I replied simply with a shrug, "My personal life is private. I appreciate the interest, but right now, my priority is football. We are here to talk about that."

The answer only fueled further speculation, and I could sense the reporters scribbling down every word.

After the press conference, I took a quiet day to wander through Málaga. I visited the local school where I had once visited, and the hospital where I had spent so ti with the kids.

At the school, a group of kids gathered around , their eyes wide with admiration.

One little boy tugged at my sleeve, saying, "Please don't go, Adriano."

I knelt down and said softly, "I will always carry your smiles in my heart, but life must go on. Rember, every goal I score is for you guys cheering for ." Their innocent voices and hopeful eyes filled with a bittersweet warmth.

That evening, after a final round of etings with Malaga managent, I prepared for my departure. I gathered my belongings and exchanged heartfelt hugs and handshakes with the board and staff.

"Adriano, thank you for everything," one manager said, his voice thick with emotion. "We wish you all the success in the world."

I replied solemnly, "I promise to keep in touch, and Málaga will always be part of ."

Then ca the mont to say goodbye. At the airport, I stood on a small platform one last ti, addressing the loyal fans. "I am grateful for every cheer, every tear, every mont you have given . This transfer is a step for to grow and to help the club flourish financially.

With new signings and the boost you receive, I believe Málaga will beco a true force in La Liga and the Champions League. Keep supporting and believing in them, like you have done for ."

So fans cheered enthusiastically, while others wept softly. I knew that not everyone would agree with my decision, but I hoped they would understand that it was a necessary step for my growth.

After the emotional farewell, I bid adieu to Málaga and turned my attention to my next destination: Florida.

I had received an invitation from Kate, who had been persistent in her desire to show around the USA. Before departing, I took a mont with ndes. "I'm off to Florida next," I said.

ndes grinned. "Well, that ans your next transfer saga might involve beach parties and palm trees instead of press conferences and million-euro offers. Just don't enjoy yourself too much and stay fit." We laughed, the tension easing for a mont as we joked about my whirlwind life.

Kate's excitent was evident when I ssaged her: "Hey Kate,I'm coming to Florida soon." Her reply was imdiate and enthusiastic —she couldn't wait to see , to show the sights, and to share so news about her new career with .

That night, back in my room in Málaga, I reflected on the whirlwind of events. The transfer drama was now a global spectacle.

Every day brought new headlines, new figures, and new speculations. "€150 million for Adriano!" one headline scread, while social dia buzzed with fans debating whether I was making the right choice by going to City.

So supported my decision to challenge myself at Manchester City, applauding my desire to spread my wings. Others, however, lanted the thought of losing a local hero—a symbol of hope and pride for the people of Málaga.

As I lay on my bed that night, I found myself questioning my future. "If I go to England , how will I adjust there? And how will it affect my performance?"

I wondered if I should keep moving forward as I am, or perhaps seek out soone who could match my energy and passion—a partner who could stand beside through every victory and every loss.

I rembered Ronaldo's advice after we parted ways in Spain, " Focusing on the ga is all good buddy, but sotis you need to relax and let soone else share your burden. The life of a football star is stressful and pressuring, and it can be lonely sotis at the top despite everything you have.

So don't be afraid to reach out and find soone who you feel is right, but never rush into anything. Take your ti, and you'll be alright. And if you ever need advice or support, always reach out to ."

Those words felt assuring and cleared so of my hesitation. And like he said, I can take my ti and don't rush into anything. I am still 18. But my mind pondered about the upcoming trip to Florida and eting Kate.

She was interested in , I could sense that. I couldn't pretend to be dense and avoid it, I didn't want to lead her on as well. Specially when I'm still figuring things out, and long distance relationship wasn't my thing. Not to ntion her career just started.

Aside from that, The transfer drama, the offers, and the debates were all part of this tumultuous journey. I resolved that no matter what happened, I would remain true to myself, and I would not let the fear of loneliness dictate my choices.

Days later, a final press conference was held after the signing of Jas Rodriguez for €95million by Real Madrid, which basically either ant they lacked the funds to match Manchester City's offer of €150 million or have given up .

ndes also confird that their limit was around €140 million euros. This almost guaranteed that Manchester City will be my next destination.

I stood before a sea of reporters, the flashbulbs of caras capturing every expression. Questions flew at —about the staggering offers, my potential future at Manchester City, and even my personal life.

"Adriano, what does it feel like to be the most expensive player in the world?" one reporter asked sharply.

I responded calmly, "I am honored by the offers, but my focus remains on football. My goal is to challenge myself and to contribute to the success of my new tea, whover they may be."

Another reporter prodded, "Are you under pressure to succeed because of these record-breaking numbers?"

I maintained my composure. "Pressure exists in every match and every decision. I embrace it—it drives to be better every day."

Another journalist asked, " It is all but decided about your move to Manchester City. Are you sure you can change their past records and lead them to victory?"

I simply smirked, " The past is the past. I believe in the future. Even before world Cup, nobody counted us. But Portugal won by beating the top teams with our strength.

That shows football isn't just about facts. I guess you'll have to find out your answer when the season begins."

The press conference ended with a flurry of speculation. The global dia was abuzz with talk of my future move, and fans around the world debated whether my decision was the right one. So praised my determination to move to Manchester City, while others felt sad about not coming to Madrid.

Al Mubarak himself flew to Malaga to submit the finalized offer. Malaga directors accepted the offer and signed it, which officialy ended my journey at Malaga, and began my new journey at Manchester City.

He patted on the back and smiled with joy, " Welco to Manchester City Adriano! We are proud to have you joining us, let's build a legacy together."

I shook his hand with a smile," Glad to be a part of Manchester City. I won't let you down . Manchester City will win their glory back."

Al Mubarak smiled and replied, " If it's you, I believe we can do it. Also, we have already signed the players you have asked for, and started talks with so of the younger ones for winter transfer."

I grinned widely, with those players, Manchester City will destroy the balance of the Premier League.

After the conference and the signing, I spent the next day visiting familiar places in Málaga, and talking with my parents, informing them of my decision. They both supported , and promised to visit whenever they can. They didn't like staying out of Portugal for long, so I couldn't bring them with .

But I can afford it even if they wanted to visit every week from Portugal, I was the highest paid footballer in the Premier league, maybe in the world, depending on if Ronaldo's new contract surpass my initial €24 millon euros annual salary without bonuses.

ndes told he managed a huge raise for him, pushing his yearly salary to a huge sum of €24 million euros or more. But he would not disclose the exact amount due to an agreent.

That evening, after a long day of reflective visits, I prepared to leave Málaga for the next chapter of my journey.

I had arranged to et Kate in Florida—an invitation that promised a new experience and opportunity for relaxation far from the intensity of European football.

Before departing, I joined one final eting with the Malaga managent. In a quiet conference room, surrounded by familiar faces, ndes and I t with the board.

"Adriano," one board mber said warmly, "we thank you for the glory you brought to Málaga. We wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors."

I looked at them with resolve. "Thank you. This transfer will allow to challenge myself in new ways, and I hope it will also bring growth to this club."

ndes added, "The final docunts has been signed by Adriano, and Malaga can go ahead and make it official after he returns from USA."

The club president nodded and smiled, " It will be done. All the best for future in the premier league."

Shortly thereafter, I prepared to leave Málaga. At the airport, the farewell was emotional. The crowd that greeted was even larger and more passionate than before.

Tearful fans, clinging to banners and signs, begged to stay, while others cheered as I walked toward the departure gate. I took the microphone one last ti:

"I am forever grateful for the love and support of Málaga. I leave with cherished mories and a heart full of gratitude. This move is a step to challenge myself further and to help Málaga grow even stronger. I promise to carry your spirit with wherever I go."

The crowd's reaction was mixed—cheers from so, and quiet sorrow from others. I could feel their emotions as if they were my own.

After a brief farewell , I boarded the plane that would take to my next destination—Florida. Before I left, ndes smirked and said, "Well, Adriano, looks like your transfer saga is one for the history books. €150 million euros transfer fee, I wonder who can even break it! " I smiled, not saying that in future, even a €200 milion euro limit would be broken.

In Florida, Kate awaited with excitent evident in every word of her ssages. Later that day, I called her. "Kate, I'm on my way," I said softly.

Her voice was warm. "I can't wait to see you, Adriano. I've planned a lot for us—places to see, things to do. I want to show you everything the USA has to offer."

I replied, "I'm looking forward to it. It'll be a fresh start, and I'm ready for new challenges."

anwhile, Kate was busy discussing her plans with her friends, Sophia and Lucy.

In a lively conversation in her room, Lucy said, "Kate, when Adriano arrives, show him so real affection. Act like a caring girlfriend—give him that wife material vibe."

Sophia countered with a playful laugh, "Relax, Lucy. I'm just saying Kate—be yourself, but let him see you're soone he could build a future with. It's not about rushing into marriage. You aren't looking for a fling after all."

Kate's voice turned a little shy as she protested, "I'm not even his girlfriend yet, let alone his future wife!"

Sophia laughed. "I'm not suggesting you get hitched right away. But guys like Adriano, they respect a woman who shows genuine care. And after his two relationships, he might be looking for sothing stable."

Lucy chid in mischievously, "And if that doesn't work, you could always get into his bed accidentally and, well, he won't be able to avoid you!"

Sophia burst into laughter while Kate playfully threw a pillow at Lucy . "Lucy, you're too shaless!"

Lucy just shrugged, laughing. "For soone like Adriano, most won wouldn't mind that at all."

The conversations left Kate both excited and contemplative. They could sense that she was genuinely interested—not just as a fleeting fling,but as soone who might be in it for the long term.

When it was finally ti to leave, I said my farewells with a heavy heart. The city had given so much, and though I was moving on to challenge myself further at Manchester City, I knew Málaga would always be part of .

With all the transfer drama swirling—Real Madrid's escalating bids, Manchester City's jaw-dropping offer, and the dia frenzy that had followed every twist and turn—I boarded the plane to USA with clarity in my mind.

I had made my decision: Manchester City was my future. I couldn't bear the thought of facing Málaga so soon, nor could I ignore the genuine sincerity that Manchester City had shown .

Before the flight, I received one last ssage from Malaga managent: a warm wish of success and a promise that I would forever remain an honorary mber of the club. Their words, filled with gratitude and hope, gave strength as I embarked on the next chapter of my career.

The transfer drama had almost been decided as the end of June approached, and as I sat on the plane, I reflected on the wild ride of offers, emotions, and choices. The global dia had their eyes glued to every developnt—every tweet, every headline, every speculation about my future.

In that mont of solitude between flights, I thought about the future. The prospect of joining Manchester City filled with both excitent and a lingering sense of responsibility.

I was about to step onto a new stage—a place where I could challenge myself further and where the financial boost might help transform another club into sothing great.

But at the sa ti, I carried with mories of Málaga's love, the bittersweet farewells, and the faces of fans who had believed in long before I was a superstar.

The next chapter of my journey was beginning, and as I looked forward to my new life in Manchester and beyond, I felt both the weight of expectation and the exhilaration of endless possibility.

In that mont, as the plane's engines roared to life once more, I knew that my career, my personal life, and the unyielding passion that drove were all converging into a future that was as unpredictable as it was promising.

As I sat there, surrounded by the clouds, and echoes of adoration and the buzzing of global dia, I embraced the challenge ahead—ready to leave my mark on a new stage while carrying the love of Málaga and the hope of those waiting for in Manchester deep within my heart.