Master Tutoring Class

Chapter 264 Market and Herring

Dutch media.

Source: De Telegraaf
Reporter: Van der Heist.

"At the Amstel Stadium, Amsterdam's football philosophy is being quietly rewritten by a young man from the East. 17-year-old Chinese midfielder Wei Lai is no longer just a 'potential star,' he has become the most important piece of the team's tactical puzzle!"

“When we analyze Wei Lai’s games, what’s most amazing is his ‘football philosophy’. In the 4-2-3-1 system, he often plays as a right defensive midfielder, and his first touch of the ball is almost always preparing for the next pass or getting rid of the opponent. This is an innate spatial awareness.”

Data Highlights:

The team had a 92.7% pass completion rate in this match, and a 91% pass completion rate in the opponent's half.

He made 4 key passes, 1 assist, and 1 direct free-kick goal in this match.

His style inevitably brings to mind De Jong. There are many De Jongs in the Netherlands, but we're talking about the talented midfielder currently playing for Valencia. He excels at identifying weaknesses and turning calmly under pressure. He not only executes tactical instructions but also reads the game independently and makes adjustments, making his teammates better.

We can be certain of one thing: this 17-year-old has essentially secured his place in one of the top five European leagues.

French media.

Source: L'Équipe.

Reporter: Philippe Jean LeBlanc.

"In Amsterdam, football is not just a sport, it is an art. And today, one of the most outstanding interpreters of this art is a Chinese boy with black hair and yellow skin - Wei Lai."

"He's like a symphony conductor standing on the midfield platform, directing every note of Amsterdam Athletic's attack with his feet!"

"His style is full of 'elegance' and 'suddenness.' When he receives the ball, it's as if he infuses it with magic. His clean and simple handling always catches the eye. He has the ability to turn the mundane into a deadly moment. This is the mark of a genius."

"We're not just talking about his technique, but also his composure and vision beyond his years. He simplifies complex issues, and watching him play is a pure aesthetic pleasure."

"Fans of Atlético Amsterdam have created a new song for him, with lyrics that go: 'He came from the foot of the Great Wall, yet became our prince on the banks of the canal.' On the soil of the Dutch philosophy of total football, a football flower from the East is blooming brilliantly. Wei Lai is the hope of Chinese football, and also a rising artist in the world of football who cannot be ignored!"

British media.

Source: Sky Sports
Reporter: Weber Cooper.

"According to our understanding, several Premier League clubs, including Manchester City, Teker Moscow, and Taurhamletz, have sent scouts to observe 17-year-old Chinese midfielder Wei Lai. This player, dubbed the 'new De Jong' by the Dutch media, is attracting the attention of top clubs with his phenomenal performance."

"Wei Lai's value is multi-dimensional. First, he perfectly fits the all-around requirements of modern football for midfielders, with exquisite technique, accurate passing, and active defense!"

"Secondly, the enormous supermarket he represents is something that no business club can ignore."

"A Premier League club sporting director, who wished to remain anonymous, told us: 'Wei is a special case; his playing style is very 'European,' and he has virtually no adaptation problems. We believe he has the ability to establish himself in the Premier League, and signing him would not only be a strengthening of the team on the pitch, but also a huge commercial investment.'"

"Athletic Amsterdam's expected price tag for him will not be less than 5000 million euros, but if he can continue his outstanding performance in the league, or if Amsterdam qualifies for the Champions League and performs well in the Champions League, this number could soar. The perfect combination of platform and commercial potential, a fierce battle for Wei may be about to unfold in the near future!"

The hashtag "#WEILAI" became a trending topic on Twitter and continued to gain traction.

A highlight video of Wei Lai from this season, posted by the Amsterdam Athletic account, garnered over a million views within 24 hours, prompting numerous comments from fans.

"His play is so intelligent; watching him pass the ball is a real treat!"

"China can actually produce a midfielder like this? Unbelievable!"

"Please have the club sign him in the winter transfer window; we need that kind of creativity!"

Inside the villa, Wei Lai stared in disbelief at the various news reports in his hands.

Elant Roy's publicity methods cover a wide range of channels, including traditional media, independent media, and social media.

The way these guys reported things made Wei Lai feel embarrassed!

All-around?

When did I become all-powerful?
Some Amsterdam fans even made their own songs?
This is just baseless speculation!
An unnamed sporting director from the Premier League? That's obviously fabricated!

Regardless, this promotional method is indeed very effective; at the very least, Wei Lai's social media following is increasing rapidly.

This boost comes not only from the support of domestic fans, but also from some international fans who are paying attention to them through this kind of promotion.

"De Rong? Why De Rong?"

Roy frowned as he looked at the Dutch media reports. "It should be changed to Rafael! What about the future midfield maestro? That term hasn't appeared even once. I even specifically pointed it out, honestly!"

Wei Lai felt embarrassed, but Luo Yi looked dissatisfied.

You can't even blow a horn properly!
A lazy bum who only wants money and never puts in any effort!

But regardless, the goal has been achieved.

Roy looked at Wei Lai and smiled, "After this report, you've entered the sights of the major European leagues. They will continue to promote and report on you. Once you're in the Champions League, even if I don't do anything, these media outlets will actively pay attention to and report on you!"

Wei Lai scratched his head; "Is this really necessary?"

He felt that the boasting had gone a bit too far!
Roy: "Modern football is a commercial operation model. Performance, hype, and publicity are all indispensable. There are so many talented people in Europe, why would they choose you? Through these media outlets, they showcase you to that stage, demonstrate your value, and leave a mark on their minds. When they need this type of player, they will naturally think of you!"

Wei Lai grinned: "But some things look too fake at first glance. The fact that Manchester City, Mosktl, and Taurhamletz sent scouts is easy to expose."

"What do you mean by 'wearing clothes'?" Roy chuckled. "They did send scouts to observe you!"

"what?"

Wei Lai was stunned.

"Is this true?"

“Of course!” Roy laughed; “Moreover, Mosktl seems to be paying special attention to you. They even contacted me to discuss the possibility of a transfer, but I held them back. You’re developing very well right now. You’re already getting enough attention and performance at Atlético Amsterdam. There’s no need to rush into challenging the Premier League and starting a new adventure!”

"Manchester City are also interested in you and have been contacting me frequently. However, I'm not sure if they're just driving up the price because Mosktl contacted you, or if they genuinely want to acquire you!"

He paused, then waved his hand and laughed, "No matter what, as long as the performance continues, even a fake can become real!"

"At the latest, two full seasons later, as long as you maintain your current level," Roy said confidently. "I'll arrange for you to join a top European club!"

Wei Lai shook his head, feeling dizzy from the media's praise.

He stood up and began to dress: "I need to go out."

"Go to Dennis Chilbourne's place?" Roy asked without looking up.

Wei Lai nodded.

Dennis Chilburn invited Wei to lunch. This guy rarely invites teammates, but being invited by him almost means that he has completely integrated into the core circle of Amsterdam Sport.

After all, Atlético Amsterdam is a Dutch football club, and the majority of its players are Dutch.

Dennis Zierben served as the medium through which Wei Lai and this group could communicate harmoniously.

Since it was his first time visiting, Wei Lai couldn't come empty-handed. He planned to bring some local specialties that his parents had mailed from Bohai Port.

"Is this all you brought?" Roy glanced at Wei Lai's meager gifts and shook his head. "Wait a minute!"

Roy went upstairs and came down again, carrying a beautifully packaged bottle of red wine.

"Take this!"

Wei Lai hadn't drunk much red wine before and didn't know much about the brands.

But if Roy put it out there, it must have been quite expensive.

"It must be very expensive, right?"

Roy laughed, "This is a worthwhile investment!"

Wei Lai smiled; "I'll make you a fortune!"

"Hahahaha!" Roy laughed loudly, "I firmly believe it!"

Carrying the gifts in his hand, Wei Lai rode his electric bike onto the asphalt road.

The cool weather in November, the clear blue sky, the sunshine, the shimmering light on the canal, and the passing boats all contribute to a unique urban charm.

This is the first time that Wei Lai's family has visited the Netherlands.

Dennis Ziel is a native of Amsterdam and lives with his parents.

His house is a small villa located in the city center.

The beautiful houses and canals of Amsterdam are almost all located in this area.

Despite the large number of tourists and the strong commercial atmosphere, it also has a sense of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle.

Dennis Chilburn's villa is located in a secluded area with two entrances, each guarded by a doorman, and entry and exit are recorded.

The surrounding area is planted with various trees and grass, which not only beautifies the space but also blocks noise and ensures privacy.

Wei Lai rode along the internal road for a while and soon saw Dennis Chilburn at the entrance.

"Hey! Dude, you rode this here?"

Dennis Chilburn was both amused and exasperated.

This distance must be at least 5 kilometers.

Wei Lai: "I only use it as a means of transportation."

Although Wei Lai was learning Dutch, he wasn't fluent enough and needed a moment to process it. "A gift!"

Wei Lai handed over the gift he was holding.

Dennis Chilburn warmly embraced Wei Lai before leading him into the house.

The house wasn't big, with two floors, and the layout was the same as Wei Lai's house: the upstairs was the living area, and the downstairs was the living room.

Dennis Chilburn's parents also warmly welcomed Wei Lai.

Wei Lai finds socializing exhausting; he needs to listen carefully to the other person's language, translate it in his mind, and understand its meaning.

Therefore, Wei Lai's communication seemed very awkward.

But Denise Chilblain's parents had a better impression of Wei Lai; someone who respected the local language and tried to adapt couldn't be too bad.

Although sometimes Wei Lai couldn't understand and looked at them with a blank expression.

After lunch, old Chilburn said with a smile, "Danny, take good care of your friends. Now it's your time!"

"Let's go upstairs!"

Dennis Chilburne pulled Wei Lai upstairs to his room.

The walls are covered with posters of various star players, there is a PS5 game console, and various jerseys obtained through exchanges are hanging in the corner. On the right wall, there are trophies and certificates, as well as some commemorative group photos.

"They've always been an A-level team!"

Looking at these group photos, Wei Lai realized that Dennis Chilburne had always been in Amsterdam's youth academy's A-level team and had been a prodigy since childhood.

"I started playing in U18 when I was fifteen, then joined the reserve team at sixteen and played for two seasons, and then joined the first team at eighteen, and I've been playing ever since!"

Dennis Zilburn looked at Wei Lai and found him staring at him blankly.

He grinned and took out his phone.

"Alright, let's use translation software appropriately!"

Wei Lai wanted to learn Dutch, so Dennis Zilburne was creating a language environment for him.

Unfortunately, communication is too difficult.

After using translation software, their communication finally became smoother.

"What is China like?" Dennis Chilburn asked curiously; "Does kung fu really exist?"

Wei Lai laughed and said, "It might exist, but I've never seen it. Do I look like someone who can fight?"

Dennis Chilburn nodded; "Indeed not strong enough. You must be a genius where you're from!"

Wei Lai shook his head; "In fact, I only entered the A-level youth training team when I was 15 years old. Before that, I was always in the C-level team!"

"God!"

Dennis Chilbourne couldn't believe it.

Wei Lai shrugged: "That's the truth. He suddenly had a breakthrough and can play football now."

Dennis Zilburn: "Unbelievable, you played so well."

"It's alright! Hahaha!" Wei Lai didn't try to be overly modest.

The two chatted in the room for a while, then Dennis Chilbourne stood up and said, "Let's go!"

"Where to?" Wei Lai asked.

"You want to learn about this city, right? I'll show you around!"

Wei Lai immediately stood up.

"Drive my car?" Dennis Chilburn picked up his car keys.

Wei Lai shook his head and took out his electric scooter keys.

"Ride my ride!"

They drove the electric car, with Dennis Chilburn on the back, and left the villa area.

Dennis Chilbourne did not lead Wei Lai to the city center or the canal, but instead took him to some more residential areas.

This is the most authentic Amsterdam.

Sunlight filters through the sycamore trees along the canal, casting dappled shadows on the stone path.

The electric car was now driven by Dennis Chilburne, and they navigated the narrow alleyways of the Jordan district—Amsterdam’s oldest neighborhood, and the ‘real Netherlands’ that his local teammate Dennis Chilburne was going to show him.

"Forget those travel brochures!" Dennis Chilbone slammed on the brakes, bracing one foot against the weathered bridge railing.

"Let me show you how we live!"

They stopped in front of a coffee shop without a sign.

The wooden door was pushed open, the bell rang, and the aroma of roasted beans wafted out.

A vintage Elephelter jersey hangs on the wall—a touch of humor from the owner, despite Atlético Amsterdam being fierce rivals of Elephelter.

"Two coffees!" Dennis Chilbong ordered in Dutch, then turned to Wei Lai: "They only accept cash here, just like 20 years ago!"

Wei Lai noticed the blue and white porcelain jar on the counter—made in Jingdezhen.

Once a symbol of wealth during the Dutch Golden Age, it now serves as a container for biscuits.

This cultural interweaving made him feel as if Chinese porcelain from four hundred years ago was guiding him, a Chinese player.

They pushed their electric bikes through the market.

The fishmonger recognized Dennis Chilburne and Wei Lai, and shouted the Amsterdam Athletic slogan, then handed them two herrings.

“Eat it raw!”

Dennis Chilbourne demonstrated by tilting his head back and swallowing.

Wei Lai looked at the herring and immediately did as instructed.

The sweet, briny taste of the sea fish exploded in my mouth, and applause and laughter erupted around me.

"Is it good?" the fishmonger asked Wei Lai with a mocking look.

Wei Lai looked pained.

"good to eat!"

Hahahahahaha!

The people around laughed even louder.

At this moment, he was not an outsider, but a neighbor accepted by the community.

The afternoon sun turned the canal golden.

They sat on the deck of their friend's houseboat, condensation from beverage bottles staining the wooden planks with dark marks.

The neighbors were trimming geraniums on the shore, and a radio was playing Dutch folk songs.

"look!"

Dennis Chilbourne pointed to the three-hundred-year-old gabled houses.

"They're crooked, but still solid, just like our team. Imperfect, but with a strong foundation!"

Boys are playing football on the community field in the evening.

Upon seeing Wei Lai and Dennis Chilburn, the children screamed and surrounded them.

Wei Lai was pushed out to guard the goal, and he deliberately let a few balls slip by, making the children celebrate as if they had won a championship.

One of the Chinese boys shouted in Mandarin, "I want to play football at Amsterdam Arena in the future!"

Wei Lai smiled and patted his head, just like his coach had done years ago.

On the return journey, the canal was lit up, and Wei Lai remembered Dennis Chilburne's words.

"The secret of Amsterdam is not in the tourist attractions, but in these everyday corners. We are not good at expressing ourselves, but we will engrave the welcome into our lives."

As I pushed open the villa's gate, the evening breeze carried the sound of church bells.

Wei Lai thought for a moment and then sent a message to his family.

"Today, I not only saw the scenery, but also touched the soul of this city!"

He knew that tomorrow during training, the breeze from these canals, the taste of herring, and the laughter of children would all become the strength in his steps.

Wei Chenggong: "?? What happened to my son?"

Wei Lai: "Nothing's wrong, go to sleep!"

(End of this chapter)