After Paris Saint-Germain was removed from the list, I led England to victory!

a new day.

Yan Yuan woke up very early today; he opened his eyes before the alarm clock went off.

Today is not a training day, but the schedule is still important.

Imperial College London's enrollment registration and online course applications can no longer be delayed.

Professional athletes' schedules are like wound-up machines: training, matches, media events, recovery training...

Every link must fit perfectly.

To fit Imperial College's rigorous computer science curriculum into this pace, online learning is the only option.

But this requires special approval from the school.

To minimize distractions, Yan Yuan deliberately chose the most ordinary clothes today: a slightly faded black Adidas basic hooded sweatshirt, a pair of ordinary dark blue jeans, and a pair of simple white sneakers.

He wore an equally unremarkable dark blue baseball cap on his head, the brim pulled down a little.

The only problem is that he has to drive that newly purchased Mercedes.

The behemoth started with a deep, rumbling exhaust note, standing out starkly in the quiet morning; its luxury was undeniable.

Want to keep a low profile?

There's no such thing as being low-key when it comes to this car.

Yan Yuan drove into South Kensington, where Imperial College London is located. The surrounding buildings gradually increased, exuding an air of scholarly refinement and historical significance.

When this imposing black AMG came to a steady stop in the parking lot near Imperial College London's main campus, it was hard not to attract attention.

A few boys carrying backpacks walked by in a hurry, their eyes first lingering on the car body, then looking through the car window.

The car windows were tinted with dark film, making it difficult to see clearly, but Yan Yuan was still recognized when he opened the door and got out.

"Hey! Is that Yan?" a tall, blond boy exclaimed, and his companions immediately stopped in their tracks.

"My God! It really is him! Arsenal's number 7!"

"Yan! Can we take a picture together?" Several boys excitedly surrounded him, their faces showing the eagerness typical of football fans.

Yan Yuan thought to himself, "I've been noticed after all." He then took off his baseball cap and gave a polite smile.

This is actually quite normal. Given his current level of fame, it's common for him to be recognized in public, and there's no use trying to keep a low profile.

"Good morning, guys, of course." Yan Yuan's tone was very gentle.

The phone camera clicked.

Several boys, satisfied with their group photo, wanted to chat a bit more about football, but Yan Yuan pointed to his watch: "Sorry, guys, there's a registration process at school today, so time is a bit tight."

"Yeah, yeah, we won't hold you up! Keep up the good work this season, beat Chelsea to a pulp!" The boys waved goodbye with smiles, clearly still caught up in the excitement of seeing the star player.

Yan Yuan breathed a sigh of relief, lowered his hat brim again, and strode towards the designated new student registration hall.

The spacious hall was bustling with people, young faces of all skin colors filled with curiosity and anticipation.

He tried to avoid attracting attention and quickly completed the basic procedures such as entering new student information, receiving student cards, and activating the system.

After completing the process, he received a new form.

On the form, the name "Yan Yuan" is followed by a note in parentheses: "Application for Special Learning Program (Professional Athlete)".

The real challenge is next: Yan Yuan needs to confirm the feasibility of online learning and the core requirements for face-to-face instruction and examinations.

The sign pointed to a temporary service desk labeled "Special Project Consultation/Undergraduate Program Coordination".

Yan Yuan walked over. The line wasn't long; there were only one or two people at the front.

When it was finally his turn, he tidied his hair, which had been messed up by his hat, and walked to the front of the stage.

The woman sitting behind the service counter was a young woman with an Asian appearance.

She was looking down, her fingers flying across the laptop keyboard, making a crisp, rhythmic "tap-tap" sound, as if she were processing some information.

From Yan Yuan's perspective, all he could see was her smooth black hair cascading over her shoulders, her fair profile with clear lines, a clean and sharp jawline, and a straight nose.

She wore a light gray turtleneck sweater underneath and a well-tailored light khaki short trench coat on top, exuding a calm, focused, and somewhat aloof aura, as if the surrounding noise had nothing to do with her.

"Hello, is there anything I can help you with?" the girl asked, her accent sounding very British.

The girl's voice was beautiful, and her pronunciation was equally pleasant.

It sounds much better than Yan Yuan's old man Minghan opera.

The girl raised her head and met Yan Yuan's gaze.

The moment Yan Yuan saw the other person's face, he felt a slight, inexplicable pause.

This face was even more refined than the one he had glimpsed from the side earlier. It had delicate features and fair, translucent skin, but its calm eyes seemed to hold snow that never melts, carrying a scrutinizing and unapproachable aloofness, as well as a slight sense of "oppression".

Well, how should I put it?

This sense of pressure is completely different from the physical pressure exerted by opposing defenders on the field.

This is a sense of distance that directly affects people's hearts.

Even though he was used to playing football in front of tens of thousands of people, he subconsciously straightened his back and even felt a slight tension, unlike his usual vigilance when facing opponents on the field.

For Yan Yuan, it even made his heart race.

The girl looked up and saw an Asian boy in front of her dressed very simply but with an undeniably tall and handsome figure. Even with a baseball cap, his good looks were still evident. He had a high nose bridge, well-defined features, and a youthful innocence in his eyes.

Her first impression of Yan Yuan was that he was probably another Asian student from a wealthy family who was looking for "advantages" in his studies.

A formulaic smile briefly appeared on the girl's face: "Hello, I'm Lin Jianwei, a graduate teaching assistant on duty at the freshman information point this week. You can call me senior. Is there anything I can help you with?"

Lin Jianwei's tone was clear, fluent, and professional, yet like her eyes, it carried a layer of distance.

Upon hearing her name "Lin Jianwei" and considering her demeanor, Yan Yuan was basically certain that she was Chinese.

Without further hesitation, he spoke directly in standard Mandarin.

"Hello, senior, I'm Yan Yuan."

He paused briefly, then clearly stated his purpose:

"Well... here's the thing, I'm a freshman and also a professional player for Arsenal Football Club. I'd like to apply for a special online learning program and also want to know in detail which core courses require in-person instruction and exams on campus."

Yan Yuan specifically emphasized the word "must" to show that he did not want to shirk all responsibility.

Lin Jianwei was slightly taken aback, clearly not expecting the other party to speak such standard and fluent Chinese, and even more so, not expecting the other party to immediately reveal their identity as a "professional player".

Her brow furrowed very slightly.

A professional player? Arsenal? Yan Yuan? This name sounds familiar...

A guy on the street? A poster outside a supermarket?

Unfortunately, Lin Jianwei has absolutely no interest in football, even though she lives in London, the holy land of football.

She usually only reads news in the technology and finance sectors, and when she reads sports news, she is only interested in tennis and badminton.

In Lin Jianwei's rapidly working mind, a clear logical chain instantly formed: another rich kid, possibly a hobbyist "sports star," trying to take a shortcut to get a diploma from a top university by relying on his status and fame.

Such people are not uncommon in any top university in the world.

A faint hint of doubt flashed in her cool gaze, and her tone unconsciously took on a calm analytical quality as she spoke.

"Yan Yuan, I understand your situation, but the computer-related majors at Imperial College London have a very high level of course intensity and depth."

Especially in the foundational stages, core courses such as algorithms, data structures, operating systems, and discrete mathematics have a high theoretical depth and heavy workload. Seminars and lab sessions are indispensable parts of learning, not only for knowledge input but, more importantly, for real-time interaction, intellectual exchange, and hands-on practice with professors, teaching assistants, and classmates. This is crucial for truly understanding and mastering the knowledge. The university has extremely strict approval processes for online learning models, especially at the undergraduate level.

Lin Jianwei spoke at a steady pace, clearly and logically, and continued.

"Even if online learning is approved, it does not mean that the requirements will be lowered. On the contrary, the requirements for self-discipline and time management will be very demanding."

You will need to independently digest a large amount of complex theoretical knowledge, complete intensive programming and analysis assignments, and also cope with the highest-level exams—these exams must be taken on campus and allow no room for error.

Her tone was serious, with a rational "coldness." At the same time, she objectively explained the difficulty of the learning to Yan Yuan. As a teaching assistant, she fulfilled her responsibilities.

In Lin Jianwei, Yan Yuan sensed a pure dedication to knowledge and scholarship, a focus and principledness that he deeply understood and was essential for pursuing excellence.

Her "coldness" stems from her professional sense of responsibility and adherence to standards.

This actually made Yan Yuan feel very at ease.

In any industry, people who are dedicated to their work deserve respect.

Moreover, Lin Jianwei's aloof yet focused demeanor did indeed stir a subtle chord in his heart.

Yan Yuan admitted that he was attracted, or more precisely, attracted by this unique and powerful aura.

He didn't claim to be a star player, but responded in the same calm, clear, and factual tone.

Yan Yuan organized his words to demonstrate his ability to balance his studies and football, saying,

"Thank you for the explanation. I fully understand the school's requirements and the senior's concerns. It is precisely because my studies are important that I need to coordinate to the greatest extent possible."

To illustrate my learning ability, I can provide some background information.

First, I passed the German university entrance exam with a total score of 1.1.

Secondly, before joining Arsenal in the English Premier League, I was a player for Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga, where I was a key player and helped the team win the Bundesliga title last season and reach the Champions League semi-finals.

Finally, in the recently concluded World Cup, I was a member of the England national team, winning the Golden Boot with eight goals and also being named the Best Young Player, helping England to a third-place finish.

"I'm saying all this to demonstrate that all of this requires me to maintain extremely strict self-discipline, efficient time management, and a rapid learning and adaptation ability under the pressure of high-intensity competitions and tight schedules."

Yan Yuan explained that he has a good ability to adapt to new environments and learn new knowledge.

Then, he took two file folders out of his backpack and pushed them in front of Lin Jianwei.

"Senior, this is an official letter from Arsenal Football Club, formally declaring my status as a professional player and outlining my major match and training obligations throughout the year, indicating that the time conflict is an objective fact."

This is my German high school transcript and bilingual certificate in English and German, both notarized by the embassy.

Yan Yuan's documents were neatly bound, and important information was clearly visible.

Lin Jianwei looked at him, her calmness replaced by a hint of surprise.

She opened the notarized English document and quickly scanned the clearly defined numbers: 1.1!

In Germany, this score signifies a truly top student.

She carefully examined Arsenal's letter, noting its elegant letterhead (though she wasn't familiar with it), formal signature and seal, and detailed content.

Lin Jianwei looked up at the boy in front of her again.

That face finally overlapped with the image of the spirited young football star on the giant GG sign on the streets of London that I remembered.

It really is him, Yan Yuan, who appears in various guises among the various male characters.

Yan Yuan, dressed in a simple hoodie, had a calmness in his eyes that was different from his appearance on GG, and a kind of persistence toward his goal.

Lin Jianwei's doubts dissipated, replaced by surprise and a little apology.

A fleeting, barely perceptible blush crossed her mind, but she immediately suppressed it with her professionalism.

She regained her usual competence, her tone softened noticeably, and she resumed the professional guidance expected of a teaching assistant:

"I understand, Yan Yuan. Your materials are very well prepared and clear."

Applying for online learning, especially for a professional athlete in such a special situation, hinges on demonstrating your matching learning ability and a well-structured learning plan—both of which you have provided strong evidence.

Lin Jianwei quickly operated the computer system to help Yan Yuan complete the preliminary information verification and registration confirmation of the new student system, and marked his special application status.

"Basic registration is complete. Regarding the special application for online learning," she said earnestly, "I suggest you take these materials directly to Professor Chris, the course coordinator for your computer science department, for a face-to-face meeting."

He has extensive experience handling special learning needs projects and has greater authority to determine the feasibility of specific course exemptions and online tutoring models. His office is on the second floor of this building, room 205.

"Okay, thank you, senior! Thank you so much for your help!" Yan Yuan sincerely thanked her, and he could feel the professionalism and pragmatism that came with Lin Jianwei's changed attitude.

"You're welcome." Lin Jian nodded slightly and added, "Professor Chris is usually in his office in the morning. Good luck." Her words were still concise, but the previous coldness and aloofness had faded considerably.

After saying goodbye, Yan Yuan went straight up to the second floor.

He quickly found house number 205. He knocked on the door.

"Come in!" came a strong, resonant voice from inside.

Upon entering, one is greeted by a typical scholar's office: the four walls are almost entirely surrounded by floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, crammed with books and journals of various thicknesses and colors.

The table was piled high with documents and an open laptop.

In the center of the room, an elderly professor with gray hair, wearing gold-rimmed glasses, and possessing a refined yet energetic demeanor, was looking up.

When he saw who had entered, the expression on his face instantly changed from seriousness as he contemplated his work to unbelievable surprise. His eyes lit up, and he almost stood up.

"My God! You are... Yan! Yan Yuan! Arsenal's number seven! The World Cup Golden Boot winner!" Professor Chris Harris exclaimed excitedly, his face beaming with undisguised fanatical joy.

"You've finally arrived!! Please come in! Please have a seat! I'm Chris Harris, a computer science professor and a die-hard Arsenal fan! I can't believe you chose my field of study!"

Yan Yuan was a little embarrassed by the professor's enthusiasm, so he quickly shook hands and sat down.

"Hello, Professor Harris, it's a pleasure to meet you and an honor to study under your guidance." He briefly explained his purpose again and presented Arsenal's letter, his personal transcript, and certificates.

Professor Chris looked at the materials, nodding repeatedly and muttering to himself.

"Oh, a genius! A true genius! He plays so well on the field, and he's academically outstanding too! 1.1! God, this is amazing!"

He did not make things difficult for Yan Yuan's "special online learning application" in the slightest.

In his view, it was incredibly fortunate for Imperial College London's Computer Science department to be able to recruit a student who was both a top-tier athlete and a top-tier academic achiever!

And he's the core player of his beloved team!

He readily agreed:

"No problem! Yan! Of course, no problem! Your situation perfectly meets the requirements of the special learning agreement. This letter makes it very clear that the schedule of the top professional league is an uncontrollable factor."

Your academic background is solid enough! We will tailor the most suitable online learning plan for you, and we will give priority to online teaching and assignment submission for all aspects that can be conducted online.

Regarding seminars and lab sessions, we will try to schedule them during periods with minimal overlap or conflict with your competition schedule, and provide intensive tutoring during any breaks you may have. Final exams for all core courses are mandatory and must be taken on campus without fail. My teaching assistant will contact you with specific arrangements. Oh, and by the way!

The professor seemed to remember something, and slapped his forehead.

"My teaching assistant... wait a minute..."

"Excuse me... is the teaching assistant you mentioned Lin Jianwei?" Yan Yuan seized the opportunity and asked in a natural, curious tone, with just the right amount of inquiry.

"She guided me here from the information point downstairs. I found her to be very skilled. If my academic coordination involves basic courses, is she in charge?"

"Lin? You mean Jessie Lin?" Professor Chris was clearly impressed with his star pupil.

"Yes, sir, it's that senior student downstairs."

"That's right, she's my teaching assistant. She's an exceptionally talented student. She's only 21 years old and graduated last year from Zhejiang University in China with outstanding grades. She came here to pursue a research-based master's degree in finance within our computer science department. Her programming skills, mathematical logic, and self-discipline are amazing. She's one of my most capable teaching assistants right now, and she handles complex problems quickly and accurately!"

"If you have any detailed questions about academic matters in the future, especially regarding the initial coordination of the core course framework, you can rest assured to communicate with her. She is very reliable!"

Yan Yuan nodded seriously. He had already "found out" information about his senior. He continued.

"I see. She does indeed impress me with her strong professional skills. Professor, I might need to contact her to confirm some details regarding system operation or other basic matters. Would it be convenient for me to give you her work email address? That would be more efficient."

"Of course, no problem at all." Professor Chris, without any suspicion, readily took out a sticky note, smoothly wrote down Lin Jianwei's official teaching assistant email address, and handed it to Yan Yuan.

"This is her official email address, please write it down."

"Thank you so much, Professor, thank you so much!" Yan Yuan calmly accepted the sticky note.

He had already memorized Lin Jianwei's general information:

Lin Jianwei, 21 years old, first-year graduate student specializing in financial computing, Chinese, graduated from Zhejiang University, top-notch professional skills, email...

get.

Next, Yan Yuan and the enthusiastic Professor Chris exchanged ideas for more than ten minutes about the general content of their major and some details of operating online platforms. The professor was in high spirits throughout and even expressed his desire to watch his game at the Emirates Stadium if he had the chance.

Yan Yuan responded with a smile to each one, demonstrating the high emotional intelligence expected of an outstanding student and club player.

I left the office and walked back down the brightly lit corridor.

Yan Yuan carefully tucked the sticky note with the email address on it into the pocket of his wallet.

The image of that girl with slightly furrowed brows, a cold and aloof demeanor, and sharp, piercing eyes and words that I had seen at the information desk downstairs just now kept replaying in my mind.

Getting his college application sorted out should have been his main goal, but at this moment, another goal seemed to be stirring up subtle ripples, like a small pebble quietly thrown into a still lake.

Yan Yuan glanced at the time; the recovery session at the training base was about to begin.

As he walked out of Imperial College's magnificent teaching building and prepared to drive back, his mood was different from when he arrived.

With the car windows closed, blocking out the cool early autumn breeze, Yan Yuan's lips curved upwards in a barely perceptible, tiny arc.