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

The time has come; the Ballon d'Or awards ceremony, the annual grand event of world football, has officially begun.

French football legend David Ginola walked gracefully and elegantly to the center of the stage.

The spotlight shone on him, and the entire venue fell silent instantly, with only the faint clicking of camera shutters remaining.

"Ladies and gentlemen, friends from the football world," Ginola's voice came through the microphone, clear and magnetic.

Welcome to the 2018 Ballon d'Or awards ceremony! Tonight, we will witness the awarding of the highest individual honor in football!

He looked around the entire venue, his gaze sweeping over the glittering faces of the audience.

"This year, we have witnessed many extraordinary performances and unforgettable moments, but ultimately, after voting by journalists worldwide, the winner of the Golden Globe Award is…"

He paused deliberately, creating suspense.

The camera quickly switched between the faces of several leading candidates: Ronaldo looked focused, Messi had a calm expression, and Modric slightly pursed his lips...

Yan Yuan sat down next to Lin Jianwei, and the two of them held their breath.

"Luca Modric!" Ginola announced clearly, her voice filled with heartfelt admiration.

"Wow—!" The entire audience erupted in a huge gasp and followed by thunderous applause.

This result was indeed unexpected for many people!

Ginola began reading the reasons for Modric's award:

"Luka Modric! This Croatian midfield maestro! With his unparalleled vision, accurate passing, tireless running, and leadership in crucial moments, he led the Croatian national team to a historic World Cup final!"

At the same time, as Real Madrid's midfield linchpin, he helped the team lift the Champions League trophy three times in a row! He was the metronome on the field, the soul of the team! His performance deserved the Ballon d'Or!

The applause grew even louder.

Modric stood up, his face showing incredible excitement and a humble smile.

He straightened his suit, hugged his teammates and friends one by one, and then walked steadily toward the podium.

"Xiao Yan, is Modric really that good? How does he compare to Messi and Ronaldo?"

Lin Jianwei asked Yan Yuan beside him in a low voice, her tone filled with surprise.

Although her understanding of football has deepened day by day, the Ballon d'Or winner still surprised her.

Yan Yuan nodded, leaned close to her ear, and whispered.

"Modric is amazing on another level. He grew up in war-torn Croatia and practically played football in a refugee camp. He experienced hardships that are hard for ordinary people to imagine."

His hard work and resilience in getting to where he is today are truly admirable.

"Grown up in the flames of war?" Lin Jianwei's eyes widened in surprise as she looked at the man on the stage who was receiving the Golden Globe Award with tears in his eyes, and a sense of respect welled up in her heart.

"That's amazing..."

Modric stood in front of the microphone, his voice slightly choked:

"Thank you! Thank you everyone! This award... is so special to me! It doesn't just belong to me personally; it belongs to my homeland Croatia, and to all those who never gave up on their dreams during those difficult years..."

Modric's speech was sincere and moving, once again earning him a standing ovation.

Modric finished his speech.

According to the Ballon d'Or award ceremony procedure, after the Ballon d'Or is awarded, the list of the top 30 players in the Ballon d'Or rankings will be announced.

However, the specific rankings of the top three will be revealed at the end.

After Modric's name was displayed at the top of the screen as the Ballon d'Or winner, Ginola spoke again:

"Now, let's reveal the second and third place winners of the 2018 Golden Globe Awards!"

All eyes were once again focused on the large screen. After a brief pause, the scene changed:

Second place: Cristiano Ronaldo

Third place: Yan Yuan

"Wow!" Another round of exclamations and applause erupted from the audience.

Cristiano Ronaldo's name appearing second is not surprising, but Yan Yuan, who is only 18 years old, is ranked third in his first Ballon d'Or nomination.

This is undoubtedly an amazing achievement.

The camera immediately captured Cristiano Ronaldo, who smiled and waved to the camera and the audience, displaying the composure of a superstar.

The camera also panned to Yan Yuan, who wore a humble smile and nodded slightly to those around him.

Lin Jianwei excitedly grasped his hand, her eyes filled with pride.

The suspense surrounding the Golden Globe Awards has been resolved.

Next came the presentation of the Kopa Award, symbolizing the best young player of the year.

The competition for this award is equally fierce, with all nominees being exceptionally talented future stars.

Ginola stood on the stage, her voice once again filled with suspense:

"Next up are the Kopa Awards! Let's see who will be the brightest young star of 2018!"

The big screen displayed photos and names of several candidates: Mbappe, Yan Yuan, De Ligt, Arnold, Kluivert...

The atmosphere at the scene became tense again.

The camera skillfully switched to both of the two biggest favorites at the same time.

Yan Yuan and Mbappe.

Mbappe sat in the Paris Saint-Germain section, his young face showing a hint of tense anticipation, his fingers unconsciously tapping the armrest of his seat.

Yan Yuan sat in an area not far from Mbappe. He tried to remain calm, but his tightly pursed lips and slightly tense jawline betrayed his inner tension.

He could clearly hear the powerful beating of his heart in his chest.

Lin Jianwei was extremely nervous.

She held Yan Yuan's hand tightly, her palms slightly sweaty, her eyes fixed on Ginola on the stage, as if trying to read the answer from his expression.

Genola slowly opened the envelope in her hand, her gaze sweeping across the entire room, a mysterious smile curving her lips.

The winner of the 2018 Kopa Award is...

He deliberately dragged out the tone, whetting everyone's appetite.

"Arsenal Football Club, Yan Yuan!!!"

"Boom—!" A huge burst of applause and cheers erupted instantly, sweeping through the entire venue like a tsunami.

"Yan! Congratulations!" Ginola's voice came through the microphone.

The camera instantly focused on Yan Yuan.

A radiant smile spread across his face, and his eyes shone with excitement.

He immediately turned around and looked at Lin Jianwei beside him.

Lin Jianwei's eyes reddened with excitement, and her face was filled with undisguised ecstasy.

Yan Yuan opened his arms and gently embraced her, placing a tender and elegant kiss on her smooth cheek.

Lin Jianwei hugged him back and whispered something quickly in his ear that only the two of them could hear.

"Go for it, Xiao Yan, you're the best!"

Yan Yuan nodded, took a deep breath, and nodded to Lin Jianwei.

Then, he straightened his suit, bowed slightly to the applauding crowd below the stage, and wore a humble yet confident smile.

Then, with steady steps, under the gaze of countless eyes and amidst thunderous applause, he walked step by step toward the podium that symbolized the highest honor for young players.

Yan Yuan accepted the uniquely designed Copa Trophy from Ginola.

The trophy was heavy and gleamed. He walked to the microphone, adjusted its height, and wore his signature sunny smile.

"Wow! Thank you! Thank you everyone!" His voice, carrying through the microphone, trembled slightly with excitement, but he quickly regained his composure.

"To be honest, standing here, holding this trophy, feels a bit... unreal. You know, just over a year ago, I was worried about whether I should consider changing my career path, like... opening a Chinese restaurant? Or helping my dad move goods in the warehouse."

Yan Yuan's humorous self-deprecation lightened the atmosphere considerably.

Yan Yuan continued.

"Jokes aside, receiving the Kopa Award is a great honor and a huge encouragement for me."

But this honor does not belong to me alone.

It belongs to everyone who lent me a hand, gave me a push, or even just smiled at me during my "fantastic journey."

"Some people may know a little about my story. In the summer of 2017, I was at my second home in my football career, the Paris Saint-Germain youth academy."

The "parents" at Paris Saint-Germain were much stricter with their children. At that time, I wasn't exactly outstanding, so leaving that home was exactly what I expected.

It felt like going to a party with a invitation, only to find they sent it to the wrong address. It was pretty confusing for me.

The laughter from the audience grew even louder.

"But fate is a very interesting thing."

It closed a door, and then opened... well, I should say kicked open a window for me in Hoffenheim, Germany.

Thank you Hoffenheim FC, thank you to my teammates! Especially those brothers who were still willing to pass me the ball when I wasn't familiar with Germany! Without you, there would be no Bundesliga title, and I wouldn't be standing here.

"I especially want to thank Coach Julian Nagelsmann!"

When Yan Yuan spoke of this name, his tone was full of respect.

"Nasser, if you're watching the live stream, I want to say: Thank you! Thank you for believing in a 'returned' young man that summer!"

You gave me the opportunity and taught me how to survive in the top league, and even... shine occasionally!

You are not only a tactical mastermind, but also a mentor who knows how to ignite the passion in the hearts of young people! I would also like to share this award with you.

"After my time at Hoffenheim, fate brought me to London, to Arsenal, and to Wenger."

Yan Yuan paused for a moment, then spoke again.

"Coach, I know you're watching. Thank you, thank you for being willing to pay... well, pay a transfer fee that makes many people think 'Arsenal has finally gone mad'!"

This remark drew laughter from the audience.

In the summer transfer window of 2018, Arsenal paid an unprecedented transfer fee to acquire Yan Yuan, second only to Neymar's release clause.

Yan Yuan continued.

"Thank you for your trust, freedom, and guidance! You made me realize that football is not just about running and shooting; it is art, philosophy, and an elegant dance under pressure!"

It is a great honor for me to play under your guidance! I will continue to work hard so that you can lose less hair and have fewer wrinkles on your face.

After saying that, Yan Yuan winked at the camera.

At this moment, in his London home, Professor Wenger sat in front of the television, watching his spirited disciple on the screen and listening to his sincere and humorous words, and his eyes instantly welled up with tears.

He took off his glasses, gently wiped the corners of his eyes with a handkerchief, his face showing relief, emotion, and immense pride.

Nash, who was watching the ceremony from Germany, was also moved and applauded. This was his proudest disciple.

"Then, thank you Arsenal, thank you to my teammates, Ramsey, Odegaard, Aubameyang, Pepe, Rodri, Achraf, Cancelo, Saka... and all my Gunner brothers! Without your support on and off the pitch, I might still be adjusting to the London weather. You made me feel at home at the Emirates Stadium."

"Next, let's talk about Arsenal," Yan Yuan said, his tone turning joking.

"Speaking of Arsenal, I know there are always people outside who say we've had a rich history, are 'top-four contenders,' or 'thermos experts.' Some even affectionately call our derby with Tottenham the 'poor and poor derby.'"

"Hahahahahahaha..." This time, the guests in the audience really burst into laughter, and at the same time applauded Yan Yuan's humorous self-deprecation.

After Yan Yuan finished exposing Arsenal's problems, his tone gradually became more serious.

"But what I want to say is that history is meant to be broken, and legends are meant to be written. We, Arsenal, have the greatest fans, the most glorious tradition, and the most eager heart to prove ourselves."

I, Yan Yuan, here today pledge that I, along with my teammates, will give my all for this great club and for all the fans who support us, to help Arsenal stand at the top of Europe.

Finally, I must thank a few of the most important people.

Yan Yuan looked at the camera again and said.

"Dad, Mom! Thank you! Thank you for not actually making me learn how to flip a wok when I was 'returned' from Paris."

"At the same time, thank you to my dad, the 'most handsome agent in history,' for all his hard work in helping me secure one mind-bending contract after another. Thank you to my mom for the restaurant food that gave me the energy I needed! Without your support and love, I wouldn't be who I am today. I love you both!"

"besides……"

Yan Yuan looked tenderly at Lin Jianwei below the stage, and the camera captured Lin Jianwei at the right moment.

She was looking up at him, her eyes slightly red, her lips upturned, her face radiating happiness and pride.

"Lin Jianwei, my dear, thank you. Thank you for appearing when I needed you most. Thank you for using your intelligence to help me analyze financial risks that are ten thousand times more complex than the offside rule."

Thank you so much... for being there for me, supporting me, and believing in me. This trophy also belongs to you.

Below the stage, Lin Jianwei's cheeks flushed instantly. She nodded vigorously at Yan Yuan, tears welling up in her eyes, but her smile was incredibly radiant.

"Finally, thank you to all the teammates, opponents, coaches, staff, media friends, and all the fans who have supported and criticized me along the way! You have all woven this incredible journey together! Football is wonderful because of you!"

"The Kopa Trophy is an affirmation of young players, but more importantly, it's an encouragement. I know there's still a huge gap between me and those true legends."

I'm 18 years old this year, and I have a long way to go. I will continue to train hard, stay humble, and keep learning, striving to one day stand here again, or even higher, to share my story with everyone!

Yan Yuan raised the Kopa Award trophy with a bright smile.

"Thank you again everyone! Thank you France Football! I will always remember this night! Thank you all! Merci beaucoup!"

At the end of his speech, Yan Yuan bowed deeply to express his gratitude.

As soon as he finished speaking, the entire audience erupted in prolonged and enthusiastic applause and cheers.

Everyone stood up and applauded the young genius for his humorous, sincere, grateful, and spirited speech.

His speech expressed gratitude for the past, ambition for the future, and demonstrated a maturity and high emotional intelligence far beyond his years.

Lin Jianwei stood below the stage, clapping vigorously, her face filled with barely suppressed excitement and pride, her eyes glistening with tears.

This is her boy.

……

Not long ago, in Hangzhou, China.

Professor Lin yawned contentedly after watching Modric win the Ballon d'Or on television.

"Sigh, I'm getting old, I can't take it anymore. It seems the Messi-Ronaldo era is really coming to an end..." Old Lin muttered, turned off the computer, got up and went back to his bedroom to sleep.

Coincidentally, Lin missed the subsequent Kopa Award ceremony.

Naturally, they also missed the moment when Yan Yuan expressed his heartfelt gratitude to his daughter Lin Jianwei on stage.

Before going to sleep, Professor Lin's mind was still filled with Yan Yuan's young and handsome face, as well as that heartbreaking 4-0 defeat.

"That kid, he's really good at football, it's a pity he's wearing the wrong jersey..." He shook his head and drifted off to sleep with mixed feelings.

Professor Lin lay in bed, his mind drifting to thoughts of his daughter, Lin Jianwei.

This girl has been acting mysteriously lately. She always says she's busy with work on the phone. A couple of days ago, my husband told me that our daughter seems to be in love.

I heard it from what my wife said.

The boy my daughter likes is an outstanding young man. He hasn't said what he does yet, but he's very excellent. She said she'll bring him home to meet her when she has time.

Professor Lin wondered to himself: Outstanding? How outstanding could they be? Could they even compare to the young talents that he, Old Lin, had his eye on?

However, his daughter is grown up and has her own ideas, so Lao Lin is too lazy to interfere too much, as long as she doesn't marry someone unreliable.

Professor Lin muttered something inexplicably.

"Whatever you do, don't hire an Arsenal player..."

Then, Professor Lin turned over and fell into a deep sleep.

The gears of fate are turning quietly.