As December arrived, the football world found itself captivated by an unprecedented story unfolding in La Liga. Málaga CF, a team once struggling in the shadow of bigger clubs, had become the talk of Europe. With 14 matches played, they stood at the top of the league with a perfect record: 14 wins and 42 points. Their dominance was undeniable, and there seemed to be no sign of slowing down. Alongside their impressive league run, Málaga had also made an impactful start in the Copa del Rey, securing victories in the first two rounds.
At the heart of this meteoric rise was Adriano Riveiro. The young prodigy had become an overnight sensation, a star who had defied all expectations. His stats were jaw-dropping: 16 goals and 19 assists in just 14 matches. He not only led the league in goals but also in assists, showcasing an incredible ability to both score and create. His performances had drawn comparisons to the greatest players in the history of football, and the media frenzy surrounding him showed no signs of abating.
The headlines were relentless. Every day, new rumors surfaced, linking Adriano to some of Europe's biggest clubs—Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain. The bidding war for the young talent was just beginning, and the media couldn't stop speculating. But despite the whirlwind surrounding him, Adriano remained composed, focused solely on the task at hand.
It was during a post-match press conference after Málaga's 3-1 victory over Valencia that the tension reached a boiling point. The room was buzzing with journalists, all eager to get their questions in. One reporter, unable to hold back any longer, raised his hand and asked the question on everyone's mind:
"Adriano, top clubs are fighting for you. What do you think about a transfer in January?"
The room fell silent as all eyes turned to the young star. Adriano leaned into the microphone, his gaze steady and unwavering. A calm smile spread across his face as he responded, his voice measured but firm.
"I'm flattered by the interest," he began, "but my focus is on Málaga. We're having an incredible season, and I want to see it through. I'll stay here until the end of the season, at least."
His words carried weight, not just for the journalists in the room but for the fans who were watching from afar. The Málaga fans, who had once feared relegation, now saw something more in Adriano. He wasn't just their star player—he was a symbol of their resurgence, a beacon of hope in a season that defied all logic. When he spoke, they listened, and when he made his promise to stay, the stadium erupted in cheers.
Adriano wasn't just becoming a legend in the eyes of the fans; he was a legend in the making. Despite the swirling rumors and the ever-present spotlight, he remained humble, committed, and laser-focused on the team.
For Málaga, this wasn't just a great season. It was the beginning of something much larger. And with Adriano at the heart of it all, the impossible seemed within reach.
***
A day later, something unexpected happened. Adriano's phone buzzed. A message from a verified user.
His heart nearly stopped when he saw the name.
Cristiano Ronaldo.
Cristiano: Hey, Adriano. I've been watching your games. I'm happy that another talented player has come from Portugal.You're doing amazing. Let's meet up when you're free.
Adriano stared at the screen in disbelief.
He had grown up idolizing Ronaldo and Figo.
Posters of CR7 covered his childhood bedroom walls. He had watched every video, studied his movements, his work ethic, his mindset.
And now, his idol wanted to meet him?
With shaky fingers, he typed a response.
Adriano: Thank you, Cristiano! It would be an honor to meet you. Just let me know when and where.
***
The match against Sevilla was a crucial test for Málaga, a team riding high but now facing one of their toughest opponents yet. The stakes were high, and the atmosphere at La Rosaleda was electric. Fans packed the stands, their anticipation palpable. It felt as though the entire city was holding its breath, eager to see if Málaga could continue their flawless run in La Liga.
As the referee blew the whistle to signal the start of the match, Málaga came out with intensity. From the first minute, they controlled possession, their passing crisp and calculated. Adriano, as always, was at the center of the action, his movements sharp and purposeful. He was orchestrating the game, always in the right place to receive the ball and ready to distribute it with precision.
In the 22nd minute, Málaga struck. Adriano, with the ball at his feet in midfield, took a quick glance upfield. Seeing Joaquín making a darting run between two defenders, Adriano threaded a perfectly weighted through ball. The pass cut through Sevilla's defense like a knife through butter, and Joaquín, showing great composure, calmly slotted the ball past the oncoming goalkeeper. The stadium erupted as the net bulged, the crowd's roar reverberating through the stands.
Gooooaaalllll! 1-0 for Malaga! Adriano shines again as he puts them forward.
Adriano couldn't help but run toward the sidelines, his arms open wide, as if to embrace the adoration of the crowd. He showed a heart sign afterwards, as if to send a message to Hailey, if she was watching.
Sevilla didn't take the blow lying down. They responded with determination, pressing higher up the pitch and trying to dictate the tempo. They came close on a few occasions, but Málaga's defense was resolute. The center-backs made crucial blocks, and goalkeeper Roberto pulled off a stunning save to keep the lead intact.
Málaga, though, never lost their rhythm.
In the 68th minute, they struck again. Adriano, now further forward, found space just outside the box. He received the ball with his back to goal, flicked it out of his feet, and in one fluid motion unleashed a powerful shot. The ball rocketed towards the top corner of the net, curling away from Sevilla's keeper, who could only watch in despair as it hit the back of the net.
Gooooaaalllll! 2-0 for Malaga. And who else but Adriano to score another amazing goal!
The crowd went wild once again, and Adriano, his chest heaving with pride, jogged toward the corner flag, his teammates mobbing him in celebration. Sevilla had no answer to the young maestro's brilliance, and the match seemed to be slipping away from them.
The final whistle blew soon after, sealing another dominant victory for Málaga. They had taken down a formidable opponent with ease, and the players celebrated together, arms around each other, grinning from ear to ear. Adriano's two-goal performance had been decisive once again, and he was the undisputed hero of the night.
After the match, Adriano made his way to the press room, where a throng of journalists waited, eager to hear from him. His rise had been nothing short of meteoric, and everyone wanted a piece of him.
As he sat next to Manuel Pellegrini, the questions began. One journalist, clearly impressed, asked, "Adriano, another incredible performance. How do you manage to stay so consistent?"
Adriano smiled, his face calm and composed. "It's all about hard work and focus," he replied. "I have an amazing team behind me, and we're all pushing each other to be better every day."
Pellegrini, ever the mentor, nodded in agreement. "Adriano is a special player, but what makes him truly exceptional is his humility and work ethic. He's always looking to improve, and that's why he's having such a great season."
The questions continued, but Adriano answered with confidence, his words measured and thoughtful. Gone were the days of uncertainty, the doubts that had plagued him when he first joined Málaga.
He was no longer the shy, reserved trialist—he was a superstar in the making. Every match was a chance to prove himself further, and he was ready to shine on the biggest stage.
***
A few days later.
Adriano sat at a quiet table in one of Madrid's most exclusive cafés, his hands resting on the smooth wooden surface. The atmosphere was refined, the kind of place where the elite came to talk in hushed voices over espressos and fine pastries. But right now, none of that mattered.
Because sitting across from him was none other than Cristiano Ronaldo.
Even after playing against some of the best in La Liga, Adriano still couldn't fully believe it. The man he had idolized as a kid, whose posters had covered his bedroom walls, whose goals he had tried to replicate in the streets of Lisbon, was now sitting with him as an equal.
Cristiano, dressed casually in a fitted black shirt and jeans, exuded a natural confidence. Yet, there was warmth in his demeanor, a sharp contrast to the ruthless competitor Adriano had watched dominate world football for nearly a decade.
"Relax man ," Ronaldo said with a smile, sensing Adriano's lingering nerves. "I don't bite."
Adriano chuckled, shaking his head. "It's not every day you get to sit across from your idol."
Ronaldo leaned back, taking a sip of his coffee. "That's funny, because I've been watching your games lately. I've become quite a fan of yours as well."
Adriano raised an eyebrow. "Really?"
"Of course," Ronaldo said. "You're all over the news. A 17-year-old leading La Liga in goals and assists? That's not normal. People are already comparing you to some of the greats. Not to mention you took down Barcelona a peg." He chuckled.
Adriano scratched the back of his neck, feeling both proud and a little embarrassed. "I just try to play my game."
Ronaldo nodded approvingly. "That's the right mentality. But tell me, how are you settling in? Spain is different from Portugal."
Adriano relaxed slightly at the change of topic. "Yeah, it's different. The weather, the culture… even the food."
Ronaldo grinned. "Let me guess—you miss your mother's cooking?"
Adriano laughed. "Every day. My mom used to make Bacalhau à Brás every weekend. Now? I have to settle for whatever the club chefs prepare.
"Ah," Ronaldo smirked. "That's the real struggle of being a footballer. No one cooks like our mothers."
Adriano smiled, then glanced down at his cup. "It's been an adjustment, but I can't complain. Málaga has been amazing. The fans, the club… they've given me a chance when nobody else would."
Ronaldo studied him for a moment. "What about your family? Do you visit often?"
Adriano's expression softened. "I try. My parents still live in Lisbon, I plan to buy a house for them here if I stay long. They've sacrificed a lot for me to be here. I just want to make them proud. I was planning to head back home in next break. "
Ronaldo nodded, his expression knowing. "That feeling never changes. No matter how many trophies you win, you always want to make the people who believed in you proud."
Adriano could see the sincerity in his idol's eyes. It wasn't just empty words.
Ronaldo then playfully asked, " And what's about your love life? I heard you were dating an upcoming hollywood star ?"
Adriano chuckled and replied, " It's a long distance relationship we are trying to work out. What about you? Are you dating currently?"
Ronaldo sighed, " I am not actually. I've been dating around ever since I got some fame, but I've never really found anyone who is perfect for me. Most would just cling to me for exposure and fame. I was young and didn't know better, what can I say!"
He laughed and then added, " Take this advice from a oder guy, never rush into a relationship when you're famous. Most women would only like you for the persona you have on media, they don't know the real you. You have to find the right person to settle down. Otherwise you'll only suffer from it, not to mention it affects your form and mindset ."
As Adriano was about to ask another question, Ronaldo glanced at his watch, then looked toward the entrance. "Actually, I have someone else who wants to meet you today."
Before Adriano could respond, a tall, well-dressed man entered the café. The moment Adriano saw him, he recognized him immediately.
Jorge Mendes.
The most powerful football agent in the world. The man who had brokered deals for Ronaldo, Di María, and many more superstars.
Adriano's heart rate spiked.
Mendes walked over, offering his hand. "Adriano. It's a pleasure to finally meet you."
Adriano quickly stood, shaking his hand. "Likewise, sir."
Mendes smiled as he sat beside Ronaldo. "I've been following your career closely. What you're doing in La Liga is… remarkable."
Adriano tried to stay calm. "I'm just focusing on playing well for Málaga."
Ronaldo grinned. "That's what I like to hear."
Mendes leaned forward slightly. "I won't take much of your time today. Just know that when the time comes—when you're ready to take the next step—you'll have plenty of doors open for you."
Adriano nodded slowly. "I appreciate that."
Mendes smiled, exchanging a look with Ronaldo before excusing himself. "I'll leave you two to your conversation. We'll talk after you two finish chatting , Adriano."
As Mendes walked away, Adriano turned to Ronaldo, exhaling slowly. "That… was unexpected."
Ronaldo chuckled. "You better get used to it. You're not just a promising player anymore, Adriano. You're becoming a superstar."
After a brief pause, Ronaldo shifted in his seat, his tone becoming more serious. He leaned forward slightly, elbows resting on the table, his gaze fixed on Adriano.
"Tell me," Ronaldo began, his voice thoughtful, "what are your future plans?"
Adriano hesitated, his fingers tapping lightly against the surface of the table. He wasn't used to thinking too far ahead, especially not with the way things were progressing so rapidly for him. "I… I honestly haven't thought too much about it," he admitted. "Right now, I just want to finish the season with Málaga, focus on helping the team win."
Ronaldo nodded, his expression softening. "Good. Focus is important. But you'll have to start thinking about your next steps soon, whether you like it or not."
There was a brief silence, and then Ronaldo's eyes narrowed slightly as he looked at Adriano. "And what about the national team?"
Adriano sighed, shaking his head, the weight of the question settling on him. "I don't know," he said quietly. "I haven't received an official call-up from either Brazil or Portugal yet. And to be honest, I don't think they'd call me. I'm still too young."
Ronaldo's frown deepened, and he leaned back in his chair, his gaze shifting briefly toward the window as if pondering something. "I can't speak for Brazil," he said, his voice firm, "but as for Portugal? We would be lucky to have you."
Adriano looked up, surprised by the conviction in Ronaldo's voice. He hadn't expected such a strong response. Ronaldo exhaled slowly, his gaze distant for a moment before returning to meet Adriano's eyes.
"I've achieved a lot in my career," Ronaldo said, his tone quieter now. "Champions League titles, Ballon d'Ors… But do you know what my greatest regret is?"
Adriano remained silent, feeling the gravity of the moment, waiting for Ronaldo to continue.
"Not winning a trophy with Portugal," Ronaldo confessed, his voice tinged with raw emotion.
Adriano listened carefully, sensing the depth of Ronaldo's words.
"Winning a national trophy," Ronaldo continued, "means everything to me. It's not just about personal glory. It's about giving something back to the country that made me who I am."
Ronaldo's gaze shifted to Adriano again, more intense now. "And Portugal could use someone like you, Adriano."
Adriano blinked in surprise. "Me?" he asked, almost unsure if he had heard correctly.
Ronaldo nodded, his expression serious. "We have some great players. But what we don't have is a midfielder like you. Someone who can control the game, dictate the tempo, and create something out of nothing. Our midfield lacks that spark, that creativity. That role would be perfect for you."
Adriano absorbed Ronaldo's words carefully, feeling the weight of the responsibility, yet also the opportunity.
Ronaldo's tone softened. "It's your decision, of course. But I'll tell you this: if you want to make the move, I'll talk to Coach Santos myself."
Adriano's eyes widened. "You'd do that?"
Ronaldo nodded without hesitation. "Yes. Because I believe in you. I believe that with the right guidance, you can be the future of Portugal's midfield. And honestly…" He paused, a light grin crossing his face. "I'm not getting any younger," he joked.
Adriano sat back, a rush of emotions flooding over him. This wasn't just anyone telling him this. It was Cristiano Ronaldo—the player he had admired his entire life, the one he had watched dominate the world stage. And now, Ronaldo was looking at him with genuine respect—not as a fan, not as a kid, but as a potential teammate.
Adriano swallowed, his voice quiet, but steady. "If Portugal officially calls me up… I'll seriously consider it."
Ronaldo smiled, his expression softening with approval. "That's all I ask."
For the first time since they had sat down, Adriano felt a shift within himself. He wasn't just a rising star anymore. He was being recognized as a potential leader, someone who could shape the future of the Portuguese national team. And for a moment, it felt like he had stepped into a new chapter—one where his dreams were no longer distant, but within reach.
Mendes, who had been silently observing from the side, finally spoke up, his tone smooth but direct. "Now that we've settled that… Adriano, do you have an agent?"
Adriano blinked, caught off guard. "No, not officially. My dad helps with everything related to money and contracts."
Mendes smiled, his eyes gleaming with a mix of business savvy and confidence. "Then let's make it official. I want you to sign with me."
Adriano nearly choked on his drink, the sudden proposal hitting him like a bolt of lightning. "Wait—seriously?"
Mendes chuckled, his voice a calm reassurance. "Of course. I only represent the best. And right now, you're the best young talent in La Liga."
Adriano hesitated, his mind racing as he processed the weight of Mendes' words. Before he could respond, Ronaldo laughed, breaking the tension in the air.
"I just hope Mendes won't drop me once you become a star," Ronaldo joked, his grin wide.
Mendes smirked, never missing a beat. "You, Cristiano? Never. But Adriano here… he might be my next Ballon d'Or winner."
The words hung in the air, and Adriano couldn't believe what he was hearing. The man sitting across from him wasn't just a world-class agent—he was speaking as though Adriano was already on the verge of greatness. It was surreal.
After a long moment of silence, Adriano took a deep breath and, with a steady hand, extended it to Mendes. "Alright. Let's do it."
Mendes took his hand firmly, a satisfied smile crossing his face. "Thanks for your trust, Adriano. I'll make sure we reach your full potential."
Mendes leaned in, his expression now turning more businesslike. "Now, let's talk business. We'll look into negotiating a new sponsorship deal with some top brands.
We'll also discuss a possible wage increase from Málaga. But here's the thing—I'm going to be honest with you. Málaga won't be able to keep you after this season. They won't be able to match your value, and that will ultimately hinder your growth."
Adriano frowned, processing the implications of Mendes' words. "So you're saying… I should leave?"
Mendes nodded, his gaze sharp and calculating. "I'm saying you need to start thinking about where you want to go next. You've outgrown Málaga. It's time to start setting your sights higher."
Adriano exhaled slowly, the weight of Mendes' advice settling in. His journey had only just begun, but now, the biggest decision of his life was looming on the horizon.
He replied with a calm yet measured tone, "I'll consider things after the season ends. We don't know how my performance will be by then, or how much things will change. And the World Cup is coming up too."
Mendes smiled approvingly. "That's a smart move. I'll be looking forward to seeing how you perform."
Ronaldo, who had been quietly listening, added with a grin, "Just make sure you don't get injured. We'll need you at 100% for everything that's coming."
Adriano smiled, the weight of the conversation lifting slightly. He shook hands with both Mendes and Ronaldo before standing up to leave the café. As he walked out the door, he was unaware that a group of paparazzi had been quietly watching from across the street, their cameras snapping away.
The next morning, a headline appeared on various news sites: "Adriano Meets Ronaldo and Signs with Mendes? Is He Preparing to Join Madrid or the Portugal World Cup Team?"
The speculation began almost immediately. Fans, pundits, and even rival clubs couldn't stop talking about the possibility of Adriano not only being a part of Portugal's World Cup squad but also making a move to one of the biggest clubs in Europe.
The excitement around him grew even more intense, and the football world waited with bated breath to see where Adriano's future would take him next.