The evening sunlight poured warmly into the González family living room, casting a golden glow over the simple, joyful scene.
Mateo sat at the center of the couch, his mother beside him, Klara leaning against his shoulder, and his grandparents smiling proudly from their armchairs.
In Mateo's hands, two official letters.
Two invitations.
One bore the crest of the Argentine Football Association.
The other, the black eagle of the German Football Federation.
His heart pounded with conflicting emotions.
The invitation from Argentina offered him the chance to participate in two preparatory friendlies — a first step toward securing a spot for the U-20 World Cup squad.
The invitation from Germany, however, was far more direct.
They wanted him immediately for the World Cup roster.
No trials.No tests.
Germany already saw him as ready.
His family buzzed around him.
"You've worked so hard for this, hijo," his mother said, tears glistening in her eyes.
His grandfather clapped him on the back, his voice booming, "Both countries recognize your greatness! Incredible!"
Klara grinned, squeezing his hand."You could play in the World Cup right away. Imagine that, Mateo!"
He smiled... but his mind was heavy.
Everyone quieted when he finally spoke.
"I love Germany," Mateo said sincerely."It gave me the chance to chase my dreams.It gave me training, opportunity, and a new life.I will always be grateful for that."
He paused, looking at his mother, who silently nodded, her eyes misting over.
"But..."he continued, voice firm and clear,"I promised my father.And in my heart... I'm Argentine."
A lump rose in his throat as he finished:
"I will represent Argentina."
Everyone in the room understood.Even Klara, though a small sadness flickered across her features, smiled proudly.
It was bigger than glory.
It was about honoring a legacy.
Mateo stood up, inhaling deeply, and pulled out his phone.
First, he called the German national team coach.
The line connected quickly.
"Mateo! It's wonderful to hear from you."
Mateo bowed his head respectfully.
"Thank you so much for the honor.But I must decline.I'll represent Argentina... in memory of my father."
There was a pause.
Then a soft, understanding reply:
"You have made a difficult but honorable choice.We will always respect you, Mateo.And if destiny ever changes... the doors of Germany will remain open."
The call ended on a note of warmth and mutual respect.
Then Mateo dialed the number on the Argentine invitation.
It rang twice.
Then a cold voice answered.
"Yes?"
Caught slightly off guard, Mateo introduced himself.
"This is Mateo González. I'm calling to accept the invitation."
A silence.
Then a curt, almost annoyed reply:
"Fine. Be at the training camp next Monday. Details will be emailed. Goodbye."
Click.
The line went dead.
Mateo lowered the phone, frowning slightly.
That was... strange.
Not even a 'welcome' or 'congratulations.'
Nothing.
But he shook it off, unwilling to let anything dampen his excitement.
Maybe the coach was just busy.
Maybe he would understand better once he arrived.
He turned back to his family, smiling brightly.
He had made his choice.
For better or worse,his path was set.