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footballxixstars · 11 months

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Missed First Steps, Spoken First Words • Lionel Messi

Child/Parent Prompt List v.2 • Number 3

“I can’t believe I missed their first steps!”

“I can’t believe I missed their first steps!” Leo complained over the phone to you and he genuinely sounded upset that he had missed his son's first-ever steps. Obviously he knew that this would be a possibility considering that he travels a bit around France throughout the whole season and then on top of that he has to travel around Europe for the European Tournaments so there are times when he is not home for a couple of days so he was bound to miss something yet he was still upset. All he wanted was to not miss one of your baby’s firsts but unfortunately it didn’t work that way. When you sent him the video he couldn’t help but smile to himself because through the screen he was seeing his son take some wobbly steps. His first steps.

“It’s why I recorded them for you plus you will be back in a couple of hours and you can see it then,” You tried to reassure him but as you finished speaking you realised how fruitless it was. Also, your words sounded a bit condescending rather than reassuring. You were wondering whether or not it was a good idea to record his first steps and actually send them to Leo. Maybe you should’ve recorded them and not sent them to him. You really wanted his first steps caught on camera and thought that it would be nice to send them to Lionel but now you understand his disappointment about missing them you feel bad. Maybe you should’ve allowed Lionel to see them when he gets back and act like it was the first time you saw them. It’s too late now anyway.

“Yeah, I guess. Just disappointed that I missed them. I’ve got to go now anyway,” Lionel told you.

“Okay, we’ll see you when you get back. I love you,” You replied softly.

“I love you too,” he said before hanging up so he could finish doing whatever he needed to before coming home. All you could do was sigh once the phone got disconnected and put that away before finding ways to entertain your son for the next couple of hours whilst you wait for Lionel to come back. Thankfully it’s your son's naptime soon so that should at least pass a bit of the time.

A couple of hours later when your son had just woken up from his nap you heard the front door open and you knew that Lionel was finally back. Well you hoped that it was Lionel or else a random stranger has just made their way into your home and you are nearly certain that you did lock the door. Your son obviously knew that Lionel was back too and he instantly perked up and started to wiggle to get off of your lap to go to his papa. Knowing that he wouldn’t be able to walk the whole way you decided to carry him to the end of the corridor before putting him down so he could walk the final steps. When you were at the end of the corridor Lionel instantly noticed the two of you yet no words were exchanged. All he did was kneel down to the height of your son and held his arms out so your son would hopefully walk into them.

No movement. Your son made no movement whatsoever towards his papa just staring between you and him. You could see that he wanted to move but didn’t know how. He had only just started taking steps without assistance so maybe that was why he was slightly hesitant and didn’t know how to step. Maybe he just needed a little bit of encouragement.

“Come to Papa,” Leo spoke out and that seemed to be the encouragement that your son needed because as soon as Lionel said those words your son took a shaky step towards him. Throughout the whole ordeal you didn’t even watch your son take the steps since you had seen it earlier and instead you watched Lionel’s face. The way his face lit up when your son took the steps towards him was precious. His face lit up more than it did when he won the treble or sextuple for Barcelona or when he FINALLY won the Copa America with Argentina. His first major international trophy. His face was brighter than when he won the World Cup. The freaking World Cup. Your son walking looked to be one of his proudest achievements. It was sweet, maybe a bit over dramatic since winning the World Cup and however many Ballon D’Ors is special, but nonetheless still sweet.

“Papa,” Those words knocked you out of your thoughts and you turned your attention away from Lionel’s face and towards your son who was now nestled in his arms obviously walking at least son of that distance, the same son who had just said that one word. His first proper word. His first proper word that was understandable and made actual sense in the context. Usually he just babbles and now words can be made out. Yes it’s probably a bit late to be saying some form of words (you were looking for a speech therapist just in case) but he must just take after Lionel like that and just say very little to people. Also, being raised in a bilingual household probably doesn’t help the matter either because he may get a little confused. Your son is just naturally quiet, a lot like Lionel. Quiet and doesn’t speak any words at all and he doesn’t really babble to anyone other than you or Lionel so now that he has finally spoken his first word shocked you both. You and Lionel were just staring at one another stunned in silence.

“What was that Nene?” You questioned your son to see if he would say it again. He turned his attention to you and stared at you with those wide brown eyes which reminds you so much of Lionel. He literally is a mini Leo.

“P-P-Pa-Papa,” Your son repeated looking right at Lionel.

“Yeah that’s Papa, Nene,” You managed to get out as your son fell back into Lionel’s arms not wanting to let him go for a minute. He is always like this when Lionel gets back from a night or two away. So clingy and cuddly but he’s never said the word papa or even attempted to say it but just after he took his first steps which Lionel missed he said his first word right to him.

“He just-” Lionel attempted to say, struggling to find the exact words.

“Yeah,” You interrupted slightly in disbelief but slowly the shock left your body and a huge smile plastered itself over your face. So many firsts for your son and in such a short time too. It was a shock but also incredible. It was a mix of emotions. Not like your son cared though he was just happy his papa was back.

“I may have missed his first steps but at least I was here for his first proper words,” Lionel spoke out loud, cuddling your son even closer who seemed to be really happy just nestled into his arms. Your son adores cuddles and just being close to you and Lionel so it is no wonder that he was so comfortable just staying there with Lionel whilst the two of you had a minor freakout over everything. Over the fact your son was growing up.

“Especially because it was papa,” You added and he just nodded at you. Some people would be mad that their baby says papa before mama considering everything that the mother does especially carrying the baby for 9 months but for you it didn’t matter. If anything you loved the fact that his first word was papa and said it right to Lionel especially since he was feeling so down about missing his son’s first steps. It was perfect.

“Our Nene is growing up,” Was all Lionel said again as your son pulled away from Lionel and started pointing to a toy showing Leo that he wanted to play. All you could do was nod your head getting really emotional over the thought of your son growing up way too fast right in front of you. It feels like it was only last week that you gave birth to him and now he’s taking his first steps and saying his first words. Next he’ll be walking fully on his own, speaking in sentences and learning to use the potty. Time moves quickly with children and you don’t want to miss a second of your child growing up especially considering Lionel is going to miss stuff because of his work and travelling. At that thought you followed Lionel and your son into the living room so the three of you could spend time as a family.

MASTERLIST | MORE MESSI

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leclsrc · 1 year

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Broooo your last Drabble was so good

If you don’t mind can I request a part 2 🥲

fin de siècle – cl16

genre: drabble, angst

auds here... a part 2 to this as multiple requests came through for it! listened to a lot of mid-air by paul buchanan for this one. hope u enjoy! :)

“Sorry. It’s bad luck for you to see the bride on her wedding day.”

Charles nods once, lips pursed in poorly hidden disappointment, flexing his fingers in the pockets of his slacks. The huge door to your room closes with a click that’s as soft as it is damning, leaving him alone in the hallway of this obsolete Sicilian property you’re getting married in later tonight. Outside, the Ionian sea crashes softly against the cliffs near the gardens, sun unrelenting and humid on the staff setting up outside.

Maybe your friend doesn’t know this, but she should: Charles has always been afflicted with bad luck.

If being stuck with a slow car and slippery roads during vital races isn’t proof enough, Charles has much more to share. A stubbed toe occurs thrice a week, a hit head twice. He’s half-sure he should sue the universe for damages. He constantly runs into black cats, has looked up to find he’s underneath a ladder multiple times, and accidentally opened five umbrellas indoors. Call him superstitious, but to him, that’s quintessential bad luck.

His dress shoes click against the tile. He gazes down at them, remembers he needs to change them out for the ceremony later. He’s busy comparing the black of his shoes to the color of the tile, the contrast between light and dark. He hears slurried, anxious Italian and looks up. He’s under a ladder.

“Che sfortuna,” the staffer says apologetically, fixing the lights. Charles waves him off. He’s used to this.

Often, though, he remembers that being so riddled with bad luck means his moments of fortune are rare. Precious, like the gemstone on your finger. They’re individual, plucked out like shrines, orbs of love and overflowing happiness. Wins, successes, health. He pauses in front of the lobby, where there’s an assortment of hors d’oeuvres tables and signs pointing to the massive library where the main event will be held.

The main event for Charles has always been you. And he’s positive he was at his luckiest when you met.

You’d met at a race in Monza, back when Charles was just getting started in Formula 1. You’d never touched a mic, or conversed with a driver; both of you were getting used to growing up. Your clumsy French matched his clumsy English until you were both barely clumsy, sliding in and out of the two languages with natural skill.

Charles said he loved you just six months later. Distressed and a bit psyched out, it’d taken you a month to ease back into it and admit you loved him, too.

A year marked moving into Monaco, and infiltrating each others’ friend groups. You’d play poker with Max and Pierre, and Charles would play trivia nights with your friends, despite not understanding some of the references. (He confidently answered Lionel Messi when prompted: who discovered Facebook. He refuses to elaborate, to this day.)

There may have been fights and squabbles, but Charles always circled back to loving you. He stares now at the library from afar, still being tidied and rearranged. He debates entering, but figures he’ll surprise himself. He’s never doubted your insane organizational planning skills, and is sure this event is no exception.

He turns to explore the gardens and bumps into Will Buxton, of all people. “Charles?” Sharl, it sounds like, in the guy’s signature English cadence.

Will continues. “What’re you doing here? And roaming around? You should be”—he pushes him toward the rooms area—“resting. Nobody’s allowed around here, let alone you.”

“Needed to talk to her,” Charles explains, his voice low and rough with unuse.

The elder laughs. He’s holding a big pile of organza, no doubt a decoration for somewhere or other. “I’ll bet my spleen you weren’t allowed to. That’s bad luck.”

He throws his hands up in defeat and walks outside, opting to take the long route. This way he’ll have scenery before retreating to his room. It’s quiet, but he suspects much of the bustle is inside each room, where everybody’s getting dressed and preparing.

He’s glad is isn’t overcast, is all—that’s the one thing you emphasized you would hate today.

Sometime in your third year of being together, you and Charles finally talked marriage, together drafting a list of yes-and-no’s. He remembers the night as clearly as he can, like he’s just staring passively at the back of his hand. You’d been fixing the apartment, because according to you, the sofas needed to be rearranged.

Once they were, you claimed it didn’t match the coffee table. So the coffee table was moved to the balcony, the balcony table moved inside. Then a problem with the wall art, then the TV, then the curtains, then the decorations on your dining table. Spent and sweaty, you collapsed on the rearranged couch.

Equally tired from heeding your orders, he’d cranked the window open and flopped down beside you. Monaco was descending into a deep blue, after dusk had turned the room orange, set it on fire. You’d leaned into him. “I love it, but I think we just need a place together.”

That’d birthed the conversation of marriage. Neither of you were opposed to it. On a supermarket receipt and old prescription notice, you’d both jotted down what you wanted out of your wedding. He’d put: need a nice, tiered cake, with flowers on it. You’d put: bouquet of just lilies, baby’s breath, and two sprigs of basil, so it’d smell good when you pressed your nose to it.

He’d put: no bachelor/ette parties. You laughed out loud and nodded. It’d be a trivia night for all your friends, you decided together. You’d put, then: ceremony in a library. “The one thing I’ve always wanted,” you swooned.

He’d give it to you, he told himself then. He would. One of your big no-no’s was a rainy wedding day, which meant your previous dream location (somewhere in coastal England) was immediately out. You mulled over Greece, maybe even within Monaco, or France.

“We have time to decide,” he said. “Haven’t even proposed.”

“I expect the precious gemstone on my finger next year,” you said. “And no big proposals, please.”

“Oh, God. Must cancel the London Orchestra, Queen’s guards, and Coldplay’s special appearance as early as now, then?” You rolled your eyes, laughing before you kissed him. The list-making and subsequent reviewing had taken so long, your kiss was illuminated only by the full moon.

“Any other misgivings?” He’d chuckled, a kiss pressed to your jaw.

“We need to stay all night,” you croaked. “Leaving early is bad luck.”

Charles is by no means religious, nor is he superstitious, but he well and truly thinks luck and God might have been on his side when it came to being yours.

He hasn’t seen you yet tonight, stationed beside Carlos and narrowing his eyes to predict when the big doors will open and let you through. Right then, the violin beats to life and everyone around him turns, faces blotched with tears and frozen with awe. Like always, you’re beautiful. Charles doesn’t need to see you in a veil and dress to realize this.

Your hair is pinned into a loose bun, your bouquet of lilies and basil green and lush. The big windows tint you a rosy orange in the Ionian sunset. You walk gracefully, slowly, swaying to the violin music. Your dress, like many of the ones you’d dreamed of then, is satin and simple. A high neckline, ending above your heels that click on the tile. You’re a brilliant force of nature, he thinks.

You gaze up, smiling. Forget Sicily. You’re the prettiest here.

Charles looks down, to remember if he’s changed his shoes, to remember the contrast of the tile. He needs to channel his emotions somewhere. Maybe if he looks down, gravity will just let his tears of overwhelm fall silently. His gaze is rooted to the floor, to occupy himself so he doesn’t feel his heart rip out of his chest when you pass him by.

He takes a seat, with Carlos, watching you laugh and tear up yourself, your gaze stuck on your groom. The officiant announces the exchange of vows, and Charles can’t help but let his mind wander all over again, plant itself into memories long gone—like the day you’d mocked up your supposed wedding vows.

You had let him read yours, which willed him into a steadfast spot of never letting you read his, ever. He’d folded up the yellow pad paper he’d written it on and stashed it somewhere secret. It was the first thing he sought out when he sold the apartment after he cheated on you.

Later, at the reception, he loses his appetite but maintains a generally cheerful demeanor despite himself.

The small talk is stuffy, and Carlos is off dancing with Isa, so he’s alone. Halfway through a glass of Scotch, he turns and is met by your hand almost tapping his shoulder.

“Oh, my G—sorry!” He says profusely, downing the rest of it.

“All good,” you say with a laugh. “Lissie told me you wanted to talk earlier?”

“Oh, that,” he quips with faux nonchalance. Suddenly his whole plan, to give you a letter that had some of his old vows written into it, seems like a stupid, immature idea. “Well, I… was just going to wish you a great day. Considering everything, I’m just glad to be invited.”

“Don’t say that,” you insist softly. “Everything’s okay between us.”

“Yeah,” he says. It’s more of an attempt to convince himself than you. “Yeah.”

“Well, have fun. I hear the dessert bar is amazing.”

He watches you walk away again, and takes a tiramisu from the dessert bar.

Three bites later, retrieves his jacket from the coat check room, and ducks quietly out of the party when the third slow song of the night just starts to play, illuminated only by the full moon.

—

Being here To be able to I’ve been As nervous as

If I told you and everyone here that I wasn’t poetic, I’d be lying. (People will laugh at this, honey.) Because although I’m not a wordsmith, in both my native tongues let alone my English, I seem to always find the best things to say about you and about our love. A dream that’s rivaled those of racing is my dream of growing old with you, and this is finally it. It’s finally happening. I wouldn’t trade anything for it.

Vows are about promises. I only have one. I promise to love you forever. Whatever it takes to keep it, I will. If it means letting you sleep in, I’m up by 5. If it means losing a race, consider the car unfinished. (Will Mattia like this joke?) If it means paving a walkway or building a library, I have the tools I need. It might get difficult, but in these moments of hardship, I promise everyday to make it easy for the both of us.

(I think these vows are just me raving about you, bug…)

Call it luck, call it fate. I’ll call it my moves. (Yet another great joke babe!) How could I ever have gotten a woman so beautiful, so unlike any other? The idea that we are so small compared to the universe makes no sense to me, because the fact that you and I are both here, existing, now, is proof enough that the cosmos granted my wishes.

I love you—

Even in my moments of bad luck,

Even when you’re giving me the cold shoulder,

Even when we’re 3,000 miles apart, and

Even if one day, you might no longer be mine.

#f1 #charles leclerc #charles leclerc x reader #charles leclerc drabble #charles leclerc imagines #charles leclerc smut #charles leclerc imagine #f1 x reader

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multifandomfanfic · 1 year

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okay omg hi again sorry for the double request 😭 but another insta au where Y/N is neymar’s sister & people (including neymar) think they’re just close friends buuuut surprise they’re together & stuff 😳

A/N: I hope you like it! This one was done by @ilongfor-the-arts. :)) Sorry if it went a tad off prompt.

yourusername added to their story

leomessi added to their story

neymarjr✅

liked by leomessi, yourusername, and 6,284,482 others

neymarjr What an important victory today! Thank you to all of the fans in the bleachers that came to cheer us on! (especially my favorite sister, yourusername) ALLEZ PSG!!! ❤️💙

yourusername It was so much fun to watch you today, hermano! (And, of course, the fabulous Lionel Messi as well!)

leomessi I’m flattered! ♥

neymarjr alright guys, enough with the flirting in my comment section.

yourusername posted to their story

yourusername✅

liked by neymarjr, leomessi, and 7,391,749 others

yourusername leo and I intended to make a public statement about this when an appropriate time came. however, due to recent, unforeseen circumstances, we decided to come out and say that the rumors are true! today marks one year together! love you, Leo!

neymarjr✅ I’m happy for you guys!

jrneymar_296 we love ❤️ a supportive brother! (Also, you guys are so cute together!

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les-lestappen · 1 year

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welcome to my fic blog, send request please i want to write!

you can choose from my prompt list, or send your own request! I currently DO NOT write smut.

who i write for: f1 drivers

charles leclerc

daniel ricciardo

max verstappen

lewis hamilton

lando norris

pierre gasly

carlos sainz

sebastian vettel

mick schumacher

who i write for: footballers

neymar jr

kylian mbappe

olivier giroud

antoine griezmann

lionel messi

paulo dybala

sergio ramos

jack grealish

mason mount

kai havertz

jude bellingham

virgil van dijk

who i write for: ships

lestappen

maxiel

carlando

norstappen

charles x lando

c² (charlos)

sebchal

piarles

sewis

brocedes

neymessi

kunessi

neymar x kylian

gimbappe (giroud x mbappe)

jude bellingham x erling haaland

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well-good-luck-with-that · 9 months

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prompts

hey - taking inspo from @fanficburner and i'm currently taking prompts for stories with the following ships:

roy kent x jamie tartt

lionel messi x david beckham

andy robertson x anyone

liverpool squad x anyone

gary neville x jamie carragher

That being said, feel free to send something rogue and I'll let you know if I can do it justice!

Happy to do any genre really, just not gonna write anything about any of them dying haha. Omegaverse is welcome too :)

#roy x jamie #afc richmond #ted lasso #andy robertson #liverpool fc #football rpf #gary neville x jamie carragher #carraville #messi #messi x beckham

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neyxmessi · 1 year

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i’m curious to know what ur theories are omg!! (on why ney left) but yes, we’ll truly never know it really did seem to come out of nowhere

Okay we’ll start off with my most probable theory:

1) the PSG game. Oh the Barca v. PSG comeback game. The Remontada. That game still makes me sick lol. It was a spectacular game. Arguably one of, if not, the biggest comeback in UCL history. Leo scored a penalty, but Neymar was the true genius of the game. Neymar scored an amazing free kick and penalty (which it’s so interesting that he took them too btw when normally Leo would take them). And he also provided the amazing assist to Sergio Roberto in literally the last minute to secure the win. However, that one photo of Leo went VIRALLLLL and he seemed to be getting all of the credit for the game. Part of me thinks that really pissed Neymar off, and he was literally in his prime if not getting to be there, and maybe he realized the only way to prove his greatness was to get out of a club with Lionel Messi there. So while he truly did love Leo as a person/teammate/idol, he was the one person standing in his way to achieving ultimate greatness. I think in the beginning he was truly about the team mentality and wanting to help Leo be the best (he literally said that in his debut), but Neymar isn’t the type of person to only strive to be that. He wants to the best (he’s always been quoted saying this too lol), and he wants to WIN. Him being the leader? Even better. If this was the reason, I don’t really blame him too much. I wish he never left, but underappreciation can really drive someone up a wall.

2) there is a chance that this move could’ve been prompted even earlier than when Neymar had left. Dani Alves joined PSG in 2017, and it was no surprise that he had urged Neymar to join him. He was even quoted once saying that the only way for Neymar to be the greatest was to get out of Leo’s shadow at Barca. I’m not saying he instilled the idea into his brain, but it seems like he was thinking what some other people were too.

3) the money. €222 million buy out clause is insane, and the wages PSG was paying Neymar was out of this world. Literally his move broke the market. There’s a chance that maybe that’s why he left (although I doubt it. Mans was making enough) unlesssssss his father had something to do with it.

4) the father. While Neymar’s dad said he never wanted Neymar to leave Barcelona, there’s a part of me that thinks that maybe he helped push the decision. He could’ve either wanted it for money, orrrrr there’s a chance that he could’ve pushed the idea into Neymar’s head that he needed to be the greatest. Potential constant comparisons between him and other players that made him feel like he wasn’t good enough. That he had to leave and bring a team to its first UCL to prove his worth. I’m not sure.

5) this is my delusional ass fanfic ass brain that should be taken LIGHTLY. But Neymar announcing for the first time he was thinking of leaving Barca for PSG at Leo’s wedding??? Um??? Who does that? At a wedding? At Leo’s wedding?? It’s interesting is it not? And the Instagram pictures he posted of the wedding afterwards and the caption… it was just iffy and unusual to me. Maybe the pain of staying would’ve been too much. I don’t know. (AGAIN TAKE THIS VERY LIGHTLY THERE IS A REASON WHY IT IS NEAR THE BOTTOM OF THIS LIST 😭😭 — delulu brain over here okay I am claiming absolutely nothing) Also, around this time Leo was getting REALLY close to Suarez. I wonder if Neymar felt abandoned somehow and that also made him want to leave too.

6) maybe he just didn’t believe in the team that much anymore? The 16/17 season was really bad in comparison to the prior one. Maybe he foresaw Barca’s downfall and wanted to get out before his reputation could’ve been ruined because of it.

Anyways these are all my dumb little theories. Take them with a grain of salt. I don’t know anything nor claim to know anything. But these are the best theories my brain could conjure up 🤷‍♀️

#anon asks

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hesterias · 2 years

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The Masterlist

Here you can find all my published works. I mostly post on AO3.

REQUESTS: currently closed | PROMPTS: open

THE LAST SHADOW PUPPETS/AM (BAND) - alex turner/miles kane

oneshots

a sordid affair [completed] - Alex looks back on his affair with Miles throughout countless hotel rooms.

STRANGER THINGS - steve harrington/eddie munson

multi-chapter

The Night Will Hold Us Close [in progress] - Steve Harrington is just trying to keep it together without having a complete breakdown. That is, until Eddie Munson invites him to see his band play, and that all flies out the damn window.

MUSE (BAND) - matt bellamy/dom howard

drabbles

Wonders of the Moonlight [completed] - Dominic admires Matthew in the moonlight.

oneshots

Savior [completed, 18+] - Who knew committing sin could feel so good? Matthew contemplates the consequences of his sexual desires.

It Tears You Apart [completed] - What happens when you realize you've arrived at a point of no return? An unexpected development forces two men to ruminate on their relationship.

O Mare E Tu (The Sea and You) [completed, 18+] - The signs were all there, but your love wasn’t. A bitter separation. The bitter aftermath picking up the pieces.

multi-chapter

Hope [completed] - Tragedy strikes. Matthew is reminded of his moxie in the form of a letter. Takes place throughout a period of months.

FOOTBALL RPF - leo messi/cristiano ronaldo

multi-chapter

100k Pasos [in progress] - The two times Cristiano Ronaldo was there for Lionel Messi, and the one time he fell in love.

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calacuspr · 2 months

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Calacus Monthly Hit & Miss – Sebastien Haller & Enhanced games february 2024

Every month we look at the best and worst communicators in the sports world from the last few weeks.

HIT - SEBASTIEN HALLER

The late, great Daily Mail sport columnist Ian Wooldridge once wrote: “There are days when sport reaches the sublime heights of unscripted theatre and draws from men and women performers resources of nerve and skill beyond human comprehension.”

The magic of sporting contest is that it can be so unpredictable that it is often said that no one would believe it if you made a movie about what you’ve just witnessed.

This month’s African Cup of Nations (AFCON) certainly fits that description, with striker Sebastien Haller front and centre in the drama.

Ivory Coast, the hosts, looked set to exit the competition after a disastrous group stage, when they lost twice, including a heaviest ever home – and Nations Cup finals – defeat when losing 4-0 to Equatorial Guinea.

Manager Jean-Louis Gasset was promptly sacked, but the team got a reprieve when Zambia failed to get the result they needed to finish above the hosts as a best third-placed side.

Haller had not featured in those first few matches due to an ankle injury, but his comeback is far more dramatic than a typical footballer’s injury.

A former France youth international, Haller made his name at Eintracht Frankfurt before joining Premier League side West Ham for a then club-record fee of £45million in July 2019.

He failed to replicate his Bundesliga form, scoring only 10 goals in a year and a half before moving to Ajax.

Haller twice helped the Dutch giants win the Eredivisie and became only the second player, after one Cristiano Ronaldo, to score in all six of his club’s group-stage Champions League games, and the fourth, with Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Robert Lewandowski, to reach double figures in the competition’s group phase.

This prompted Borussia Dortmund to sign him to replace Erling Haaland, where his impressive form was stopped in its track by a tragic turn of events.

In July 2022, just two weeks after signing, the forward complained of abdominal discomfort and during a consultation with a urologist, a testicular tumour was discovered.

Haller promptly underwent surgery to remove it and within the week, he had started receiving chemotherapy.

In a Canal+ documentary called ‘Fight’, Haller’s wife Priscilla described the news Haller had a tumour as a “nightmare.”

“When (he) told me on the phone, I didn’t believe it — it’s a joke,” she said. “Until he got upset because he takes the blow and on top of that has to convince me. I understood what it was to be really afraid. I was scared and had the fear of my life.”

Haller was determined to play football again as quickly as possible and had a personal trainer devising tailored exercise programmes for him in hospital.

When Haller attended the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris with Priscilla, the extent of his illness was clear for all to see, his hair loss as a result of chemotherapy a stark reminder of how gravely unwellhe had been.

Haller was voted the 13th best player in the world for his achievements with Ajax, and also went up on stage to present an award.

He was encouraged by his idol, former Ivory Coast captain and fellow striker Didier Drogba, to provide an update on his condition and said: “Everything is fine. I’m here because everything is going as well as it can. It’s important to be involved at such events to show that you’re strong.”

That turned out not to be the case.

A month after the Paris ceremony, he needed a second, more dangerous procedure, to remove the residual findings from the tumour, which took over four hours.

When Haller was eventually given the all-clear, he flew with his team-mates to Dortmund’s winter training camp in Marbella, telling reporters that “(retiring) was never on my mind.”

On January 10 2023 Haller was greeted with applause from his team-mates, club staff, opposition players and supporters as he finally stepped onto the pitch for the first time in a Dortmund shirt for a friendly against Fortuna Dusseldorf.

“It’s been a dream to play with my team-mates, certainly more fun than doing runs through forests,” he said afterwards.

Two weeks later, he made his official debut for Dortmund, and first competitive appearance since recovering from cancer, coming off the bench in a 4-3 victory over Augsburg.

The words “F*CK CANCER” were inscribed on his boots.

It was fitting that on World Cancer Day, in early February 2023, Haller scored his first goal for Borussia Dortmund, heading into the net against Freiburg in front of 80,000 supporters at Signal Iduna Park and subsequently swamped by a horde of yellow-clad team-mates.

He pointed to that message on his boots as part of his celebration and he said afterwards: “To score today was a great message to everyone who is fighting today or will fight later.

“It gives some hope, some courage. The days after will always be better. You only want to score another goal, to have that feeling again. It’s the best feeling.

“You’re flying. You’re on a cloud. The whole stadium is on fire. Your team-mates, the staff, everyone is as one. It’s a big boost. There’s still a long way to go, but we will walk down that path.

"Of course, you realise it is something really serious that is happening, that a lot of things can change. It's important to tell it straight about cancer.

“But the urologist helped me not to be scared. He said I could heal well. I took all his words for granted.”

With Ivory Coast struggling and scoring just twice in the AFCON group stages, Haller’s recovery from his ankle injury took on added significance.

"After the big defeat against Equatorial Guinea, we had no choice," Haller said.

"We've come back from a long way. There were words, moments, which were not easy for the players, staff and everybody [but] which were necessary."

Haller’s teammate Seko Fofana said that Haller's struggles with health and fitness inspired squad unity, especially after their coach was sacked in the group stage.

"He was a benefit to others in the team, always giving something else to this group," Fofana mused. “[Consequently] we're now a unit, a collective, and we can be very happy about it.”

Losing against defending champions Senegal, Haller was thrown on late in normal time to help save the game, and his perfect through ball to Nicolas Pepe saw the former Arsenal winger fouled in the penalty area.

Franck Kessie equalised from the spot to take the game into extra time with Haller scoring in the penalty shootout, with the Ivorians knocking out the holders 5-4.

Still not fit enough to start games, Haller was brought on against Mali in the quarter-final with the team down to 10 men, hitting the bar before Oumar Diakite scored in the 122nd minute to see the hosts through 2-1.

In the semi-final against DR Congo, Haller scored the only goal with a volley into the ground, which bounced over goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi and into the net.

That gave Haller the chance to put his health problems behind him, and looking forward to the final, he said: “The last 18 months have been quite challenging for myself and the family. I just take everything step by step and I just try to enjoy the moment. I don't want to have any regrets.

“It’s a great moment to be here in front of you, talking about the final of AFCON in my own country. It will take a few months, or a few years, to really realise what happened (to me).”

Hollywood scriptwriters would have ensured Haller scored the winning goal in front of his home fans, a scenario which looked unlikely when William Troost-Ekong had put Nigeria ahead seven minutes before half-time.

Kessie equalised with just over an hour gone before Haller seized his moment, flicking the ball into the net from Simon Adingra's cross in front of 60,000 fans at Abidjan's Alassane Ouattara Stadium.

An emotional Haller broke down in tears after the final whistle, the reality of his achievement hitting home.

"We dreamed of this moment so many times," Haller said. "We hoped to get to this point and once again the match wasn't an easy one. The joyous scenes we see now, what's happening in the country, they deserve it too. I really hope it does a lot of people good."

Haller was congratulated by Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara after picking up his winners' medal, perhaps in recognition of the impact his return had on Ivory Coast's Éléphants.

Understandably, Haller was front and centre of the team's trophy parade through the centre of Abidjan the following day, the victory a show of unity coming only 13 years since the end of Ivory Coast’s second civil war.

But victory was about more than just lifting the AFCON trophy for the first time since 2015.

Thousands of Ivory Coast fans came to celebrate on the streets of Abidjan, adorning the team’s orange and white colours, a national holiday called to celebrate the championship success.

Haller’s dignified and determined fight against cancer, his impact on the team and the entire nation underlined how sporting prowess can have a positive impact on society.

It’s a reminder not only of the importance of sport, but how its impact transcends the field, bringing joy, hope and inspiration to millions.

MISS – ENHANCED GAMES

With the recent backing of PayPal billionaire Peter Thiel and other tech businessmen, it looks like the controversial Enhanced Games has the financial backing to take place in 2024.

The Enhanced Games is a proposed international athletic competition, not unlike the Olympic Games, but with one major difference: they explicitly do not test for Performance Enhancing Drugs (PEDs). This is not to say that athletes are forced to dope, but rather than doping is perfectly permissible in the eyes of the organisers.

Their stated goal is to see how far humans can go, using a combination of chemical and technological doping; the former including anabolic steroids and hormone therapy, the latter technology like ’super trainers’ and swimsuits based on sharkskin.

The main philosophy of the Enhanced Games is that PED use should be seen as a ‘demonstration of science’ rather than as cheating.

Is this philosophy legitimate? It is true that no athlete succeeds on their own, and that every Olympic champion has a team of nutritionists, coaches and trainers, equipment designers, physiotherapists, friends, and family behind them. Why not add a pharmacist to the list?

The point could be made that high-altitude training could count as an unfair advantage, given that it is only available to athletes from countries that can either afford to fly them there, or who happen by chance to host training facilities in the mountains. It certainly gives athletes a clear and measurable edge over those that don’t have the option.

From a different perspective, a world-class swimmer like Michael Phelps has longer-than-average arms and a torso that is proportionally longer compared to his legs, as well as size 14 feet and a body that produces half the lactic acid of an average swimmer, but he is celebrated as a natural superhuman.

Meanwhile, women such as champion runner Caster Semenya, whose bodies produce higher than average testosterone levels, are punished and forced to take supplements to bring their hormone levels back down to average.

Clearly, there are grey areas when it comes to genetic and competitive advantages, so it could be argued that any and all enhancements should be allowed. That way, an athlete’s performance on the international stage would represent the combined scientific and sporting abilities of their nation to achieve victory as well as any genetic gifts they have.

Given the allegations of the Russian state-sponsored doping program that saw the state formally expelled from the Olympic Movement, forcing the nation’s athletes to compete as independents, this could be more endemic than we currently think.

The Enhanced Games also claim to have a vastly improved pay structure compared to the Olympic Games, including a stipend for all athletes that compete, as well as substantial prizes for the most successful – including up to and above $1m for gold medallists.

Olympic Games silver medallist James Magnussen has indicated he’d be more than happy to come out of retirement and take steroids if it meant a large payday.

He said: “They [Enhanced Games] have said they have a billion-dollar person backing them.

“If they put up a million dollars for the freestyle world record, I’ll come on board as the first athlete. I’ll juice to the gills and break it in six months.”

Three-time swimming gold medal winner Leisel Jones has argued that the Enhanced Games might actually benefit the Olympic Games.

“It might actually keep the clean sport, clean,” she said. “If this clears out people who genuinely want to [take PEDs] and are doing illegal things in sport, if that clears them out of clean sport, that would be wonderful.”

However, she has said that while she might be interested in commentating, she wouldn’t be interested in coming out of retirement to take part herself.

“I don’t want to participate in it myself, I’m not in a position to do that. The risks are too big for me I think for the side effects and whatnot.

“But I am happy to see other people do this. I would watch it for sure. I just want to know how fast they can go.”

There is some truth in the argument that traditional athletics has been afflicted by illicit drug use. Beyond Russia, a 2017 study carried out by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) suggested that as many of half of tested athletes had used PEDs in the last year.

Two parallel Games, one ‘natural’ and one ‘Enhanced’ could, properly enacted, result in fairer competition for all.

However, the Enhanced Games has understandably been strongly criticised by anti-doping agencies all over the world.

Travis Tygart, CEO of the US Anti-Doping Agency, described the Enhanced Games as ”farcical… likely illegal in many states” and “a dangerous clown show, not real sport”

In a release, WADA further condemned the new Games, calling it “a dangerous and irresponsible concept.”

“WADA warns athletes and support personnel, who wish to participate in clean sport, that if they were to take part in the 'Enhanced Games', they would risk committing anti-doping rule violations under the World Anti-Doping Code,

"Athletes serve as role models and we believe this proposed event would send the wrong signal to young people around the world.”

Australian Olympic Committee chief Matt Carroll added that: “The Australian Olympic Committee believes the concept of a drug-enhanced games is dangerous.

“We know next to nothing about this organisation but sport needs to be clean and it needs to be safe for all athletes,

“The Olympic Movement is devoted to clean sport and athletic excellence, celebrating the best in humanity, excellence, friendship and respect.”

A spokesperson from UK Anti-Doping has described the Games as ”‘unsafe, dangerous to athletes’ health and wellbeing [and flying] in the face of fair play.

"We believe competing is about respect, hard work and determination, not a dangerous game of endorsing drug use to enhance performance. We are committed to working with athletes to champion their rights, their health and their wellbeing.”

Even cyclist Joseph Papp, who was suspended in 2006 for PED use, has come out against the Enhanced Games.

“A doping free-for-all just invites the most ambitious person to be the most reckless person, and to take the most drugs possible without literally killing themselves.”

Athlete safety should be paramount in any sporting competition, and it is unclear how PEDs that are illegal in many countries would be regulated to ensure fair access for all competitors.

The condemnation that the Enhanced Games has received is also not limited to the world of sports: their messaging appears to be mimicking that of other, serious, political movements.

One of the Enhanced Games website slogans is: ‘My body, my choice,’ clearly attempting to echo the pro-choice slogans of pro-abortion activists.

Aron D’Souza, President of the Enhanced Games, said: “Fifty years ago, being a gay man was like being enhanced today. It’s stigmatised, it’s illegal in some sense and it’s done in a dark alley.”

In referencing a picture on the Enhanced Games website of an athlete holding up a flag bearing the event’s stylised “E+” logo, he added: “What changed for the LGBT community was pride — there was a flag to rally around and if you look at our website, it is intentional. What’s our first picture? A flag. Maybe this was our Stonewall moment.”

That is a bold claim even for a gay man like D’Souza to make, given the long and deeply oppressive experiences that LGBT+ communities have undergone throughout history.

There’s clearly a shock value aspect to the Enhanced Games’s communications strategy.

A further slogan of the Enhanced Games is ‘Science is real,’ echoing pro-vaccination arguments during the Covid Pandemic. These attempts to co-opt major worldwide political issues for the gain of the Enhanced Games organisers and investors is unlikely to improve the organisation’s credibility.

Whether or not they can attract sufficient athletes remains to be seen. At the time of writing, very few have publicly supported the new competition.

D’Souza claimed that 500 ‘sleeper’ athletes had privately agreed to take part, but so far none have spoken publicly, raising doubts about whether the Enhanced Games can go ahead.

With the very real safety concerns, the question remains: who will actually benefit from the Enhanced Games? It may certainly garner some initial attention, but what sponsors would want to be associated with such a controversial competition which would potentially undermine their own ethics and ethos?

D'Souza claims that he has no need for further investment, and that this is simply a project to see what humanity is capable of. But the financial incentives offered to attract athletes will need funding if the Enhanced Games are to ensure.

There is so much that the Enhanced Games have got wrong from a communications perspective.

Instead of demonstrating an understanding of the concerns and addressing them in a sensitive way, the approach has been one of aggressive belligerence.

Whether more athletes will sign up for the Enhanced Games in the fullness of time remains to be seen.

The risks to athlete safety alone will ensure continued widespread condemnation from the sports world and beyond.

#AFCON #Ivory Coast #West Ham #Ajax #Borussia Dortmund #Sebastien Haller #Franck Kessie #African Cup of Nations #Didier Drogba #cancer #Eintracht Frankfurt

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jassicaleo318 · 2 months

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Sole Rhythms: Navigating the Dynamic Landscape of Argentina Sports Footwear Market

The sports footwear market in Argentina, a dynamic realm where athleticism meets style, achieved a noteworthy value of USD 233.86 million in 2023. As a reflection of the nation's passion for sports and active lifestyles, this market plays a pivotal role in shaping the footwear landscape. Projections suggest a compelling trajectory, with an estimated Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.3% between 2024 and 2032, poised to elevate the market to a value of USD 405.28 million. This article delves into the nuanced landscape of the Argentina sports footwear market, exploring its cultural significance, key players, consumer trends, and the factors driving its anticipated growth.

Cultural Significance of Sports Footwear:

In Argentina, sports are more than just games; they are a cultural phenomenon that unites communities and ignites national pride. Sports footwear transcends its functional role, becoming a symbol of identity and allegiance to favorite teams and athletes. From football to tennis, the choice of sports footwear reflects the passion and dedication woven into the fabric of Argentine society.

Key Market Segments:

Football Cleats: With football being a national obsession, football cleats dominate the sports footwear market. Argentine football enthusiasts, inspired by the legacy of legendary players like Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi, seek high-performance cleats that combine style and functionality.

Running Shoes: The growing fitness culture has fueled the demand for running shoes. As more Argentinians embrace running as a form of exercise and recreation, running shoes with advanced cushioning, lightweight design, and trendy aesthetics gain popularity.

Athletic Sneakers: Beyond specific sports, athletic sneakers cater to a broader audience. Lifestyle-driven designs, collaborations with celebrities and fashion icons, and limited-edition releases contribute to the allure of athletic sneakers as both sportswear and fashion statements.

Key Players in the Argentina Sports Footwear Market:

Nike: A global sports giant, Nike holds a prominent position in the Argentina sports footwear market. Known for innovative designs and cutting-edge technology, Nike's presence resonates with athletes and enthusiasts alike.

Adidas: As a brand deeply intertwined with football culture, Adidas enjoys a strong foothold in the Argentine market. Collaborations with local football clubs and international endorsements contribute to its appeal.

Puma: Puma, with its fusion of performance and lifestyle, caters to diverse segments of the sports footwear market. Collaborations with athletes and influencers add a touch of exclusivity to its product offerings.

Consumer Trends and Preferences:

Emphasis on Comfort: Argentine consumers prioritize comfort in sports footwear. Features such as cushioning, breathable materials, and ergonomic designs resonate with individuals seeking both performance and comfort.

Athleisure Aesthetics: The fusion of athletic and leisurewear continues to shape consumer preferences. Sports footwear that seamlessly transitions from the gym to casual settings aligns with the contemporary lifestyle.

Sustainable Choices: Increasing awareness of environmental sustainability prompts consumers to seek sports footwear brands committed to eco-friendly materials, ethical manufacturing practices, and recyclability.

Technological Advancements in Sports Footwear:

Innovation is a driving force in the Argentina sports footwear market. Brands invest in research and development to introduce technologies such as advanced cushioning systems, lightweight materials, and biomechanical enhancements. These innovations cater to athletes striving for optimal performance and enthusiasts embracing the latest trends.

Retail Landscape and Distribution Channels:

The retail landscape plays a crucial role in shaping the accessibility of sports footwear to consumers. Argentina's diverse retail environment includes dedicated sports stores, department stores, specialty footwear retailers, and e-commerce platforms. The choice of distribution channels impacts brand visibility, consumer reach, and the overall market dynamics. Strategic partnerships with retailers, both physical and online, contribute to expanding market presence and meeting the diverse preferences of consumers.

Influence of Sports Culture and Endorsements:

The pervasive influence of sports culture, particularly football, extends to sports footwear endorsements. Argentine athletes, especially football stars, often collaborate with sports footwear brands, lending their names and personas to exclusive collections. These endorsements create a powerful connection between consumers and their sports idols, influencing purchasing decisions and reinforcing brand loyalty.

Customization and Personalization Trends:

An emerging trend in the sports footwear market is the demand for customization and personalization. Brands offering options for consumers to customize colorways, add personalized details, or even choose performance features tailored to their preferences gain a competitive edge. This trend caters to the desire for unique and personalized products, enhancing the overall consumer experience.

Impact of Health and Wellness Trends:

The growing emphasis on health and wellness contributes to the popularity of sports footwear beyond traditional sports settings. The adoption of an active lifestyle, fitness routines, and recreational sports activities fuels the demand for versatile sports footwear. Brands aligning their product offerings with health and wellness trends capitalize on the evolving consumer mindset.

#Argentina Sports Footwear Market #Sports footwear

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ao3feed-tedlasso · 5 months

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With a little help

https://ift.tt/Ay9itPS by the_scarlet_01 Zava triggers some anxiety issues for Jamie Tartt. Based on a requested prompt: If you look up Lionel Messi and soccer, you’ll find a bunch of articles about his problems with gagging and vomiting during matches. I’d like to plant a story idea in your head about Jamie having that same issue. Zava is a bit ooc because I needed him to be Content Warning: Anxiety, vomiting, nausea, panic, fear, manipulation, verbal harassment, physical violence, bruising, injury, blood, head injury, ultimatums, concussions, stitches, angst, anger, swearing/cursing/cussing. . Words: 6415, Chapters: 1/1, Language: English Fandoms: Ted Lasso (TV) Rating: Mature Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence Categories: M/M Characters: Jamie Tartt, Roy Kent, Zava (Ted Lasso), Ted Lasso, Keeley Jones Relationships: Roy Kent/Jamie Tartt, Keeley Jones & Jamie Tartt, Keeley Jones & Roy Kent, Ted Lasso & Jamie Tartt Additional Tags: Tumblr Prompt, Prompt Fill, Pre-Relationship, Injury, Violence, Anxiety, Anxiety Disorder, Vomiting, Nausea, Head Injury, Concussions, Verbal Abuse, Bruises, Blood, Stitches, Blood and Injury, Angst and Hurt/Comfort, Swearing, Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence, Ted Lasso (TV) Season 3 source https://archiveofourown.org/works/52241158 December 14, 2023 at 06:26AM

#Ted Lasso (TV)#Ted Lasso #Ted Lasso Fic

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clickvibes · 5 months

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pressbizz · 9 months

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Inter Miami's Stunning Victory: Lionel Messi Shines Bright with Two Goals in Leagues Cup Win

Created with AIPRM Prompt “TLDR – Extract facts and summarize” 🔍 Summary:Lionel Messi, the renowned football star, scored two goals during his first start for Inter Miami in a remarkable 4-0 victory against Atlanta United in the Leagues Cup. Messi’s performance showcased his undeniable talent and impact on the game. The victory marks a significant achievement for Inter Miami and highlights…

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soccerdailyuk · 9 months

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Kylian Mbappe prepared to sit out the season to force through Real Madrid move

Kylian Mbappe prepared to sit out the season to force through Real Madrid move According to reports, Kylian Mbappe is willing to skip an entire season and depart from Paris St-Germain without any transfer fee next year. This decision comes after the club made him available for sale last Friday. He won't be part of PSG's pre-season tour to Japan and South Korea, starting on Saturday. The club's stance is that they only want committed players who genuinely desire to be a part of the team, emphasizing that no player's importance surpasses that of the club. Nevertheless, despite the decision, Mbappe's initial response remains firm, as he is prepared to be a substitute and refrain from participating in matches for PSG until his contract expires the following summer. Even though he holds the position of France captain and with the approaching Euros in the next summer, this doesn't sway his stance. He is determined to stand his ground and is willing to forgo an entire season without yielding, and PSG is left with no options. He is prepared to challenge them to see who gives in first. Despite PSG's tough stance, they will ultimately have to honor Mbappe's wages and bonus until his departure for free next summer. The club firmly believes that Mbappe has already made an agreement to join Real Madrid on a free transfer, which they see as a significant betrayal, especially considering his previous statements about not leaving without a transfer fee. When training resumed this month, PSG sought clarification from Mbappe, but the player has not communicated any decision to them. As a result, PSG assumes that Mbappe intends to leave for free, prompting them to begin planning for a future without him, starting with their pre-season tour of the Far East. Mbappe is now available for purchase, and several clubs have been eagerly waiting for any developments in his situation. Among the interested clubs is Al Hilal, a Saudi club, whose representatives have been in contact with PSG. They had previously attempted to sign Lionel Messi earlier in the summer and even explored the possibility of signing Tottenham's Harry Kane through an intermediary. While PSG's six summer signings, along with the new coach Luis Enrique and the motivated squad, will be traveling to Japan and South Korea for pre-season, Mbappe has been instructed to continue training at the club's new Paris training ground alongside other players who are not part of the club's plans for the upcoming season. Notably, he will be training with players like Georginio Wijnaldum and Julian Draxler. Kylian Mbappe prepared to sit out the season to force through Real Madrid move Read the full article

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sportsnews-77 · 10 months

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les-lestappen · 1 year

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can u write neymessi with prompt 24 ❤️

Lionel Messi x Neymar jr:

prompt: you don't have to pretend you're fine

author's note: god I love them so much, the setting supposed to be psg on an away game but it's deliberately a little unclear so you can interpret it as either psg or barça, enjoy :)

Neymar let out a shuddering breath, he was starting to get cold even if he was still sweating, the chilling air of the night made his arm hair stand up. Nonetheless he kept playing, practicing tricks and dribbles and tried to ignore the pain in his ankle. Obviously it was getting worse minute by minute but Ney knew that he deserved it, he had played so badly, even missed an opportunity for a goal so he just had to go on practicing, basically in the dark, to be better. He tried a kick again but this time he felt a sharp pain from his ankle to his calf and he fell forward, his hands on his knees.

"Fuck" he mumbled, out of breath.

Neymar felt a hand on his shoulder and turned around quickly, stumbling back a little.

"Leo?Jesus you scared me. What are you doing here?" Ney had said, still a little jumpy

Lionel smiled and Ney thought he looked beautiful under the moonlight, a little blurry almost unreal.

"Sorry" he said "I didn't mean to scare you. I and I could ask you the same thing you know."

"Oh you know, just practicing a little."

"At one a.m and with an ankle injury?"

"Yeah Leo, at one a.m" Ney sighed again "I couldn't sleep and apparently neither could you. Why are you here? How'd you even know I was here?"

"I didn't. I thought I heard a door opening next to me and then I could see movement on the field from my room, figured it was you practicing instead of sleeping even if we have a flight in five hours"

Ney looked down at the grass, it was sweet and a little embarrassing how predictable he was for Leo.

"Ney look at me, what are you doing here?"

"I already told you, I couldn't sleep."

"And you decided to practice in the dark."

"Yeah I find it relaxing."

"Oh come on don't bullishit me."

"Leo stop it, I just wanted to practice, what's the big deal?" Neymar responded defensively, looking at the ground again.

Leo's voice softened as he put a hand on shoulder, his thumb softly stroking his collarbone. "Ney, you don't have to pretend you're fine, talk to me"

Neymar felt his eyes sting but he just couldn't deny Leo an explanation.

"I'm just so tired Leo. I keep getting injured and I'm shit on the field cause it hurts and people don't understand, they just don't. I try my best Leo and my ankle hurts and I'm letting everybody down, I'm letting you down and I just…I don't know" Neymar had started to cry about halfway through his speech and now he was practically sobbing.

Leo wrapped his arms around him tightly and Ney buried his face in his shoulder, mumbling "I'm sorry Leo, I'm sorry for this." through the tears; he felt pathetic.

One of Lionel's hands ended up in Ney's hair, caressing it softly, trying to calm him down.

"Hey Ney no, don't say you're sorry. You're not letting me or anybody else down, you could never." Lionel whispered softly, directly in his ear. "You always put your heart in the game, you give it your everything and we see it, I promise I see it. Neymar, I'm proud of you."

Ney raised his head, a little shocked but with hopeful eyes.

"Proud of me? Why." he said, his voice hoarse.

"I'm always proud of you, watching you grow up as a player and as a person all these years has been wonderful but now I need you to take care of yourself, give yourself time to heal. Okay?"

"You're right Leo, I'm sorry, you know I can be stupid, stubborn."

"It's okay." Leo said, hugging him again and turning his head to kiss his temple, then his hair. "I know how you are and you're not stupid, maybe a little stubborn but I like you this way. Now let's go to bed."

#neymessi #neymar jr #neymar #lionel messi #leo messi #neymessi moments #neymessi fic #neymessi hurt/comfort #psg #paris saint germain #força barça #barcellona #neymessi fanfic #neymar jr x lionel messi

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