Dawson entered Nolan’s office with a folder in hand.
He closed the door behind him and placed the folder on the desk, sliding it toward Nolan.
"Here it is," Dawson said, his tone steady.
"Leo’s body development plan."
Nolan took the folder, opening it carefully.
He scanned through the pages, his eyes pausing as he read the details.
"Looks thorough," he said, his voice neutral but interested.
"Yeah, it’s a lot of gym work," Dawson replied.
"Strengthening his core and lower body, and building his overall muscle mass. He’s quick, but his body’s still not ready for the kind of intensity he’ll face at this level.
This plan focuses on explosive power, endurance, and stability, all of which he’ll need to handle the demands of the U21s—and eventually, the first team."
Nolan nodded, reading over the specifics.
"Seems like a solid approach. How soon do you think he’ll be able to see results?"
"Could take a few weeks before we see any real changes," Dawson replied.
"His body’s got a lot of catching up to do, but he’s got the mentality to push through it. The key will be consistency. If he sticks to it, he’ll be in better shape after a few weeks."
Nolan leaned back in his chair, considering the plan.
"It’s a lot of work, but I think you’re right. His mental game’s there; he just needs to catch up physically. If we can get him up to speed, he could be something for us."
Dawson’s expression remained focused.
"Exactly. He’s got all the potential in the world, but the physical side has to match it. Once that’s sorted, we’ll see a player who can dictate the tempo on the pitch."
Nolan closed the folder and looked up at Dawson.
"I’ll make sure the strength and conditioning team gets this. Let’s see how he handles it."
Dawson nodded, standing up.
"Thanks, Nolan. I won’t be here that much after this since I have to be with the main team and all, but I’ll try to keep working with him to get the best out of him. We’ve got a lot to unlock, but it’s all in the plan."
The next morning, Leo stood in the lobby of the Wigan Athletic training complex, waiting for Nolan.
After a few moments, Nolan appeared, walking toward him with a folder in hand.
He gave Leo a nod, signaling it was time to head to the youth gym facilities.
"You ready for some work, Leo?" Nolan asked as they made their way down the hallway.
"Yeah, I think so," Leo responded, his nerves starting to settle.
He was no longer as unfamiliar with the complex as the day before, but today was different.
This was a new challenge, one that wasn’t just about his skills on the ball—it was about improving his body, the foundation of everything.
When they entered the gym, Leo was met with a combination of free weights, treadmills, and machines—all designed to build strength and endurance.
It was a far cry from the fieldwork he was used to, but it felt necessary.
He knew he had to push his limits.
Nolan stopped in front of a bench press machine and laid the folder on it.
"This is your development plan. Dawson put together a routine with the help of the main team’s player development manager, and it should help improve your physicality—specifically your core strength, leg power, and overall endurance.
It’ll be a lot of gym work mixed with some recovery sessions. Think of it as laying the groundwork for you to be a more complete player."
Leo took the folder and opened it.
Inside it, were detailed plans for daily routines: strength training, cardio work, flexibility exercises, and recovery techniques.
It all felt a bit overwhelming, but Leo knew it was all part of the process.
"Start with the basic stuff," Nolan continued, pointing to the first exercise on the sheet.
"We’ll focus on getting your legs stronger and improving your explosiveness off the ball. For now, the goal is consistency and controlled improvement."
Leo nodded, absorbing everything.
"I can handle it. Let’s get started."
For the next hour, Leo worked through a series of exercises: squats, lunges, leg presses, and sprints on the treadmill.
It was hard work—his muscles screamed at him to stop, but he pushed through, following Nolan’s instructions closely.
Each time he felt like quitting, he reminded himself why he was here.
It wasn’t just about making it to the U21s or impressing the coaches; it was about becoming the player he knew he could be.
As they finished up with the final set of exercises, Nolan stood back and watched.
"You’ve got the right attitude, Leo. But remember, this is just the first day. We need to keep improving every day."
Leo wiped the sweat off his forehead, feeling the exhaustion settle into his bones.
But there was a small spark of pride within him—he had made it through the first day, and that was something.
As they walked toward the recovery rooms, Leo’s phone buzzed in his pocket.
He pulled it out to find a message from Mia—using Sofia’s phone.
He smiled softly as he read the message:
"Hey, big bro, how’s it going? Miss you! Tell me about your training!"
He tapped out a quick reply:
"Going well. Just finished a big session at the gym. It’s a lot of work, but I’m pushing through. Miss you too. Talk later!"
After sending it, Leo slipped the phone back into his pocket, feeling a bit lighter.
Despite everything—despite the sweat and soreness—he knew he was on the right path.
Later that evening, as Leo sat down on the couch in his temporary accommodation, he took a moment to reflect on the day.
The gym session had been tough but rewarding. As he thought about his next steps, he heard the buzz of his phone again.
It was Mia, still using Sofia’s phone.
"Leo!" her voice crackled through the speaker, "how’s everything going? Do you miss me yet?"
Leo smiled, relieved to hear his little sister’s voice.
"It’s alright. Just tiring. I’m getting used to everything here," he paused, "But I miss you guys too."
"I bet! So, when are you coming back? I can’t wait to show you this new dance move I made up! Well, I haven’t made it up yet. But when I do, you’ll be the first to know."
Mia giggled on the other end, her tone lighter than it had been before.
Leo let out a small laugh. "You’re always making new moves, huh?"
"You know it!" Mia replied confidently.
"But seriously, you need to be the one to show me your moves on the pitch when you get back."
Leo felt a lump form in his throat.
He hadn’t even gotten the chance to prove himself yet, but her enthusiasm made him push through the doubts.
"I’m doing my best. I think things are moving forward; I just have to keep pushing myself."
Sofia’s voice cut in from the background, "Mia, let your brother rest. He’s probably exhausted. We can talk to him more later."
Mia huffed dramatically. "Okay, okay. But you owe me a proper chat when you get the chance, Leo. No excuses!"
"I will. Tell Sofia I said hey," Leo responded warmly.
"Alright, I’ll let you go. Bye, Leo!"
Leo stood up after the call and stretched, feeling the tightness in his muscles.
A small smile crept onto his face. Tomorrow was another day, another step toward the player he wanted to become.