Ch. 301Annuo? He's Just a Kid!
Plot points and events
- Atlético Madrid’s 9–0 victory over Sevilla, including Chen Anno’s record-setting seven goals, dominates international sports coverage. Many outlets hail him as a new superstar and claim the Messi–Ronaldo era is ending.
- The AS newspaper tries to minimize the result and ignores Anno’s seven-goal feat. Atlético retaliates on social media with a sarcastic post that also recalls its previous aggregate victory over Real Madrid. Fans join in mocking AS and Real Madrid supporters.
- Anno stays out of the media uproar. Neymar calls to complain that Anno overshadowed his own hat trick; Anno promises to take him out for a meal.
- Anno also receives congratulations from national-team contacts and hears from former Dortmund teammate Aubameyang, who hints that he may leave because the club is struggling and has not invested in new players. Anno avoids encouraging him to go, instead urging him to keep playing and trust coach Jürgen.
- Reflecting alone, Anno reminds himself that praise is temporary and resolves to keep working hard.
- In Barcelona, Messi sees the report of Anno’s performance and does extra training. Nearby in Madrid, Ronaldo also trains after his young son excitedly praises Anno. Ronaldo dismisses Anno as “just a kid,” despite clearly feeling challenged.
Character developments and interactions
- Chen Anno remains grounded despite sudden fame. He maintains affection for Dortmund and tactfully avoids encouraging Aubameyang to leave.
- Neymar is proud of his hat trick but playfully resentful that Anno stole the headlines; their brotherly relationship shows through the teasing.
- Aubameyang sounds disillusioned with Dortmund and may be considering a transfer.
- Messi is quietly competitive and responds to Anno’s success with extra training. Antonella recognizes his pride and gently teases him, while their son Thiago interrupts their exchange.
- Ronaldo tries to project confidence, but Anno’s achievement appears to provoke him. His son admires Anno, while Georgina reassures Ronaldo and steers the child away from his training.
Significant themes
- Rivalry and ambition: Anno’s breakthrough motivates both Messi and Ronaldo to respond.
- Humility and perseverance: Anno rejects the hype and focuses on improving match by match.
- Public image versus private feelings: Messi and Ronaldo appear composed or dismissive, but their reactions reveal pride and insecurity.
- Media bias and fan culture: AS’s attempt to downplay Atlético’s win backfires, showing how sports coverage and online rivalries amplify competition.