A rivalry like no other.

1. Training and doubts

I stand in front of the mirror, adjusting my hair tie one last time before heading out the door. Today is just like any other day for me—a day filled with anticipation, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. My name is Avery Thompson, and I'm a professional footballer for Manchester United Women's team.

Stepping out onto the vibrant streets of Manchester, the cool morning air fills my lungs. It's a big day for our team, with a crucial match tomorrow against our rivals, Arsenal. But before we can conquer the pitch, we need to conquer the training ground.

The training facility comes into view, a place that feels like a second home after these two years. I hear the sound of football boots clacking against concrete as my teammates, dressed in our red and black training kits, head towards the pitch.

I join the group, greeted by the friendly smiles and playful banter of my teammates. Ella Toone, the midfield dynamo, wraps me in a bear hug. "Avery, ready to show Arsenal what we're made of?" she exclaims, her eyes shining with determination.

I grin and reply, "Absolutely, Ella. Let's make them regret stepping onto our turf."

Leah Galton, the quick and agile winger, joins in, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Yeah, Avery. No pressure, but we're all counting on you to score the winning goal again."

We all laugh, knowing it's not just about one person. It's about the teamwork and trust we've built together.

As we start our rigorous training session, the intensity ramps up. We push ourselves to the limit, honing our skills and tactics. The coach's voice echoes across the field, urging us to give our all. Every sprint, pass, and shot brings us closer to our collective goal—a victory that will solidify people to see us as a team well capable of winning the league

During the training drills, I find myself facing off against Ella. Her lightning-quick footwork challenges me, and we engage in a friendly competition. We pass the ball back and forth, testing each other's reflexes.

During a short break, while catching our breath on the grass, Ella teases me about my messy hair. "Avery, you seriously need better hair ties. I swear, one day it's gonna fly off and score a goal."

I roll my eyes and playfully nudge her shoulder. "I'll keep that in mind, Ella. Maybe you can give me some hairstyling tips after practice."

Ella chuckles. "Oh, don't worry, Avery. I've got plenty of hairstyles up my sleeve. I can give you a whole makeover before the next match."

I laugh, imagining myself with an extravagant hairstyle on the field. "As long as it doesn't obstruct my view, I'm all for it."

Leah, joining in on the conversation, chips in with a mischievous grin. "I think Avery should try a pink mohawk. It would definitely strike fear into the hearts of our opponents."

We burst into laughter, picturing the bewildered expressions of the Arsenal players as I charge down the field with a vibrant pink mohawk. The image alone is enough to lighten the mood and ease the tension of our intense training session.

Times like this where the whole group was sharing laughs at Ella's silly yet hilarious comments made me sad, it made me realise with only this season left on my contract I was going to miss these girls with all my heart. Don't get me wrong there was always a chance Marc would give me the option of renewing my contract but is that what I really wanted deep down? With the game growing and getting more publicity I still felt like I was just a shadow in the corner not getting the recognition I longed and hoped for. Maybe a transfer was needed.

I tried not to get into my head as training was drawing to a close and I knew with a huge game coming up that's the last thing I wanted.

"Nandos with a starter of your choice on me if you score tomorrow" Mary said as she put her arm around my shoulder pulling me from my thoughts.

"Your on, If you keep a clean sheet i'll even throw in dessert" I laughed as I tucked my head into her side as we made our way into the changing rooms.

The brave faces were shown all round the changing rooms but everyone knew this was going to be our toughest game yet. It's the first time we will be playing against Alessia Russo since she moved to arsenal in the summer and in our previous game against brighton it really showed up how much we missed her.

With Alessia gone that's where I came in, I took over her position and some people were happy with it, majority of people were far from happy with the decision.

First game of the season the game I previously mentioned against brighton was probably my worst game of my life. With the pressure on my shoulders of taking over Alessias spot in the starting 11 and the negative comments from the media it really put me off my game. I missed two open chances and a penalty. It really can't get much worse then that. However I did score the winning and only goal causing us to win 1-0 but then again everyone expected us to have that game easily in the bag so a 1-0 win isn't what the fans expected or deserved.

With playing Arsenal tomorrow I really wanted to make my mark. I wanted to show the fans and media I deserved this spot in the team and was just as good as Alessia if not only better, so tomorrow was a big game for me but little did I know what was about to come...

Taking a short break from my previous story "two hearts one love". I've just had a readers block and thought by starting a new story it could get me in the flow again. Hope it helps and if so i should have that story updated next week:)
For now enjoy this new one.