The rumor of Real Madrid's interest hung in the air, a dazzling, unsettling thought. Leon felt a thrill of both excitement and apprehension. Real Madrid.
The ultimate club. But he was only just finding his feet at Aston Villa, just settling into their new house. It was a lot to take in.
The next morning, the academy was buzzing with nervous energy.
The Arsenal title win was yesterday's news; today's focus was entirely on Aston Villa's final push for Europe. Leon, still processing the Real Madrid rumor, walked into the tactical room for their team meeting.
Coach Emery stood in front of a giant screen displaying the Premier League table.
Arsenal - 72 points
Manchester City - 70 points
Liverpool - 68 points
Tottenham - 62 points
Aston Villa - 54 points
Chelsea - 52 points
Brighton - 50 points
Manchester United - 48 points
Fulham - 46 points
Newcastle United - 44 points