The arrival of the Dortmund contingent had transformed the quiet, post-Christmas languor of Casa de los Niños into a vibrant, chaotic festival.
The courtyard, usually a place of quiet contemplation and gentle play, was now a buzzing hub of activity, a surreal intersection of two vastly different worlds that somehow fit together perfectly, like pieces of a puzzle that had been waiting decades to be assembled.
The children had overcome their initial awe and were now chattering excitedly with their heroes, their shyness melting away in the face of such genuine warmth and attention. Miguel, now seventeen and preparing for his final year of school, was deep in conversation with Mkhitaryan about university plans and career aspirations.
Pablo was showing Aubameyang his latest short story, written in careful English, while the Gabonese striker listened with genuine interest and offered encouragement.
