As the final whistle blew, signaling the end of the session, the players slowed to a stop, catching their breath.
The intensity of the drills and small-sided games had left everyone drenched in sweat, but there was an unspoken satisfaction among them.
Arteta gathered them in the middle of the pitch. His sharp eyes scanned the squad before nodding.
"That was good. Very good. The standard is where it should be, but I want it even higher."
His gaze lingered on a few players—Izán included. "We keep building. Every session, every drill, every touch matters."
The squad nodded, some clapping their hands together in agreement.
"Alright, cool down inside. Take care of your recovery. Tomorrow, we go again."
As the players turned to walk off, Martinelli slung an arm over Izan's shoulder. "Not bad, man. Thought you'd need some time to adjust, but you look like you've been here for months."
Izan smirked, shaking his head. "It's just the first day."
