Pre-Match – The Neymar Effect
Jake stood at the edge of the pitch, arms crossed, watching as the stands filled. Valley Parade was sold out again.
Two big pre-season games. Two sell-outs.
But this wasn't just about Bradford anymore. This was about Neymar.
The return of a footballing icon to his boyhood club had sent shockwaves through the sport. Santos was back in Europe for pre-season, and Neymar was leading the charge.
Jake had seen the headlines.
"Neymar Returns – The Final Chapter?"
"Santos Takes on Europe with Their Prodigal Son."
"Wilson's Bradford vs. Neymar's Santos – Another Pre-Season Test."
Jake didn't care about the media spectacle. He cared about the test.
His squad had already gone toe-to-toe with Messi and Suárez. Now, they had to handle another world-class attacker.
Jake turned as Paul Roberts approached.
"They're treating this like a final," Paul muttered, glancing toward the Santos warm-up.
Jake followed his gaze.
