The final pre-season friendly was scheduled against a well-organized Swiss team at the Westfalenstadion. It was the last opportunity for Klopp to fine-tune his tactics, to test his squad depth, and to give the newly promoted players a taste of first-team action before the Bundesliga season began. For Lukas, it was the moment he had been waiting for – his chance to prove he belonged.
The atmosphere in the dorm that morning was electric. Mateo woke early, as usual, but found Lukas already awake, sitting on the edge of his bed, staring at his hands.
"Couldn't sleep?" Mateo signed.
Lukas looked up, his face a mix of excitement and nerves. "I kept thinking about the match. About getting my chance. What if I mess up?"
"You won't. You're ready. You've worked hard, you've improved, and Klopp believes in you. That's all that matters."
"But what if he doesn't put me on?"
"Then you'll get your chance in the next match. But I have a feeling today is your day."
