After the training session the locker room was buzzing with activity. Because it has been a while since many of the players have seen each other. People were seen sharing their christmas and new year experiences with each other. Some were seen dancing half naked, some were seen singing.
Though their season was far from great, they didn't let that fact bind them. They knew such an atmosphere would only reduce their performance even more instead of improving it.
Marco was seen sitting in a corner of the room while fiddling with his latest iPhone. By latest means the newest version currently available, which was in fact the first generation iPhone – the one with 3.5 inch screen, with a non existent app store and yet to include selfie and video features.
While this piece of device was the latest global sensation, and going to change the mobile phones industry for ever, as a person from the future, who has used the much more evolved version, he wasn't much thrilled when using it.
The only exception was the iPod feature, which he frequently uses.
As he was thinking about these things, he felt shadow fall upon him. Marco raised his head and looked up. It was his new team mate – Mats hummels. Due to his 'bold' character and actions, it can be said that his introduction to the squas wasn't the best.
Football is different from those games where you put random players together and expect them to play well. Professional football was more than just field performance and stats.
As a game depending very much on team synergy and mutual understanding, it was imperative for a player to effectively manage their locker room life. Arguing with the senior players on the first day wasn't the most brilliant start.
Even though he was young – just 19 years old this year, and fresh from the Bayern second team with almost no senior team experience, Hummels wasn't an idiot. Instead he was very perceptive.
Even though his character was such that he wouldn't back down when facing against anyone, he knew there were times when one needed to retreat. As a player with the tag of 'Bayer reject' sealed on his resume, he was very much motivated to prove them wrong and show his worth.
So he first approached Marco Reus, a player around his age and known for his talent.
He put forward his arm and said "Hello, I am Mats Hummels."
Marco also politely reciprocated, "Marco Reus. It's good to have you here. Nice session by the way. You played very well."
"You too. I admit that you were the most difficult player to defend against...among those who i have played against or around our age."
"Really? Why do you say that?"
"I don't quite understand this either. But i think your game is very mature, like you know how the game was going to unfold and... yeah, something like that."
"I also noticed that you are a very different kind of defender among those of us. Your reading and anticipation is also good. And you have good vision and passing skills. The composure too...have you ever tried to play as a midfielder?
Hummels was surprised to hear this comment.
"That's right. I played as a defensive midfielder before. But i prefer playing as the center back. I believe that this position is the best suited for me."
"Oh..."
"Matsy, here you are!"
as they were getting along with the conversation a sudden intrusion interrupted them. Hummels confusedly turned around, as the new guy, he didn't have anyone who he was particularly close to. Hearing this overly friendly tone and nickname he was left confused.
The new guy was a short dark, dark skinned guy with a wild dread locked hair whose abundant energy was felt even from a distance. He walked in, hooked his arms around Marco's shoulder and greeted them as he was always there.
"Marco, how was your holiday? Were you busy spending time with your girlfriend? When are you going to introduce her to us?"
"Not so soon, Tinga, I will do it when the time comes."
The new guy was named Tinga, originally named Paulo César Fonseca do Nascimento. He is the main midfielder of the dortmund squad. Known for his wild energy and relentless running, he was a box-to-box midfielder, even before the term was well used in germany.
"You repeated the same sentence for the past half a year. No way i am going to believe that. Anyway, i am officially inviting you to churrasco tonight, at Dede's place. You can't miss this. I am going to fight with you if you miss this."
Hummels was still confused: do i know this guy?
After sorting out his thoughts he asked confusedly: " what is a churrasco?"
this left Tinga confused. "Churrasco is churrasco. What else could it be?"
Marco face palmed seeing this interaction. He interrupted their conversation and pointed out.
"Churrasco is the term used for Brazilian BBQ. Tinga and Dede, the two brazilian guys often invite everyone to one of these gatherings. You should come. It is an opportunity to get to know everyone better."
"Yeah, i will see to that." Hummels replied.
Marco nodded his head inward seeing this response. In his past life, he has seen many games of Hummels. He knew his reputation and media personality.
But as a team mate, his first impression of him was that not a socialising type of guy. He seemed to be the type that would rather spend his night reviewing his performance and watching games to improve himself.
But as expected, he knew about his situation more than anyone. The early outburst on the pitch is an exception.
Maybe this invitation was what he needed now.