"Ugh, seriously?! Even after all that, I still didn't break into the top 23?!"
Ranked 24th, Raichi Jingo clutched his head and grumbled in frustration. But deep down, he understood that his valuation was already quite high.
After all, Germany was packed with talent, and this match was the only chance he'd gotten to play.
Unfortunately, it had to be the match where Shun ended things swiftly, leaving Raichi with no time to properly showcase his strengths. In that sense, even making it this far was a pleasant surprise.
After a short round of complaints, it was time for the top 23, the players who qualified to receive official scouting reports. Those who had played but hadn't yet seen their names appeared visibly tense, nervously waiting for the next result.
23rd – Otoya Eita, ¥12 million
Possesses excellent off-the-ball movement and impressive first-step acceleration. Fits smoothly into a variety of systems, but hasn't shown a wider range of abilities. A clearly defined player type who can survive using one standout skill—ideal for teams looking for specialists, though unlikely to stand out as a star.
"No way… That guy gave us a lot of trouble, you know? That extreme low-dive feint of his isn't something most people can even react to the first time."
The brutally frank assessment left the Blue Lock players momentarily speechless.
Although Otoya hadn't played in the U-20 match due to his tactical role, he had always been one of the top-tier talents among them. In the this phase, he was one of the first to replace a youth academy player.
But now, his evaluation sounded more like a rejection of his dream to become a top footballer.
In that moment, everyone was once again reminded of how ruthless the path to professional football could be.
"Enough of that crap."
Shinichi cut through their gloomy thoughts with a sharp bark.
"You guys aren't even qualified to pity someone like him. And I doubt Otoya needs your sympathy anyway."
"If he can't rise to the top in one go, then he needs to find his role and build from there. That's a valid choice too. Not every elite player bursts onto the pro scene right away. And I seriously doubt Otoya's given up on becoming the best in the world. So none of us—including me—have the right to look down on him."
"In the end, we're all fighting to be number one in the world. The only thing we can do is give it everything we've got in every match. That's how you respect both your rivals—and your own career."
"Exactly," Isagi added,
"It's like FLOW. Setting your sights too high too soon just leads to frustration. The smart move is to aim based on your current ability, then grow step by step. That's how you build a real career."
Isagi knew this better than anyone. His original goal was just to avoid being eliminated. But bit by bit, he'd grown into a player capable of challenging even Kaiser.
Everyone nodded—some in understanding, others still unsure—but a shared sense of urgency quietly settled in.
If you can't keep up, you'll be left behind.
That fear etched itself deeply into their minds.
22nd – Karasu Tabito, ¥18 million
A well-rounded player with solid abilities across the board. Especially good at shielding the ball, allowing him to briefly hold his own against top players without losing possession. However, he lacks standout traits—jack of all trades, master of none. Doesn't have the killer instinct to finish attacks, isn't as reliable defensively as specialized defenders, and his passing is average at best.
The harsh critique made everyone grimace again.
It was too blunt.
Too real.
But it was also… hard to argue with.
It made them feel like livestock, ranked by appearance and value, with none of the glamor they once imagined came with being a rising football star.
21st – Gagamaru Gin, ¥20 million
A physically gifted keeper with top-tier height and reach, combined with incredibly fast reflexes. However, the most recent match exposed key weaknesses—he struggles in chaotic or complex situations. In the game against Ubers, he failed to respond effectively to all three goals conceded, which significantly lowered his value.
"Yeah… knew that was coming." Gagamaru blinked a few times.
"Next time, I swear I'll block your shots."
20th – Hiiragi Reiji, ¥22 million
Known for his calm and analytical mind, he can accurately identify both his and his opponent's strengths and weaknesses and use them to his advantage. In the latest match, his combination play with Hiori helped crack Ubers' defense, showing great potential. However, his physical attributes aren't particularly outstanding, and his attacking options remain limited—raising questions about whether he can fully execute the strategies he envisions.
"I see…" Reiji muttered.
"Just knowing my strengths isn't enough. I need to expand what I'm capable of."
Tied 18th – Jyubei Aryu, ¥26 million
A promising defensive talent. His unusually long limbs give him wide coverage, and his high defensive work rate provides great reassurance. His reaction time is also exceptional, allowing him to block sudden attacks. However, relying solely on reflexes raises concerns about his long-term development. If he improves his field awareness and reading of the game, his evaluation would increase significantly.
Tied 18th – Kira Ryosuke, ¥26 million
Another player with excellent all-around ability. He has an impressively wide range of techniques and can adapt to different roles and opponents using tailored skills. However, these techniques often feel too textbook, lacking any flash or creativity. Following the manual may not be enough to survive long in a pro scene filled with monsters.
17th – Sendou Shuto, ¥27 million
A forward who excels at both offense and defense, willing to do the dirty work such as holding the line at the top of the defense. His off-ball movement in attack is also impressive. With some professional match experience under his belt, he demonstrates excellent control over game tempo and has a keen sense for counterattack opportunities. A player with immediate practical value.
"Whoa, that was close!"
Seeing his name finally appear, Sendou let out a long breath of relief—but he didn't relax for even a second.
With three players ranked just below him, all with very similar valuations, he knew that if Ubers hadn't performed as well overall, his price could've easily dropped.
"Damn it… there's no way I'm letting these guys catch up to me."
16th – Yukimiya Kenyu, ¥30 million
Has the potential to become an elite ball carrier. He's highly threatening in one-on-one situations and possesses excellent shooting technique. His movement and finer technical details across the board are also top-tier.
However, ongoing concerns about his health condition have caused hesitation, and his situational awareness still shows some immaturity—these two factors are dragging down his valuation.
Worth noting: every team that has submitted an offer for Yukimiya Kenyu has expressed a willingness to provide medical support.
Reading the scouting report, Yukimiya clenched his fists tightly. His whole body trembled with emotion, and behind the slightly fogged lenses of his sports goggles, his eyes shimmered—whether from his condition or tears, it was hard to tell. He fought back the lump in his throat and turned to look at Shinichi.
If this man hadn't scolded him and snapped him out of it, he might've sunk like a stubborn, directionless ship—lost in the vast ocean forever.
And now he realized just how foolish he'd been, always complaining about unfairness without ever taking real action.
'If it's for him, I'd gladly become the dirt upon which his kingdom is built.'
Though everyone could see how emotional Yukimiya was, nobody said a word.
Just as Shinichi had reminded them—each path was chosen by the person walking it. No one else had the right to judge.
They were rivals on the road to becoming the best in the world. The only thing they could do was give their all in every match.
So, in silent understanding, everyone moved on—
Only to be shocked by the next name on the list:
15th – Shidou Ryusei, ¥33 million (↓ ¥4 million)
A born striker, perfectly built for scoring. His athleticism and technical ability make him lethal in the box. However, his lack of ability to carry the ball into the penalty area on his own makes him heavily reliant on midfield support.
This has been especially evident in recent matches, where Charles's drop in form has caused a sharp decline in Shidou's effectiveness.
"Shidou's only 15th? Just what kind of monsters are ahead of him…?"
Most of the players found this ranking hard to accept.
Shidou might be a total maniac, but his talent was undeniable—he'd always been a top-tier threat in Blue Lock.
But now he was falling into the mid-tier?
Still, the more tactically minded players were already piecing together the reason.
"It's surprising, yeah. But it makes sense."
"After the first match, Charles clearly changed his playstyle. Their synergy just started falling apart." Hiori was the first to speak.
"Yeah," Niko added.
"Shidou's effectiveness skyrockets when someone's feeding him passes. Or when he's fighting for second balls in the box."
"And P.X.G is like Bastard München—they run a double-ace system," Isagi concluded.
"But unlike us, they rotate their two stars. And Rin is the other ace. That's also eating into Shidou's chances to shine."
...
14th – Niko Ikki, ¥34 million
Top-tier vision and tactical thinking, especially for a youth player. Excellent at timing secondary challenges and pressing. Can even make an impact at a high-level "Eleven" battlefield. However, his slim build is a major weakness.
This type of defender might carve out a brand-new category of his own, but at the same time, the risk is high—scouts are hesitant to offer a large contract.
13th – Aiku Oliver, ¥44 million
Matches Niko's vision, but adds elite-level physical attributes. As former U-20 captain, he brings a wealth of experience and has the athleticism to launch counterattacks with the forwards. A well-rounded player with immediate value and a promising future.
"The ranking's what I expected, but the difference between us is massive," Niko muttered, shaking his head.
Still, there was no bitterness—only acknowledgment of the real, measurable gap.
"No matter. I'll fight in my own way."
...
12th – Nagi Seishiro, ¥50 million
His talent is visible to the naked eye—a dazzling future lies ahead.
But in the present, his role is awkward. Offensively, he's outshined by teammate Chigiri. As an all-rounder, he can't compare to Reo Mikage.
If he's only used for his trapping skills as a pivot up front, he pales in comparison to a true playmaker like Kurona.
Unless he can clarify his role and goals, there's a real danger that his brilliance will be buried over time.
For a scouting report to express such personal concern speaks volumes about Nagi's talent.
But right now, this boy who had stumbled into football still didn't seem to know why he was playing.
And that leads to a vicious cycle—just like Ego Jinpachi's reasoning for excluding him from the U-20 match.
If there are players with the same role, why choose someone who needs others to activate him—
when you could pick someone like Barou Shoei, who creates his own opportunities?
...
11th – Mikage Reo, ¥56 million
An extremely gifted player. Excellent physique, and an extraordinary ability to learn and mimic others' styles.
Having mimicked both Shinichi and Sae, Reo's style is flexible, diverse, and highly adaptable. He can play virtually any position.
But his innate talent, while excellent, isn't overwhelming—making it difficult for him to surpass the abilities he copies.
Being a jack of all trades means he's always just short in every area, and that stops him from becoming a true game-changer.
...
Tied 9th – Kurona Ranze, ¥60 million
A classic team glue-player. Surprisingly impactful for someone with such a quiet style.
He can single-handedly connect an entire squad, boosting the performance of every player by 120%.
Unfortunately, his slight build and stamina are major drawbacks. In matches where substitutions are limited, it's hard for a player who can't last the full 90 to reach the top tier.
...
Tied 9th – Kunigami Rensuke, ¥60 million
It's undeniable that Kunigami's high valuation is partly boosted by his team's strong performance, but his personal abilities are not to be underestimated.
With physical strength and athleticism that can match professional players, he doesn't feel like a teenager at all. His offensive awareness is also impressive.
In the attacking third, Kunigami is capable of acting as a central pivot thanks to his physique, while also possessing a solid shot that poses a constant threat to the opposition. And due to that same physical strength, his defensive contributions are equally noteworthy.
In short, he's a well-rounded player who excels in nearly every aspect.
"Nice!" Kunigami clenched his fist in satisfaction upon seeing his name.
At the same time, Barou, standing nearby, let out a silent cheer.
Since the guy he always sees as a direct rival had already been revealed, that could only mean one thing—his own name must be higher.
At least among Ubers' Blue Lock players, only Shinichi remains ahead of him.
-------------
Want to read 20 advance chapters ahead?
Go to my patreon: patreon.com/Kinglass