ㅤ Blue Lock Stadium, Japan. BLTV Special Live.

Immediately following the U-20 World Cup group stage, a massive live stage has been set up in the main lobby of Blue Lock Stadium. National flags hanging from the ceiling sway in the air-conditioned breeze, and large screens tirelessly replay the best moments from the group stage.

The spectator stands are already packed to the point where there's no room to breathe. Fans from all over the world, sports reporters, broadcasting staff, and dozens of cameras surrounding the stage. Even before the live broadcast begins, the cheers and murmurs have already reached a fever pitch.

In the center of the stage, seats for the World Best players and two specially invited seats are arranged in a semi-circle. Nameplates with each player's name are neatly placed at each spot, but...

Only seven people will fill these seats today.

One of the scheduled empty seats, with the name 'Itoshi Sae' clearly engraved, quietly holds its place.

A staff member briefly reaches for the nameplate but withdraws their hand and steps back at a glance from an official. A camera catches the moment, and shutters fire off from the press section. Meanwhile, secret whispers begin to circulate among them.

"Is the rumor true that Sae is only joining from the finals? Japan and his agent haven't said a word."

A small buzz spreads through the audience. A few cameras focus on the empty chair once more before turning their lenses toward the player entrance tunnel.

Meanwhile, Bernie Iglesias leisurely ascends the stage. On his way to his seat, he slows down very briefly at the empty chair and brushes the back of his hand against Sae's nameplate. His index finger slowly traces the edge of the plate, but he moves on without saying a word.

Hugo, who was right behind him, doesn't miss that brief action and follows Bernie's fingertips for a moment before looking away. He simply brushes his hair back once and quietly takes his seat.