Ukrainian Prodigy Shook by Alonso's Warm Bayer Debut

When 15-year-old Ukrainian goalkeeper for Bayer's youth squad, Oleksandr Petrenko, was summoned to train with the first team, he didn't expect a welcome committee led by the bosses of the pitch themselves. Among them were two towering figures, retired winger Karim Bellarabi and midfield maestro Kerem Demirbay. As they joked about his age and size, little did Petrenko know his first big break was just on the horizon.

"You're training with the first team tomorrow," casually dropped his U-19 coach, barely hinting at the gravity of the situation ahead.

The prodigy's awe didn't end there, as he laid eyes on none other than Xabi Alonso, Bayer's first team mentor, football royalty who's won it all. Alonso's welcoming "Sasha, welcome to the team" left Petrenko nearly floored - literally. But this was just the beginning; Alonso was about to become more than a figure of admiration. The legend himself became a guide, ready to help and offer feedback: from praising Petrenko's efforts to suggesting tweaks in his game.

Alonso's Mentorship: More Than Just Training

Working closely with Alonso, Petrenko gleaned valuable insights, often discussing the finer points of training or receiving the occasional pat on the back - "Sasha, you trained well today" or a friendly push to do better next time. Such interactions were nothing short of surreal for the youngster.

Petrenko revealed that the support from a decorated veteran like Alonso has not only shocked him but also encouraged him immensely, shaping his journey as he hones his skills between the posts with Bayer's elite.