As Elliot Anderson boarded the plane to Florida with the England squad, the chatter around him was palpable - a £60m transfer to Manchester City loomed large, and the weight of World Cup expectations rested on his young shoulders.
The 23-year-old's stats are impressive: 23 appearances for Nottingham Forest, 7 England caps, and a meteoric rise that's left many wondering if he's the missing piece in Gareth Southgate's midfield puzzle.
Thomas Tuchel's faith in Anderson is evident, but the real test lies ahead - can he inspire World Cup glory and justify the record transfer fee that's being mooted?
A Star in the Making
Anderson's ascension is a testament to his hard work and dedication, but it's also a reflection of the chaos that's engulfed Nottingham Forest this season - four managers, relegation scraps, and yet, he's thrived.
In a season where consistency was a luxury few could afford, Anderson stood tall, his performances a beacon of hope in a tumultuous campaign.
And now, as he stands on the cusp of a record-breaking transfer, the question on everyone's lips is - can he handle the pressure, or will it all come crashing down?
The Verdict
In my opinion, Anderson has the talent and the temperament to excel on the biggest stage - his vision, passing range, and work rate make him an attractive proposition for both England and Manchester City.
But, as we all know, the World Cup is a cruel mistress - one moment of brilliance can be undone by a Split second of madness.
As the stakes grow higher, one thing is certain - Anderson's rise will be watched with bated breath, and his next move will be scrutinised like never before - the world is watching, and the spotlight is firmly on him - can he deliver?