Chapter 104: Bench Talks III
"Who do you think is the most important player today?"
The question hit David like a bolt of lightning. It wasn’t the kind of opening he had expected from his new coach. Ole Gunnar Solskjær stood before him, his expression calm but probing, as if testing not just David’s footballing knowledge but his perspective on the game itself.
David’s chest tightened. He wanted to answer well—no, he needed to. This was his chance to make an impression, to solidify the praise Ole had already showered on him. Despite the coach’s repeated assurances about his importance to the team, David understood the hierarchy. A coach held immense power, and earning their trust was as vital as performing on the pitch.
He couldn’t help but think of his former coach. The bond they’d shared, the understanding and mutual respect—it wasn’t something that came easily. Deep down, David hoped he could forge something similar here. But for now, all he had was this moment, this question, and the weight of expectation.
His eyes wandered to the field. Players darted across the grass, a symphony of movement and precision. Bruno Fernandes caught his attention first, scanning the pitch with his signature intensity, always searching for the next decisive pass. Then there was Rodri, orchestrating the tempo like a maestro, dictating the rhythm with ease. Kevin De Bruyne’s sharp, incisive passes sliced through the air, while Rashford and Martial made their runs with electric pace and determination.
David watched them closely, his mind racing. Each one had their unique brilliance, their irreplaceable role. How could he single out just one?
A burst of laughter broke his concentration. Turning his head, he spotted Juan Mata chuckling nearby, his warm smile lighting up the moment.
"What kind of question is that, boss?" Mata said, his tone light and teasing as he addressed Ole. "You trying to mess with the kid or what?"
David managed a small smile, the tension easing slightly. But Ole’s eyes remained fixed on him, waiting for an answer.
"I know why I’m asking the question, Mata," Ole said, his tone resolute, his gaze steady.
David, who had thought he was off the hook, smiled awkwardly. The serious expression on Ole’s face caught him off guard. He was so used to the coach’s laughing, carefree, almost overzealous demeanor that this shift in mood felt unsettling. Shifting uncomfortably, David decided to play it safe.