Chapter 122: New Coach II
"Yes, gaffer," came David’s voice, echoing slightly in his apartment.
A moment ago, he had been locked in a brutal one-on-one Call of duty match with Zoey, where he was losing embarrassingly. Every tactical decision he made had been countered, every Offensive maneuver shredded apart. He was staring down yet another humiliating defeat—until, like a lifeline from the heavens, his phone rang.
Seeing the caller ID, he had instantly picked up. It was Ole Gunnar Solskjær. His coach—well, ex-coach now. It was a convenient escape from his virtual thrashing, but more than that, the call carried a certain weight.
As he settled into the conversation, David couldn’t help but find the situation a little ironic. He hadn’t even played 20 professional matches, and he was already about to have his third manager. A revolving door of authority figures, each bringing their own ideas, expectations, and visions for him. He was still adjusting to life as a professional footballer, yet the club’s instability made it feel like he was already a veteran in the chaos. The whole thing would’ve been amusing—if it wasn’t also a little concerning.
From the other end of the call, Ole’s familiar voice came through, calm yet subdued.
"You don’t have to call me gaffer anymore. Just call me Ole."
There was something in his tone—something David immediately picked up on. It wasn’t bitterness, nor was it anger. If anything, it was resignation. A quiet acceptance of a fate that had long been written.
David hesitated for a second before replying. "Okay, Ole."
He didn’t know how to console him, and he wasn’t about to try. There was no point in saying something empty like, "You did your best" or "You’ll bounce back." He doubted Ole wanted pity, and forcing sympathy into the conversation might only make things worse. Instead, he decided the best approach was to act normal—speak to him just like he always had.
"Good, good," Ole murmured, but the sigh that followed carried an unmistakable weight. Disappointment laced his voice as he continued.
"Honestly... it pains me that I won’t be able to coach you."