Chapter 8: A Show of Authority
When José was the last to step out from the players' tunnel, most of the Mallorca players had already lined up on the pitch, ready to begin the match.
Upon seeing their new head coach appear, most of the Mallorca fans did not cheer but simply stared as José walked onto the field. Only a few scattered claps could be heard, and they quickly faded.
"Mr. Alemany, it seems your son isn't very popular," Teresa said with a smile.
Alemany shrugged his shoulders. "Well, he's a newcomer, that's always how it goes... Mrs. Teresa, I imagine you've gone through something like this too, right? But now, you are the most popular president among the Rayo Vallecano fans."
"You're right. Only results can earn respect," Teresa replied with a smile.
Alemany smiled back, then turned his attention to José—his son, he had to succeed. In football, a coach's worth is measured by results, that's the only thing that proves everything—huh? What's he doing? Where's he going?
To Alemany's disbelief, instead of heading straight back to his position, José walked directly to the away team's bench. The Spanish national TV commentators broadcasting the match couldn't help but shout, "Oh, what's that young coach doing? Doesn't he know where his place is?"
A guest sitting next to them chuckled and said, "Hey, this is forgivable. It's his first official match, and running to the wrong place can be forgiven..."
Amid their laughter, José walked confidently up to the Rayo Vallecano coach, Vázquez, and extended his hand. "Mr. Vázquez, hello, nice to meet you. I'm José Alemany."