Glory Of The Football Manager System

Chapter 117: The Interview III

"You’re 26 years old," Richard Shaw said. "Some of these players are 18. How will you command respect?"

"By being excellent at my job," I said, my voice unwavering. "Age doesn’t matter if you’re good. I’ll earn their respect through coaching quality, not authority. I’ll show them I can make them better. That’s all that matters."

Steve Parish leaned forward, his eyes locking onto mine. "We have a player in our U18s squad. Immensely talented, probably the most talented player in his age group in the country. But his application is inconsistent. He has the potential to be a first-team star, but he’s not fulfilling it. How would you handle a player like that?"

I met his gaze without flinching.

"I watched him train this morning. A striker, right? His talent is obvious. But so is his frustration. I’ve handled a similar situation with a player named JJ Johnson. He was released by Man City for his attitude. I didn’t try to break him. I challenged him. I showed him how his selfishness hurt the team and himself. I gave him responsibility and held him accountable. He transformed. The player I saw this morning has even more talent than JJ. If I can help him channel it properly, he could be a Premier League star. That’s the challenge I’m excited about."

A flicker of understanding passed between the three men. They knew exactly who I was talking about.

"And if he doesn’t respond?" Steve Parish pressed.

"Then I’ll document everything, communicate clearly with you and Gary, and make decisions based on what’s best for the team and his development," I said. "But I believe he will respond. Most players do when you challenge them properly."

Steve Parish smiled, a genuine, warm smile that transformed his face. "Confident. I like that."

Palace specifically?"

develop players properly. And Gary, your reputation. You’re one of the best academy managers in the country.

warm, genuine laugh.

They were impressed. I could see it in their eyes, in the way

as a coach?"

of a quiet humility. "I’m 26. I don’t have 20 years of experience. But I’m a fast learner, I’m hungry, and I’m willing to

Issott said, nodding in approval.

question. Why should we take a risk

a league title in my first season. I developed a player who sold for £100,000. I earned a UEFA B distinction. I’m young, hungry, and talented. Yes, it’s a risk. But it’s a risk worth taking. I’ll work harder than anyone. I’ll develop your players. I’ll

each other, a silent conversation passing between

warm smile on his face. "We’ll

surprisingly steady. "Thank you for the opportunity," I said. "I hope to hear from you

me like a tidal wave. I made it to a bench outside, the cool London air a welcome shock to my system. I

was it?" she asked, her voice full of a

hoarse. "I think it went well.

said, her voice full of a love that was stronger than any doubt, any fear, any insecurity.