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."

Crystal Palace specifically?"

said, my voice full of a genuine passion. "Zaha, Moses, Clyne. You develop players properly. And Gary, your reputation. You’re one of the best academy managers in the country. I want to learn from you. This is the

warm, genuine laugh. "Flattery will get you

distinction certificate. They were impressed. I could

coach?" Steve Parish

"I’m 26. I don’t have 20 years of experience. But I’m a fast

Gary Issott said, nodding in approval.

question. Why

won 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

other, a silent conversation passing between them. And

Danny," he said, a warm smile on his face. "We’ll be in

hand surprisingly steady. "Thank you for the opportunity," I

I made it to a bench outside, the cool London air a welcome shock to

her

I said, my voice hoarse. "I think it went well. But

she said, her voice full of a love that was stronger than any doubt, any fear, any insecurity. "Whatever happens, you did