Challenging Arsenal
After the new season began, no one in English football could have anticipated that the two standout teams would be Manchester United and Millwall. Except for a classic encounter, the loudest buzz in the final stages of the transfer window centered around Manchester United's pursuit of Larson and Trezeguet.
The reigning champions, Blackburn, kicked off their title defense with a bland one-goal victory over the weak Queens Park Rangers.
Meanwhile, a striving Arsenal settled for a 1-1 draw against fellow promoted team Middlesbrough at Highbury.
Liverpool also managed a narrow win against Sheffield Wednesday.
Yet, none of these matches attracted much attention.
The only names echoing across England were:
Manchester United, Millwall.
Manchester United, Millwall.
...
On the eve of the second round of matches, the number of journalists at Millwall's official press conference noticeably increased, with the attendance of several major newspaper reporters.
In a rare move, Aldrich attended the press conference alongside two players: Larson and Trezeguet.
When he was working in the lower leagues, Aldrich would show up alone, as the lack of attention led reporters to show little interest in the players' voices.
But things were different now. Millwall had established itself in the Premier League and boasted star players; at least the offer from Manchester United could be considered star-level.
The reporters became energized, their eyes gleaming.
Millwall had delayed in making any statements regarding the transfer rumors, and now with two players present at the press conference, it seemed the moment for a decisive announcement had arrived.
Whether it would be an agreement for a transfer or a farewell ceremony for the two players, or a refusal to let them go, would be big news.
Once seated, Aldrich calmly spoke into the microphone, "On Monday morning, Manchester United officially approached Millwall for two of our players. After discussions with the players, Millwall fully respects and supports their choices."
Hearing Aldrich's opening remarks, the reporters perked up. This tone suggested that Millwall's two forwards might not be staying!
Aldrich turned and smiled at Trezeguet.
Trezeguet leaned closer to the microphone and said, "I came to Millwall a year ago, and I love it here. The boss has helped me a lot; he has given me trust and support, and I've had great success here. But that's not enough; I want to achieve even more here. I'm not interested in transferring to Manchester United."
Being young, Trezeguet didn't hold back, making his point clear. With these words, if the proud Manchester United ever held an interest in him, they likely wouldn't consider signing him again after this.
An uproar erupted in the audience.
This kid is bold!
Not interested in a traditional giant like Manchester United?
How many clubs could possibly catch your eye instead?
Reporters could not help but recall the story of Ferguson missing the opportunity to sign Gascoigne, the seemingly clumsy genius who was lured away by the lavish house offered by Spurs, and subsequently moved to the world's premier league—Italy...
Trezeguet's refusal had the reporters eagerly licking their lips like sharks sensing blood—this was a headliner.
If he had agreed...
Then the headline would be something everyone could guess: "French star joins the Red Devils."
That would be too predictable.
But a refusal? That's a whole different story.
"Trezeguet told Ferguson: No! I'm not interested in Manchester United!"
Now that's the kind of headline that catches attention!
After Trezeguet finished, he sat up straight, almost carefree.
Larson then took the microphone and said, "Manchester United is a well-known club in England. They have a legendary status, a glorious history, and numerous inspiring stories. I appreciate Manchester United's recognition of my talents; being sought after by them is a form of validation. However, I have enjoyed my time at Millwall. Working with the boss has made me enjoy football even more. We have a great team and a friendly atmosphere here, which makes it worth staying. I believe this is a decision I will never regret."
Larson's words were much more diplomatic, ensuring that his rejection wouldn't offend anyone and would avoid unnecessary controversy.
The reporters scribbled furiously, nodding in agreement.
Yes, you damn well should say no to Manchester United!
Letting the imperious Manchester United face a setback is what makes this interesting. Millwall, we love it here; we'll never go unemployed living here!
Once both players had voiced their positions, Aldrich spoke again. "As for the transfer rumors, let's put those to rest. You're probably aware that Spurs and Leeds have also made offers for several of our players, which we have rejected. Let me say this once: Millwall's transfer window is closed. There will be no players coming in or going out, so other clubs should refrain from bothering us. The season has started, and our focus is on the pitch. Do you have any questions regarding tomorrow's match?"
The journalists present weren't just tabloid reporters; by virtue of their status and experience, the major newspaper journalists had priority in questioning.
David Miller from *The Times* raised his hand to ask, "Mr. Aldrich, due to historical and traditional reasons, there hasn't been much conflict between Millwall and Arsenal. However, tomorrow's match marks Millwall's first Premier League derby. Last season, Arsenal was defeated by Millwall at The Den in the FA Cup, leading to the departure of manager Graham. Will this be a focal point of the match? What's your opinion of the current Arsenal team?"
Aldrich smiled and shook his head, saying, "No, let me clarify: Graham was not dismissed because he lost that match; rather, he was embroiled in legal troubles. The FA prohibited him from continuing as manager, and Arsenal couldn't afford to go a whole year without a head coach, so he left Highbury. I believe Millwall's fans will witness an exciting match at The Den. This is indeed a derby; Arsenal wants to defeat us, and we want to defeat Arsenal. The focus will be on the match itself. They are a traditional giant of English football, and Millwall is interested—no, determined—to challenge the strong. This is a wonderful growth opportunity for us. Although Graham has left Arsenal, his influence hasn't disappeared. Arsenal is still a strong team; they nearly defended their title in the European Cup Winners' Cup last season. This year, they've retained their core squad and added talented players like Bergkamp and Platt, who bring both skill and experience. They are stronger this season, and I believe Coach Bruce Rioch will aim to assert Arsenal's resurgence at The Den!"
A resurgence?
The reporters exchanged glances; Arsenal had also struggled to beat a promoted team, just like Manchester United.
However, those who watched the matches knew that Millwall and Middlesbrough were not on the same level: Manchester United and Millwall had put on a thrilling display, whereas Arsenal had a dreary 1-1 draw against Middlesbrough with few chances created, leaving no signs of revival.
Richard from *The Daily Mail* pressed further, "Aldrich, are you saying that Rioch will try to conquer the seemingly intimidating Den? But Arsenal isn't exactly known for its attacking prowess!"
Aldrich exaggeratedly retorted, "Are you suggesting that Arsenal would tell the world that, as a traditional powerhouse and the most successful club in London's history, they arrive at a promoted team's home ground with no intention of winning? If that's truly the case, I'd be glad—then Millwall could proudly declare: Arsenal fears Millwall! The landscape of London would find North Arsenal and East Millwall on equal footing! But of course, that's impossible. Arsenal is a champion. How could they ever abandon the belief in winning?"
The atmosphere at the press conference became lively; smiles spread across the journalists' faces, and Richard eagerly began jotting down key points for his story.
As someone who had followed Millwall since the beginning of the previous season, Richard was too familiar with Aldrich's style.
This was just the prelude to the challenge.
Will Arsenal dare to attack when they come to The Den? Will they dare?
If they don't dare, then they're just cowards afraid of Millwall.
But if they dare to go on the offensive?
Heh, what did Millwall rely on last season to make a name for themselves?
Professionally, it's called counterattacking; simply put, it's outpacing defenders in a sprint!
Once the news is published, Reach won't know what to think; in any case, it's sure to give him a headache.
The press conference wrapped up on a high note.
The journalists walked away with stories better than they anticipated, while Aldrich had made both traditional giants in English football quite frustrated.
Manchester United eagerly awaited a star signing but came away empty-handed, while Arsenal struggled to transition from "boring football" to "beautiful football," now faced with the most brilliant team of the season in a local derby.
Aldrich continued to take things step by step. Although the match against Manchester United was a great victory, there was no time for complacency. The league continued; football was an endless journey. There was no true pinnacle—only the legacies players crafted for future generations to chase and surpass.
In the tactical meeting before the match, Aldrich remained as serious as ever, analyzing the opposition and laying out specific tactics. The players listened attentively; the upcoming series of matches provided them with the best platform to demonstrate their skills.