Bench Talks III

"Who do you think is the most important player today?"

The question hit David like a bolt of lightning. It wasn't the kind of opening he had expected from his new coach. Ole Gunnar Solskjær stood before him, his expression calm but probing, as if testing not just David's footballing knowledge but his perspective on the game itself.

David's chest tightened. He wanted to answer well—no, he needed to. This was his chance to make an impression, to solidify the praise Ole had already showered on him. Despite the coach's repeated assurances about his importance to the team, David understood the hierarchy. A coach held immense power, and earning their trust was as vital as performing on the pitch.