Fergusons Talk

Jin Taige arrived at the training ground early the next morning. The players were delighted to see their head coach fully recovered. As usual, Scholes led the training session with Ferran assisting, while Jin Taige observed the players' condition.

It was August 24, and in two days, on August 26, Jin Taige would face his toughest challenge yet as Manchester United's manager: a clash against Chelsea. He watched the players carefully, contemplating how to outmaneuver José Mourinho.

As he stood deep in thought, someone tapped him on the shoulder. "Tiger, how are you feeling?"

Jin Taige turned to see Woodward. "I'm fine now. Strong enough to take down a bull."

"That's good to hear," Woodward said. "I was worried you might not be up for the game on the 26th."

"Impossible. Even if I had to be carried in on a stretcher, I'd be there to face Chelsea," Jin Taige declared, clenching his fist.

"You're something else," Woodward said, giving him a thumbs-up.

"Why are you back from France so soon?" Jin Taige asked.

"The club has too much to handle. Being CEO is harder than being a business executive," Woodward replied, rubbing his neck as if exhausted. "Did you see the Champions League draw yesterday?"

"I did."

"What do you think?"

"I don't care who we face. I'll step over anyone to advance."

"Confident! I like it," Woodward nodded. Then, hesitating slightly, he added, "Don't forget the minimum targets in your coaching contract."

Woodward's reminder caught Jin Taige off guard. He had nearly forgotten the clause Malcolm had included in his contract: finish in the top four of the Premier League and reach the Champions League Round of 16. Failure to meet these targets would result in his automatic dismissal at the end of the season.

What Jin Taige didn't know was that these targets had been suggested by Sir Alex Ferguson himself. At the time, it wasn't clear who would succeed Ferguson, but the legendary manager had insisted that the new coach be given time to adjust. The targets, while modest for a club of Manchester United's stature, were designed to provide some leeway.

However, Jin Taige, with his knowledge of the parallel world, knew all too well how these seemingly achievable goals had proven insurmountable for David Moyes. In that timeline, Moyes had led Manchester United to a dismal seventh-place finish in the 2013-2014 season, missing out on European competition entirely and exiting the Champions League early.

The thought made Jin Taige uneasy. Despite his confidence, he knew he couldn't afford to be complacent. His focus had to remain on each game, nurturing the young players, and taking things one step at a time.

The first Premier League victory was behind them, and the first Champions League win couldn't be far off.

During lunch, Jin Taige received an unexpected call from Sir Alex Ferguson. "Tiger, come with me to London tonight."

"Of course, Sir. Where are we going?"

"To London."

That evening, Jin Taige informed Ferran and Scholes that he'd be leaving early. He called his wife to let her know he wouldn't be home for dinner—he'd be accompanying Sir Alex to London.

When Jin Taige arrived at the club entrance, he saw Connie and Thor, the longtime administrators of Carrington, chatting animatedly with someone in a car. It was Ferguson's car, and the legendary manager was inside.

Connie couldn't contain his excitement. "Sir, it's been so long since we last saw you. How have you been?"

"I'm doing well, thank you," Ferguson replied warmly.

Thor chimed in, "Sir, you should visit more often. We all miss you."

"I'll try," Ferguson said with a smile.

At that moment, Jin Taige approached the car. After greeting Connie and Thor, he turned to Ferguson. "Sir."

Ferguson nodded and gestured to the front passenger seat. "Get in."

Jin Taige climbed into the car, and Ferguson waved to Connie and Thor. "Take care, both of you. I'll see you soon."

The car pulled away from Carrington and headed for London.

The drive from Manchester to London took over two hours. As the car sped along the motorway, Jin Taige turned to Ferguson. "Mr. Sir, you look much better than before."

Ferguson chuckled. "If by 'before' you mean before I retired, then yes. Back then, it felt like I was carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders. Now, I feel like I could fly."

Jin Taige smiled. "I'm glad to see you in such good health and spirits."

After a brief pause, Jin Taige asked, "Sir, what's the occasion in London?"

"The FA is hosting an awards ceremony in my honor. I'm going to receive a prize, and afterward, there's a reception. It'll be a chance to catch up with some old friends. These opportunities don't come often anymore," Ferguson explained. "It's a long drive, so I thought I'd bring you along for company."

Jin Taige wasn't sure what the award ceremony entailed or who Ferguson's "old friends" were, but he saw an opportunity to seek advice from the legendary manager.

"Sir, I have so many questions I'd like to ask you," Jin Taige said earnestly.

Ferguson gazed out the window at the passing scenery, as if reflecting on the years gone by. After a long silence, he shook his head gently. "Tiger, I know what you want to ask. But I'm retired now. Do you understand?"

"Sir, with your experience and wisdom, you could give me invaluable advice," Jin Taige pressed.

Ferguson's expression grew serious. "Tiger, you're not understanding me. I'm retired not because I can't offer advice, but because I shouldn't. Do you see the difference?"

XXXX

Ferguson frowned. "Tiger, you still don't grasp my meaning. When I say I'm retired, it doesn't mean I lack the ability to strategize for you—it means I can't do it now. Understand?"

"I… don't quite understand," Jin Taige lowered his head.

Ferguson sighed. "Tiger, what worried me most before stepping down wasn't the next manager's competence, the players' form, or even my own reputation."

"Worried about yourself?"

"Yes. I've been tied to Manchester United too long. When people mention United, they think 'Ferguson.' Say 'Ferguson,' and they link it to United. That was once a strength, but now it's a double-edged sword. My influence is etched too deeply into the club. If you succeed, fans will credit my legacy. If you fail, the media will blame you. Every decision you make will be measured against my shadow. That's why I refuse to advise you—it'd only tighten the noose around your neck."

Jin Taige fell silent.

Ferguson's expression softened. "But I recommended you because I believe in your ability. Build your team, stay humble, and take it one match at a time. Soon enough, you'll step out of that shadow."

"Yes, Sir," Jin Taige nodded.

"Still, your work these past two months surprised me. Signing those youngsters, the strong league start… Paul [Scholes] says the squad respects you. The board and media rapport? Impressive. Seems I can finally retire without looking over my shoulder." Ferguson chuckled ruefully. "Ah—there I go again. Said I wouldn't coach you, then rambled. Let's change the subject."

For a moment, Jin Taige saw the Ferguson of old—the man who'd paced touchlines with volcanic energy. Time had carved wrinkles into his face but couldn't dull his passion for United.

Their conversation drifted to life, then rivals. Ferguson's eyes sparked. "Tiger, I'd give anything to see Wenger and Mourinho's faces when you outwit them. Make it happen."

"You'll see it soon, Sir."

"That's the spirit. Every United supporter's counting on you."

Upon arriving at the FA awards hall, Jin Taige escorted Ferguson inside just as the ceremony was about to begin. FA President Palmer greeted them personally, and guests rose in a thunderous applause as Ferguson took his front-row seat. When Jin Taige moved to leave, Ferguson stopped him. "Sit here, Tiger."

"But Sir, I—"

"Sit. Beside me," Ferguson insisted.

Palmer quickly rearranged seating, drawing curious glances. "Who's that young man?" he whispered to his aide.

"Manchester United's new manager—Jin Taige."

"Ah. The 'Tiger,'" Palmer murmured.

During the ceremony, Ferguson received a Lifetime Achievement Award. Jin Taige stood behind him, listening to what might be the legend's final public speech.

At the post-ceremony reception—a relaxed gathering of coaches, agents, and journalists—Ferguson navigated small talk with practiced ease. "You'll grow accustomed to this," he told Jin Taige. "The politics never end."

Everton's David Moyes approached. "Congratulations, Sir. A well-deserved honor."

"Thank you. Unlucky draw against Norwich, though that last-minute equalizer. But your squad's promising."

Moyes turned to Jin Taige. "And you I've been meaning to thank you."

After Everton coach Moyes spoke with Sir Alex Ferguson, he turned to Jin Taige beside him.

"Mr. Tiger, I've been wanting to thank you, my friend."

Ferguson interjected, "You two chat. I'll sit awhile—old bones can't stand long."

Jin Taige moved to assist him, but Ferguson waved him off and settled into a nearby chair, quickly surrounded by well-wishers.

Now alone with Moyes, Jin Taige asked, "What's this 'thank you' about?"

Moyes smiled. "Everton's finances are tight this season. Loaning Yanuzai and Kleveli from you saved us. Thank you."

Jin Taige shrugged. "It's nothing. Our clubs have always had a good relationship."

Moyes nodded. "Everton and United have been allies since Sir Alex's era. We share many philosophies."

Jin Taige smirked. "Especially when it comes to hating Liverpool."

Moyes laughed. "You're sharp, Tiger. Let's share a drink sometime."

Their chat turned to Yanuzzi's future. Jin Taige shook his head. "He's not for sale."

Soon, Ferguson summoned Jin Taige, and Moyes excused himself.

Approaching Ferguson, Jin Taige found him flanked by two iconic figures.

Arsène Wenger and José Mourinho.

Ferguson teased Wenger, "Now that I'm gone, you must be lonely."

Wenger gestured at Mourinho. "Not with him back. The league's as lively as ever."

Mourinho remarked dryly, "City and Spurs are spending big. The landscape's shifting."

Ferguson chuckled. "Relax, José. You're too serious."

"You've earned your rest," Mourinho retorted. "I'm still fighting for titles."

Ferguson turned conspiratorial. "I nearly brought you to United post-retirement, but…"

"But?" Wenger prodded.

Ferguson eyed Mourinho. "His pride wouldn't let him follow a legend's shadow."

Mourinho finally smiled. "True. Maybe in a few years, but not now."

Ferguson called Jin Taige over. "Tiger, meet your new rivals. Crush them."

Wenger praised Jin Taige's 4-1 victory. "How'd you unearth those youngsters?"

Jin Taige deflected. "Credit to the scouts. I just got lucky."

Wenger chuckled. "You struck gold."

Mourinho, colder, held up two fingers. "See you at Old Trafford in two weeks."

Jin Taige matched his tone. "We'll be ready."

Ferguson watched, pleased. Despite his youth, Jin Taige held his own.

As Wenger and Mourinho left, Liverpool's Brendan Rodgers approached.

"Congratulations on the award, Sir Alex. Though this season, facing United might… discomfort you."

Jin Taige's gaze sharpened. Liverpool's coach—the true rival.

Ferguson remained calm. "Tiger, did you hear that?"

Jin Taige feigned confusion. "I didn't realize this event allowed arrogance."

Rodgers sneered. "Rookie, finish a full season before judging me."

Jin Taige raised an eyebrow. "Weren't you a rookie last summer? And yet… seventh place?"

Ferguson stifled a laugh.

Rodgers reddened. "Injuries crippled us! This season, we'll finish above United!"

Jin Taige mock-pondered. "Ah, yes—no European games to tire you. Clever."

Ferguson burst into laughter, drawing stares.

Rodgers jabbed a finger. "I'll make United regret this!"

Jin Taige stood, icy. "I'll wager United *doubles* Liverpool this season. If not, I'll jump off Tower Bridge!"

The room hushed. Mourinho watched, intrigued; Wenger frowned.

Rodgers stormed off. "We'll see in Round 3!"

Later, alone at the reception, Jin Taige sipped water.

A melodic voice startled him. "Does water need a shaker?"

He turned to see a striking woman in lilac—slim, poised, with East Asian features.

She smiled. "Mr. Tiger, the 'Triple Crown' aspirant. I'm Huali Si, a singer."

Jin Taige shook her hand, disarmed. "A pleasure."

Her laugh glittered. "Your water theory's inventive."

"Aeration softens the tannins," he deadpanned.

Huali Si's eyes sparkled. "Charming and witty."