CH 1

July 26, 2009.

Stadio Olimpico di Serravalle, San Marino.

The match between Premier League giants Manchester United and San Marino's Tre Penne has ended.

The final score of 8-2 highlighted the enormous gap between the San Marino Championship and a football powerhouse like Manchester United.

However, the fans were not discouraged by the scoreline or the difference in skill. Instead, they seized the opportunity to get closer to their idols.

Although Cristiano Ronaldo had already left Manchester United for Real Madrid, the squad still boasted several world-class stars: Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Edwin van der Sar, and the newly signed Michael Owen, who inherited the iconic No. 7 jersey.

Among the countless fans eager to meet the players was Matteo Conti, an 18-year-old football enthusiast from San Marino.

However, unlike the others who chased after United's stars, Matteo was after someone else—Sir Alex Ferguson.

For this moment, he had prepared meticulously.

A Bold Request

"Hello, Sir Ferguson, my name is Matteo Conti, and I want to play for you!"

Finally, after overcoming numerous obstacles, he managed to shake hands with the legendary Manchester United manager on his way to the post-match press conference.

Matteo uttered the words he had rehearsed countless times in his mind. His English was fluent, carrying an almost perfect British accent.

The fans and journalists nearby, who understood English, burst into laughter.

Although Matteo was tall, strong, and good-looking, the idea of him playing for Sir Alex Ferguson seemed too far-fetched, too unrealistic.

But Ferguson's reaction was unexpected.

He studied Matteo seriously, then, to everyone's shock, a warm smile appeared on his face.

"Come with me… Mike, you'll take my place at the press conference."

Without hesitation, Ferguson grabbed Matteo's hand and led him away.

The surrounding fans and reporters stood there, bewildered. Even assistant coach Mike Phelan was dumbfounded, unable to comprehend what Ferguson was up to.

By the time anyone could react, Ferguson and Matteo had already disappeared.

A Conversation with the Boss

"Kid, this is the first time someone has had the courage to recommend themselves so boldly. Tell me about yourself."

Ferguson had taken Matteo back to the team's hotel. His tone was kind and welcoming, completely different from the infamous "hairdryer treatment" he was known for.

It was as if the strict and fiery manager had turned into a benevolent mentor.

"Sir, my name is Matteo Conti, I'm 18 years old and about to enter university, but I am determined to become a professional footballer. I have been training hard for this dream!"

"I am a lifelong Manchester United fan, and I admire you deeply. Playing under you would be the greatest honor of my life."

"I don't have a professional contract, I'm a free agent."

"So, I humbly ask you to give me a chance!"

Matteo poured his heart out, his words filled with passion.

Ferguson chuckled.

"I've heard people call San Marino a footballing desert, but I've never believed that. There was Massimo Bonini, a fantastic player who once thrived in Serie A. And who's to say there aren't more talented players like him?"

"I've always regretted not having a real San Marino protégé under my wing."

"But now, here you are. You might be the gift that fate has sent me!"

Matteo's heart raced.

"Sir, do you mean… you'll sign me?"

"Why not?" Ferguson's expression remained calm.

"I trust my instincts, and I see limitless potential in you. I don't have many years left as a manager, but I do have enough time to shape one last world-class superstar."

"Matteo… are you willing to join Manchester United?"

Matteo did not hesitate for even a second.

"Sir, I am willing!"

Doubt and Determination

"My God, his technique is terrible! Or rather… he has no foundation at all!"

"Sir, apart from having a decent physique and height, he is practically useless!"

"For marketing reasons, signing him might not be a bad idea, but bringing him straight into the first team? I think it would be better to place him in the reserves or the youth squad."

Manchester United's assistant coach Mike Phelan, first-team coach Rene Meulensteen, and CEO David Gill had all witnessed Matteo's first trial session.

They were not impressed.

But Ferguson remained unconvinced.

"Mike, Rene… can't you see it? To me, he has more potential than Eric (Cantona), David (Beckham), Ryan (Giggs), Paul (Scholes), Wayne (Rooney), and Cristiano (Ronaldo)!"

"He just started playing late. But he's only eighteen. Under our training, I'm certain his potential will be unlocked!"

The room fell silent.

Phelan and Meulensteen exchanged glances, shocked.

This San Marino teenager had more talent than Cantona, Beckham, Giggs, Scholes, Rooney, and Ronaldo?

How was that even possible?

They scrutinized Matteo once again, but their years of experience told them the same thing:

"This kid is way too average."

But one person believed—David Gill.

Because if Ferguson said it, it had to mean something.

Besides…

What was the harm in signing him?

Even if Matteo never made it, pleasing Ferguson alone was worth it.

"Sir, I'll handle the contract negotiations."

David Gill spoke decisively.

"Get everything sorted as quickly as possible. Mike, Rene, let's start preparing an application for a special talent visa for Matteo."

Ferguson smiled, satisfied.

Any opposition?

If there was any, it would have to wait.

Because in his kingdom, his word was final.

A New Chapter Begins

The next day, the entire Manchester United squad flew back to England as scheduled.

David Gill, however, stayed behind to handle all legal matters regarding Matteo's contract and visa.

Just five days later, it was done.

Matteo Conti was officially a Manchester United player.

By then, Ferguson had already submitted the necessary paperwork for a special talent exemption, ensuring Matteo could play in England.

As soon as Matteo landed in Manchester, his visa hearing began.

Everything had happened so fast that Matteo himself was struggling to process it.

Just a week ago, he was a regular teenager from San Marino, with nothing but a dream.

Now, he was on the verge of signing for one of the biggest clubs in the world.

It really took just one week for his life to change forever.

And it all started with one bold question…

"Sir Ferguson, I want to play for you!"