Chapter 27: A Surprise Visitor

The victory over Oxford United had solidified Blackhaven's reputation as a rising force. Daisuke Kurogane had orchestrated another tactical masterpiece, and now, the football world was paying attention. But with success came new challenges—ones that extended beyond the pitch.

Three days after the match, Daisuke sat in his office, meticulously reviewing game footage. His ability to predict opponents' patterns was his greatest weapon, but he wasn't satisfied. There were still gaps—small vulnerabilities his team needed to address.

Just as he was noting adjustments for the next game, a knock on the door interrupted his focus.

"Come in," he called without looking up.

The door opened, and in walked Hana Sakamoto, his right-hand strategist, followed by an unfamiliar yet distinguished figure. The man was tall, dressed in a tailored navy-blue suit, his sharp gaze scanning the room with an air of quiet confidence.

Hana spoke first. "Daisuke, you're going to want to hear this."

The stranger stepped forward, extending a hand. "Mr. Kurogane, I'm Andreas Müller, sporting director of Bayer Leverkusen."

Daisuke's eyes narrowed slightly. A representative from a Bundesliga giant? He shook Müller's hand, his mind already racing through the possible reasons for this visit.

"I appreciate you taking the time," Müller continued. "Your tactical approach has caught our attention. Leverkusen is always looking for fresh perspectives, and you've proven yourself as one of the most innovative minds in English football this season."

Hana leaned against the desk, arms crossed. "Let's cut to the chase. What's your offer?"

Müller smiled, appreciating the direct approach. "We want Daisuke to join Leverkusen as an assistant manager. He would work alongside our current head coach, gradually integrating into our system."

Daisuke's expression remained unreadable. "Why not offer a head coach position outright?"

Müller shook his head. "You're talented, but managing a club like Leverkusen is a different level of pressure. We believe in easing you into it, allowing you to adapt to top-flight European football before making a full transition."

There it was—a test, a way for them to see if he could handle the elite stage before fully committing. It was tempting. The Bundesliga would offer him greater exposure, better resources, and a direct pathway to coaching at the highest level.

But… it wasn't his vision.

Daisuke had already started something at Blackhaven—something bigger than himself. He wasn't here to be anyone's apprentice.

Hana seemed to sense his thoughts. "Leverkusen is a prestigious club, no doubt. But why would Daisuke leave a project he's building from the ground up to play second fiddle?"

Müller leaned forward, unshaken. "Because we're offering Champions League football—a platform that no League One team can match."

Silence filled the office as Daisuke considered the offer. Hana waited, watching for his response.

Finally, he exhaled, leaning back in his chair.

"I appreciate the offer, Mr. Müller," Daisuke said, his voice calm yet firm. "But I didn't come to England to climb someone else's ladder. I came to build my own."

Müller raised an eyebrow. "You're rejecting an opportunity to coach in the Bundesliga?"

"For now," Daisuke confirmed. "Blackhaven isn't just a stepping stone for me. It's a project. And I'm not leaving it unfinished."

Müller studied him for a moment before offering a knowing smile. "I respect your conviction. But remember, football is unpredictable. If you ever change your mind, our door is open."

With that, he extended his hand once more. Daisuke shook it, marking the end of their brief but important conversation.

As Müller left, Hana turned to Daisuke with an amused smirk. "Big clubs are knocking already, huh?"

Daisuke chuckled. "Let them knock. We're just getting started."

The following morning, Blackhaven's training session had an added intensity. Daisuke's refusal of Leverkusen's offer had only strengthened his resolve. If he wanted Blackhaven to reach the top, every aspect of the team needed refinement.

He called the squad together. "From now on, we're focusing on off-the-ball movement. We've done well controlling games, but against elite teams, we'll need better positioning and transitions."

For the next two hours, the drills emphasized anticipation and decision-making. Stojanovic and Carter worked on quick positional shifts, ensuring they were always in the right spaces to receive passes. Aaron and Ricardo focused on coordinated pressing, learning when to charge forward and when to hold back.

By the end of training, the players were exhausted but motivated. They knew they were preparing for something bigger than just promotion.

As the team improved, so did their reputation. But not everyone was thrilled about Blackhaven's rise.

During a post-training meeting, Hana pulled up an article from a major football news site. The headline read:

"Blackhaven's 'Lucky Run'—Are They Really Championship Material?"

The article questioned Blackhaven's legitimacy, claiming that their wins were due more to weaker opponents than actual skill. Even more interesting was a comment from Nottingham Forest's manager, Ian Whitmore.

"They've had a decent run, but let's not pretend they're a top-tier side. We'll see how they handle a real challenge soon."

Hana clicked her tongue. "Sounds like someone's feeling threatened."

Daisuke smirked. "Let them underestimate us. When we face them, we'll show them exactly who we are."

Blackhaven's next fixture wasn't against Nottingham Forest just yet, but the tension was already building. A clash was inevitable, and when it happened, Daisuke intended to make a statement.