The Road to the Promised Land: Chapter 53

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==The Opportunity of a Lifetime==
"You only get one shot. Do not miss your chance to blow. This opportunity comes once in a lifetime." – Eminem (Rapper).
...
Thursday May 30
AON Training Complex, Carrington, UK
9:57 AM BST
Since the FA Cup final coincided with either the final weekend or the penultimate weekend of the season in other leagues from mainland Europe, Manchester United welcomed a rest worth a few days before they went back to work ahead of the final and biggest challenge of their campaign – the UEFA Champions League final. Usually set to be played on the last Saturday of May since 2010, the final is scheduled to be played exceptionally just within the month of June this time.
For a few days, the players had been practicing with quite a lot of intensity at Carrington. On that Thursday morning, the training session was set to be the last one using high intensity before the team would fly to Paris. It also promised to be the last chance for all players to make the right impression that would lead into the starting XI while the following day would be used for players to become familiar with the playing surface at the Stade de France.
"Our last big training session before the final." Kakeru said as he alternated knee lifts to stretch his leg muscles a little more.
"That is the one opportunity we cannot miss." Nana replied.
"Let's make sure we will all make the starting lineup on Saturday." Yusuke added.
By the time the clock reached 10:00 AM, the entire team started the session with a 5-minute jogging run. Since all players were already stretched before, they moved straight to the "keep away" game for 30 minutes after the jogging run. The players on the outside used the full extent of their passing skills to keep the ball rolling away from the 2 chasers-interceptors in the middle.
"Pass it around! Pass it, guys!" assistant manager Michael Schneider shouted.
Kakeru and Nana were among the passers while Yusuke and Matthias stood as the chasers-interceptors. After a few passes strung together, Nana attempted a pass that ended up being intercepted by Yusuke.
"Oh damn." Nana cursed.
"It's OK, Seven." Kakeru cheered Nana up.
"Well done, Yusuke." Nana said.
Then Nana and the previous passer switched places with Yusuke and Matthias in the middle of the circle. The "keep away" game carried on with Nana having to run and chase after the passers. Although Nana went back among the passers, she spent a lot of energy chasing the passers while acting as a chaser-interceptor. She also got intercepted twice more later, so much that Kakeru took a moment to inquire a little between 2 training exercises.
"Are you OK, Seven?" Kakeru asked. "It's not like you to get intercepted 3 times in this little game."
"I'm okay. I swear." Nana replied.
"You sure?"
"Maybe I'm just trying too hard. That's all."
"Well, I hope you will find your stride in the next drill." Kakeru finished.
Meanwhile, Andrew Butler was paying close attention to the details on all of his players.
'Mmm... A little sloppy by Mishima so far, but I will wait until the simulated match to make a call. We will see how she can cope then.' Andrew thought.
On the next drill, players had to dribble the ball around the mannequins before laying off the ball to a teammate making the same dribbling run in the opposite direction. The last player on the line had to shoot the ball first in a small goal. The regulars did that part of the training session really well. Then came a few 5v5 simulated matches in 15-minute slices before we finally came down to the simulated 11v11 match for 30 minutes.
"OK, people. This is the real test. Show us what you've got in the next 30 minutes. On the yellow team: Wolf (Jan Farkas), Spider (Joel Muamba), Viking (Erik Johansson), Skipper (Matthias Köhler), Jerry (Jeremy Williams), Fury (Yusuke Saeki), Frankie (Francisco Serrano), Nicky (Nikolaj Kristiansen), Santi (Santiago Araya) and Tony (Anthony Laurent) on the wings, and Knight (Kakeru Aizawa) up front." Michael said.
Putting on the yellow dib, Kakeru was surprised that Nana was not named on the same training team for the simulated match. They have been separated before, but usually not ahead of a big match. The coaches were often relying on the natural chemistry between Kakeru and Nana in training as much as he would do in a big match.
"On the blue team: Luca (Mancuso), Whitey (Diogo Blanco), Didi (Didier Kamara), Clarky (the veteran Chris Clarke), Bradley (Mitchell), Bic Mac (Liam McGregor), Alex (Aleksandar Rukavina), Witch (Nana Mishima), Kinner (Sean MacKinnon) and Kev (Kevin Flynn) on the wings, and Roman (Marius van Leeuwen) up front." Michael named the other team in training.
'It's not his usual habit to separate me from Kakeru in the last big simulated match. I wonder what the Boss is up to.' Nana thought.
In Andrew Butler's mind, the plan for this session was clear. Kakeru was being tested as a centre-forward on one side while Nana was put on the other side to simulate how Leonardo Silva would play for PSG.
PEEEEP!
The yellow team kicked things off in the simulated match. Within 4 minutes, the yellow team started threatening on the attack with Yusuke in control of the ball. Coming on the opposite direction for the blue team was Nana.
"Gotta get past me." Nana said.
"I'll dare." Yusuke replied.
After a quick body feint, Yusuke dragged the ball backwards to lure Nana into rushing towards him. But it was by design as Yusuke followed with a sombrero flick of the ball above and behind the Japanese woman.
"Well played!" Nikolaj said.
Having moved past Nana, Yusuke passed the ball towards Nikolaj. But instead of stopping the ball, the Danish midfielder flicked the ball with the back of the heel past Bradley and into Santiago's path. The South American winger was running on the side edge of the penalty area as Chris gave chase. But instead of whipping the cross with his favored right foot, Santiago waited for Chris to overcommit the block before the ball was dragged back onto Santiago's left foot. With just enough space, Santiago whipped the left-footed cross towards an area in front of the near post.
'Well played, Santi! It's mine.' Kakeru thought.
Timing and bending his run perfectly behind Didier, Kakeru arrived at the end of the pass with a diving header that propelled the ball beyond Luca and into the back of the net.
"YEEEAAH!!" the players on the yellow team shouted.
"Yeah! Great pass, Santi!" Kakeru pointed towards Santiago to congratulate the passer.
"Good header, Knight." Santiago replied.
"Goal for the yellow team, 1-0! Well played." Michael said.
"Amazing diving header, Kakeru." Nana said.
"Thanks. I haven't done one like that in a while, but it can always come in handy." Kakeru replied.
"You're definitely ready to play this final, Kakeru."
Meanwhile, Marius was looking to rally his teammates from the blue team.
"Let's get back in it, lads!" Marius said.
"We're better than this. Come on!" Chris added.
'We're not just spectators. We can also compete.' Nana thought.
Following the restart, the blue team started to compete a lot harder for every inch against a yellow team that looked superior on paper. It was a tight contest that became increasingly intense in the next 5 minutes. By that time though, the blue team had their break as they set up an attack in the yellow team's half.
"Pass it! Pass it!" Nana told her teammates.
After a few passes between Aleksandar and Liam, the ball was passed to Nana. Then Nana advanced with the ball for a few yards, facing Nikolaj. Nevertheless, the Little Witch played a quick give-and-go with Kevin to move behind Nikolaj. The yellow team players scrambled to close down on Nana.
"Watch Roman! Watch Roman!" Yusuke tried to warn his teammates of the imminent danger.
Unfortunately for the yellow team, a very quick succession of one-touch passes from Nana to Sean and then back to Nana led to a through pass towards Marius. The big Dutch striker sneaked his way behind Erik and got all alone in front of Jan, inside the penalty area.
"Come on, Roman!" Nana shouted.
Rushing towards the goal, Marius unleashed the shot with his left foot. Jan was left helpless as he saw the ball hit the back of the net. It was the blue team's turn to celebrate a goal.
"Nice goal, Roman." Nana congratulated Marius.
"Thanks. That was a nice build-up and a great pass." Marius replied.
"Goal for the blue team, 1-1!" Michael said.
Both teams moved back to restarting positions in the center of the pitch.
"You tore us a new one, Nana." Yusuke said in English.
"We can expect that from PSG if we aren't sharp enough." Nana replied.
'Seven is right. PSG will make us pay if we slack off at the wrong time in the wrong place.' Kakeru thought.
"Come on, y'all! Don't get sloppy! Focus!" Matthias rallied his teammates.
The match carried on with a high level of intensity on both sides. Although Nana put up her best efforts out there, the yellow team finally defeated the blue team by a score of 2-1 on a corner kick goal from Matthias with 5 minutes to go. Nana was neutralized by the combined efforts from Yusuke and Francisco. Furthermore, Andrew Butler noticed that Nana was getting tired towards the end because she spent so much energy on the pitch.
After the simulated match, the players did a 5-minute session of shuttle runs at top speed on the pitch. Then the players went to the gym by working on their strength and power over 40 minutes before they hit the showers. For some players, they knew they made it into the starting XI. For others, they already knew they would be on the bench at best. But for a few, their position was uncertain as to whether they would start the final on the pitch or start on the bench instead.
2:30 PM BST
Following a good lunch and a little moment of rest, Kakeru and Nana were called to take part in a TV interview that is set to be broadcasted in the build-up to the Champions League final on the upcoming Saturday. But as Kakeru and Nana made their way towards the set for the interview inside the training complex, dressed with the club's polo shirts and track pants, Nana was still bothered with a lingering doubt in her mind.
"What is bugging you?" Kakeru asked.
"I wish I did better in the 11v11 simulated match. It's just... I don't know if it's fatigue from the long season, but I have the feeling that I'm not as sharp as I've been most of the time." Nana replied.
"It has been a long season for all of us. We went way beyond everything we have been used to since we first made the first team."
"Still, I don't want to use fatigue as an excuse. I carry the dreams of so many girls out there by being the first woman playing for a team in the European Cup final. I really don't want to let them down."
"You are Nana Mishima – the best female player in the world and a very crucial member of this team. I'm sure you will end up playing and you will play one of your best games on Saturday."
"Yeah. I really hope so."
"The Boss always comes up with a good plan. He won't forget that you helped us win 2 trophies and that you took us to the final in Paris."
"Thanks for cheering me up, Kakeru."
"Always, Seven." Kakeru finished.
Seconds later, Kakeru and Nana arrived on the set for the interview. Waiting for them was former star defender and now-pundit on television, Rio Ferdinand. When Kakeru and Nana arrived at Manchester United in 2013, Rio was the vice-captain. They have remained on good friendly terms after the ageing Rio left the club to play one final season at Queen's Park Rangers F.C.
"Hey, Kakeru, Nana." Rio greeted.
"Nice to see you again, Rio." Kakeru replied.
"Thanks for doing this, man." Rio shook hands with Kakeru.
"You're doing great, Rio." Nana said.
"Thanks. I still remember when people on the outside were wondering why the club signed a woman. There were lots of public debates and threats of lawsuits, but we knew you had everything to become a top player. Time proved that the club was right."
"It was long before the Women's Team was even reborn. It took some time for me to settle, but I'm glad that people at the club kept believing in me all of those years." Nana said.
"I now kinda feel a little old when I see how much you two have grown as players and as people." Rio replied.
"We had just finished high school at the time." Kakeru said.
"We'll talk about it later. Let's get you two set up." Rio finished.
A few minutes later and after some work by the TV crew, Kakeru and Nana were ready to proceed with the TV interview hosted by Rio.
Rio Ferdinand: I'm here with Kakeru Aizawa and Nana Mishima in Carrington. Thank you very much for your time.
Kakeru and Nana: You're welcome.
Rio Ferdinand: When I first met both of you in 2013, we just secured our last Premier League title under Sir Alex Ferguson. Both of you came to us for a 2-week tryout in May, you just finished Japanese high school, and you were invited by the Gaffer. What came through your mind when the Gaffer actually went to your school right on the day when you had your graduation ceremony?
Kakeru: Both of us were really surprised that Sir Alex made the trip all the way to Japan. When he appeared in front of me, I was struck by the aura he had and still has now as a person. Nevertheless, he and the chief executive at the time came up very well prepared with the terms for our footballing careers as well as our education path. He and the club both have always been supportive in our professional careers, and they made sure we would be able to pursue medical studies while playing.
Nana: I was obviously struck with awe that Sir Alex stood in front of me as well. I also understood right away that Kakeru had something special if Sir Alex went this far to sign him. But the biggest shock came to me when he said that he was giving tryouts to 2 players from Japan and that I was the second player he was looking for. I mean... I was shocked that I was actually given a real opportunity to break the gender barrier where others were denied to do so. Nevertheless, I knew that there was a chance to be taken and that there was something special if Sir Alex Ferguson wanted me a part of a Manchester United team as well. So I took it after thinking about it overnight.
Rio Ferdinand: He has the unique way on how to make everyone feel special. That is Sir Alex Ferguson for you. So you two did the tryout, you held it well when you trained with the reserves and with us in Carrington. Still, it wasn't before your third season at the club that you were given a real chance with the first team, Kakeru. It also took a little longer for you, Nana to do the same. Were there times when you weren't sure if you would make it in the first team at United? Let's start with Kakeru.
Kakeru: Yeah, I knew there would be big challenges for me to adapt in the English game. Nana and I were only 18 when we arrived; we were only kids. For myself, I knew I had to work a lot in the gym, build up strength and stamina, learn how to play in a different environment, learn a new culture, and so on. It was when Louis van Gaal came in that things started to improve for me. The first thing that Van Gaal said to me was "You have been mismanaged last season under the previous manager, who came after Sir Alex. You have the talent and the skills, but you will need more to survive in a man's game. So we will help you grow into a man, but I want you to express yourself as you have always done." Of course he also taught me how to play in a wide position and other things about being a professional, but he always trusts you to go out there and do the job. I wouldn't be here if he wasn't there at the time to show me how to do things with the right mentality. So I owe him a lot.
Rio Ferdinand: What about you, Nana?
Nana: Well, the thing is that the level of expectation was not exactly the same for me because no one had ever seen a woman make it into one of the best men's leagues in Europe. I was also aware that there was a big mountain to climb if I had to be able to play against men at senior level. I remember many people saying "Oh no, what is a woman doing in the men's game?", "She won't make it beyond the first season" or "That is illegal to have a woman on the same pitch as men." I endured a lot of hardships from a few jealous teammates in the U21s and from a few opponents, but I always made sure that I would end up being tougher than any of them. The good thing is that whatever good advice was given to Kakeru also helped me to mould myself into a far stronger player. So I did the same thing as he did: I worked hard in the gym, so much that I kinda look like Mikasa Ackerman right now.
Rio Ferdinand: Who is that Mikasa you're talking about?
Nana chuckled.
Nana: Just a fictional character who is quite a cultural phenomenon in her own right. But to finish off on what I just said, I always kept on practicing alongside Kakeru at full strength so we would be able to outdo each other in training. All I ever wanted was to maintain that healthy rivalry with Kakeru and vice-versa for the sake of the team, even though we are different types of players. I guess it is how I managed to become a solid player with the youth team and then earned a chance with the first team when the current Boss came in.
Rio Ferdinand: Speaking of the relationship between the two of you, it's a strong bond that goes a long way back. You started off as childhood friends. Now you are tightly knit as partners in life both on and off the pitch. Can you tell me how it started and how it evolved over time? Let's start with Nana.
Nana: When I was in elementary school, I went to a local school when my family settled there for a while. Although I was the only girl in a team of boys, I was welcome into the group by a kid of my age. With him, we became a force as the 2 strikers up top. That other striker was Kakeru. His older brother, the late Suguru was the number 10. We were so good as a trio back then, but all good things had to come to an end. My family moved to the United States, but not before I made a promise with the 2 brothers that we would all wear the same shirt for Japan together someday. Kakeru and I didn't meet again until the second year in middle school.
Kakeru: It's pretty much like Nana just said. I don't think I can't add much about that time except that I was really sad when she left the country because we enjoyed many great moments together.
Rio Ferdinand: Then came middle school and high school. A lot had happened during those years. Can you tell me what happened then and since, Kakeru and then Nana?
Kakeru: I accidentally dislocated a teammate's knee in elementary school some time after Nana left Japan. I was so traumatized by that incident that I thought about never playing again. I was also living in my brother's shadow, and that made me feel miserable. Then so many things happened in a really short period of time: Nana came back, I lost my older brother in an accident, I almost died in that same accident, I recovered, then I realized how much my older brother believed in me even though he didn't say it out loud, and then Nana supported me along every step of the way. I started to become a winner in high school. So you can say that we both grew up as players and as people together in that period of our lives.
Nana: As for me, it's not like I was always confident about myself in my youth. When I was in the United States, people looked at me as their best hope to take them back to the top. Born on US soil, I was eligible to play for them. But the pressure and the expectations were too much to handle when I was 12 or 13. Then my parents were transferred back to Japan for work. I wasn't completely sure whether or not I should be a part of the Japanese Women's National Team competitively because of how sour things went in the US. But then Kakeru's support was enough for me to make my decision to continue training with boys of my age range, which was enough to earn me a place with Japan. Later I was with the Women's National Team when we won the 2011 Women's World Cup, and it was the best day of my life before I won trophies with Manchester United this season. Everything good that has happened to me at that time is all thanks to Kakeru's support.
Kakeru: As for the two of us as a couple, we already had our eyes set on each other since we were kids. Then everything blossomed from friendship to romance in our last year in high school, when we realized how much we wanted to be more than just friends. The fact that we were friends for so long gave us a strong foundation before we pursued a romantic relationship. Even so, we preferred to keep it as secret as possible to the public until we both felt ready to make it public at the end of last season.
Nana: I only wish he confessed to me a little earlier in our time in high school if something had to be different *chuckles*. In our culture, it's up to one partner, usually the man, to properly confess those feelings to the other as a means to formally ask for dating and beyond.
Rio Ferdinand: That's quite a great story from 2 perspectives, alright. Fast forward to this season. Kakeru, you won the FA Cup in 2016, and then the League Cup and the Europa League in 2017. Nana, you were not in the squad in the 2 finals in 2017, but you already started playing with the first team back then. You two have been instrumental in achieving the Double – Premier League and FA Cup so far this season. How are you feeling about it?
Nana: It feels amazing. To win one trophy is a great feeling, but to be a big part of the team that wins the 2 domestic prizes in England is really amazing. So far, it's everything I've wished for since I was called into the first team to play against some of the best male players out there.
Kakeru: It feels very special to have our names alongside the few players who won the Double before us. We know how difficult it is for any team to win both trophies in the same season. After those years at the club and after so many sacrifices, I'm really happy that the hard work is finally paying off for the whole team. It was a long time coming.
Rio Ferdinand: A long campaign has lots of ups and downs as well as turning points. If you had to pick one turning point that maybe gave you and the team the belief that you could go on and win any of the 2 trophies, which moment would that be? First, Kakeru.
Kakeru: We have had a lot of games where we came back from behind or scored late goals to get a result. If I had to choose one moment, it would be the FA Cup match against Liverpool at Old Trafford. Twice we were down by a goal, we missed so many chances to take the lead or to tie the game, and it didn't look like something good would happen to us. Then I equalized with like 2 minutes to go, and then Nana scored in injury time to take us to the next round. Yeah, I think that was the moment when we started to feel nothing would stop us from going all the way... at least in the Premier League.
Rio Ferdinand: And you, Nana, which moment would be your turning point in the season?
Nana: The FA Cup match against Liverpool is a very good choice, but I think the Premier League match against Arsenal in February was the real turning point. If we lost that one, Arsenal would have gone away with a 6-point lead and probably win the title. I can't tell how things would have gone for us after that. They even took a 2-goal lead in the first half, but then we came back to win it big time even though the end of the match was not a glorious moment to talk about. Regardless, I believe that result gave us the confidence we needed to go on and win both competitions.
Rio Ferdinand: I have to say that Nana's return in the second leg against Bayern Munich gave me goosebumps. Because of her mother's accident, the context in the semi-final, the final at stake, and so on.
Kakeru: For sure, that gave all of us a huge boost when we needed it the most.
Nana: It's still a very emotional moment for me. It was the moment when I had to show what I was about as a teammate, that I wouldn't let the boys down. Everything turned out to be for the best so far.
Rio Ferdinand: Now it all comes down to the Champions League final on Saturday. No matter the outcome, there will be at least one Asian winner for the first time after actually playing in the final. There's both of you and Yusuke Saeki at Manchester United, and there's Mikiya Tono expected to be in goal for PSG. What does this opportunity represent for you personally?
Kakeru: The Champions League is the best football competition that exists every year at club level. Outside of the World Cup, I think it's the biggest competition that any player would dream to play in and win. Many great players have never come close to winning it, but we are within 90 minutes or a little more of winning it. When we grew up in Japan, we all used to watch a lot of Champions League highlights on television. That was and still is a big part of the upbringing for any Japanese player. It would be a really big feat to fulfill the dreams of many Japanese kids and to be on the winners' side.
Nana: It's the opportunity that may come once of a lifetime. Just a few years ago, I didn't think I would ever play against men. Now I'm here as a part of the team that's in the final after a lot of hard work and sacrifices. Whatever role the manager will give me in the final, I will be looking to make the most out of it to take the team over the line. By doing so, I carry the hopes and dreams of so many young girls out there. I know this will be the biggest challenge of our careers, but anything can happen in a cup final.
Kakeru: They have a very good team in front, PSG, but we have been through a lot of adversity throughout this season as well. Any way that exists to win the final, we can find it.
Rio Ferdinand: Well, we're almost coming to a close. No matter what happens on Saturday, you two will get married in the summer. I have one last question for the two of you, and that's something I'm sure many people are obviously asking as well. What would be next after marriage? Do you want kids? Lots of children? What's your take on the future?
Both Kakeru and Nana chuckled.
Kakeru: I think we will take one step at the time. We'll get over the marriage first. Then we'll focus on next season and on our medical studies at the same time. Of course, we'll be thinking about the kids. We both want to have a family with a number of children, and we'll definitely find the right time to have our first child.
Nana: I already know that Kakeru can really find his way around children of all ages. He would definitely be an outstanding father.
Kakeru: I would say the same about you as a mother, Nana. I look forward to parenthood when the right time will come.
Kakeru, Nana, and Rio laughed altogether.
Rio Ferdinand: So, Kakeru Aizawa, Nana Mishima, thanks for coming and talking today. Good luck to both of you in the Champions League final in Paris.
Kakeru: Thank you, Rio. Cheers.
Nana: It has been a pleasure.
Kakeru and Nana finished the interview by shaking hands with Rio before the producer gave the "cut" signal.
"So that's it, guys. We're done. Great interview." Rio said.
"I know I got better at doing interviews over the years, but that was intense. I never thought I would survive something like this." Kakeru said.
"I've met plenty of players in those interviews. Some are really good at those, some are really not the best to be interviewed, some need to go at their own pace. I think you really did really good, man. I could say the same about Nana as well. It's the first time I'm interviewing 2 players at the same time." Rio replied.
"One thing I know is that I wouldn't asked for a better person to interview me in such a relaxed way. It's great to have a former teammate doing this." Nana said.
"Anytime, Nana."
"Is there some advice you would give to those who make it to the Champions League final for the first time like us? You've been there 3 times." Kakeru said.
"Not much to say other than to enjoy every single minute of it as you don't know if you will ever have a chance to win it again. To this day, I don't think much about my achievements. When I look back, what I think the most are the finals I've lost, the ones I should have won. To be successful in sport is always about wanting more even when you win things. That is why I keep on thinking that we could have won more than one Champions League final or at least one FA Cup when I played for Man United." Rio replied.
"I see." Kakeru said.
"We'll do everything to take this trophy back home to Manchester. No regrets." Nana said.
"I know you will. Best of luck out there on Saturday. Hopefully, you will celebrate this as an early wedding gift." Rio replied.
"Cheers." Kakeru finished.
In the following hours in that day, the Manchester United team flew from Manchester Airport to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. Following their arrival on French soil, the team was driven on a private bus to their hotel in the commune of La Chapelle-en-Serval, north of Paris. The purpose of settling for a hotel outside of Paris was to avoid actions from troublemakers among PSG fans, who are notorious for using various disrupting tactics to disturb opponents' sleep.
Friday May 31
Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France
11:45 AM CEST (10:45 AM BST)
Manchester United were scheduled to hold their short training session at 10:00 AM, in the Stade de France. The training session went rather quickly as the main focus was to let players getting the feel of the stadium, getting used to the pitch and to the official match balls used for the final. Training also included set pieces (corners and free kicks), a shooting practice. Weather conditions were perfect as it was a typical spring sunny day in Paris.
At the end of the training session, a number of players began to retreat back to their dressing room. The 3 Japanese-born Manchester United players were still taking a few more moments to get used to the pitch.
"When I walk on this pitch, I can sense the great history that has taken place here." Kakeru said.
"You're right. There's a lot of history here." Yusuke replied.
"It was built to be the center piece of the 1998 World Cup. Zinedine Zidane scored the first ever goal here before he went on to win the World Cup 6 months later that year. Then it hosted many events, including the 2000 Champions League final, the 2003 Confederations Cup, the 2007 Rugby World Cup, Euro 2016, so many athletic events, and so much more." Nana added.
"How does this stadium compare to Wembley, Seven?" Kakeru asked.
"I say they're equally great and yet very different, Kakeru. I think this stadium here is more like a huge open book that has a lot of blank pages for people to write their own stories in it." Nana replied.
"At Wembley, I can feel the traditions and the long history from a different time. But when it's about here, it's as if this stadium is built on purpose for the 21st century, for people like us." Yusuke added.
"It's perhaps the best place for all of us to express ourselves." Nana said.
"I can't wait for tomorrow." Kakeru said.
Then Kakeru noticed a few people walking out of the tunnel to meet the players. Those people were invited by Manchester United Football Club as VIP fans for the match. Some of the guests were recognized instantly by Kakeru.
"I think we can say hello to a few people over there." Kakeru said.
"Oh yeah." Nana replied.
Among the guests were Jamaican retired champion sprinter, Usain Bolt and Japanese professional tennis players, Eiichiro Maruo and Natsu Takasaki. The 3 Japanese-born footballers first went to meet Eiichiro and Natsu, who already are really good friends with Kakeru and Nana through joint promotional work involving professional Japanese athletes.
"Maruo-kun, Takasaki-chan! How are you doing?" Kakeru greeted.
"Aizawa-kun, Mishima-chan! Good, and you?" Eiichiro replied.
"I'm good too. Thanks." Kakeru said, giving a high-five handshake with Eiichiro.
"Nice to see you guys." Natsu said.
"I'm really glad to see you too, Nat-chan." Nana replied before she hugged Natsu.
"Guys, I don't think you have met yet. This is my long-time friend, Yusuke Saeki." Kakeru introduced Eiichiro and Natsu to Yusuke and then vice-versa. "Yusuke, this is Eiichiro Maruo and Natsu Takasaki."
"Nice to meet you." Yusuke said.
"Nice to meet to you, Saeki-san." Eiichiro replied.
"Same for me, Saeki-san." Natsu added.
"We really didn't expect you two would be here today. I mean it's the French Open these days. How did you manage to be here?" Kakeru asked.
"Well, we knew for some time there was a good chance we would attend the final even though we're in the middle of our tournament. Since we strongly support you and Nana-chan, I called Manchester United for tickets. They took care of us as VIPs when they realized who we are." Eiichiro replied.
"Practice on the court can wait for later today. After all, we all have to make good use of our spare time between training and matches. And besides, it's not every year that we can play the French Open and attend a Champions League final all in the same period." Natsu added.
"That's quite a rare stroke of luck indeed. The last 2 times the Champions League final was played in Paris, they were intentionally scheduled earlier than usual to spare some time ahead of the international tournaments that followed – Euro 2000 and the 2006 World Cup." Nana remarked.
"Since this is our stroke of luck, we did everything to be here and to support our friends." Eiichiro said.
"That's great." Kakeru replied.
"How far are you in the French Open right now?" Yusuke asked.
"We're both in the 3rd round in singles. Nat-chan will play on the center court tomorrow morning, and I will play my match right after hers. That should give us plenty of time to rest a little and then come back here in the evening." Eiichiro replied.
"I hope both of you will make it into the 4th round and beyond." Kakeru said.
"By the way, how are things going between you two?" Nana asked.
"Our relationship is doing well. Ei-chan and I are not so much bothered by the foreign media, but dealing with our own country's media takes some effort. They are now more interested in writing stuff about us and our love life since it's been known that you two will get married." Natsu replied.
"I know how that feels, but it's OK for as long as you support each other through thick and thin. Kakeru and I have gone through that before."
"If you're doing great together, then nothing else matters." Kakeru said.
"Well, Nat-chan and I make the most of it when the ATP and WTA tournaments overlap each other. She always gave me the strength to overcome hardships on the court ever since high school, years before we became full-time professionals." Eiichiro replied.
"Ei-chan has always worked so hard since I've met him. Watching him go has always gave me a boost to work even harder to get past difficult challenges of my own too." Natsu added.
"There you go." Kakeru said.
"It's a shame we can't attend your wedding reception this summer though. It will be the high season for both of us on our respective tours." Natsu said.
"It's understandable. If you can send us a video or something, it will be more than enough." Nana replied.
"For sure." Eiichiro said. "Well, I guess we will let you go now. There are a number of other VIPs you definitely want to meet."
"No matter what happens tomorrow, give it your very best shot. You can do it!" Natsu added.
"Yeah! Same for both of you tomorrow." Kakeru replied.
"See you after the final." Nana added.
"See you later." Yusuke finished.
After bidding goodbye to Eiichiro and Natsu, Kakeru and his friends went to have a chat with Usain Bolt. The fastest man in the world is obviously more recognizable to the rest of the Manchester United team as their most famous supporter.
"Usain Bolt. It's great to see you." Kakeru greeted.
"Kakeru, hey! How are you doing?" Usain asked.
"I'm feeling great. I can't wait for tomorrow, and I will admit that we wouldn't mind having you on the team for your speed." Kakeru replied as he shook hands with the retired sprinter.
Usain laughed out loud.
"I saw your run to score the last goal in the last Premier League match. You're not bad yourself at sprinting." Usain said.
"I ain't beating the fastest man in the world." Kakeru replied before both men laughed together.
"Nice to meet you, M. Bolt." Nana greeted.
"Same for me. I've been watching you play for the last few years on TV, and I tell to myself... Wow, she is very good against men. That goal in the FA Cup final was really something else."
"I would have been equally happy if anyone else scored that goal. But, yeah, that is the best I've ever done. I guess I made up for missing out injured on the gold medal game for Japan in the 2012 Olympics."
"I have seen everyone many great goals from Ruud van Nistelrooy, Paul Scholes, Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, Robin van Persie, and many more over the years. But your goal at Wembley is the best I have seen since I became a fan." Usain said.
"Well, I'm really flattered. Thank you." Nana replied.
"It's an honor for me to meet the fastest man in the world." Yusuke greeted.
"Thank you. I would say the same about the man who scored the big goal that brought the Premier League back to my favorite football club. You have brought something to the team that I haven't seen in years before this season." Usain replied.
"Everything has been beyond my dreams so far. I hope it doesn't stop."
"It's going to be fine. I believe in this team."
"You have won so many titles and so many medals. When you look back at everything in your career, especially in the Olympics, what would be your best advice?" Kakeru asked Usain.
"It's not about how you begin a race that will say who wins. What matters the most is how you run in the second half. Even though I won so many medals, my starts are usually bad." Usain replied.
"Really?" Yusuke asked.
"It's because I'm tall; it's a disadvantage when I start running. But when I get to 40-50 meters in a 100-meter race and if I see I still have a chance, that is when I know the race is going well. I worked so hard to use my long legs and get better strides when I run." Usain replied.
"That's a really good advice. It reminds us about the many times we worked hard to come back from behind and win so many important matches." Kakeru said.
"No matter what happens, you have that spark. I will see you tomorrow no matter what. Good luck to you all." Usain replied.
"Sure. Thanks." Kakeru said.
"Thanks for coming." Nana and Yusuke added.
"Anytime." Usain finished.
For a few more minutes, Kakeru and his friends talked with the other VIPs before leaving down the tunnel. Less than an hour later, Manchester United left the stadium around the same time that Paris Saint-Germain arrived ahead of their own training session, which was scheduled in the afternoon. The champions of England were driven back to their hotel in La Chapelle-en-Serval, where they would remain until late afternoon on the next day.
Tiara Château Hôtel Mont Royal Chantilly, La Chapelle-en-Serval, France
8:50 PM CEST (7:50 PM BST)
Since the Manchester United team returned to their hotel, the players took time to enjoy their meals together, to receive muscle massage if necessary, and to relax as much as possible. Meanwhile, the coaching staff were preparing a few presentations to be shown on the following day while choosing the starting XI. By that time, Kakeru and Nana were already in their room, watching some TV on the channel known as France 2.
"There's the forecast for tomorrow." Nana said.
"I wonder if something has changed since the last time we watched the weather forecast." Kakeru said.
"We'll see. Just give me a moment." Nana replied.
Just as Nana watched, the weather presenter first mentioned an atmospheric disturbance coming from the West to the East and from the North to the South. That disturbance is expected to make temperatures drop in a number of areas in Northwestern France.
"She says that we have a cold air mass that will sweep West to East and North to South at the same time over the country." Nana said.
France 2 weather presenter: Cette masse d'air frais sera très nuageuse et accompagnée de pluies. On dit que c'est une bonne nouvelle avec les sols qui sont secs avec le temps un peu chaud des derniers jours. Sauf que ces pluies seront orageuses. On peut s'attendre à ce que ces orages soient violents atteignent la Bretagne et la Normandie en matinée avant de frôler Paris vers le courant de la soirée de demain. Les vents de cette masse d'air peuvent atteindre jusqu'à 90 km/h. En matinée, on aura 11 degrés à Paris, 12 degrés du côté de Strasbourg jusqu'à 15 degrés du côté de la Corse. Dans l'après-midi, on pourra atteindre un maximum de 20 degrés à Paris ou à Reims, et jusqu'à 24 degrés sur la Corse.
"We will reach 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit) in the afternoon, but that cold air mass could come close to Paris from Brittany and Normandy. If it does, we can expect rain, winds at 90 km/h (56 mph), and thunderstorms upon us. Regardless, it will be cloudy over Paris for the final." Nana translated.
"Well, so much for the sunny weather we had today. It's another challenge for us to deal with." Kakeru said.
"It will also be a challenge for them." Nana replied.
Then the sound of the knock resonated on Kakeru and Nana's bedroom door.
"What?" Kakeru asked out loud.
"Don't tell me that..." Nana said. "I will open it." 
Players still unsure of their status for the match were hoping to not get the dreaded "knock on the door", which means that the manager would come and tell a player in person that he/she would not start the match. Suddenly, both partners became nervous about what that would mean for the final as Nana opened the door with Andrew Butler waiting outside.
"Boss?" Nana asked.
"I hope I'm not disturbing." Andrew said.
"No, we were just watching the weather forecast on TV for tomorrow." Nana replied.
"Is it something about the starting lineup tomorrow? Did I do something wrong, Boss?" Kakeru asked.
"No, no. Aizawa, you did well. You're in the starting lineup for tomorrow... unless you hurt yourself or you suffer food poisoning." Andrew replied. "In fact... I was here to talk to Mishima here."
Nana's heart froze, already expecting bad news.
"If it's about me, then I guess it means I didn't do well enough in training this week to earn a start." Nana said.
"Unfortunately, there's not a really good way to tell you this... You will start the final on the bench tomorrow."
Nana remained speechless when the manager confirmed his decision.
"Not that I wanted this, Mishima. But my position demands me to make a decision that is in the best interests for the team. You played a lot of football in the final stretch of the season, and you're running on fumes. I'm sure nobody wants to use fatigue as an excuse, but it has been a long season for everyone."
"So what is the plan for tomorrow?" Nana asked.
"We will start with Kristiansen, Saeki, and Serrano in midfield. We will work to contain Leonardo Silva and hit them on the counterattack like we did against Manchester City. If we need more attacking output from midfield, you will get the nod. Don't get me wrong: you worked really hard in training since we returned from the break, but perhaps you went a little too hard on yourself." Andrew replied.
"I had a feeling after yesterday's training session that it would turn out that way, Boss."
"Listen, Mishima... I know how you feel because of what this final means to you and to young girls looking up to you. It would have been great if you had your name in the starting XI for tomorrow. Regardless, I also know that you're always a much better player when you're rested and fresh. Remember what your strengths are. I want ONLY ONE Nana Mishima – the one who runs at players and uses instinct to create something out of nothing, the one who changed the pace of the FA Cup final coming off the bench. I want you to be rested a little longer, to have a good feel of the pace of the game by watching it from the sidelines, and then blast everything you have right into their faces when they are the ones with tired legs. That is what I want." Andrew said.
"I... I see. I'll do my best." Nana replied.
"Just make sure you have a good night of sleep tonight, you two. It's going to be a big day tomorrow. So better make sure you're both physically and mentally ready for what you have to do."
"We will, Boss." Kakeru replied.
"Good night to both of you." Andrew said.
"Good night, Boss." Kakeru and Nana replied.
Andrew left the room. Then Kakeru and Nana took a few moments to let the most recent talk sink in for both of them. Albeit expected somewhat, the news that Nana would begin the match on the bench as a managerial decision was still a shock for both Kakeru and her.
"Nana..." Kakeru said.
"I knew right before our interview with Rio that it could come down to this. I had that gut feeling, Kakeru... and I ended up being right again." Nana replied.
"I thought that you would make it in the starting lineup tomorrow. I'm so sorry."
"I know I may still be the first woman to play in that final if I get on, but I really wanted to start..."
Seeing Nana on the verge of tears, a silent Kakeru was searching for the right comforting words to say. Then Kakeru remembered something.
"It's not how you begin a race, but it's how you finish it." Kakeru said.
"Huh?" Nana asked.
"I just remembered what Usain Bolt told us earlier. What he meant is that what matters is how we finish the race to the trophy. If you can come off the bench and then give us a big boost like you did against Bayern Munich and Arsenal, then it will go well for all of us."
"Kakeru..."
"It's going to be all right. No matter what happens tomorrow, I don't want to see you getting so tired that you have to be replaced. We will finish this thing together and on a high note." Kakeru said.
Nana took a few seconds to think about what Kakeru just said.
"Yeah, you're right." Nana replied.
Wiping a couple of tears, Nana finally put a slight smile back on her face.
"Thank you, Kakeru. Thanks for always cheering me up."
"I will be the first to vouch for you if we need help on the pitch. When you come on, just play your game like you have always done."
"Yeah. Meanwhile, make sure you bring your best game tomorrow."
"Sure." Kakeru said before he took a look at the time. "It's already getting late; it's 9:00 PM."
"Right. We have to get to sleep soon, Kakeru."
"Yeah. I hope to have some good sleep." Kakeru said.
"Me too. We will need it a lot." Nana finished.
Some time later, Kakeru and Nana went to sleep. For a number of players, the night preceding the Champions League final is a difficult one to go through as nerves kick in. Some players even admitted that they couldn't eat nor sleep before such an important match. It was not particularly easy for Kakeru and Nana either as the pressure build-up filled their heads with many thoughts. Every single player in that situation had to find a way or another to contain the anxiety.
Saturday June 1
The day of the Champions League final
6:25 PM CEST (5:25 PM BST)
As the weather forecast mentioned in the previous evening, the morning over Paris and the surrounding regions was cool with a clear sky. The sun was already rising since 5:52 AM, and thus morning light woke Kakeru up. But from the moment Kakeru was fully aware of his surroundings, the first thing he noticed was that Nana was not alongside him in bed at all.
"Nana?"
"Ohayou, Kakeru. I'm just standing right here." Nana said.
Kakeru looked towards the main window. Nana was standing in front of the window, dressed in her pajamas and looking at the forest outside.
"Ohayou... Have you been awake for long?" Kakeru asked.
"For around 10 minutes. Did you sleep well?" Nana replied.
"I don't know. I must have woken up 2 or 3 times during the night, and then I took a few minutes each time to get back to sleep. What about you?"
"More or less the same for me too, Kakeru. I expected worse, but it's OK so far."
"That's good."
"Come take a look outside." Nana said.
Then Kakeru got out of bed and walked up to cuddle with Nana. Then Kakeru and Nana enjoyed the view outside of the window, with the magnificent Chantilly Forest spreading as far as the eye can see with the sun rising.
"It's really great out here. The forest, the sunrise... everything looks great." Kakeru said.
"It's really peaceful. The people at the club did well to choose this place. I don't want to think what it would look like if we were closer to Paris." Nana replied.
"I remember that PSG fans are known for resorting to dirty tactics to disturb their opponents on the night before a big Champions League match."
"Yeah, that's a big reason. Being so far from the circus in Paris is the best thing we could ask for this day." Nana said.
Then Kakeru and Nana heard their respective stomachs growling. Both partners started laughing afterwards.
"It's a long day ahead of us. Brushing teeth and a good shower are in order before we get breakfast." Kakeru said.
"For sure." Nana replied.
"Want to hit the shower first, Nana?"
"Yeah. Want to enjoy the view of my body in the mirror?" Nana asked.
"Always worth it." Kakeru replied with a smile.
Around 8:00AM, Kakeru and Nana joined the rest of their teammates for breakfast. Some time later, the players did a light workout in a large empty room that was reserved for them. Dressed only with t-shirts, shorts, and running shoes, the players also performed ball passing exercises among themselves. Finally, the players went to the hotel's gym to finish off their workout on the various machines.
1:45 PM CEST (12:45 PM BST)
A little more than 7 hours before the final, the players gathered for lunch in the dining room. Alongside the players, various Manchester United executives and ambassadors took the opportunity to have a personal chat with the players. Sir Alex Ferguson and Bryan Robson were obviously among the most noticeable club ambassadors, but there was one of them catching the attention of the 3 Japanese players more than anybody else.
"It's him." Kakeru said.
"Yeah. I wasn't sure at first, but you're right." Yusuke replied.
"Let's speak to M. Three-Lungs himself." Nana added.
The man known as "Three-Lungs" is Park Ji-sung. The former Manchester United player for 7 seasons (2005-2012) and former captain of the South Korea National Football Team has been a global ambassador for Manchester United since his retirement in 2014. Through his exceptional endurance levels and his first-rate work ethic, Park Ji-sung was a major reason behind the increase of popularity at Manchester United among Asian fans during that period. Kakeru and his friends were some of his biggest fans back in the years as well.
"Konnichiwa!" Ji-sung greeted the 3 Japanese players.
"Konnichiwa!" Kakeru greeted back.
"Nice to meet you." Nana added.
"It's a real honor." Yusuke added.
"I'm glad to meet all three of you here." Ji-sung replied in Japanese as he shook hands with Kakeru and his friends. 
Having played in the J-League for Kyoto Sanga F.C. in his first 3 seasons of senior professional football (2000-2003) before he left for a career in Europe, Park Ji-sung still speaks fluent Japanese.
"Wow. When I see you guys, I can't be any happier about how far Asian football has come since my days. Asian players were so rare in England when I played for Manchester United. But to think we would have 3 Asian players including an Asian woman in the same team in a Champions League final, it's incredible." Ji-sung said.
"You paved quite the way for us with all of those trophies you've won with United. You're also the first Asian player to win the Champions League after all." Kakeru replied.
"I didn't make the team for the 2008 final though. We had a really big good squad, but we were only allowed to have 7 substitutes in those years instead of 12 today."
"That's right. You and a young Gerard Piqué were scratched out. Rules at the time could be cruel." Nana said.
"Indeed, they were. Sir Alex made the tough decision, but he later apologized to me for doing it. Then I played in the 2009 and 2011 Champions League finals, but I wasn't as lucky." Ji-sung replied.
"Yeah. I also wished United could beat Barcelona at least once in those 2 finals." Nana said.
"It's all in the past now."
"I don't know if I should disclose this to you, but... I will be starting on the bench." Nana said.
"Oh, don't worry. I think the manager knows how and when to get you on. Always trust the manager even if some decisions aren't the most pleasant for you at face value." Ji-sung replied.
"I hope so too." Nana said.
"I have many great memories of watching you play on television, but attending the 2 games involving United in the 2008 FIFA Club World Cup was my favorite." Yusuke said.
"You attended both 2008 matches in Yokohama Stadium?" Ji-sung asked.
"Yokohama is basically in my home prefecture, so it was easy for me to get there. You may not remember me, but I got your autograph after the final aginst Quito. I was a young teenager back then. Ever since I saw you play in person alongside the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney at that time, I said to myself that I need to work as hard as you do to be as good." Yusuke said.
"Ah, it's nice to know. I like to see things going full circle with myself now being the fan meeting the player who saw me as a role model of some sort." Ji-sung replied.
"So what do you think of the team this year, Park-san?" Kakeru asked.
"I see similarities between this team and the one in 2008. Sure we were very talented, but we were also playing for each other like a true family. I think it's the best I've seen since then."
"Wow, that's quite a high bar." Nana said.
"Don't worry too much about it. You're mentally and physically ready. The pressure is all on PSG because they play almost at home, but we all know how to do this. It's like any other away match: you go in there, you get the result, and then you go home." Ji-sung replied.
"Thanks, Park-san. We will give everything out there." Kakeru said.
"We can do this." Nana added.
"I know you would. After everything I've seen of this year's team, you deserve to go all the way. If you see an opportunity, make sure it counts. You never know if it may come again." Ji-sung replied.
Kakeru, Nana, and Yusuke nodded in agreement.
"All the best to all three of you for tonight. Go and get them."
"Yeah!" Kakeru, Nana, and Yusuke replied in unison.
After a few parting handshakes, Park Ji-sung went to chat with other Manchester United players. Kakeru, Nana, and Yusuke took time to absorb the possibility that they could achieve something that one of their former playing heroes could never do: to be the first Asian players to win the UEFA Champions League final while being active parts in the match itself.
5:00 PM CEST (4:00 PM BST)
After finishing their lunch, the players tried to make the most out of the last moment of downtime. Some even tried to take a nap, but it was difficult considering that nerves were kicking in even more. At that time in the day, the players just took an afternoon snack prior to a series of short presentations by the coaches to remind everyone of the main points about the opponent ahead of the final. Nevertheless, the manager had one last thing to show to his players.
"Last but not least, I sure don't want to forget how and why you got to this moment. I will show you something. Enjoy." Andrew said.
Then Andrew played a video on the main screen in the meeting room. It was a motivational video montage which included messages from the players' families and stirring images from the route to the final. The video had English subtitles when some of the players' loved ones spoke a language other than English. Nana's mother also recorded a message for the montage. 
"Hello, Nana. You know I have been waiting for this moment ever since you made the big step in the big leagues. Just to let you know: your father and I will be in the stadium to support you all the way. Just like in that first day in school many years ago, everything will be okay." Mrs. Mishima said.
Nana was moved to tears.
"Mom." Nana softly said.
After a couple more highlights of the season thus far, Noriko's recorded message came up. She spoke on behalf of the entire Manchester United fanbase rather than just as Yusuke's girlfriend.
"My father was born in a family of lifelong Manchester United supporters for 3 generations before I came to this world. My mother was born in Japan, but she also became a fan of this great club as she discovered it through the eyes of the man who would eventually become her husband. Like millions of fans around the world, I wear the same passion on my sleeve. From generation to generation, from all 4 corners of the world, we share the same dream, we sing with one voice, we go through the pain and the glory together, and we are one great family. You are the writers of this new chapter in our story... the story of this great family with a working class ethic. Football has that great power to change people's lives. Always remember that there is nothing impossible." Noriko said.
'Well said, Noriko.' Yusuke thought.
As the video montage included highlights from the later stages of the season, a few more messages from the players' loved ones were interspersed between the highlights. The players were definitely moved as they watched it. Eventually, Kakeru's family also had a recorded message in the montage.
"You've made it to the biggest club game of all, the Champions League final. All of those years of hard work have led you to this moment, son. Now that you're there, enjoy the moment like you've never done it before." Mamoru said.
"Kakeru, you have gone far beyond what most soccer players would have hoped to do in their lifetimes in their clubs. If Suguru was here, he would definitely be as proud of you as much as we are now. He once said there are 2 big games everyone dreams to play in – the World Cup final and the Champions League final in Europe. You're already in one of them. Enjoy it." Eiko said.
"We will be in the stands to watch the final in Paris, Kake-nii. Play the best game ever." Mito added.
Kakeru was also moved to tears at the sight of his family cheering him up, especially with Eiko holding Suguru's photo as she always does before and during big matches.
"Mom, Dad, Mito-chan, Nii-chan." Kakeru said softly.
Then the video montage carried on until it concluded with the goals that clinched the Premier League title and the FA Cup as well as the celebrations that followed the victories.
"Everything you've done has led you to this moment. I wouldn't do this with any other group of people than you right now. Now go back to your rooms, pack your bags if you haven't done so already, and get dressed before we leave around 6:30 PM. See you later on the bus." Andrew said.
Then the players left the meeting room before they went back to their respective to their rooms for one last time. Like most of their teammates, Kakeru and Nana already packed most of their bags while keeping their Paul Smith suits ready to be worn and to display the club's class on the biggest day. In a matter of minutes, Kakeru and Nana got changed into their suits before they finished packing whatever there was left to pack prior to departure time.
6:21 PM CEST (5:21 PM BST)
On the way out of the hotel, every single Manchester United player was given good luck wishes by the club's chief executive and by Sir Alex Ferguson.
"Give them on hell of a match, Kakeru." Sir Alex said.
"Thank you, Gaffer." Kakeru replied as both men gave a handshake followed by a pat to the shoulder by the old Scotsman.
"Hope to see you play tonight, Nana."
"I'll prove that you were right to go for me, even for a match like this." Nana said, shaking hands with Sir Alex.
"Best of luck tonight." Sir Alex said to Yusuke.
"Thank you." Yusuke replied, giving the handshake as well.
"You friends will need you. Cover every single blade of grass if you have to."
"I will, Sir Alex."
The players walked their way outside of the hotel and next to the motorcoach. But before getting on the bus, Kakeru turned around to have one last look at the hotel.
"What is it, Kakeru? It's not like we are leaving the hotel for good. We will be back here for the night after the final." Nana said.
"Well, I will definitely miss this hotel after we leave tomorrow. The staff are friendly, the food is excellent, the building and the utilities are great. It's definitely one of my favorite hotel experiences." Kakeru replied.
"We can always come back here if we ever go back in France for a vacation."
"I will definitely bring Noriko here someday. Just the view to the East with the forest in the morning was worth traveling here. I took my share of pictures earlier today" Yusuke said.
"I'm sure she will like the idea." Kakeru replied.
"For sure." Nana added.
"Well, let's get on the bus. We have a job to do now." Yusuke said.
"Yep, let's go." Kakeru replied.
Within a few minutes, the remaining players and the coaching staff got on the bus to begin the drive from La Chapelle-en-Serval down to the Stade de France. Motorized units from the National Gendarmerie escorted the bus for the 45-minute journey, which would mainly take the A1 Autoroute. As expected, the bus was very quiet as players and coaches were in their respective pre-match routines. Sitting next to Nana, who was listening to her own song playlist, Kakeru was also doing the same by starting with his own personal motivation song – Willyecho's "Welcome to the Fire".
So welcome to the fire.
I've been waiting for this momentThe final battle of the chosenSee I'm never gonna quitGot my legacy set in motion.
So welcome to the fireI'm the one who lit the night upSee them running through your fameAs we're walking through the flamesGetting higher.
So welcome to the fireI'm the one who lit the night upSee them running through your fameAs we're walking through the flamesGetting higher.
Welcome to the fireWelcome to the fire.
Several minutes later, the bus finally left the highway to move on the way towards the restricted vehicles' entrance, in the middle of a sea of people. Obviously, PSG supporters, who wore blue shirts for the most part, were in the tens of thousands. Nevertheless, Kakeru could also see near the same number of Manchester United fans mostly wearing red shirts and taking over the streets around the Stade de France. Reports on social media were talking of nearly 100,000 Manchester United supporters in the streets of Saint-Denis.
'Welcome to the fire.' Kakeru thought for himself.
The Manchester United team bus finally arrived at the stadium at 7:20 PM local time, exactly 100 minutes before kickoff time.
Paris Saint-Germain vs. Manchester United (UEFA Champions League final)
Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France
8:45 PM CEST (7:45 PM BST)
After the warm-up session, both teams headed to their respective dressing rooms and made way for the technical staff to set the stage for the pre-game show. Players designated to start the match made their final preparations. And just as prior to the final game of the Premier League season, Matthias gathered all of his teammates in a huddle in the middle of the Manchester United dressing room for one final pump-up speech.
"This is the big one, everyone. We have worked our way to win the Premier League and the FA Cup. Winning 2 trophies is already a memorable season, but we also are only one game away from becoming true legends forever. I know that many journos have chosen PSG to win tonight; we are the underdogs. That is what they think. But that's very good for us because we are even more dangerous when people think we will fail, isn't it?" Matthias said.
"Yeah!" the players replied.
"What makes a great team? It is when players give everything they have for each other instead of themselves. If someone makes a mistake, the other 10 players have to be ready to help that player out of trouble! If someone on our team screws up today, we're first to respond. If they screw up, we're first to respond!"
"Damn right!" Nikolaj replied.
"RIGHT!" the other players added.
"It's in our hands! We've worked hard in training, we're going to work hard today, and we will go on top! After that, I want to see tears of joy. Not tears of sadness. I want to see tears of joy when we hug each other, okay? Let's go!" Matthias said.
"COME ON! LET'S GO!!" the players shouted and clapped altogether.
Following the captain's speech, the players let Andrew enter in the huddle to deliver his own pre-match speech.
"Young lady, gentlemen... Here we are. The Champions League final – the biggest club match there is. When I look around this room, I don't want to see fear. I want to see everyone playing as if there was nothing to lose. We didn't get here because of luck. We got here because we earned it. Who are we? We are United! And we fear no one!" Andrew said.
"RIGHT! YEAH!" the players replied.
"Whatever happens, 90 minutes is a very long time to make a difference. We are prepared for whatever they will throw at us. You all know what you have to do. Now get out there and write history RIGHT HERE!!!"
"COME ON, GUYS!" Matthias and Nikolaj fired up the players.
"LET'S DO THIS!" Yusuke added.
"LET'S GO!" the other players shouted.
Within seconds, the Manchester United players walked out of the dressing room to take their place in the tunnel leading towards the pitch. When both teams finally lined up next to each other, each of the starting players were assigned a child mascot wearing the opposite team's uniform next to them. Some PSG players wanted to talk with their fellow countrymen before the match, but the Manchester United players responded with silence as means to send one simple message: "There will be no friends until the final whistle. This is strictly business."
A few glances were thrown across the invisible divide between the 2 teams, especially one from Leonardo Silva towards Kakeru.
'You have exceeded far beyond your brother's expectations, Kakeru. It's admirable. But I will not let you ruin the dream of winning the Champions League, especially not here nor tonight. Your team has already made one big mistake from the start.' Leonardo thought.
'I'm no longer the kid who was freezing in awe whenever I knew you were watching me, Leo. I know you want to revive that old rivalry with Nii-chan, but you will see what I'm capable of doing myself with this team of great guys supporting me.' Kakeru thought.
Watching from a few feet behind both lines of starters, Nana was looking at the non-verbal exchange between Kakeru and Leonardo.
'After all of those years, Silva still wants to have the final word and settle that old promise he made with Suguru-san. Kakeru won the first one with Enoshima before Silva won the second one with the U-22 Brazil team. Make sure you don't get sucked into this, Kakeru.' Nana thought.
As the opening ceremony was performed in full blast to entertain the crowd, the European Champions Clubs' Cup (also known as Coupe des Clubs Champions Européens or simply as the European Cup) finally came into view so it would be carried by 2 legends - one from Manchester United and the other from PSG just a few moments later. The trophy itself was made of silver, standing at 73.5 cm (2.41 feet) tall and weighing 7.5 kg (16.53 pounds). The shape of the handles earned the European Cup the nickname of "big ears" in all languages. On each handle, colored ribbons were attached to represent the 2 finalists (blue and red for PSG; red, white and black for Manchester United).
'I wish you can see this right now, Nii-chan. This is the real thing, the most prestigious trophy other than the World Cup that one would dream to win.' Kakeru thought.
The sight of the trophy provided a spine-tingling feeling to all players involved. The Cup is the big prize to earn as the opportunity may often comes once in a lifetime. As the opening ceremony approached its climax, the 2 legends carried the trophy towards a pedestal set between the 2 teams' respective technical areas. And one minute later, the referees were given the signal to walk ahead.
"Here we go, lads!" Matthias rallied his teammates.
Following right behind the referees, both teams walked out of the tunnel under the cheers of the 80,000+ spectators in the attendance. With only 4 minutes to go before kickoff time set for 9:00 PM local time, everyone was ready for the big night in Paris.
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