The Road to the Promised Land: Epilogue

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==Epilogue - One Final Memory==
"You worry you'll lose all this history, all these memories. But they live on. And they'll never be forgotten." – Sir Alex Ferguson (Former Manchester United manager, 1986-2013).
...
Several years have gone by since that memorable season, which started with the signing of Yusuke and ended with Kakeru and Nana's wedding after 3 major triumphs. A number of teammates moved on to become opponents over the years. In a few rare cases, opponents became teammates at the club. Some seasons ended with memorable triumphs while others ended with heartbreaks. Ownership of Manchester United also changed hands. Old Trafford also saw a process of modernization to stay among the world's best football stadiums. Nevertheless, our 4 protagonists remained the constant that saw through all of the changes at the club.
Over the years, Kakeru continued to remain a consistent threat in front of goal just as Suguru always knew he could be. His consistence allowed him to become the best goalscorer in the history of Manchester United and thus attain a legendary status in Manchester. Both United and the Japanese Men's National Team benefitted a lot from Kakeru's goal output, winning titles in their respective competitions. Outside of the game, Kakeru managed to finish medical school and became very involved in charitable activities. And just as Nana once predicted, Kakeru does well as a father to their children.
Nana continued playing a few more seasons alongside Kakeru and managed to finish medical school as well before she put her playing career on hiatus 3 times due to pregnancy. She gave birth to Keiko (eldest daughter born on February 14, 2023), twins Hiroyuki and Sakura (son and daughter born on March 23, 2026), and Kotaro (youngest son born on September 1st, 2028). Many people thought that Nana's playing career was over when she was pregnant with her 4th child, but skeptics were proven wrong as she made an impressive return to reclaim her spot on the main team a little more than a year after Kotaro's birth. Kakeru and Nana's natural chemistry on the pitch never faltered one bit. Some people say that the time she spent analyzing the game like a coach when her playing career was paused allowed her to become even more efficient as a playmaker later on.
Yusuke carried on as a big personality in the dressing room for both his club and his country. A few years after the famous Treble season, he was chosen to succeed Matthias as club captain of Manchester United. Hence Yusuke became the first Japanese-born player to assume the full-time captaincy in the Premier League, a position that he kept until his retirement in 2033. Yusuke shone through his football intelligence and his fierce competitiveness to inspire others, just like his former role model, the late Suguru Aizawa. When it comes to his personal life, Yusuke and Noriko got married in the summer of 2022 and later became parents to Mitsuha (daughter born on January 1st, 2024) and Taki (son born on May 26, 2026). Yusuke received a few offers from the J-League prior to his decision to retire in 2033, but chose to reject all offers in order to stay with Noriko and their 2 children in Manchester.
Although Noriko takes both of her roles as a mother and as a physician seriously, she never lost sight of her dream of working in the medical staff at Manchester United. Building her resume, Noriko first worked in public health for a number of years before she was appointed to the UK Sports and Medicine Specialist training program with the Olympic Medical Institute that prepared British athletes ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympics. Following recognition for her work with British athletes, Noriko finally joined Manchester United in 2030 as the chief doctor for the youth teams before she was eventually promoted to first-team doctor in 2033. With Yusuke now being the more present parent for Mitsuha and Taki in retirement, Noriko can finally live through the prime of her dream career.
Almost 21 years to the day when Kakeru and Nana were announced as newly signed players for Manchester United, the Japanese connection was set to give their long-time loyal fans one final memory to be cherished.
Sunday June 4, 2034
Manchester United Treble Winners vs. Aizawa All-Stars
Old Trafford, Manchester, UK
2:10 PM BST
A testimonial match, often referred simply as a testimonial, is a practice in some sports where the hosting club as a friendly match to honor a player for service to the club. All proceeds from the match would be given in part or in totality by the honored player to charitable activities. Although Kakeru and Nana were eligible to have testimonials upon reaching 10 years of service at Manchester United, the couple chose to put the special occasion on hold until they would either retire or leave the club together. This match was going to be the second testimonial in which Kakeru and Nana would participate as they featured in Yusuke's own testimonial a few years earlier.
For the occasion, Kakeru and Nana brought 17 now-retired teammates from that Treble-winning team as well as Taeko Isshiki, who was a veteran player for the Manchester United Women's Team during that same season, in as the home side. Providing the opposition was a team of 20 handpicked retired stars, most of whom are Japanese and were opponents from various clubs in that same famous season. Kakeru and Nana pledged that all of the proceeds would go to various charities based in Manchester and in Kamakura, especially for medical research on heart-related health.
In the Manchester United dressing room:
"So here we are only a few minutes away from the warm-up before Kakeru and Nana's farewell match. It looks like Andrew Butler is about to deliver a team talk, just like back in the days." Noriko said in front of a video camera.
The camera was handled by the club's official camera crew, who were recording the event from behind the scenes. Just as Noriko said, Andrew stepped in to deliver his starting lineup as well as a few words of motivation before the match.
"All right, everyone. One thing I can promise you is that you will all see your share of action today for sure, but I'm still going in with the starting XI anyway. Joel (Muamba), up and down the right flank." Andrew said.
"No goalkeeper? No?" Jan asked.
The whole dressing room burst into laughter.
"Well, I didn't feel I had to name the starting goalkeeper since I can barely remember you saying that you couldn't play. Luca (Mancuso) will come on for the second half, but I heard he's been working hard to take your spot earlier than if you have a mare." Andrew replied.
The players laughed again.
"Centre-backs... Erik (Johansson) and Matthias (Köhler). Matthias won't captain the side today; that's quite a collector's item. Shawzy at left-back. Midfielders... Nikolaj (Kristiansen), Yusuke (Saeki), and Nana (Aizawa). Nana will be leading the team with the captain's armband for the first half." Andrew said.
The players cheered at the news that Nana would captain the team for the first half.
"And up front... Santi (Araya), Marius (van Leeuwen), and Kakeru (Aizawa). Kakeru will wear the armband in the second half. Anyway, the best compliment I can give all of you... apart from a great team, you have turned out as great people. All of you have done really well, and it's not easy to do when you're a footballer and then you quit. Kakeru and Nana will soon work full time in medicine... Erik and Nikolaj running their respective clubs as sporting directors in Sweden and in Denmark respectively... Marius now being a coach at Ajax... Joel and Shawzy now working in finances... and Taeko (Isshiki) working in a top position for the Japanese FA, fantastic. Anyway, have a nice warm-up. I will see you when you come in. Let's put up a really good show for the fans out there." Andrew said.
The players responded with a solid round of applause before they got up and prepared to join the warm-up session.
"I felt it was a good idea for you to wear the captain's armband at least this once since you've never done it before, Nana. So I told them to do so." Kakeru said.
"Thanks for that, Kakeru. It's really thoughtful of you." Nana replied.
"You're the starting captain for a Manchester United team. How does it feel, Nana?" Noriko asked.
"Pure goosebumps, Noriko. It will be a very special moment for me." Nana replied.
"Enjoy all of it, Nana." Yusuke said.
"Any advice from a former captain to a captain for one day, Yusuke, Tae-san?" Nana asked.
"Just lead by example and outwork the other team. You always did it." Yusuke replied.
"I agree with Yusuke-kun. That's how you get everyone to follow you." Taeko added.
"I will do whatever is necessary." Nana said.
"Yeah. Let's do this." Kakeru finished.
While Kakeru and Yusuke did not change too much over the years except for a little bit of grey hair and a couple of wrinkles, Nana has been sporting short hair since her return to action following Kotaro's birth. While the short haircut is reminiscent of her childhood years, people say that haircut looks great on Nana since she entered that later phase of her playing career and as she gets older.
After the warm-up session and after a short break, the 2 teams lined up in the players' tunnel to the Southwest at around 2:50 PM. Meanwhile, Kakeru and Nana were set to walk out from the old players' tunnel underneath the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand. That little moment away from the rest of the team allowed Kakeru and Nana to have a little chat with their own children, who were dressed with the same kits as Manchester United players (red shirt, white shorts, and black socks). Kakeru kept the number 10 for the vast majority of his career at the club and until the very end, but Nana switched from number 19 to the iconic number 7 a few years after that Treble-winning season.
Physically speaking, Keiko looked like a female version of Kakeru with similar facial features and the same dark brown hair albeit longer. The twins Hiroyuki and Sakura share Nana's facial features and light brown hair. Last but not least, Kotaro looked like a miniature version of Kakeru almost to the last detail.
"We will be walking out together soon. It will be like all of the other times when we celebrated winning the League." Kakeru said.
"No need to feel too nervous, okay? Just stay close to me and to your father for now." Nana added.
"Ready, Keiko?" Kakeru asked.
"Always, Papa. Hope that I will play in this stadium in a few years." 11-year-old Keiko replied.
"No need for pressure, Keiko. You will get there if you work hard and go at your own pace." Nana said.
"Yes, Mama."
"Hiroyuki, Sakura, ready for the walk?" Kakeru asked.
"Hai (Yes), Papa!" the 8-year-old twins replied cheerfully.
"Kotaro, are you ready?" Nana asked.
"Hai!" Kotaro replied.
"We're good to go on their signal then." Kakeru said.
Seconds later, Stones Roses song "This Is the One" began to be heard loudly through all the speakers inside the stadium as the now-customary prelude to the players' arrival on the pitch. The capacity crowd began to make some noise in anticipation of the main event.
PA announcer: Old Trafford, this is the Theatre of Dreams! Please welcome the Aizawa All-Stars and the MANCHESTER UNITED TREBLE WINNERS!!!
The 2 teams walked out of the Southwest tunnel under thunderous applause. The Manchester United field players wore their traditional colors while the field players for Aizawa All-Stars wore white shirts and socks as well as blue shorts. Andrew Butler led the march for the Manchester United team while Raimond van der Meijde led as the manager for the Aizawa All-Stars.
For this farewell match, your Japanese commentators are Takumi Okada and now-retired midfielder Makoto Hyodo.
Takumi Okada: Hello and welcome to our viewers in Japan and from all around the world for what is going to be an emotional farewell match for Kakeru and Nana Aizawa, here at Old Trafford. My co-commentator is someone who has known the couple well since high school: Makoto Hyodo-san.
Makoto Hyodo: Thank you, Okada-san. Yes, Kakeru and Nana Aizawa both showed that they had something special during their time at Enoshima High School. But to play together for almost 21 years for Manchester United is very special. They earned and fully deserve their status as legends for this club.
Takumi Okada: Just as you pointed out, tomorrow will be the 21st anniversary of the day when Kakeru Aizawa and then-Nana Mishima signed their first professional contracts for Manchester United.
Each of the players on both sides was accompanied by a child mascot. Yusuke, however, was accompanied by his 2 children. The 10-year-old daughter, Mitsuha shares several physical and personality traits with her mother albeit that she has Yusuke's light brown hair. On the other hand, 8-year-old Taki is almost like a carbon copy of his father but for Noriko's dark brown hair.
Takumi Okada: You all noticed that we have a couple of people missing from the Manchester United lineup, and those are the stars of the afternoon: Kakeru and Nana Aizawa. We have been told that they will emerge in a moment from the center tunnel with their 4 children.
Both teams lined up as a guard of honor on each side of a table that was displaying all of the trophies that Kakeru and Nana won at least once for Manchester United. As soon as the entrance song faded away, the public address announcer at Old Trafford began to formally introduce the 2 legendary players to be honored in this testimonial.
PA announcer: Old Trafford, ladies and gentlemen... Today is about 2 Manchester United legends. They served the club with dedication, commitment, and passion for over 2 decades. They have been the ultimate teammates both on the pitch and in marriage. Old Trafford, please acknowledge and put your hands together for KAKERU AND NANA AIZAWA!!!
At that moment, Kakeru and Nana emerged from the central tunnel with the company of their 4 children. The majority of the capacity crowd stood on their feet to cheer and applaud the 2 players. A trio of giant mosaics were held up by the spectators in the lower tier across 3 of the main stands to create 3 images: Kakeru's face in a red background at the Stretford End to the West, the wording "AIZAWA" in gold on a red background along the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand to the North, and Nana's face in a red background at the East Stand. Several thousands of spectators were also waving Japanese flags in appreciation of the 2 players, who saluted back to the crowd.
Kakeru, Nana, and their 4 children posed for a few photos with the table holding all of the trophies. Then the PA announcer carried on with the presentation.
PA announcer: Old Trafford, this is a true testament to what people think about 2 of the most beloved players that Manchester United has ever had. The turnout today is fantastic. The mosaic is absolutely brilliant... keep it held up there, ladies and gentlemen. Everyone today has come to say an absolutely big "Thank you" on behalf of Manchester United to Kakeru and Nana Aizawa.
The crowd gave another loud round of cheers and applause.
PA announcer: Now we ask Andrew Butler to make a special presentation for the services, for what Kakeru and Nana have done for Manchester United.
Then the PA announcer gave the microphone for Andrew to speak.
Andrew Butler: Kakeru, Nana, we have a presentation from the club. First of all, you have this beautiful silver plaque here. Also there is magnificent painting, which was commissioned by the club and painted by artist Natsumi Ohtani from Kamakura, Japan to celebrate the great services to Manchester United. Everyone here thanks you for the last 21 years, you deserve your status among the greats. Thank you.
The crowd gave a loud round of applause just as Kakeru and Nana shook hands with Andrew. Then Kakeru and Nana posed with Andrew for a few pictures, first with the painting and then with the silver plaque. The painting itself depicts Kakeru and Nana at various stages of their careers at the club, especially when they held either the Premier League trophy or the Champions League trophy together.
After Kakeru and Nana were done posing for pictures, they went to lead the line for their team as they shook hands with the Aizawa All-Stars team. Leading as the captain of the Manchester United team, Nana first shook hands with the captain of the All-Stars, Leonardo Silva.
"Let's give them a good game, Nana." Leo said.
"Same feeling, Leo." Nana replied.
Then Kakeru was the next to shake hands with Leonardo.
"One last time?" Leo said.
"One last time." Kakeru replied.
The Manchester United Treble Winners went ahead with their trademark 4-3-3 formation: Jan Farkas (#1, goalkeeper), Joel Muamba (#29, right-back), Erik Johansson (#2, centre-back), Matthias Köhler (#5, centre-back), Andrew Shaw (#23, left-back), Nana Aizawa (#7, central midfielder and captain), Yusuke Saeki (#17, central midfielder), Nikolaj Kristiansen (#8, central midfielder), Santiago Araya (#26, right forward), Marius van Leeuwen (#9, striker), and Kakeru Aizawa (#10, left forward). On the bench, the team in red had Didier Kamara (#3, centre-back), Chris Clarke (#4, centre-back), Aidan Whelan (#12, midfielder), Kevin Flynn (#14, right winger), Taeko Isshiki (#19, striker), Diogo Blanco (#20, right-back), Francisco Serrano (#21, midfielder), Luca Mancuso (#22, goalkeeper), and Aleksandar Rukavina (#27, midfielder) as substitutes.
For the Aizawa All-Stars, the following 4-1-4-1/4-3-3 hybrid formation was fielded to begin the match: Mikiya Tono (#1, goalkeeper), Ryosuke Shima (#21, right-back), Toru Asuka (#4, centre-back), Karl von Seckendorff (#15, centre-back), Koichi Hibino (#3, left-back), Ryoma Oda (#24, central defensive midfielder), Haruki Onimaru (#7, right winger), Leonardo SIlva (#10, central midfielder and captain), Ryuichi Araki (#11, central midfielder), Marco Antonio (#19, left winger), and Patrick Jenpa (#9, striker). On the substitutes' bench were Casemiro (#5, central defensive midfielder), Ukyo Sera (#8, central midfielder), Akira Takajo (#13, striker), Kaoru Matoba (#17, right winger), Mai Murasaki (#18, forward), Raphaël Varane (#19, centre-back), Maya Yoshida (#22, centre-back), Mina Meier (#23, forward), and Lee Chu-joon (#25, goalkeeper). Incidentally, Raphaël Varane and Casemiro joined Manchester United from Real Madrid in 2021 and in 2022 respectively.
Just as the players finished shaking hands, the child mascots made their way towards the exit tunnel just as it was planned. Old Trafford staff took the trophies, the commemorative plaque, and the painting away to a safe place. As for the Aizawa and Saeki children, they were set to follow Noriko to their reserved seats on the Manchester United dugout. Noriko managed to keep the seats for the children to enjoy the best view for the match.
"Okay, children! Let's follow me and get to your seats." Noriko called over the Kakeru and Nana's children as well as her own.
"Yes, Mama!" Mitsuha and Taki replied.
"Yes, Auntie!" the 4 Aizawa children replied as well.
"Be good to Auntie Noriko, okay? Even if she is going to babysit you guys, she might have to get to work if someone gets hurt in the match." Nana said to his own children.
"Understood, Mama! I'll make sure we'll be good kids." Keiko replied as the eldest Aizawa child.
"Good girl." Kakeru said.
Around less than 2 minutes later, both teams were set to begin. The Aizawa All-Stars were set to kick things off from the Eastern half of the pitch and thus attack towards the Stretford End. The crowd cheered in anticipation of the turn of 3:00 PM, meaning kickoff time.
PEEEEP!
Takumi Okada: And we are under way in the Kakeru and Nana Aizawa testimonial!
The match started a little bit slowly as expected from 2 teams with most of the players in their 40s while Kakeru and Nana were deemed among the youngest at 39 years of age. Nevertheless, some of the automatisms of old began to resurface as the players shook off the rust. The home side was the first to strike though.
In the 12th minute:
Takumi Okada: Here's Araya on the counterattack... Good ball through by Nana Aizawa, chased by Van Leeuwen...
After Santiago passed the halfway line on the counterattack, he passed the ball sideways to Nana, who then launched a through pass down the right flank. Marius ran after the ball and just stopped it before the byline. With Karl facing Marius, the Dutch striker in red chose to pass the ball back to Nana, who then fired a quick pass sideways towards Nikolaj. However, Nikolaj was swarmed by 2 players denying the shot.
Takumi Okada: Nana Aizawa... Kristiansen couldn't get the shot...
With no option forward, Nikolaj passed the ball to Shawzy. Then a few passes were strung from Shawzy to Matthias and to Kakeru, who then played a quick give-and-go with Nikolaj. The quick play saw Kakeru running his way behind Ryosuke.
Takumi Okada: Kakeru Aizawa's gone through...
Without hesitation, Kakeru passed the ball past Toru and across the penalty area. Nana received the ball at her feet near the penalty spot.
Takumi Okada: It has come for Nana...
When Nana received the ball, everyone expected her to fire the shot immediately. Ryoma even threw himself to the ground in expectation of a shot. However, Nana dragged the ball back to let Ryoma slide aside.
Takumi Okada: Still Nana...
Finding the gap beyond the defenders and the goalkeeper, Nana slotted the ball into the bottom corner of the goal. Screened by Karl, Mikiya could only stand and watch helplessly as the ball went in.
Takumi Okada: 1-0 TO MANCHESTER UNITED!!!
The crowd stood on their feet within an instant to give a standing ovation to the one they called Scarlet Witch for years. Nana ran first to Kakeru, acknowledging the quality of his pass.
"Nice goal, Seven!" Kakeru congratulated Nana.
"Thanks, Kakeru! That was a nice pass." Nana replied.
"Well done, Witch!" Marius congratulated.
"You got them, Bruja (Witch)!" Santiago added.
"Thanks, guys!" Nana replied as all of her teammates celebrated.
PA announcer: GOAL SCORED FOR THE MANCHESTER UNITED TREBLE WINNERS... NUMBER SEVEN... NANA AIZAWAAAA!!!
Back to our commentators.
Takumi Okada: With ice in her veins, it's the captain who opens the scoring. Nana Aizawa provides the first big moment to her own testimonial.
Makoto Hyodo: That was an excellent build-up from Manchester United. Kristiansen couldn't take the shot on, but they kept on going. It's that little 1-2 between Kristiansen and Kakeru that opened things up. Then the ball comes across, and it was a matter of composure from Nana. She sells the dummy to let Oda slide aside, and then she powers it into the bottom left corner. Tono was screened by Von Seckendorff. There was no chance for the goalkeeper on that one.
It was the start that the home side wanted, but the opposition sure was not going to merely behave as non-influential extras in the game. The All-Stars had plenty of firepower of their own as well as players with a winning mentality to give a proper reply to Nana's opening goal.
In the 23rd minute:
Takumi Okada: Shima... Asuka... Oda...
Starting from inside their own half, the All-Stars passed the ball around. But while the Manchester United players were still slowly moving into defensive positions and stood mostly in the middle third of the pitch, Ryoma chose to play along ball into Koichi's run.
Makoto Hyodo: Great ball.
Takumi Okada: What a great pass from Oda to Hibino... He's away from Muamba...
Koichi ran in full speed on the wing, creating some distance between him and Joel. As soon as Koichi arrived in the small area close to the byline and outside the Manchester United penalty area, the Japanese left-back in white unleashed a ball across and towards Patrick. The Cameroonian striker couldn't strike the shot first time though.
Takumi Okada: Jenpa in the middle, great chance...
"BACK, PAT! BACK!" Leonardo shouted.
While Matthias threw himself in front of Patrick, the Cameroonian made a short layoff pass into Leonardo's run. Then the Brazilian playmaker easily slotted the ball beyond defenders and goalkeeper to equalize.
Takumi Okada: LEONARDO SILVA!! Give him the chance and he won't miss. It's a great finish. The Aizawa All-Stars have equalized at Old Trafford; it's 1-1.
While the All-Stars celebrated, the Manchester United players were already looking to recollect themselves and to go back into the game.
"No one said they would make it easy, lads. At them again!" Nana said.
"Witch is right! They are here to play, so we have to do the same and better. Let's go!" Matthias echoed Nana's words.
'We have been through this so many times before and we can do it again. Let's go at them again here.' Kakeru thought.
PA announcer: Goal for the Aizawa All-Stars... Scored by number ten... LEONARDO SILVA!
From that moment forward, both teams played a more open game with back-and-forth action. Neither side found the back of the net as many attacks from either side were thwarted by a goalkeeper's save or by a defender's block. It was a very entertaining display for the spectators nevertheless. We had to wait until within the final 5 minutes of the first half to see the deadlock broken again.
In the 41st minute:
Takumi Okada: Hibino... Marco Antonio... back to Hibino again...
Controlling the ball inside their own half, the All-Stars were looking to build an attack. However, the Manchester United players held their ground. As soon as Koichi received the ball back from Marco Antonio, Santiago was already rushing towards him. Koichi attempted a pass towards Araki, but it was promptly intercepted by Nana at the halfway line instead.
Takumi Okada: Intercepted by Nana Aizawa...
Without hesitation, Nana fired a through ball that first appeared to be a little bit too far from Marius' reach. Nevertheless, Marius made a sliding tackle to tap the ball to the left as he accidentally swept Toru's legs down in the process. As a result, there was no foul called as Kakeru came up all alone against Mikiya.
Takumi Okada: Good run for Van Leeuwen. It's KAKERU AIZAWA...
Kakeru immediately took the shot, but the ball was deflected off Mikiya and onto the outside of the post to the goalkeeper's right.
Takumi Okada: POST!! It must have gone off Tono as the referee signals a corner kick.
"You've got to be joking me!" Kakeru said out loud for himself.
"Don't think I will let you score that easily, even on your big day." Mikiya said.
"Good save, but we have a corner." Kakeru replied.
Makoto Hyodo: That was some pass by Nana... and the desire to get there from Marius van Leeuwen is fantastic. Just that slide tackle created the opening. It's 1v1 between Kakeru and the man who did great as a goalkeeper for Japan for so many years. Mikiya Tono slightly got a touch with that right hand, but it was just enough to push the ball onto the outside of the post rather than into the back of the net.
Back to a customary position, Nana was ready to take the corner kick.
PEEP!
Takumi Okada: Manchester United with the corner...
Nana whipped the ball towards the no man's land in front of the 6-yard box. At the end of that ball, Matthias came up with a burst of speed from the back and a high jump that surprised everyone wearing white shirts. The German defender in red planted a powerful headed shot that was impossible for Mikiya to stop.
Takumi Okada: AND IT'S THERE!!! IT'S MATTHIAS KÖHLER WITH A CLASSIC HEADED GOAL TO GIVE MANCHESTER UNITED THE LEAD AGAIN ON THE SCOREBOARD!!!
The crowd stood and applauded the man who was the club captain in that famous Treble campaign.
"Great goal, Matthias!" Kakeru congratulated.
"Attaboy, Skip!" Yusuke added.
"Thanks, lads!"
"I knew you would get at the end of it. I knew you would." Nana said.
"Thanks, Witch! That was a great ball as always." Matthias replied with a double high-five.
PA announcer: GOAL SCORED FOR THE MANCHESTER UNITED TREBLE WINNERS... NUMBER FIVE... MATTHIAS KÖHLER!!!
Following Matthias' corner kick goal, the back-and-forth action continued with a few promising attacks. However, none did anything to change the scoreline as both sides did enough to not allow anything through before the halftime whistle was heard.
PEEP PEEP PEEEEEEEP!!!
Takumi Okada: Halftime. We have had quite an entertaining first half to the Kakeru and Nana Aizawa farewell match here at Old Trafford. Nana opened the score for the Manchester United Treble Winners. Then Leonardo Silva responded for the All-Stars on an exquisite build-up. But the former Manchester United captain, Matthias Köhler restored the lead for the home team with a powerful header on a free kick, minutes before the break. At the interval, it's: Manchester United Treble Winners 2-1 Aizawa All-Stars.
"How are you feeling. Not too tired yet?" Kakeru asked Nana.
"I'm still holding. And you?" Nana returned the question.
"Same. Hard to believe the next 45 minutes will be the last for us."
"Let's give them one last thing to remember then. A goal from you at the Stretford End will do just that."
"I'll find a way to get one." Kakeru said.
"I know you will, Kakeru." Nana finished.
In the context of a charity match involving former players, the first substitutions are often made right before the beginning of the second half. Manchester United made 4 changes: Luca in for Jan in goal, Diogo in for Joel at right-back, Didier in for Erik at centre-back, and Aidan in for Nikolaj in central midfield. As for the All-Stars, they went with 5 changes: Lee Chu-joon (a.k.a. Akitoshi Li) in for Mikiya in goal, Raphaël Varane in for Karl at centre-back, Casemiro in for Ryoma as the central defensive midfielder, Mai in for Haruki at right forward, and Akira in for Patrick as the striker. Varane and Casemiro were greeted with warm applause by the Old Trafford crowd as both players were very appreciated as Manchester United players during the first half of the 2020s.
Before the second half began, all eyes were on Kakeru and Nana as the captain's armband was going to be passed on to the former.
"There you go." Nana said as she put the armband around Kakeru's left arm.
"Thanks. You did well as the captain the first half." Kakeru replied.
"Now show them what you can do in this half, Captain." Nana said.
Then Mai approached Kakeru and Nana for a quick talk.
"Well, facing both of you still feels like a special occasion even after 24 years." Mai said.
"We may be older, but I still feel the same joy of facing you just as when we used to be teenagers." Nana replied.
"Hope you still have something left in the tank for a 40-year-old." Kakeru said jokingly.
As Kakeru and Nana are now both 39 years of age, that also means Mai is now 40 years old.
"I will show you what this 40-year-old can do." Mai said.
"Not expecting any less. Give us your best shot." Kakeru replied.
"Bring it, Mai-chan." Nana added.
Then both teams moved in their positions for the beginning of the second half. This time though, Kakeru and Nana kick the action off with Manchester United attacking towards the Stretford End as it is often the case in the second half.
PEEEP!
Takumi Okada: The second half is under way now. Manchester United on the right of your screen, the Aizawa All-Stars on the left. Kakeru Aizawa scored most of his goals in home matches in front of the area of the stadium known as the Stretford End. Can he score at least one more at that end? We'll find out in the next 45 minutes.
Because of the changes made on both sides, finding the rhythm back into the game was not easy for either side as chemistry needed time to operate. Nevertheless, the first highlight of the second half was a rather goofy moment rather than a goal or a scoring chance.
In the 51st minute:
Takumi Okada: Silva... passing towards Murasaki, but Köhler was there.
Matthias intercepted a pass inside his own half to stop an attack. Then a few passes were strung from Matthias to Shawzy to Kakeru. But then Kakeru, pressed by 2 opponents, was forced to retreat a few yards before he passed the ball back to Matthias. Then Matthias ran to get the ball before Akira did. With perfect body positioning and strength, Matthias perfectly executed a roulette while Akira was sent flying off Matthias' foot.
Takumi Okada: Köhler skipping by Takajo...
Ryuichi also attempted a run at Matthias before the big German stood like a brick wall that stopped the former Enoshima playmaker cold as well. The home crowd was cheering and laughing at the display of strength from their former captain. 
Takumi Okada: Araki bouncing off Köhler...
Then Matthias passed the ball forward for a teammate just as Mai also tried to get a tackle in, but Mai was promptly brushed aside by the big German defender as well. Kakeru, who was close to the action, was laughing out loud as well.
Takumi Okada: Well, everyone is bouncing off him.
"Matthias is still a very tough customer. Competitive match, friendly match or charity match, he won't give you an inch." Kakeru said to Mai.
"Thanks, Captain Obvious." Mai replied.
More changes came up around the 60th minute. Manchester United made 2 more substitutions: Kevin in for Santiago at right forward, and Taeko in for Marius as the striker. The All-Stars made 2 substitutions as well: Mina in for Marco Antonio as a forward, and Ukyo in for Araki in central midfield. Raimond changed the tactical shape for the All-Stars in a 4-1-2-1-2 (diamond) formation by setting Akira and Mina as the most advanced forwards while Mai would play like a false 9 (free-roaming centre-forward) to support the midfielders. The changes appeared to work better for the All-Stars as they took the ascendency in the play.
In the 64th minute:
Takumi Okada: Sera... now to Meier on the right...
Piling up the pressure inside the Manchester United half, the All-Stars looked to open up a gap in the red defenses. As soon as Mina received the ball on the right flank, the former Bayern Munich star stalled for a few seconds before she cut a run to the left. Then Mina attempted a low through pass into the path of Mai's run.
Takumi Okada: Looking for Murasaki, but it's too long for her...
Luca easily picked up the ball before Mai could reach it. Then Luca threw the ball towards Diogo to begin a counterattack.
Takumi Okada: Mancuso with the throw towards Blanco...
Diogo passed the ball towards Aidan in the middle before the Irishman passed the ball towards Nana. However, Casemiro was already heading straight towards the Little Witch.
"Having this, Bruxa (Witch)." Casemiro said.
"What?" Nana asked in surprise.
With the effect of surprise, the Brazilian midfielder easily poked the ball away from Nana with his right foot sticking out. Then the loose ball went to Leonardo before a few passes went from Leonardo to Casemiro and then to Ukyo, who began to advance into the final third of the pitch.
Takumi Okada: Possession given away. It's Sera...
Yusuke ran in an attempt to cut any passing lane, but Ukyo quickly fired a through pass towards Mai. A gap was left open between the 2 Manchester United centre-backs – Didier and Matthias.
Takumi Okada: There might be a chance here...
Mai entered the Manchester United area as she ran towards the ball, but Didier quickly arived to cut the shooting lane.
"MAI-CHAN!" Mina shouted from Mai's right.
Instead of taking the shot, Mai surprised the Manchester United defenders by making a side pass towards Mina. The female German forward immediately fired a shot past a diving Matthias, past Jan, and into the back of the net.
Takumi Okada: ...for MEIER! The Aizawa All-Stars have equalized for the second time in the afternoon! And Manchester United have switched off for just a heartbeat. It's now Manchester United Treble Winners 2-2 Aizawa All-Stars.
Bar for a few polite applauses in the crowd, the stadium was mostly silent as the All-Stars celebrated the goal.
PA announcer: Goal for the Aizawa All-Stars... Scored by number twenty-three... MINA MEIER!
After the celebrations, Mai walked by Kakeru and Nana.
"Not bad for a 40-year-old, eh?" Mai asked.
"I'm surprised you didn't take the shot." Kakeru replied.
"I'm not as selfish and single-minded as I used to be, Kakerucchi."
"I have to say that was very clever, Mai-chan." Nana said.
"Thank you, but we won't stop at that." Mai replied.
"We never expected you to. Let's give it all with 25 minutes or so to go." Kakeru said.
"Bring it on, you guys." Mai finished.
With the score tied at 2-2, the All-Stars pushed forward to find their first go-ahead goal of the match, but their attacks were neutralized by the resilient Manchester United Treble Winners. The home side also attempted their share of attacks at the other end, but those often did not find their way on net. Akitoshi also made the few saves look so easy for him. It was anyone's game to grab with around 15 minutes left to go.
In the 74th minute:
Takumi Okada: Here's Casemiro now...
With the All-Stars controlling the ball around the halfway line, they were in a position to launch another attack with the Manchester United goal in sight. Casemiro passed the ball towards Leonardo.
"Not going past me." Nana said as she came up against Leonardo.
"Come on then." Leonardo replied.
Nana attempted to tackle the ball away from Leonardo, but the Brazilian playmaker executed a perfect roulette in full speed to run past his opponent.
Takumi Okada: Nana gets turned by Leonardo Silva. Some space for Shima...
After getting past Nana, Leonardo passed the ball to Ryosuke on the right wing. Then Ryosuke launched a long aerial pass inside the Manchester United penalty area. Fortunately for United though, Yusuke headed the ball away. Then Ryosuke headed the ball back inside the penalty area after an aerial duel against Shawzy... only until Yusuke cleared the ball again.
Takumi Okada: Headed away by Saeki... and again...
The ball went further away from the penalty area this time. It appeared that Kakeru would get to it, but Raphaël Varane came in to power the ball back in the opposite direction with his own head. However, the ball didn't travel that far as it went into Aidan's feet.
Takumi Okada: Varane with the challenge, only as far as Whelan though...
Sensing an opportunity to create a counterattack, Aidan passed the ball into Nana's run. The Little Witch ran with the ball until she came very close to the center spot on the field. Seeing Kakeru, Taeko, and Kevin on the run against 2 All-Stars defenders, Nana fired a through pass into Kakeru's path to create a 3v2 rush.
Takumi Okada: Nana... finds Kakeru...
The Old Trafford roared in expectation of at least a scoring chance for the home team. As soon as Kakeru retrieved the ball on the side of the penalty area, he attempted an aerial pass towards a teammate. The pass was blocked by Varane only to come back at Kakeru's feet again.
Takumi Okada: Blocked by Varane. Kakeru again...
Despite being tightly marked by Ryosuke, Kakeru performed a quick Cruyff turn to shake Ryosuke off and run towards the byline before making a side pass towards the front of the goal. Taeko immediately went sliding in to deflect the ball towards the goal, but Akitoshi parried the ball out of play at the very last second!
Takumi Okada: ISSHIKI!!! WHAT A SAVE!!
Everyone inside Old Trafford was left stunned by the quality of the save, especially Taeko herself. She couldn't believe that she did not score on that chance.
Makoto Hyodo: What a spectacular goalkeeping effort by Lee! But what an excellent build-up by Manchester United as well! It's a quick counterattack. Kakeru gets the ball, fails his first pass, but then manages to get past Shima on the second attempt. The pass was perfect for Isshiki, but Lee did just enough to close the angle.
Nevertheless, the following play was a corner kick. In a matter of seconds, the strategy was set among the players in red. Then the referee blew his whistle when ready.
PEEEP!
Instead of launching an aerial ball towards the bunch of players inside the All-Stars' penalty area, Nana whipped a quick and bouncing ground pass towards Kakeru, who stood inside the "D" just outside the penalty area.
Takumi Okada: Nana's corner kick went straight to Kakeru...
Kakeru chose restraint over shooting as many players ran towards him. Instead, Kakeru retreated with the ball along the long edge and then along the side of the penalty area before Leonardo was the only one standing right in front of him.
"Come on, Kakeru. Come on!" Leonardo challenged Kakeru.
Kakeru appeared to stall a bit with the ball, but then performed the Phi Trick Revolution with a sudden burst of speed. Unlike most iterations of the Phi Trick, the Revolution version created the illusion that both the ball and the player disappear.
"What?" Leonardo asked out loud.
By the time Leonardo realized what just happened, Kakeru already ran past him.
Takumi Okada: He gets around Silva! Kakeru is in...
Kakeru entered the penalty area and ran along the byline with a few passing options in front of him. Spotting Yusuke nearly unmarked, Kakeru cut the pass straight towards him. Yusuke fired the shot as soon as the ball arrived at his feet.
Takumi Okada: ...pulls it back to SAEKI!!!
Yusuke's shot was stopped at point blank by Akitoshi, but the rebound went straight back towards Taeko. The former Nadeshiko Japan striker didn't miss the opportunity to hit the ball into the back of the net and to send Old Trafford into a frenzy this time.
Takumi Okada: AND ISSHIKIIIII!!! IT'S 3-2!! Of all people, it's the 49-year-old former Nadeshiko Japan striker, Taeko Isshiki who scores the goal that gives Manchester United the lead again with 15 minutes left! And what a play by Kakeru Aizawa to make the goal possible.
Taeko, who never scored at Old Trafford when she played for the Manchester United Women's Team many years ago, celebrated the goal like she never did before. She was as ecstatic as a teenager would be after scoring a first goal in any big league.
"Nice goal, Tae-san!" Nana congratulated.
"Great reaction on the rebound, Tae-san!" Kakeru added.
"Thanks, guys! That was a great move you did there on Silva." Taeko replied.
"Yeah, but you finished the job. That is what matters!" Kakeru said.
All of the delighted Manchester United players surrounded and congratulated the heroine of the moment.
PA announcer: GOAL SCORED FOR THE MANCHESTER UNITED TREBLE WINNERS... NUMBER NINETEEN... TAEKO ISSHIKIIII!!!
The capacity crowd responded to the announcement with some of the loudest cheers of the afternoon.
Back to the match commentary:
Makoto Hyodo: Oh, what a great moment for Taeko Isshiki! You can see what it means to her and to those players. Listen to this crowd. But as you said it: Kakeru Aizawa... what a great play. There were 2-3 white shirts on him, but then he manages to isolate and then run past Leonardo Silva with a fantastic move. Lee makes the first save on Saeki's shot, but Isshiki was not going to miss that one. Look what it means to her and to her teammates.
A couple of minutes after Taeko's goal, the All-Stars made their final 2 substitutions: Kaoru in for Ryosuke, and Maya Yoshida in for Toru. The All-Stars' formation was changed into a 3-4-3 as Koichi and Kaoru were tasked to play as wing-backs while Casemiro would play a hybrid centre-back/central defensive midfielder role. While the All-Stars were looking for another equalizing goal, the Manchester United Treble Winners were working to defend the lead and, if possible, capitalize on the counterattack.
In the 82nd minute:
Takumi Okada: Takajo gets to the ball and finds Sera... 
As soon as Ukyo received the ball, he ran a few yards ahead on the attack. Then Ukyo passed the ball towards Mai, but Shawzy came in with a tackle to clear the ball towards Kakeru in the opposite direction.
Takumi Okada: Good challenge by Shaw...
Kakeru began to run on the counterattack as soon as he received the ball, but Raphaël Varane came in with a solid tackle of his own to strip the ball away.
Takumi Okada: Strong challenge from Varane as well...
The loose ball then went straight towards Kaoru, who then attempted a long aerial through pass towards Akira. However, the ball was cleared by Didier.
Takumi Okada: Matoba with the cross... cleared away by Kamara though...
The cleared ball became a pass towards Aidan, who then flicked the ball towards Nana to initiate another counterattack. Despite Ukyo's attempt to run after Nana, the Little Witch ran with the ball until the center circle.
Takumi Okada: Whelan... Nana...
'Now, Kakeru!' Nana thought.
Without any hesitation, Nana fired a low through pass ahead. Having timed his run perfectly to avoid the offside and to take the defenders off guard, Kakeru found himself all alone with the All-Stars' goal ahead of him. The crowd stood up on their feet and roared in anticipation.
Takumi Okada: And Kakeru's away through the middle! Is this the moment? Can he go all the way?
"GO ON, KAKERU!" Noriko shouted from her seat on the Manchester United bench.
"COME ON, PAPA!" Keiko shouted as well.
With only the goalkeeper standing in the way between him and the goal, Kakeru easily dispatched the shot beyond Akitoshi and into the back of the net to send Old Trafford into bedlam again.
Takumi Okada: YOU BET HE CAN!!! Kakeru Aizawa with a breakaway goal at the Stretford End! It's a moment to remember today, and Manchester United have now a 2-goal lead! It's 4-2.
Everyone inside Old Trafford stood up to celebrate with the loudest standing ovation of the afternoon.
"YATTA (I DID IT)!!!" Kakeru shouted out loud, with the right arm raised and pointing to the sky, Denis Law style.
In a matter of seconds, the Manchester United players run towards Kakeru to celebrate the moment. On the Manchester United bench, Noriko and the children were also equally ecstatic to see the main man of the event putting what could be the exclamation mark to the event.
Makoto Hyodo: What a trademark counterattack by Manchester United! Kakeru Aizawa has been providing the finishing touch for a few of those over the years. As soon as Kamara headed that ball away, it was all about how quickly the counterattack would move up. Whelan passed that ball to Nana, and that run from Kakeru! Neither Yoshida nor Varane was quick enough to catch up with Kakeru. After that, it was a matter of hitting that ball well and perfectly beyond the goalkeeper.
Then came the announcement of the goal:
PA announcer: GOAL SCORED FOR THE MANCHESTER UNITED TREBLE WINNERS... NUMBER TEN... KAKERU AIZAWAAAAAAA!!!
After a few celebrations, Kakeru came across Varane and Casemiro for a few quick words between former Manchester United teammates.
"Are you sure about retiring, Knight? You still run like no one." Varane said.
"Can't catch up with you." Casemiro added.
"I lost a little bit of a step though." Kakeru replied between laughs.
"Well, you still won that race." Varane finished.
At the same time, the Old Trafford crowd spontaneously started singing a song that first became popular in 2020 as a testament the club's glorious history and commitment to always strive for more glory. Noriko and Keiko also joined their voices into the singing as well.
WE'VE SEEN IT ALL,WE'VE WON THE LOT,WE'RE MAN UNITEDAND WE'RE NEVER GONNA STOP!OLÉ, OLÉ! OLÉ, OLA!OLÉ, OLÉ, OLÉ, OLÉ, OLÉ, OLA!
The catchy song carried on again and again in the stands just as the Manchester United bench was getting ready to make the last 3 substitutions on the next stop in the action. Nana was among those to be subbed off and given a well-earned rest.
PA announcer: Substitution for Manchester... Replacing number 7, Nana Aizawa...
Nana gave Kakeru a hug before she walked her way off the pitch under a standing ovation from the capacity crowd. Francisco stood ready to confirm the substitution with the double high five handshake.
Takumi Okada: Well, Old Trafford rises to its feet to salute Nana Aizawa as she is going to be replaced by Francisco Serrano. Forever the first woman to break the gender barrier and to become a great among men. Thank you for the memories, Nana Aizawa.
"You did really well today, Bruja." Francisco said.
"Muchas gracias, Frankie." Nana replied.
PA announcer: ...is number 21, Francisco Serrano.
Then Nana made her way to the seats on the dugout, where she was greeted by her own children. Meanwhile, Yusuke and Matthias were being replaced by Aleksandar and Chris respectively.
"That was awesome, Mama!" Keiko said, hugging Nana.
"That pass to Papa was great!" Hiroyuki added.
"Best way to end your game, Mama!" Sakura added.
"Thanks, all of you." Nana replied, hugging her children.
"Are we going on the field after the game?" Kotaro asked.
"We will, we will." Nana replied.
Then Noriko and Yusuke approached Nana to congratulate her as well.
"Well, this is it." Nana said.
"This is it." Yusuke replied.
"It was a great way to cap it all off, Nana." Noriko added.
"I couldn't ask for a better way to end this last ride, you guys."
"As a fan and then as a staff member of this club, it has been the greatest honor for me to see you and Kakeru grow into legends here." Noriko said.
"I feel the same as a teammate for 15 years and as a friend for much longer." Yusuke added.
"Kakeru and I have been blessed to have both of you – Noriko as our first and most devoted supporter, and Yusuke as a teammate for all of these years. But it's a greater blessing for us to have you guys as our friends." Nana finished.
Then Nana shared handshakes and hugs with Yusuke and Noriko as long-time friends, knowing that a long journey was about to end.
For the remaining few minutes to the match, neither side could find the back of the net. Meanwhile, the crowd at Old Trafford was already in a celebratory mood as the final whistle approached. The Japanese flags were waved non-stop in the stands as a tribute to Kakeru and Nana's long and legendary careers for their club.
PEEP PEEP PEEEEEEEP!!!
Takumi Okada: The final whistle! Two great careers have come to an end. It's a fairy tale ending with Nana Aizawa opening the score and Kakeru Aizawa closing it in the match that honors their service for this great club.
Makoto Hyodo: Well, I really enjoyed this match as well. It is the perfect ending for Kakeru and Nana. I will take this opportunity to say this from myself as a friend to them: congratulations, thank you, and good luck in the future.
Takumi Okada: Very well said, Hyodo-san. Both teams are still on the pitch as of now. Kakeru and Nana will address to the crowd in a few moments, and, of course, we will bring this moment to you with a live translation. Just to remind you all, the final score in the Kakeru and Nana Aizawa's farewell match is: Manchester United Treble Winners 4-2 Aizawa All-Stars.
Meanwhile on the pitch, the players on both sides shook hands with each other. All eyes were on the players from the All-Stars lining up to shake hands with Kakeru and Nana. Leonardo was the first to congratulate the 2 main stars of the day.
"Good work, Kakeru, Nana." Leonardo said.
"Thanks, Leo." Kakeru and Nana replied, shaking hands with Leonardo.
"You beat me again with the only move I was never able to counter, Kakeru."
"I didn't have to use it often over the years, but I knew I would use it against my toughest opponent."
"So is there a next generation of footballers in the family after you?" Leonardo asked.
"Not telling for the moment." Nana replied.
Then Kakeru and Nana went on to shake hands with the other All-Stars. Mai and Kaoru were the last in line for the handshakes.
"Congratulations, you two." Mai said.
"Thanks, Mai-chan." Kakeru replied.
"You did well after you joined the action." Nana added.
"Thanks, but you are still a notch above me. Best of luck in the future."
"Same to you, Mai-chan." Kakeru said as he hugged Mai.
"Well played, Kakeru, Nana." Kaoru said.
"Thanks, old friend." Kakeru replied as he hugged Kaoru.
"I'm glad you made it for this match." Nana added.
"Yeah, me too. It means a lot for me to be a part of this because my career might have not off if it wasn't for you two and I helping each other out at Enoshima. Enjoy the best in retirement, you two."
"We will make the most of it." Kakeru finished.
After the handshakes, the PA announcer came to introduce the final phase of the event.
PA announcer: Old Trafford, we are going to have a few words from Kakeru and, first, Nana Aizawa.
Then the PA announcer gave his microphone to Nana. It was decided that Nana would speak first before Kakeru would deliver his closing speech to the capacity crowd.
Nana: Thank you! First, I'd like to thank everyone for turning up today. It has been a fantastic afternoon, all thanks to you. I will miss days like this for sure. I also thank my teammates, my former opponents, the managers, the coaches, and all the staff people I have met over the years. I would not have achieved as much as I did if it wasn't for them helping me and pushing me to become more than just any player at this great club. I'd also like to thank my parents for all of the tremendous support over the years. A really special shout to my best friend Noriko for showing me the ins and outs after we left Japan to pursue our dreams in Manchester; she also did a good job in babysitting my children today *laughs*. Last but far from the least, I feel blessed for having the greatest supporter and the best partner in crime I ever had since I was a young child: Kakeru. You have allowed me to grow as a person and to always push my own limits further over the course of this journey. Thank you, all of you!
The crowd gave a really loud round of applause while Nana gave the microphone to Kakeru.
Kakeru: Thank you! Thanks! I will try to not repeat too much since my thanks also go to mostly the same people – supporters, teammates, rivals, managers, coaches, and staff. They all had a great hand in making me the player I've become for club and country. Speaking of the supporters, you are a big reason why I was able to keep it going at the club for so long. It is also my hope that my eldest daughter will enjoy this kind of support one day. Tomorrow will be officially 21 years since the day when Nana and I signed for Manchester United, and it is very fitting that our daughter Keiko will sign her first contract to officially join the Manchester United Academy on that anniversary.
The crowd applauded at the bit of news revealed by Kakeru about his eldest daughter.
Kakeru: I'd like to thank my parents and my sister for their support; they are also up there with my in-laws, my nephew, and my nieces in the stands. I have a special thought for my late brother Suguru, whose words of wisdom guided me and helped me rediscover my passion for the game when I was a teenager. I also want to share something that a wise man once said to me: "You worry you'll lose all this history, all these memories. But they live on. And they'll never be forgotten" ...Sir Alex Ferguson said those words. I will always be thankful to Sir Alex for offering Nana and I the opportunity to play together for Manchester United. As such, spending a whole career and winning it all for this club... the memories of the last 21 years will stay with me for the rest of my life. But above all, I'm blessed to have the 4 loveliest kids in the world and the love of my life at my side throughout this long journey. Thank you, always! Thank you very much!
The crowd gave thunderous applause and cheers after Kakeru ended his speech.
PA announcer: Old Trafford, those are true legends! LET'S HEAR IT FOR KAKERU AND NANA AIZAWA!!!
Kakeru and Nana began their lap of honor with their 4 children, saluting the crowd. Seconds into the lap of honor, the song "Winning It All" was heard in full volume through the stadium's speakers. The song was personally suggested by Noriko to Kakeru and Nana as a fitting way to end the event.
I'm closing up, I'm closing inCouldn't wait for this moment to comeCouldn't wait for this day to beginWon't be afraid, got so much prideAnd I've never been a loserAnd I just can't lose tonight.
Winning it all, ain't gonna walk awayGiving it all, no matter what you sayAin't gonna fall, don't want to lose todayWinning it all.
This time it's right, my time has comeGonna give everything that I've gotTill it's over and victory's wonNo second chance, no giving upBecause no one remembers a loserAnd I don't intend to be one.
Winning it all, ain't gonna walk awayGiving it all, no matter what you sayAin't gonna fall, don't want to lose todayWinning it all.
During the lap of honor, Kakeru spotted Suguru's ghost standing in the crowd, invisible to anyone else. It was the first time that Kakeru saw Suguru since that famous UEFA Champions League triumph in Paris, many years ago.
"It was one hell of a career, Kakeru." Suguru's voice spoke to Kakeru.
"I know. Thank you for everything, Nii-chan." Kakeru said softly.
Suguru smiled one last time before he finally disappeared. Moments later, Kakeru, Nana, and their children finished the lap of honor before they finally walked down the players' tunnel to a standing ovation. For Kakeru and Nana, it was their walk into the sunset.
Winning it all, ain't gonna walk awayGiving it all, no matter what you sayAin't gonna fall, don't want to lose todayWinning it all.
...
This story is dedicated to all pioneers of the beautiful game from past, present, and future.
THE END
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