Tuesday – 5 days until Nobles FC's first match under Jaden Senzo.
Elsewhere, at Skyland FC's press conference.
"Savio, how confident are you going into your next match? You've scored a total of 8 goals in your last 5 games," asked a journalist.
"Well, I'm very confident. I'm surrounded by good players, I'm very happy here, and the club's philosophy fits well with the way I want to play. So yeah," replied Savio Silva, 18-year-old Brazilian international. Curly haired, braces on his teeth, average height, slim build, known for his explosive pace, technical ability, shooting, and dribbling. Hence the nickname The Nightmare, he's every defender's worst nightmare. He is also well-known for his flair both on and off the pitch.
"Word is you're attracting offers from Europe. Are there any talks ongoing? Are you planning on leaving the club?" asked the journalist.
"I'm loyal to the fans and this club. Next question," replied Silva.
"Your English is impressive," said the journalist.
"Hah, thank you. I owe it all to American music," replied Silva with a charming smile.
"You're going to play Nobles FC this Sunday. I'm sure you've heard of their new manager. What are your thoughts on this encounter?" asked another journalist.
"Just another stepping stone," replied Silva.
"What about you, Manager Lopez? Any comments about the new manager of Nobles FC?" asked the journalist.
"Well I think it's mediocrity at best, they've just ruined their chance of staying in this league." replied manager Lopez nicknamed, the Spanish genius, no. 1 in the league, currently on an 18 game winning streak and unbeaten in all competitions.
Meanwhile, at Royalty Training Centre (Nobles FC's facility)
The team was training on the pitch when Jaden exited the building, making his way to the meet his squad for the first time.
The assistant manager blew his whistle. Everyone stopped training and gathered to meet their new manager. The assistant introduced himself, followed by the captain and the rest of the players.
Some weren't happy with the appointment, it showed on their faces. Others kept it professional, especially captain Aaron Willies, 32-year-old goalkeeper.
After introductions, the players returned to training. Jaden asked the assistant coach to brief him.
"Coach, I want all the information about the players and their attributes ASAP. Please ask the analyst to handle this matter and schedule a team talk after this session, as well as a staff meeting afterward," requested Jaden.
"Ten minutes hasn't even passed and already this kid is ordering me around," thought Assistant Manager Anderson.
30 minutes later, in the tactical room.
Every player sat while Jaden and Anderson stood near the board. Jaden explained the new tactics.
"I'd like to change the club's philosophy from counter attacking and sitting deep when out of possession to a gegenpress style. I want us to play with a high block. Yes, we risk conceding more goals, but I believe this is the best way forward. I'll add tweaks here and there, but I want you all to have freedom when in possession. That's all for now, thanks for listening. See you tomorrow."
"Hmm, impressive. For an amateur, he has good tactical knowledge. I like the new tactic, very easy, not complicated, but it will require endurance. " thought Captain Aaron Willies.
Many players were impressed, though still concerned. They left for home while Jaden stayed for the staff meeting. He told them he would handle tactics, transfers, and team talks, delegating the rest of the responsibilities.
As the meeting concluded, Jaden exited the facility and saw Mr. Tau's car. The driver opened the rear door, and Jaden entered, finding Mr. Tau inside, the driver also got in and started driving.
"Thanks for the ride. Didn't even know where to find a taxi," said Jaden.
"No problem. So how was your first day?" asked Mr. Tau.
"Uh, the team is still concerned, morale is down, but it wasn't bad. By the way, you do know I don't have a coaching licence, right?" asked Jaden.
"Of course. But don't worry, it's being handled," replied Mr. Tau with a sinister smile.
"Huh? Being handled?" asked Jaden.
"This is South Africa. Money talks, kid," said Mr. Tau, laughing.
"By the way, the club has made money because of you. The publicity has been outstanding. You're currently trending number one all over social media. Therefore, a R10 million budget has been made available for you to purchase players."
"Woah, this club is loaded. Well, I have a particular transfer in mind," said Jaden.
"Loaded because of me, hah. I'm looking forward to seeing the players you'll bring in."
Next day, Wednesday evening, after training.
Jaden was seen waiting at his township's local sports field when a player, heading home after training, walked past him.
"Hey, blondie!" Jaden yelled.
The teenager looked to see who was calling. Jaden approached.
"I saw you play the other day with the team in white. You were a joy to watch, kid," said Jaden.
"Kid? He doesn't look older than me. Is this guy blind?" thought Blondie. "Uh, thanks," replied the teenager.
"Yeah, I'm Jaden, by the way. Jaden Senzo," he said, offering his hand.
"I'm Max Zwide," said the teenager, shaking his hand.
"Senzo, right? Aren't you the manager of Nobles FC?" asked Max.
"I am. And look, let me get straight to the point, I want you to play for me," said Jaden, folding his arms.
"Yes," replied Max.
"Look, we'll give you a great contra… wait, what did you just say?" asked Jaden.
"I said yes," Max replied.
"Yes, you'll play for me?" asked Jaden.
"No shit," said Max. "Is this guy slow or something?" he thought.
Jaden laughed. "You caught me off guard there. I didn't think it would be that easy. You've got a good sense of humour, Max, but you need to work on your facial expressions."
"Come to Royalty Training Centre tomorrow. The following day we'll announce your signing. See you tomorrow, Max." said Jaden
"Is this the same guy I heard in the press conference that was live not long ago? He seemed fierce then. Now that I've talked to him in person, he's a softy, but I have a feeling about him." thought Max as he made his way home.