SWR: Chapter 705/706

Chapter 705: Gao Shen, are you trying to trick me?
Manchester United's performance this season isn't bad at all. On the contrary, the Red Devils are in great form, with a defense even stronger than it was in the 2007-2008 season—especially when it comes to their midfield setup.

So far, they've kept six clean sheets in the Champions League group stage.

In the Premier League, they've conceded just 18 goals in 26 matches.

If you put that kind of performance in any league or any era, it would be considered outstanding.

Unfortunately for them, Ferguson's side ran into a powerhouse in Manchester City.

The tactical system Gao Shen built and the strong squad he assembled have allowed City to remain competitive on all fronts.

According to British media, if Manchester City were split into two separate teams, both could still make the Champions League semifinals.

That alone says everything about the strength of this City squad.

Still, no matter how strong your team is, it's never easy to beat Manchester United at Old Trafford.

You need the right time, the right place, and the right people.

The 2-0 lead early in the match had Sky Sports commentator Andy Gray excited, but Gao Shen remained calm.

And as it turned out, his composure was well-founded.

Ferguson quickly adjusted his tactics, reinforcing the midfield to stabilize the defense.

After the adjustment, United slowed the tempo, surrendered more possession to City, and shifted to a more defensive setup.

City continued to build patiently.

But with Ferdinand and Vidic anchoring the back line, and Fletcher, Sneijder, and Anderson in midfield, United's defense remained rock-solid.

Both sides had one excellent chance during the rest of the first half.

In the 31st minute, Gareth Bale drove the ball down the left flank into the box and sent in a direct pass. Van Persie made a smart run, stopped abruptly, turned, and laid the ball back. Hazard followed up with a shot, but it hit the post. A great chance to extend the lead was wasted.

United then countered off a goal kick. Sneijder played a brilliant through ball, and Zabaleta lost track of his man. Valencia used his pace to burst forward, broke into the box, and had a one-on-one chance, but Neuer made a crucial save.

At the start of the second half, Ferguson made a substitution, bringing on Lass Diarra for Sneijder.

This change clearly signaled United's intent.

Ferguson was going all-in on defense and counterattacking.

From that point on, the rhythm of the game stayed largely the same.

City controlled the ball and the tempo, patiently building their attacks, while United held their shape and waited for counter opportunities.

This led to a bit of a deadlock, and the match started to lose its excitement.

Even Andy Gray admitted that he hadn't expected the first ten minutes to be the most exciting part of the derby, with the rest of the game becoming rather dull.

But in the 87th minute, United managed to break through. They played the ball out to the right wing, where Valencia dribbled down the flank and whipped in a low cross. Kompany, who was marking Rooney, slipped and lost his footing. Rooney pounced on the chance, sliding in and scoring to pull one back for United.

In the end, though, Manchester City came away with a 2-1 away win at Old Trafford.

…

"Let's get a drink later. See you at the usual place!"

As soon as the final whistle blew, Ferguson came over to shake hands with Gao Shen, as tradition demands.

Gao Shen smiled and nodded in agreement.

After Ferguson walked off, Gao Shen noticed his players leaving the pitch with downcast expressions. Zabaleta and Kompany even had their heads lowered. To an outsider, it might've looked like City had lost the match.

Gao Shen walked over, smiling, and hugged them one by one.

"Listen to those boos from the crowd. That's the best kind of recognition we can get!" he encouraged them.

Gao Shen knew Zabaleta well. He wasn't a full-back with elite individual ability, but he was incredibly diligent and executed tactical instructions to perfection.

That said, marking Valencia when City was on the front foot was a real challenge.

With the backline pushed up, the space behind was huge. And considering Zabaleta didn't have Valencia's pace or explosiveness, it was a tough matchup.

But overall, Zabaleta had done well. He made a few errors, but they weren't really mistakes—more like getting beaten due to the opponent's superior ability.

What could anyone say?

Was he supposed to match Valencia for pace?

Ferguson's current tactics were quite interesting. He used three central midfielders, two wingers, and Rooney up top.

Berbatov was his hidden weapon, and Owen was practically a backup's backup.

This meant United were focused on sitting deep and countering, letting City push forward and take initiative.

Under Ferguson, both Nani and Valencia had become top-tier wingers in Europe.

They shared common traits—both were quick and could create something on their own. Nani, in particular, might be United's best performer this season. That meant Leighton Baines had his hands full tonight, and Fernandinho had to provide constant support on that side.

As for Kompany's slip, it was just bad luck.

In this English weather, the pitch was slippery. With so much activity in the box, the turf was filled with ruts and divots. A slip was almost inevitable.

It was just unfortunate that it led to a goal.

Outside of that one incident, Kompany had a perfect game.

Since Gao Shen took over two seasons ago, Kompany's growth had been rapid. He was now widely regarded as one of the best center-backs in Europe.

Unfortunately, the media and fans often remember only the mistakes. They'll criticize Kompany and Zabaleta regardless of how well they played otherwise.

"Alright!" Gao Shen hugged Kompany and patted his head. "Stop walking around like you just lost. Hold your head high!"

That loud encouragement finally made the players lift their spirits.

"It's my fault that goal happened!" Gao Shen said seriously.

The players were stunned. Zabaleta wanted to say something, but Gao Shen raised his hand to stop him.

"You know that kind of low cross Valencia made? I taught him that. Or rather, I figured it out by studying him."

When he finished, he shrugged helplessly. That look on his face made the City players laugh.

"Boss, we have to admit, that guy is really a pain to deal with!" Zabaleta finally opened up and vented.

Everyone burst out laughing again.

But from another angle, you could say Gao Shen's training of Valencia was pretty effective.

Gao Shen had long become indifferent to such things. It was normal in European football.

There would be more and more of these situations in the future. Everyone just had to get used to it.

…

At the post-match press conference, Gao Shen publicly defended his players.

He said Zabaleta did very well, and Kompany shouldn't be blamed for an accidental slip.

"I hope people will recognize the consistency and performance of these players throughout the game, not just fixate on one mistake. That's unfair to their hard work and contribution."

Gao Shen then gave several examples.

In the 20th minute, United launched a quick counter. Nani broke down the left, beat his man, and whipped in a sharp cross. Rooney was already positioned at the far post, but Kompany anticipated it perfectly and cleared with a decisive header.

A minute later, United came back on the attack. This time, Kompany used his body to shield Rooney, disrupting the play and breaking up the move.

"Most people remember the mistake, but in the 57th minute, when United played a through ball to Rooney, Kompany chased him down and made a perfect sliding tackle from the side just as Rooney was about to shoot. He took the ball cleanly."

Gao Shen declared that Kompany was already a world-class center-back.

"I'd even say he deserves Man of the Match!"

This was Gao Shen's strongest show of support for Kompany.

In truth, with City winning the match, the criticism from the media and fans would be minimal. But with team morale running high, Gao Shen wanted to keep it that way.

More importantly, at center-back, Jerome Boateng still needed time to grow, and Gary Cahill could only be a backup. That left Gao Shen relying on David Luiz and Kompany.

Speaking of Boateng, Gao Shen couldn't help but feel frustrated.

It had been over half a year, and despite constant reminders, Boateng still hadn't shaken off some bad habits.

It's not that there hadn't been any improvement, but changing ingrained habits is incredibly difficult.

This is why many coaches don't like developing players or simply don't have the patience.

Even if a coach manages to develop someone, the player might get sold anyway.

If he's not sold, then what about the results the team needs in the meantime?

Honestly, aside from the players Gao Shen brought in, the most cost-effective signings in recent years were Kompany and Zabaleta—especially Kompany.

That deal was an absolute steal.

If the Abu Dhabi group hadn't taken over, City might never have been able to keep a player like him.

…

After the press conference, Gao Shen returned to the dressing room, said a few words to his coaching staff and players, and then left alone through the inner corridor to his and Ferguson's "old place."

During the holidays or whenever he visited Old Trafford, Gao Shen would have someone send a couple of cases of Chilean wine to Ferguson's home or office.

Lately, wine from his family's own production had become his go-to gift.

Keep the wealth in the family, as they say.

When Gao Shen knocked and entered, Ferguson was already drinking.

At his level, losing wasn't a big deal. Even the previous heavy loss was something he could handle and quickly move on from.

But every time he saw Gao Shen, he couldn't help but throw out a few jabs—complaining the wine was too bitter or something like that.

But the old guy was just being petty.

He'd openly praised Gao Shen in the media before, saying the wine was excellent.

Which only proved that Gao Shen's long-term bribery strategy was working.

"I don't know why, but every time I see you, I feel like you're a sly one. Are you trying to plot against me?" Ferguson asked.

(To be continued.)

Chapter 706: I Don’t Have Much Education, So Don’t Fool Me

"Plotting against you?"

Gao Shen walked over, laughing as he unscrewed a bottle of mineral water. He took a sip, looked at Ferguson, and asked, "Old man, what is there for me to plot against you for? You tell me."

Ferguson laughed too.

He had actually thought about this question many times. Honestly, there didn't seem to be anything worth scheming over.

Fame? He was almost retired.
Money? Gao Shen was far richer than him, with a much higher post-tax annual salary.
Women? He was just an old man now, and besides, he didn't even have a daughter—only granddaughters, and they were still young.

That was what puzzled him.

In the end, he could only conclude that Gao Shen truly respected him.

Just as Gao Shen had told him before, when he was starting out, he devoured Ferguson's autobiography, studied Manchester United's matches during Ferguson's tenure, and drew much inspiration from them. That helped shape the coach he became today.

Perhaps that was why he respected Ferguson the most.

Ferguson felt at ease with that explanation.

To be fair, Gao Shen had always been open and honest with him.

It was the same when it came to Pogba.

In interpersonal dealings, while exchanging benefits is important, there's no need to make it so overt. That only makes people uncomfortable. Everyone wants to preserve a little dignity.

Like when you're asking someone for help—some do it politely and tactfully, others are blunt and direct.

Gao Shen preferred the long game. He took his time, built up relationships steadily, even if he didn't need anything in return. After all, more friends mean more options. If someone was worth befriending, he would do it. And if he could help them, he would.

That way, when he actually needed a favor in the future, he often didn't even have to ask. Friends would offer to help him first. If he refused, they'd be the ones upset.

That was exactly how things were with Ferguson now.

He didn't need to mention it directly, and there was no point in doing so before the situation played out. Still, a subtle hint was fine.

"Your U18 youth team has done well this year. Great results in the FA Youth Cup," Gao Shen remarked casually.

Ferguson nodded. "Paul McGuinness. He graduated from Loughborough with a sports degree."

"I know him. He was my senior. When I was still in school, he came to give us a lecture. He got hired by United right after graduation. We were all envious back then."

Gao Shen's tone was a bit exaggerated, and Ferguson burst out laughing.

"His father used to coach Manchester United and the England national team. He was one of the original Busby Babes. He survived the Munich Air Disaster but retired young. So Paul was groomed early at United. But to be honest, he didn't have much talent as a player. We advised him early on to focus on coaching."

Gao Shen understood. This was the power of connections.

Most people didn't realize how much weight being head coach of Manchester United and the England national team carried.

It was like how Gao Shen himself could easily place someone at Napoli if he wanted to.

"He's in charge of the U18s now. He used to handle their day-to-day affairs. He started coaching in 2005 and has done a decent job. But he still lacks some experience. He'll probably stick to youth development going forward."

"That's not bad either," Gao Shen replied.

Youth coaching was a good job. The pressure wasn't too heavy, the pay was decent, and it was enough to live comfortably.

Of course, those with ambition could still aim for first-team coaching.

"Your youth development has been excellent over the years. I saw Ravel Morrison play. Incredible talent. He's worth developing. And there's another kid, someone being called the new Vieira… Paul something?"

"Paul Pogba."

"Right, him. He's good, but not as gifted as Morrison. Another local talent."

Gao Shen noticed a flash of helplessness in Ferguson's eyes when Morrison was mentioned.

Ravel Morrison really was a genius.

Anyone who had seen him play wouldn't deny it.

How talented was he?

Ferguson personally oversaw him, asked about his home life, and tried to keep him away from the wrong crowd in Manchester.

But it was no use. The kid grew up around those people. His friends were all troublemakers, and eventually, he spiraled.

"You're not eyeing him, are you?" Ferguson asked warily.

Gao Shen laughed. "If you're selling, I'll buy."

"Get lost!" Ferguson snapped immediately.

"You've got a lot of talented kids. I heard you're having a bit of a row with Anderlecht again. Trying to poach someone?"

Ferguson chuckled. "There's a young lad named Adnan Januzaj. He's very good. When the scout recommended him, I was impressed. He's got great technical skills and dribbling ability."

Seeing the look in Gao Shen's eyes, Ferguson felt deeply satisfied.

You little brat! If I can't beat you on the pitch, I'll beat you with youth players!

"Don't get any ideas. He's already ours. Just waiting on paperwork now."

Gao Shen sighed. "I told the club Belgium's been producing a lot of young talent lately and that we should keep an eye on them, but it was already too late."

"Haven't you already got Hazard, De Bruyne, and Courtois?" Ferguson smiled and offered a smug "consolation."

Gao Shen didn't take the bait. "Come on, old man. You don't even want to play youngsters in your first team anymore. Why are you hoarding so many? Morrison's already 18, isn't he?"

That comment hit a sore spot for Ferguson.

It really was a headache.

Why?

The youth team had done well. Logically, even if you didn't give them a chance this season, you should at least give them a run next season. Otherwise, the kids would rebel.

At this age, what they needed most was match experience.

Kids these days were nothing like before. They were difficult, rebellious, and hard to handle.

"It's all your fault! If you hadn't shown up and hadn't put on that performance last season, I could've promoted a few players to train with the senior team. But now? The teams ahead of us are strong, and the ones behind are closing in. How can I take it easy?" Ferguson grumbled.

City's rise had disrupted the Premier League's balance, making the competition fiercer than ever.

But the price of that was clubs like Manchester United couldn't afford to gamble on youth anymore.

Even someone like Welbeck had only been promoted after repeated evaluation and training.

As for rising stars like Morrison, there simply weren't opportunities.

Especially with City continually applying pressure, Ferguson had become even more cautious about using young players.

If United slipped, like Arsenal, and fell out of the top four, he'd be in big trouble.

"Alright, alright, blame me!" Gao Shen said cheerfully, happy to accept the blame since he'd gotten the info he wanted.

After a glass of wine, Ferguson sighed. "To be honest, your approach to developing young players is something worth learning from."

Gao Shen was a little surprised. "That might be hard for you. You've got a serious generation gap with them."

"Get out!" Ferguson snapped, annoyed.

He hated being called old more than anything.

Gao Shen chuckled. "The Premier League's so competitive now. If you want results, you've got to ensure your first team stays strong. Developing young players isn't easy. You have to rely on other teams. The old one-stop model, from academy to first team, doesn't really work anymore."

"Barcelona's golden generation is more of an exception."

Ferguson agreed. He'd been exploring new ways to develop youth, like sending them out on loan.

But loans were hard to manage. You couldn't control whether the team suited the player. Even if it did, would they really put in the effort to develop someone else's player?

So, clubs started offering training subsidies—sending players out for free and paying a fee if the loaning club developed them properly.

But honestly, the return on that approach wasn't ideal either.

"That's perfectly normal. I think Real Madrid's method is worth considering."

"What method?"

"Sell them, include a buyback clause, and bring them back after they've proven themselves. It might cost a bit more, but for rich clubs like yours, is money really a problem?"

Clubs like United didn't lack money. What they lacked were players.

For giants like United, results were everything. As long as you performed, there were plenty of ways to make money.

So, Gao Shen's suggestion was actually very reasonable.

"It's not that easy. You know how it is. Even in the Premier League, plenty of clubs struggle to develop young players. It's hard to trust them, especially with technically gifted players."

Gao Shen nodded. "That's why I'm thinking about buying a club. One that focuses on developing young players for big teams like yours. What do you think?"

Ferguson was stunned for a moment. But seeing how serious Gao Shen looked, he burst out laughing.

"That's a great idea. Tons of potential!"

"Really? I don't have much education. Don't try to fool me!"

"Why would I lie to you? If you really buy a team, I'll let you pick any player from my youth squad."

"You can make that call?"

"I've still got that much say, lad," Ferguson said confidently.

Gao Shen looked thoughtful. "Then I'll go back and discuss it with my wife."

Ferguson just laughed and swore at him. Like he'd believe that.

With Gao Shen's status, why would he buy a club?

It was a money pit. Could he really afford it?

Plus, he was still City's head coach. If he bought a club, would he still manage City?

Ferguson didn't believe it for a second but kept egging him on.

"Alright, go talk it over carefully. If there's any news, let me know. I'll take you to the youth academy myself."

That tone, that posture, so generous.

Gao Shen gave him a look of exaggerated frustration, like he had no words.

That just made Ferguson laugh even harder. He felt thoroughly satisfied.

You little brat. I finally got the upper hand.

(To be continued.)