Rebuilding the Theatre

As Sir Alex Ferguson left the youth team training ground, his steps were lighter than they had been in weeks. A bold idea had taken root in his mind, one that could change the future of Manchester United. *If Barcelona could have a Guardiola,* he thought, *why can't Manchester United have a Jin Taige?*

Pep Guardiola, the prodigy who had risen from Barcelona's youth ranks to become one of the most successful managers in football history, had set a precedent. Guardiola had been Barcelona's captain as a player and, after just two years as manager, had led the team to an unprecedented six trophies in a single season. Ferguson couldn't help but draw parallels to Jin Taige.

Jin Taige had grown up at Manchester United, rising through the ranks to become the captain of the famed Class of '92. At 22, he had taken on a coaching role in the youth team, dedicating himself to nurturing the next generation of talent. He was a true Red Devil, deeply embedded in the club's culture and values. And, as Ferguson had just witnessed, he had a keen understanding of the game and the challenges facing the team.

Ferguson had always held a special place in his heart for Jin Taige. While the world celebrated the likes of Giggs, Scholes, and Beckham, Ferguson had always seen something extraordinary in the young captain. He often wondered what might have been if Jin Taige hadn't suffered that devastating injury. *If only,* Ferguson thought, *he could have been the general on the pitch that I always envisioned.*

But now, as he reflected on Jin Taige's insights into the team's current state, Ferguson felt a renewed sense of hope. Jin Taige's vision for the future—rebuilding the squad with young, hungry players while maintaining the club's core values—aligned perfectly with Ferguson's own philosophy. Perhaps, Ferguson thought, Jin Taige was the right person to carry the torch forward.

Ferguson spent the next three days mulling over his decision. He weighed the pros and cons, considered the risks, and ultimately concluded that Jin Taige was the best candidate to succeed him. On a sunny afternoon, with no training sessions scheduled, Ferguson made his way to the chairman's office.

The door was slightly ajar, and Ferguson knocked gently before entering. Inside, he found David Gill, the club's CEO, poring over a stack of documents.

"My old friend," Ferguson greeted, his voice warm but carrying a hint of purpose. "You look busy."

Gill looked up and smiled. "Sir Alex, please, come in. What can I get you? Tea? Coffee?"

"Black tea, thank you," Ferguson replied, taking a seat.

As the secretary brought in the tea and left, Gill leaned back in his chair. "So, what brings you here? Have you changed your mind about retiring? We could certainly use another year of your magic."

Ferguson chuckled. "No, no, my friend. My family and I have plans, and I'm not one to break promises."

Gill sighed. "I had a feeling you'd say that. So, what's on your mind?"

Ferguson took a sip of his tea before speaking. "I've been thinking about the future of the club. About who should take over after I leave."

Gill's expression grew serious. "We've hit a snag with Mourinho. He's decided to return to Chelsea."

Ferguson raised an eyebrow. "Chelsea? That's interesting. The Premier League will be quite the spectacle next season."

Gill studied Ferguson's face. "You don't seem disappointed."

"Why should I be?" Ferguson replied, a knowing smile playing on his lips.

Gill leaned forward, intrigued. "Do you have someone else in mind? Moyes? He's a solid choice, but I'm not sure he's ready for a club of this magnitude."

Ferguson shook his head. "Moyes is a good manager, but he's not the right fit for Manchester United. Not right now."

Gill's eyes narrowed. "Then who? Ancelotti? Lippi? Wenger?"

Ferguson leaned back, his expression calm but resolute. "None of the above. The person I have in mind is already here. Jin Taige."

Gill blinked, clearly taken aback. "Jin Taige? The youth team coach? Sir Alex, it's mid-April, not April Fool's Day. Are you serious?"

Ferguson's smile faded, replaced by a look of unwavering determination. "I've never been more serious, David. A few months ago, I thought Mourinho was the answer. But now, I believe Jin Taige is the future of Manchester United."

Gill sat back, his mind racing. "Why him?"

Ferguson's eyes gleamed with conviction. "Jin Taige understands this club like no one else. He's been here since he was a boy. He knows the values, the culture, the expectations. And he has a vision—a vision to rebuild this team with young, hungry players while staying true to our identity. He's the one who can lead us into the next era."

Gill was silent for a long moment, processing Ferguson's words. Finally, he leaned forward, his voice low. "Sir Alex, you've never steered us wrong. If you believe in him, then I'll trust your judgment. But this is a big decision. I'll need to discuss it with Malcolm."

Ferguson nodded. "Of course. But remember, David, Jin Taige isn't just a safe choice. He's the right choice."

As Ferguson left the office, he felt a sense of relief. He had done his part. Now, it was up to the club to decide. But deep down, he knew that Jin Taige was the man for the job.

Later that evening, Gill made a call to Malcolm Glazer, the club's owner. "Malcolm, I need to discuss something important with you. It's about the future of Manchester United…"