Capítulo 3: Chapter 3: Fighting against reporters and fans
December 12, 2002, Manchester, England:
A seismic shock reverberated through the footballing world as Manchester City announced the acquisition of the club by a mysterious American tycoon, Miller. In a deal valued at £88 million, Miller not only purchased all shares of the club but also assumed its substantial debts. Coupled with fees paid to JPMorgan Chase, the total expenditure exceeded £100 million.
The identity of this enigmatic figure, Miller, remained shrouded in secrecy, leaving even the most seasoned football journalists baffled. Speculation ran rampant, with some suggesting he was a wealthy scion from a prominent family.
Intrigue reached a fever pitch when Miller and John Wardle, a club representative, stepped onto the stage at a press conference. The assembled media were taken aback by Miller's youthful appearance and Eastern features.
As the press conference unfolded, a barrage of questions were directed at Miller. A reporter from The Sun, Pierre Smith, inquired about his background and motivations. Miller, with a hint of disdain, replied, "I am a Chinese-American, 24 years old, and unmarried."
Smith persisted, questioning why an American would invest in a British football club. Miller's concise response, "Love for football," left the reporter speechless.
Kevin Johns, a reporter from The Times, pressed Miller on his experience in the football industry and his goals for Manchester City. Miller, without hesitation, stated, "I have no prior experience in football. My aim is to transform Manchester City into a top-tier team, perhaps even the greatest in Britain."
The room erupted with excitement at this ambitious declaration. However, a reporter from The Guardian, a local Manchester newspaper, sought to temper Miller's enthusiasm. David Jones, a Manchester United fan, challenged Miller's assertion, suggesting that numerous established clubs, including Manchester United, Arsenal, and Liverpool, would pose formidable obstacles.
Miller, unfazed, responded, "Mr. Jones, how old are you? You have plenty of time to witness Manchester City's rise. When you're fifty, you'll believe my words. I invite you to be there."
Jones, with a hint of skepticism, replied, "I hope your actions match your words."
Miller concluded, "I'm not good at talking; I'm good at making dreams a reality."
As the press conference continued, a reporter inquired about Miller's plans for revitalizing Manchester City, emphasizing the challenges of building a successful football team. Miller, with a characteristically nonchalant demeanor, replied, "I have money."
The reporter was taken aback by this straightforward response, struggling to find a suitable rejoinder. John Wardle, a club representative, also appeared disconcerted by Miller's apparent arrogance. However, upon realizing that Miller had purchased the club with cash, Wardle began to understand his confidence.
Although Wardle recognized Miller's financial prowess, he remained skeptical about his ability to transform Manchester City into a dominant force in English football.
Following the press conference, the media portrayed Miller as an arrogant newcomer. The Guardian, in particular, published a scathing article criticizing Miller's lack of football experience and predicting his eventual downfall.
Manchester City fans were also divided. Many expressed their disapproval of the acquisition, organizing protests outside the club's headquarters. The 1894 Group, a prominent fan organization, led the charge, demanding an explanation from the club.
John Wardle, under immense pressure, stepped forward to address the concerned fans. He acknowledged their passion for the club but emphasized Miller's financial capabilities and his commitment to Manchester City's future.
Gran Stone, a respected fan leader, countered Wardle's argument, questioning Miller's credibility as an outsider with no football experience.
Miller, sensing the growing tension, intervened. He confronted Stone, accusing him of prioritizing sentiment over results. Miller highlighted his significant financial investment and demanded patience from the fans.
Impressed by Miller's directness and determination, many fans began to reconsider their stance. They recognized that while Miller's approach might be unconventional, his commitment to the club was undeniable.
As Miller departed the scene, Gran Stone was left contemplating his words. While still apprehensive, Stone acknowledged that Miller's actions might be the catalyst for a new era at Manchester City.
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