Richard definitely had no intention of changing anything about this so-called Super League idea. He wasn’t particularly invested in it—just curious about the whole affair. So, when the invitation eventually ca knocking at his door, of course he said yes.
However, after listening to what was being discussed, he quickly grew bored. In the end, he didn’t say a single word about the proposal. After all, this eting was rely an "exploratory discussion," and it was destined to go nowhere.
Supposedly, several major corporate sponsors—most notably Adidas, Telepiù, Canal , and Sky Italia—were expected to be involved. But since Adidas was now under Richard’s control after acquiring it from Tapie, he decided to withdraw Adidas’ participation from the controversial event.
Thankfully, no one dared to bring up the reason why Adidas had withdrawn from the project. Perhaps the elites in the room were too proud to ntion it, and for that, Richard was quietly grateful. Still, just because he chose not to participate didn’t an he did nothing.
Richard sent a text ssage: "They’re demanding a bigger share of UEFA’s growing broadcasting and sponsorship profits."
In fact, while the eting was still ongoing, Richard decided to return a favor to Lennart Johansson, who had allowed him onto the pitch during the Champions League final. To him, this so-called "future of football" talk was complete nonsense. At the end of the day, it all ca down to money. The club owners wanted freedom over kit deals and sponsorships, while the sponsors sought exclusive partnerships and event branding.
As the eting was about to conclude, Richard sent one final ssage: "If you promise to reform the Champions League to satisfy the big clubs, they’ll probably back off—for now. But if they stay stubborn, warn them that any breakaway league would lead to bans from dostic competitions and international play."
’Hopefully, this will help you beco UEFA President,’ Richard thought as he put his phone away. With that matter settled, it was finally ti to sit back and enjoy the World Cup.
The 1998 FIFA World Cup was in full swing in France. For the first ti, the tournant featured 32 teams instead of 24, promising more excitent, morable matches, and dramatic upsets. Fans around the world were glued to their screens as legendary players showcased their talent on the grandest stage.
Yet, for England, the World Cup quickly beca a source of frustration and heartbreak. Even before the tournant had concluded, the nation found itself engulfed in anger, disappointnt, and a search for soone to bla.
The defining mont ca in the Round of 16 clash against Argentina. In a critical mont, David Beckham, then only 23 and erging as one of England’s brightest stars, was sent off in the 47th minute after a heated clash with Diego Sione. England, now down to 10 n, were vulnerable, and Argentina seized the opportunity, scoring both of their goals during Beckham’s absence.
Despite the setback, England showed resilience, managing to draw level and force a penalty shootout. But in the end, they fell 4–3 in penalties, bringing their World Cup campaign to a bitter close.
Beckham’s red card triggered a storm of criticism. He beca the focus of abusive letters, relentless dia scrutiny, and public outrage. Overnight, a rising star beca a national scapegoat, his talent overshadowed by one mont of misfortune.
After the match, Beckham went straight to the United States, while the British dia’s criticism of him continued to escalate. Even when France decisively defeated Brazil to win the final, the dia’s condemnation of Beckham showed no signs of stopping.
Richard had enjoyed his ti in France, but as soon as the World Cup concluded, so did his holiday. Before returning to Manchester, however, he made sure to congratulate Zidane, Makélélé, Henry, and Pires, and to console Ronaldo and the others. The topic of Beckham inevitably ca up.
"Nope," Richard shook his head when asked about it.
Before the tournant even began, the British dia had been buzzing about a new generation of English football stars—players who could make their mark on the world stage. Nas like Emile Heskey, Paul Scholes, and Michael Owen were highlighted as rising talents. But when the tournant ended, public opinion shifted, and Beckham beca the focal point of England’s crushing defeat.
"If you’re asking about that red card," Richard said, "I see no issue. Beckham did retaliate, and the referee’s decision was entirely justified."
Makélélé, curious, interjected, "How do you view Diego Sione’s exaggerated fall?"
Richard considered for a mont before replying, "That has nothing to do with what Sione did. The nature of Beckham’s foul was clearly a red card offense. Think of it like being mugged on the street—I might only get a scrape, but if I scream in pain, am I wrong? Exaggerating the injury doesn’t change the fact that I was attacked."
"So, should Beckham be held fully accountable for England’s defeat?"
Richard chuckled, shaking his head. "I don’t think so. You know, the dia can be so strange. When he didn’t play in the group stages, everyone blad Hoddle for not giving him a chance. Then he plays, makes a mistake, and suddenly he’s the scapegoat. Every club has a coach and eleven players on the pitch; winning isn’t solely about one player, and losing isn’t either. No one should take all the bla. It’s the sa here with you all. When you’re here, I’ll make sure to protect you at all costs. That’s my promise to you. Of course, on the pitch it’s a different story—but off it, I’ve got your back."
So nodded thoughtfully, while others remained silent, unsure of how to respond to what Richard had said.
"There are rumors that Beckham will leave England this sumr," Zidane said suddenly, surprising everyone.
"Impossible!"
However, that remark got an unexpected response from Richard. Sensing every eye turning toward him, he cleared his throat.
"I an, that’s impossible. Ferguson won’t let him go, and I believe staying at Manchester United is the best thing for his growth and developnt. But first, let’s end the discussion on Beckham," Richard said, glancing toward the restaurant door as three n entered.
"All right, lads. Enjoy your holiday, and I expect you to co back fit and ready. But before that, let introduce you to soone," Richard said, standing to greet them.
First, he embraced his dear friend Fay Loan, who now served as Vice CEO at Rover Group, after Maddox Auto was dissolved and its brands—Austin, Morris, Triumph, Wolseley, and MG—were sold to the Phoenix Consortium. With the remaining brands, Rover could now focus entirely on Rover and Mini.
Richard smiled warmly at Fay. "Good to see you. How have you been?"
Fay’s eyes narrowed in mock scolding, worry still evident. "I’m supposed to be the one asking that. I hear you’ve been running yourself ragged. You know you need to take care of your body," he said, especially mindful of Richard’s previous injuries.
After greeting Fay, Richard turned to the other two n: Alan Mulally, CEO of Rover Group, and Robert Louis-Dreyfus, CEO of Adidas.
"Now, before you head off on your holiday, let properly introduce you. You probably already know Fay, since she’s often been to the dormitory. But these two are new faces. This is Alan, CEO of Rover Group, and Robert, CEO of Adidas."
The players nodded as they approached the three, though they looked sowhat confused by the unexpected visit.
The first to speak was Alan Mulally of Rover Group. "First of all, congratulations on winning the Premier League and the Champions League. Your performances this season have been outstanding."
He paused, letting the words sink in, before continuing with a proud smile. "To celebrate your achievents—and to show our appreciation—we at Rover want to give each of you a brand-new Range Rover. Fully customized, with your na and number engraved, as a token of recognition for your hard work and dedication."
The players’ eyes widened in surprise. Richard stepped forward, clapping his hands lightly. "You heard him, lads. This isn’t just about the cars—it’s about recognizing your commitnt and excellence on the pitch. And trust , the story behind this gift is just as special as the car itself."
Mulally smiled again. "Consider it both a reward and a celebration of the incredible season you’ve had. And of course, Robert here from Adidas has a few surprises of his own for you as well."
Robert Louis-Dreyfus stepped forward, a warm smile on his face. "And now, from Adidas, we wanted to celebrate your achievents in a way that suits champions like you."
He gestured to a table behind him, where several boxes were opened to reveal prototype, limited-edition Adidas Predator boots. "These are custom-made for each of you, designed to commorate your Premier League and Champions League victories. Every pair is engraved with your na and squad number, and the kits are from our newest line, specially tailored for performance and comfort."
The players’ eyes widened again, so even laughing in disbelief.
"This... is insane!" Capdevilla muttered.
Robert continued, "We want you to wear these on the pitch as a reminder—not just of your victories, but of the hard work, discipline, and teamwork that got you here. And, of course, we hope they inspire even greater achievents in the seasons to co."
Of course, not everyone agreed with the decision. Many criticized the sudden halt of Rover 100 production, seeing it as costly and disruptive, while others praised Richard for prioritizing safety and brand integrity over short-term profits. Still, Richard’s decision forced Mulally to think creatively about how to regain public trust and reposition Rover as a premium, reliable brand.
That’s when Richard ca up with a bold idea: where would be the best place to market the car to reach every audience that traditional ads couldn’t touch?
Not only would it provide high-profile exposure, but gifting the cars to the players also tied emotion and achievent to both parties. Rover could showcase its attention to detail and premium craftsmanship, reinforcing the brand’s image after the Rover 100 fiasco.
As for Adidas, the timing couldn’t have been better. The brand had just released its newest innovation — the Predator Accelerator.
And really, who better to promote a football boot than the players themselves?
Richard saw the perfect opportunity. Instead of relying on flashy comrcials or staged photo shoots, he believed that authenticity sold best.
"Ronaldo, co here."
The Brazilian star looked up in surprise. The room quieted slightly as all eyes turned toward him. Though taken aback, he rose from his seat and walked over to where Richard stood.
"For our global superstar of the tournant," Richard began with a small smile, "I think this one deserves sothing a little different."
Behind him, Dreyfus’s assistant stepped forward carrying a black velvet case embossed with the silver Adidas logo. Inside lay a special pair of boots — midnight black streaked with deep gold, and along the heel, in delicate engraving, were the letters: "R9."
With four goals and three assists, Ronaldo had led Brazil all the way to the final. Even though they didn’t win the championship, this was still his tournant — his fire, his brilliance, his redemption.
Richard then turned and presented another pair — white with royal blue accents, elegant yet powerful. Inside the collar was the phrase "Maître du Jeu" — Master of the Ga.
Zidane chuckled softly, shaking his head as he accepted them. "If I wear these," he said, half-joking, "I might have to score three next ti."
Richard grinned. "Then consider it a challenge."
After that, Richard presented the rest of the boots to all the Manchester City players — each pair personalized, each a symbol of recognition and pride.
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