From Arsenal to the Ball God

On May 2nd, in a BBC program, Reinke and Alan Shearer appeared on screen once again. After their opening remarks, they brought the topic to Sheffield United.

”Mr. Shearer.”

Reinke jokingly looked at Alan Shearer and said, ”During the first half of the season, we discussed Sheffield United’s excellent performance and specifically mentioned Garrispeed and Ma’el from their team.

”Now, with the Championship coming to an end, when we look back at our initial evaluation, what new thoughts do you have?”

Alan Shearer felt a bit awkward, recalling his comment about running naked around the Thames River if Garrispeed led the team to promotion.

However, everyone tacitly understood that such statements weren’t meant to be serious commitments.

He just needed to be ready to be teased and didn’t actually have to go to the Thames River.

”We underestimated them.”

Alan Shearer steadied his mindset and tried to analyze from a professional perspective, ”Sheffield United is about to complete an exceptional season, an incredible season; they embody the competitive spirit.

”We all know that the Championship League has 46 matches each season, but in past seasons, the winning team often had around 90 points, with some even dropping below 90, which is unreasonable and similar to the 38-round Premier League.

”The reason is simple: mid-to-lower-end teams struggle to pressure the top teams, and the competition among the top teams isn’t very intense either.

”This season, Sheffield United emerged, enhancing competitiveness, forcing other top teams to make changes, and giving their all to fight for victory and points, which heightened the league’s competitiveness.

”We’ve all seen the results; this season, two teams have already broken the 100-point barrier, with third-placed Norwich also breaking the previous season’s highest points record.”

Reinke nodded slightly, steering the conversation, ”Do you think it’s because of Garrispeed that they emerged?”

”Haha.....”

Alan Shearer smiled and shook his head, denying, ”Although Garrispeed’s flagging has led to a lot of fan teasing for me lately, I still have to say that, at least upon taking the position, he didn’t have the capability to coach a Championship contending team.

”Why did Sheffield United emerge? It’s something everyone knows—because of Ma’el.”

Reinke adjusted his earpiece; he had wanted to steer the conversation here, ”Yes, indeed, it’s because of Ma’el. He achieved unimaginable accomplishments this season, with most of the team’s goals related to him.

”A single-season record of 39 goals and 27 assists, either number alone could make a player the season’s best, yet he combined these two phenomenal stats!

”Debut season with 66 goal involvements in 45 matches; I have to say, no other football genius has reached his level in their debut season! He almost redefined genius, showcasing extraordinary standards.”

”Not even Ronaldo?” Alan Shearer asked with a smile, referencing a hot topic online now.

”No!”

Reinke answered firmly, risking fan backlash, ”Look at his achievements; he’s already led the team to promotion, besides securing the top scorer and assist king titles, both in record-breaking fashion.

”You have to believe that he has the ability to become a mainstay in a Premier League giant at age 18 and gradually pursue those Premier League records.”

At this, he recalled something and laughed aloud, ”I just remembered, Mr. Alan Shearer holds the record for Premier League goals. Do you think his entry into the Premier League next season will pressure you?”

”No.” Alan Shearer straightened up, chuckling, ”At least not until he’s 23 and reaches his peak years, could he have a chance at that record.

”Don’t say I’m confident; just look, even Cristiano couldn’t break my record before leaving, haha.”

Reinke nodded; there was some truth to his words, but he still felt this miraculous youngster might surprise everyone entering the Premier League.

......

Over the next few days, Ma’el adjusted his condition, quietly awaiting the arrival of the match.

On May 4th, he halted extra training, dedicating all his time to rest, striving to appear in his best form at Queens Park Rangers’ home ground.

”I got tickets for you all.”

That afternoon, he took out 11 tickets and handed 2 to Safina and Harry, smiling, ”At that time, sit with Mr. Wenger and my family.”

After his aunt asked for 5 tickets, others also sought tickets for this focal match.

First, his youth team coach Hans called him, asking for 2 tickets, saying he would come along with Mr. Wenger.

Then Mr. Mendes, recognizing the match’s significance, also expressed wanting to witness it firsthand.

Finally, Miss Isabella, after asking if his relatives would attend, surprisingly asked for tickets, claiming she couldn’t book any.... somewhat ridiculous, considering she could easily purchase them at a high price.

Thus, Ma’el requested 9 VIP tickets from the club right away, then added 2 more, remembering Harry and Safina.

An 11-member family and friends support group.

He’s doing well; within the support group are two Premier League team coaches, a top-tier agent, two super league-level physiotherapists, a wealthy lady, and five family members.