From Arsenal to the Ball God

"At least it no longer seems empty."

Mendes suddenly remembered a deep conversation he had with Ah Bu and laughed, "Of course, you have another goal, which is to become an immortal legend of this club.

"This goal is just within reach. If you can truly lead Arsenal to win the championship undefeated and immediately announce your retirement, you would be considered an immortal legend by Arsenal fans."

"Haha.....!"

Ma’el laughed along with him, wondering if Mendes’ words hinted that it’s difficult for active players to earn a similar title.

When players achieve significant accomplishments, fans might need some time to react and buffer before realizing what it truly means.

It’s not just the fans; he too needs time, which is quite normal.

Just go for it without overthinking it; once everything falls into place, what should come will definitely come!

"Ding dong!"

The doorbell rang at this moment, and Safina went to open the door, seeing Ma’el’s uncle and aunt with the whole family of five standing outside.

"Brother!" Eva, as always, was the first to run over, throwing herself around Ma’el’s waist, her eyes sparkling as she reached out to him.

Ma’el picked her up, spun around in the living room a few times, and kissed her cheek.

"Hehe..." Eva was very happy, and she noticed Isabella, reaching out to her, remembering the pretty sister always brought candy for her.

Ma’el sensed she wanted to go to Isabella and put her down, then he smiled at his uncle and aunt.

The once quiet living room was becoming more lively; his supporters had all gathered, ready to head to the stadium from here.

They all knew this was his important moment and certainly wouldn’t miss it.

The only regret was that his best friend Gilbert couldn’t be here, as he also had a league match to play today.

"Go Ma’el." Aunt Betty came up to shake his hand; they no longer seemed unfamiliar, "Last time watching you win the championship in Sheffield United in person was unforgettable.

"We’re hoping to see you win in London today, which would certainly be a different feeling."

"Indeed." Clément walked over and gave Ma’el’s arm a squeeze, "The Emirates Stadium is so big; celebrating here with the fans would be unique."

Ma’el smiled and nodded at them, asking, "How are we going to get there later? There are so many people, we’d need at least three cars."

"I’ll handle it." Mendes took over this task; today, they’re all watching the match in the private box Ma’el booked, so they can leave together.

"Good."

Ma’el glanced at the time; it was already in the afternoon, and he planned to go upstairs to rest for a while and also prepare some things needed for the match, "Everyone, feel free to look around, the room is spacious with plenty of entertainment facilities.

"I’ll head upstairs to prepare; there’s still more than three hours before the match starts."

"Go ahead!"

"We believe in you...!"

"You’re the best, brother!"

The group waved at him, cheering him on; today is bound to be an extraordinary day.

...

"Breaking news from BBC, it is now half-past five in the afternoon! There are two hours left until the match begins!

"We are witnessing a breathtaking scene outside; on the road where the two teams’ buses are passing, Arsenal fans have flooded the area, making it completely packed! They’re waving banners, waiting for today’s main event to arrive!

"At least 20,000 people are crammed on this street, their chants are overwhelming and can be heard on nearby streets as well!

"I estimate that at least 150,000 Arsenal fans have arrived in North London; most of them don’t have tickets but plan to watch the game nearby, accompanying the team in their pursuit of the championship title!

"From afar, the bus is approaching! We see Manchester City’s team logo!

"The police presence is somewhat insufficient; Manchester City’s bus is being blocked by Arsenal fans, with someone setting off red smoke bombs, countless people are recording with their phones!"

"Let’s hear the original sound from the scene; cameraman, please increase the volume of the recording equipment!"

"....."

"Come on Arsenal...! Come on Arsenal...!! Come on Arsenal...!!"

Around the bus, Arsenal fans shouted in unison with a unified rhythm, their momentum was magnificent and deafening, along with the resonating sound from the nearby streets.

Manchester City’s bus moved at a speed of one meter every few seconds; they entered earlier to account for these considerations since they anticipated how difficult this route would be.

"Regret now, Nasri! Cry now, Klich! We’re about to win the championship after you left!"

Mockery became the main theme that followed; after taking photos, fans raised their middle fingers, venting their frustrations and anger that had built up during last season’s summer window toward Nasri and Klich.

"You have nothing! Mancini leads you into the abyss! Wenger and Ma’el lead us to victory...!"

"One Ma’el is equal to two Nasri plus one Fabregas! The new generation has taken up the Gunner’s banner!"

"So what if you have money? We’re about to win the championship!"

"Come on Arsenal...!"

Such behavior undoubtedly carried a sense of schadenfreude; there are many factors in player transfers, labeling departing players as traitors or enemies doesn’t seem too humane.

But year after year selling team captains!

Year after year selling core players!

Year after year watching Future Stars, whom the team had nurtured and had high hopes for, leave!

Only Arsenal fans understand the grievances in their hearts; they’ve long awaited the team’s revival for their turn to retaliate.

They can’t abandon their position, they just want to vent—hatred born from love.