Miller vehemently disagreed with Keegan's transfer suggestions. While maintaining a polite demeanor, he emphasized the club's focus on acquiring high-potential youngsters in the future.
Keegan, accustomed to wielding significant control over transfers, fell silent. He likely sensed a shift in power and the potential loss of his influence. Both men, intelligent and perceptive, understood the unspoken communication. Keegan suspected his days were numbered, and Miller recognized that suspicion.
However, relegation wasn't a concern with Keegan at the helm, so Miller wasn't overly worried about short-term performance.
Following the meeting with Keegan, Miller hosted a team dinner to appease the players and maintain morale. Despite the majority being outside his long-term plans, they displayed enthusiasm upon learning about the club's renewed financial backing. Anelka and Haaland, however, remained indifferent.
Haaland's impending retirement explained his lack of excitement. Anelka, on the other hand, raised a red flag for Miller. His talent was undeniable, but his commitment to the team seemed lacking. Getting rid of Anelka became a priority.
The dinner served a double purpose. First, Miller targeted Sun Jihai, a 25-year-old Chinese defender in his prime. Sun Jihai's presence not only offered reliable defense but also opened the lucrative Chinese market to Manchester City. This, combined with Sandezi's business acumen, could translate into a robust Chinese business network.
Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.
Miller, surprisingly adept at social interaction, quickly established a rapport with Sun Jihai, breaking down cultural barriers with humor and informality. This unexpected approach contrasted with the typical image of a reserved Chinese American investor. In reality, Miller's previous life as a bar-savvy financial whiz provided him with the social skills to navigate these situations.
Next, Miller approached the somber figure of Alf-Inge Haaland, the veteran Norwegian striker burdened by a debilitating knee injury. Haaland contemplated retirement and returning to Norway to coach youth teams.
Miller surprised Haaland by offering him a position at Manchester City, acknowledging his professionalism and spirit despite his minimal playing time. The offer of a youth coaching role reignited a spark in the seasoned player's eyes. This opportunity meant financial security for his family, something he couldn't ignore.
Although Haaland might eventually return to Norway, Miller had a bigger plan. Haaland's son, Erling Braut Haaland, a future goal-scoring machine, was still a young prospect. Miller, already aware of Erling's potential, intended to integrate him into the Manchester City youth academy.
The dinner concluded before 10 pm, leaving everyone with a positive impression despite the lack of alcohol. Miller then approached Bernstein with a proposition.
"Bernstein," Miller announced, "Let's go to Paris in a few days."
Bernstein, intrigued, inquired, "Paris? What for?"
Miller, a mischievous grin spreading across his face, replied, "To buy a buck-toothed guy."
Bernstein's eyebrows shot up. Who could this "buck-toothed guy" be? The suspense hung heavy as Miller prepared for his next move – a significant acquisition that would reshape the future of Manchester City.