The road to godhood starting from Ligue 1

Chapter 287 Giving Captain Gaio an Armband

Before the match against Bordeaux, reporters asked Hagibegic if he would choose to rotate the squad, but Hagibegic brushed it off.

And when the starting lineup was announced an hour before the match started.

Many people were stunned!
Is Bastia determined to lose this match?

Almost the entire team has been rotated!

Apart from goalkeeper Damian Martinez, the rest of the starting lineup was completely different from the starting lineup for Bastia's previous match against Inter Milan.

Against a mid-table Ligue 1 team like Bordeaux, this lineup is clearly ineffective.

Bastia were already down 0-1 at halftime.

In the second half, Hagi Begic remained determined not to make any adjustments.

The team had no complaints about the decision, partly because the atmosphere within Bastia was already very harmonious.

Another very important reason is that Paris Saint-Germain is competing on three fronts: the Champions League, the French Cup, and the league. In particular, they are 13 points behind Bastia in the league, and their league match kicks off an hour earlier.

At halftime, the result was announced for Paris: their away game against Saint-Étienne ended in a 2-2 draw.

Hagi Bejić originally made the decision to rotate the entire squad with the intention of giving Paris three points, but Paris failed to capitalize on that.

Even after losing, the point difference between them is still 12 points.

It's perfectly acceptable.

So in the second half, Bastia played slowly and without any rush.

The broadcast cameras kept focusing on Bastia's bench.

Especially Gaio.

The TF1 commentator remarked, "Zidane and Deschamps were both in the stands at Bordeaux for this match. Clearly, they wanted to scout players like Gaião and Kanté, but unfortunately, Bastia rested their entire squad for this game."

In fact, neither of them cared about this at all.

Anyone with a discerning eye could see that Bastia would definitely be rotated out for today's match.

There is no need to come to the scene.

But Zidane and Deschamps still came.

This has nothing to do with the competition.

Instead, at a time when news about Gaio is flying everywhere, they are using this action to firmly stand behind Gaio.

Expressing support for Gaio.

While watching the "boring" match, Deschamps asked Zidane for information, "How's Rafael doing lately? Are there any promising French talents in La Liga?"

Deschamps' biggest headache right now is that France currently has too few available players, and there's a severe lack of players who can truly impress.

Zidane shrugged. "I only know Real Madrid well. Rafael has been very consistent, but he still needs time to develop. Also, we should keep an eye on Antoine Griezmann from Real Sociedad."

The two chatted intermittently.

Ultimately, we'll return to the topic of Gaio.

Deschamps said, "After the match against Spain, which is the end of this World Cup qualifying cycle, I plan to let Yang wear the captain's armband."

Zidane was somewhat surprised, "Isn't this a bit too aggressive?"

Deschamps turned and smiled. "Aren't you radical too?"

Haha.

At this point, the two exchanged a smile.

Zidane added, "It's not that I'm aggressive, it's just that Young has improved too quickly!"

This is also true.

From the end of the Blanc era, Gaião earned the number 10 jersey for the national team through his talent and ability. Now, he is about to wear the captain's armband for the French national team and become the true captain of France.

On the field,

The pace of the game was slow for both sides, and the match itself was rather uneventful.

Finally, when the referee blew his whistle, the score was 2-0.

Bastia lost away from home.

However, there were no signs of disappointment on the bench. Perhaps only the substitutes on the field were a little disappointed, having finally gotten a chance to start but failing to win.

After the match,

HagiBejic commented on the rotation, saying, "Playing on two fronts is a choice we had to make."

As for the Europa League match three days later, Hagi Bejic shook his head, "At this point, there's nothing more to say but to give it our all."

Meanwhile, a reporter asked Hagi Bejic whether Stramaccioni's current precarious position as manager was good or bad for Bastia.

Hagi Bejic did not answer directly, but said, "That's the challenge of being a head coach. We have to do our best, we have to satisfy the fans, the players, and the team before we can continue our work. Stramaccioni is still young, and I believe he will handle the pressure. This is the only way to become a great head coach."

While Hagi Begic attended the post-match press conference, Gaio met with Zidane and Deschamps.

The two then each hugged Gaio.

This scene,
It was captured on camera by reporters nearby.

After exchanging a few words, the three parted ways. Deschamps left first, while Zidane was stopped by reporters to ask if he could give an interview.

Zidane nodded without hesitation; if he didn't want to be interviewed, he wouldn't have been stopped.

The reporter asked, "Zidane, welcome back to Bordeaux! Thank you for the interview. As a legend of French football and a former hero of this city, did you come all this way to watch this league match between Bastia and Bordeaux mainly to observe Gaio? After all, his recent performance at the San Siro has amazed Europe."

Zidane's eyes held a warm sense of reminiscence, and his smile was genuine: "Returning to Bordeaux always feels special. The air here, the stadium, and those familiar streets—they hold the dreams and sweat of my early career."

Today, I'm here to visit old friends and experience the passion for football, and of course, to witness Yang's current brilliance up close. His recent performance has been so dazzling that it's hard not to focus your attention on him.

Hearing Zidane's answer, the reporter knew that he wasn't averse to talking about Gaio, which was quite a coincidence, as she also wanted to interview Zidane about his opinion on Gaio.

So the reporter immediately asked, "How would you evaluate his breakout performance over the past year? Especially on the Bastia platform?"

Zidane squinted and answered without hesitation: "Looking at Yang sometimes reminds me of my younger self—not in terms of technical style, but in terms of the amazing energy that bursts forth when entrusted with responsibility in an environment of trust. In Bordeaux, I was fortunate to meet coaches and teammates who understood me and gave me space to grow."

Meanwhile, in Bastia, Yann is experiencing a similar, or even greater, story, carrying the weight of a team, an island, and even a part of the imagination of French football on his shoulders.

After the game at San Siro, I read the report about him.

Frankly, it's not just a story about football; it's an epic about the depths of humanity and the resilience of redemption.

"His achievements at Bastia – leading the team back to Ligue 1, competing for European qualification, and performing a miracle in the Europa League – are mutually reinforcing with his explosive growth in personal ability."

This place gave him the same trust and platform that Bordeaux had given me back then, and he repaid me with absolute loyalty and unimaginable value.

The challenges, pressure, and experience of playing on two fronts he went through here are invaluable assets that no top club can fully replicate, allowing him to mature into a truly top player much faster.

Reporter: "We noticed that Bastia made significant changes to their lineup today, and the key players are clearly fatigued. Gaio, as the absolute core player, did not play. What advice do you have for him?"

Zidane shook his head and laughed, "Advice? A player like Young never needs rigid advice. His intrinsic motivation far surpasses that of ordinary people."

My 'optimism' about him isn't about doubting his ability, but rather a conviction that he possesses the superstar quality to decide the highest level of competition—just like we were eager to prove ourselves in this city back then.

As for fatigue?

This is part of a great journey; shining on the top stage inevitably comes with extraordinary efforts.

I believe that Bastia's coaching staff and Young himself are well aware of the importance of the art of balance. Protecting the core players is to unleash their greatest and most decisive energy in more crucial moments.

I'm also very pleased to be here today and to see that Deschamps shares my focus and expectations. The future of the French team needs players with talent, fighting spirit, and a championship mentality. Jan's path, the will he has shown, and his ability to solve problems on the field have placed him at the center of this spotlight.

Reporter: "So, do you think Gaião is ready to become the core of the French national team?"

Zidane did not answer the question directly, but said, "In the world of football, 'being ready' is a dynamic process. But the qualities that Yang is showing now—the composure in crucial moments, the decisiveness to turn the tide, and the indomitable will to compete, forged in the depths of despair—are precisely the core elements for leading a great team to conquer the pinnacle."

And anyone who has seen Yang's performance in the national team knows that he is, in fact, the core of the team's flank and an absolute explosive force.

I am honored to have witnessed the rise of such a star as an observer and a supporter of French football. I believe that everyone who loves French football shares my fervent and unconditional anticipation for its future.

After a few simple questions, Zidane ended the interview, but he had basically said everything he wanted to say.

The reporter naturally got the information they wanted, and everyone was happy.

After all, who is Zidane?

The GOAT of French football! He publicly stated that Gaião has the 'qualifying temperament for the highest level of competition,' which is more reliable than any scouting report!
This is blatantly supporting Gaio.

The entire Bastia team returned to Corsica that night, and the match against Bordeaux did not cause much of a stir.

More news about Bastia was overshadowed by Zidane's public support for Gaio and Bastia's upcoming do-or-die second leg match against Inter Milan.

There are many disturbances from the outside world.

This even gradually affected the team atmosphere in Bastia, making the players slightly nervous.

After practice the day before the match, Hagi Begic called everyone together.

His gaze swept over everyone; this usually extremely strict, old-school coach's eyes softened considerably this time.

"The sun is shining today, it's a good day to play football, right?"

The players laughed.

Hagi Bejic continued, "I know everyone is thinking about that big test tomorrow night. Inter Milan, the giants of the San Siro, are coming in with a two-goal 'debt'. The media outside is in an uproar, saying we're the dark horse, saying they're going to turn things around."

He shrugged and said dismissively, "Let them talk." "Last week in Bordeaux was a 'mini-break' I gave everyone! We weren't just conserving our strength, we were saving our energy! Saving up our batteries!"

"Look at your training today, you're like you've got brand new batteries! That's exactly what we want! Every bit of energy we save on the Bordeaux pitch is for tomorrow night at the Stade de la Cerro ...

Hajibejich still struggled to maintain a gentle tone, and his speech gradually turned vulgar.

But the players liked his straightforwardness, and they all laughed, gradually easing their tension.

Haji Begitch realized he was getting excited again, smiled, and continued, "I believe you've all mastered the tactics on the whiteboard these past few days. There are three core points, to put it simply:"

'Defense' must be solid: Kanté, the midfield cleanup is up to you, be a vacuum cleaner! Van Dijk and Anguilla, you two are the anchors, clear out the high balls and ground balls! Don't panic, hold your positions, and call out to each other! Set pieces, same old rules, man-marking, one person in one spot!

Attack quickly: Gaião, Mane, Lukaku! What's the counter-attack signal? An opponent makes a mistake! Or we clear the ball successfully! When you see the ball come out, don't hesitate, surge forward like three lightning bolts! Yang, once you get the ball, play however you feel comfortable! Trust your instincts! Dribble past them if you can, pass to a better-positioned brother if you can, do whatever is most efficient!
Finally, you need to be quick-witted: De Bruyne, you're the brain, you control the tempo. We're leading, don't rush, keep possession, let them run more."

Hagi Bejic waved his hand, "Oops, I've said too much again. That's all. Remember, you represent not just Bastia, but all of Corsica! The fans on the island are watching. This is not only a historic moment for Bastia, but also a historic moment for the island of Corsica. But don't see this as pressure, see it as motivation! See it as glory!"

"Inter Milan is strong? Of course! But don't forget, now they've come to our turf, wanting to turn the tables? Ask the pitch at Cesar if they'll allow it! Ask our 20,000 fans if they'll allow it!"

"Alright, stop holding back! That's enough training for today. Go back and get some rest, watch some TV, listen to some music, and don't keep thinking about the game. Get plenty of rest, and tomorrow night, let's turn Cesar into a sea of ​​joy and send Inter Milan home."

"Dismissed! Remember, tomorrow is a holiday, not war. Enjoy it! Fight, Bastia!"

The players were all beaming, and they all roared, "Fight, Bastia!"

After dissolution.

Gaio and his companions walked in the gentle sea breeze, their gazes unwavering.

Having come this far, their ultimate goal is now only one—

Europa League Champions!
Gaio gazed at the distant Mediterranean Sea, where the water rippled, and his heart was filled with determination: "I will use the Europa League as a farewell gift to Bastia."

After the training session ended that day.

Hagibejic and Rothen attended the pre-match press conference together.

Hagi Bejic said, "Regarding the Bordeaux match, this was a clear and necessary strategic choice. In a Europa League knockout stage like this, especially after establishing an advantage in the first leg, we had to ensure that our key players were in top form for this decisive match. The league season is long, but European opportunities are fleeting. The players understood and accepted this decision; they knew that tonight in Cesare, it would be our real 'final.'"

As for the tactics and strategy for this match, the core strategy of football is always a balance between attack and defense. We have a two-goal advantage, but that doesn't mean we should be conservative.

Inter Milan is a team with rich European experience and strong individual abilities; they will definitely fight back with all their might. Our goal is to control the tempo of the game, take advantage of our home ground advantage, and demonstrate lethal efficiency in counter-attacks.

In this regard, Young's role is crucial. His performance at the San Siro has proven that he has the ability to change the course of a game under the highest pressure—whether it's speed, dribbling, shooting, or calm decision-making in critical moments.

Tonight at the Cesarian Stadium, amidst the roar of 20,000 fans, I believe he will once again be our sharpest weapon. His very presence is the greatest deterrent to the opponent's defense.

Rothen, who was also present, said when talking about Gaio,

"He's no longer a young man who needs our 'protection.' His hat-trick at the San Siro and his decisive goals in countless crucial matches have made him a true leader and key player for this team!"

His speed can tear through any defense, and his composure allows him to find opportunities in the most chaotic moments.

More importantly, his "Corsican wolf" tenacity is infectious and can inspire the entire team!

Our mission is to make sure the whole team revolves around him, create space for him, relieve the pressure on him, and let him unleash his magic in the attacking third. He's our nuclear weapon, and tonight, we're ready to detonate him again!

On the Bastia side, everyone was clearly in high spirits.

As for Inter Milan on the other side.

They were already behind, so they should have gone all out and fought with their backs against the wall.

however,
Italian media, however, continued to put pressure on Inter Milan, with the biggest speculation being: would Stramaccioni be fired immediately or wait until the end of the season to leave?

In fact, everyone within Inter Milan has their own different opinion on this matter.

Some fans think he should leave, while others think he should stay.

Inter Milan legend "Pin" Altobelli said, "Stramacioni should stay. With Moratti's experience, he knows who is the man to build a competitive team for the future."

Despite the pin's statement, the media has already suggested many names regarding Stramaccioni's successor.

Mazari, Blank, and Mihajlovic are all current candidates.

The media seems to have already made arrangements for Inter Milan.

Italian football transfer expert Di Marzio said, "Stramacioni's fate is closely linked to Inter Milan's upcoming Europa League match against Bastia and their league match against Sampdoria."

If Inter Milan achieves good results, Stramaccioni will be recognized; otherwise, some truly outrageous names will appear on the coaching bench.

Besides Mazzarri, there are also Lucescu and Blanc, with Blanc potentially taking over immediately after Inter Milan's collapse.

Gazzetta dello Sport also stated that although Mihajlovic is currently the head coach of the Serbian national team, he would certainly not refuse an invitation from Inter Milan. Now it remains to be seen how Stramaccioni will perform.

In an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Mihajlovic said, "Yes, coaching Inter Milan is my dream, that would be fantastic."

Spanish media outlets have suggested that Mourinho might return to Inter Milan, as he is very likely to leave Real Madrid this summer. However, several teams, including Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea, are also very interested in him.

Tuttosport even named Zeman and Prandelli, but also acknowledged that their chances of taking over Inter Milan seem slim at present.

Anyway,

Stramaccioni's position as manager has become precarious following a 1-3 home defeat to Bastia.

In fact, it wouldn't be accurate to say that a single match put him in this predicament.

Because no coach will be abandoned because of a single game.

These are all problems that had accumulated over time.

Stramaccioni is a prime example.

Some Italian media outlets have stated that even if Stramaccioni manages to overturn Bastia's defeat, it will only delay his dismissal.

As for these ups and downs.

Stramaccioni himself appeared quite calm at the pre-match press conference against Bastia.

“I believe my job needs to be evaluated after the season ends, not now. I have always had the chairman's support, and of course, he has the final say; he can make whatever decisions he wants. My future will be determined by the team's performance after the season ends, not by a single game. I have never given up; I am very focused, and I will give everything I have.”

Speaking about their upcoming opponent, Bastia, Stramaccioni said, "What we need to think about is the upcoming match. It's really hard to come back from 1-3 down, but we need a little bit of luck to win. We have a limited squad right now, but we will play the game with pride. Gaio is very strong, and we will try to limit him. Then we'll see how we do it."

Due to their recent poor performance, Inter Milan's league ranking has dropped to 5th, further away from a Champions League spot.

Stramaccioni stated, "I need to find a way to restore the team's confidence, which is what we're lacking right now. I need to reassure my players that it's my job to help the team relieve pressure when things aren't going well. A coach must keep a clear head."

Stramaccioni also announced the team's 20-man squad for the match against Bastia, with Alvarez returning from injury.

However, Inter Milan's long injury list still includes several players such as Samuel, Yuto Nagatomo, Milito, and Silvestre.

Inter Milan, severely hampered by injuries, is currently short-handed. However, this situation may be alleviated this summer, as the Nerazzurri have already begun their transfer market activities, with the latest confirmed signing being Argentine midfielder Ruben Bota.

Bota is Inter Milan's fourth signing after Laxalt, Campagnaro, and Andreolli, while Icardi is also very close to joining the club.

Bota is currently applying for an Italian passport, and he will not take up Inter Milan's non-EU player quota.

However, these signings have absolutely nothing to do with this match.

There is no answer as to whether it has any connection to Stramaccioni.

These pre-match comments only fueled the already intense atmosphere surrounding the game.

That night.

There were also incidents of fights between Inter Milan fans and Bastia fans around the Bastia Hotel where Inter Milan players were staying.

The cause was simple: Inter Milan fans vandalized a Gaio graffiti on a street in Bastia.

This angered the Bastia who were passing by, who went up to argue with them, and the pushing and shoving escalated into a fight.

Police quickly arrived at the scene and brought the situation under control. Fortunately, no one from Bastia was injured.

Before the police arrived, Inter Milan fans were given a good talking-to by more passing Bastia fans, who taught them what proper away team etiquette should be.

After mediation, neither party was subject to significant penalties.

Inter Milan fans were fined and will have to find someone to restore the graffiti; while Bastia fans were reprimanded for treating their guests from afar this way.

This was just a little incident before the match.

the next day.

The entire city of Bastia was bathed in blue.

Countless fans took to the streets and headed to the Cesarian Stadium for the crucial second leg of the Europa League match, which was set to kick off at 7 p.m.!
at the same time.

London, England.

Ilion had been preparing to leave London for Belgium to scout young players, but yesterday he received a text message from the team's CEO, Ron Gourley, saying that someone wanted to meet him tonight when Chelsea played Steaua Bucharest at home.

Ilion had some guesses about who could make Ron Gurley personally send this text message.

Especially this morning, when Ilion saw Granovskaia, who had just joined the Chelsea board this year, she told Ilion to prepare for the recent situation of Chelsea's youth academy.

Who else needs him to prepare these things?
The answer is self-evident.

Two hours before Chelsea's match, around 6 p.m., Ilion arrived at the Stamford Bridge stadium office.

He did indeed see the man.

Chelsea owners.

Roman Abramovich.

(End of this chapter)