The silence that followed Diego Nunez's chaotic goal didn't last long. It was replaced by a sound much more terrifying than cheering: the sound of Pep Guardiola shouting in Catalan.
On the touchline, the City manager had shed his cardigan like a snake shedding its skin. Underneath, he wore a tight black turtleneck.
"Fuck," Michael Sterling whispered, watching the transformation. "He's gone full Bond villain."
Arthur Milton, who had just regained consciousness after fainting, peeked through his fingers. "Boss, is that the 'Tactical Turtleneck'? We studied this. It means +10 to Pressing Intensity."
"It means we are about to suffer, Arthur," Michael replied grimly, buttoning his suit jacket. "Get the water bottles ready. We're going to need them."
KICKOFF RESTART.
The ball moved. And suddenly, the pitch felt half the size.
