Kickoff: 15:00 | Old Trafford – March 23, 2026
Jake stood in the tunnel, arms folded, the team sheet already posted and forgotten. He didn't need to look down it again; every name was etched into the plan long before they boarded the coach that morning.
Richter stretched one leg back, rolling his neck side to side, quiet and composed. Not nervous—just present. Ready.
Vélez cracked his knuckles twice, not out of habit but as a rhythm.
Silva leaned against the wall, eyes closed, music in only one ear. Not for focus but to stay aware of the footsteps around him.
Roney bounced on his toes, jaw clenched. The grin was gone, replaced by something tighter, hungrier.
Barnes had both hands on Kang's shoulders, speaking just under his breath. Where they instructions? Perhaps. Or maybe he was just sharing the weight, transfering it across the line before they took the field.
Holloway stood near the end, the youngest starter. No special treatment for him.
