Levi was deep in thought as the taxi headed towards Steve Bruce's residence. Turning to Walsh, he asked, "Are you familiar with him?"
Walsh shook his head. "No, but I've met him a few times at fan gatherings. You know, after playing for Manchester United for 9 years, it's hard for die-hard fans like us to pinpoint where he lives. Otherwise, new fans would be swarming to his doorstep for autographs!"
Levi suddenly realized the challenge of locating Bruce's residence amidst the fervent fanbase.
"Hey, are you talking about Steve Bruce?" Jim, the taxi driver, interjected, momentarily turning his attention away from the road and narrowly avoiding a traffic incident.
"Indeed, Jim. Do you know him?" Walsh inquired with a smile.
Jim, a regular at Walsh's bar and a Red Devils Knights member, chuckled. "I didn't know him before, but I drove him to a press conference today. Seems like he's in good spirits. If you can recruit him for New Manchester United, he might even play for the team, which would be quite the bargain!"
Levi and Walsh laughed along with Jim. Even a taxi driver could see the potential, further affirming Levi's decision.
Though it had been two years since Bruce left Manchester United, he hadn't sold his house there. During his time in Birmingham, he still frequently returned to Manchester with his wife and son, rather than his hometown of Newcastle.
Due to his recent trip, Jim had a familiar air as he drove Levi and the others to a serene villa community. While not opulent, the neighborhood offered tranquility and security.
The security guards halted Levi and his companions at the community gate. After confirming Bruce's approval, they granted them entry.
Arriving at Bruce's villa, Levi spotted Bruce and his son awaiting them at the gate. Bruce appeared relaxed in casual attire, embodying the essence of home.
Bruce's son, 14 years old, would later pursue a professional career, albeit without the same success as his father. Such divergent paths were not uncommon in football's history.
"Hello, Mr. Bruce!" Levi greeted warmly.
"Hello, Mr. Levi!" Bruce reciprocated with kindness, before extending the same courtesy to Walsh and Jim, and inviting the trio into his home.
Bruce's villa exuded warmth and simplicity, mirroring his demeanor. Levi couldn't help but compare it to the ostentatious lifestyles of modern footballers, pondering the necessity of such extravagance.
Despite his legendary status, Bruce maintained a humble disposition, even in the presence of Jim, the taxi driver.
This initial encounter shattered Levi's preconceptions of Premier League personalities. Could this courteous family man truly roar like Ferguson on the football field?
"Apologies for intruding, Mr. Bruce!" Levi expressed regret.
Bruce waved off his concerns with a smile. "No trouble at all, Mr. Levi. I've been eager to meet you. Your reputation precedes you!"
Pointing to a newspaper article on the table detailing New Manchester United, Bruce commended the "Red Rebels" moniker.
Though his tone was light, his sincerity was palpable to everyone present.
"Allow me to be direct. We would like you to be our head coach!" Levi declared.
Bruce appeared momentarily stunned, then smiled apologetically. "I'm sorry, Mr. Levi. Just today, I decided not to renew my contract with Birmingham. I wish to spend more time with my wife and son. The life of a player is exhausting, and I owe them that much."
Though disappointed, Levi nodded understandingly.
"I understand Mr. Bruce's aspirations. However, I believe your character and talents make you an excellent coach. Please consider it," Levi urged.
"While our club is newly formed, our passion for the game and love for Manchester United are unwavering. We aim to rise above the amateur leagues and compete with Manchester United. I believe it will be a historic match!"
"Our invitation isn't solely based on your Manchester United legacy, but also on your skills, professionalism, and character. We believe these qualities will greatly benefit our fledgling team!" Levi passionately conveyed.
Levi poured his heart out, knowing that Bruce remained unmoved.
Walsh, sensing Levi's disappointment, interjected to offer support.
"Mr. Bruce, do you recall me? I'm Andy Walsh!"
Bruce seemed to recognize Walsh, recalling their encounters at fan gatherings.
"Yes, Mr. Walsh. I've seen you representing the fan club on several occasions," Bruce acknowledged.
Walsh continued, "I'm now Mr. Levi's assistant. We, along with all the fans, earnestly hope you'll come back home!"
"Come back home?" Bruce's emotions stirred.
"Yes, back home, Mr. Bruce. New Manchester United represents the soul of Manchester United, carried forward by loyal fans. We hope you'll return and continue to bring us the joy of football!" Walsh fervently appealed.
Moved by Walsh's words, Bruce felt a sense of kinship with New Manchester United's mission. Their slogan echoed in his mind: "One Soul!"
"As Jock Stein once said, 'Football is nothing without fans.' When Manchester United fails to appreciate our grassroots supporters, we must find our spiritual refuge. That's New Manchester United!" Levi made a final impassioned plea.
Bruce nodded, reflecting on Manchester United's current state. Many former stars, including Ferguson, had voiced displeasure with the club's decisions. Bruce, as an old Manchester United man, resonated with New Manchester United's ethos.
Agreeing to consider their offer, Bruce requested time for deliberation.
Though disheartened by the outcome, Levi remained resolute. As they departed, Levi remembered something and turned back.
"Mr. Bruce, I heard Sheffield United is also interested in you as player-manager. But in my opinion, they aren't the right fit for you, given your deep ties to Manchester United," Levi remarked.
Bruce was taken aback. When had Sheffield United extended an offer? And where had Levi learned of this?
Before he could inquire further, Levi and his companions had left.
Perhaps sensing Levi's disappointment, Jim deliberately slowed the taxi, offering tacit support.
"Don't worry, Levi. Bruce said he'll consider it. That means there's still hope, right?" Walsh reassured him, though he harbored doubts.
Determined, Levi declared, "Andy, mark my words. I'll lead New Manchester United to the Premier League and compete with the likes of Manchester United, Arsenal, Juventus, Real Madrid, and Barcelona!"
Walsh and Jim were taken aback by Levi's resolve. As they continued their journey, Walsh offered his support.
"But when New Manchester United becomes a giant, don't emulate Edwards, or we'll need to start anew!" Jim chimed in, injecting humor into the moment.
Levi and Walsh laughed, the sound echoing outside the taxi. Though setbacks awaited, Levi's determination remained unshaken.