8. Leicester City vs Manchester United (1)
Author: (This story is purely fictional and events differ from reality! A parallel world)
Since Leicester City's victory over Crystal Palace, the team has continued its unbeaten run. From that moment on, Kevin consistently scored hat-tricks! With an increasingly packed schedule, they were also set to play in the Carling Cup. A surprise came when their next opponent was announced.
A. Carling Cup 2007–2008
Fourth Round
Date: October 31, 2007
Match: Leicester City vs Manchester United
...
Steve McClaren (England National Team Coach):
"If you ask whether I'll call up Kevin Kraut? In my opinion, we already have enough senior players with vast experience like Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, Wayne Rooney, John Terry, Rio Ferdinand, David Beckham, Joe Cole, Ashley Cole, and Michael Owen. For UEFA Euro 2008, which will take place from June 7 to 29, 2008, we believe our squad is sufficient. Kevin Kraut is still too young—he's not even 17 yet…"
Steve McClaren:
"I'm fully prepared. We're going to be champions! I've been ready from the start. Apologies for your question, I don't mean to underestimate Kevin Kraut. He's still young, and maybe for the World Cup, I'll consider calling him up to the national team."
Author: (Steve McClaren didn't know that if he had brought Kevin, the result would have been different. They would have definitely become champions! Kevin Kraut is our protagonist! The Hat-trick King!)
Kevin Kraut's comment:
"I'm not offended by Mr. McClaren's statement. Of course, he knows what's best for the national team and the squad, including the seniors. I hope the national team will succeed! Oh, if you're asking about the match against Manchester United—I don't know what the result will be. But I'll definitely give my best. I'm really excited!"
Alex Ferguson when asked by the media:
"It's quite surprising that Leicester City has made it this far. I won't underestimate them, and I won't be fielding a second-tier squad. I'll take this seriously. Kevin Kraut is a genius kid—some say he's a monster on the pitch. He scores in every match—"
Alex Ferguson smiled:
"Just look at Ronaldo, where he is now. People used to doubt him, and now many fear him on the field. I see Kevin being just as great as our Ronaldo."
Alex Ferguson continued:
"Of course I'm interested in Kevin Kraut. He's incredible, astonishing, and he's picked up a lot of tricks from senior players. Even his free kicks mimic David Beckham's style. Every time I watch him play, he scores from dead-ball situations. I like that kid, and I hope I can mentor him well in the future."
Arsène Wenger, when asked by the media, responded:
"I've always liked young players. At Arsenal, we have many talented youngsters… Kevin Kraut… A good kid, and he's taken his team this far. I'm impressed, that's all."
José Mourinho:
"We already have many great players at Chelsea, and we're currently in a strong position. If Kevin Kraut wants to join Chelsea, we would welcome him warmly."
José Mourinho, usually known for his arrogance and reserved attitude, this time gave an unusually open statement. He didn't even reject media questions as he often does.