Chapter 63: Glory???

Page 1/3

Whether it was reporters or ordinary people spending time with Momo, they all noticed that he often uttered strange phrases. Yet these sayings frequently became popular catchphrases on the internet. Take, for example, "Strength brings miracles."

This was something Momo said during an interview with Sports Weekly. When asked why he had kicked the ball so far off target the first time, a question meant just to lighten the mood, Momo paused briefly, then smiled and replied, “Isn't there a saying? Strength brings miracles!”

“Strength brings miracles!” When this phrase spread online, it delighted netizens immensely. Even the usually serious Germans couldn’t help but chuckle. Of course, those deeply involved in football shook their heads in disbelief.

Back then, Hao Haidong, a prominent Chinese player, responded with a witty retort: “That brat! Does that make me the master of using minimal force for maximum effect?”

These two lines even inspired a comic strip: Momo shouting “Strength brings miracles!” as he takes a powerful shot, followed by Hao Haidong striking a Tai Chi pose, quietly murmuring “Using minimal force for maximum effect.”

But let’s set these aside for now. It’s important to remember that Momo has become a public figure. More people want to understand him, which is why he agreed to the interview.

Some might think that at over 40 years old, combining his two lives, Momo would be mature and steady. But Momo insists his temper is quite the opposite. He’s always believed the saying, “A kind person gets bullied; a gentle horse gets ridden.”

Perhaps Momo doesn’t seek trouble, but he’s never one to shy away from it. When asked why he couldn’t hold back in the crucial moments—especially since hiring a lawyer afterward would have been wiser—Momo said many things, but the one phrase people remembered most was simply:

“Don’t be afraid, just do it.”

This phrase became a catchphrase among the 80s and 90s generation, often shouted during gaming sessions. In a way, it further boosted Momo’s fame.

The Sports Weekly interview didn’t last long, allowing Momo some rare downtime.

Page 2/3

Momo was suspended for five matches, which meant he wouldn’t play again until February of the next year (2003). If he transferred during the winter window, the suspension would carry over to his new league.

Because of this, clubs quietly began to lower their offers for Momo.

“But they don’t understand, Mino. I won’t cave under club pressure,” Momo said, his eyes shining with a peculiar light. “What’s there to fear? I’m only 17! And with you, Mino, why worry?”

Besides, does Munich 1860 have the guts? They’re practically eager to trade Momo for cold, hard cash.

“Is that kid really that reliable?” Mino asked, referring to Guo Xiaojun, who had confirmed Momo’s identity. Momo had asked Mino to provide Guo with startup funds.

“No idea. But it’s fine. I’m just hoarding dust with this money, right?”

At this, Momo seemed to recall something and asked, “By the way, Mino, what about those players I asked you to find? Why haven’t you found any yet?”

Mino grew a bit gloomy. Had he found anyone? He had. But once the other clubs heard the players were moving abroad, their demands skyrocketed.

Would Mino take such a loss? Of course not. The talks fell through, and he said goodbye.

Momo tilted his head in frustration, but Mino gave a cryptic smile.

“You little brat, what are you thinking? I’m not coming back empty-handed.”

Momo was puzzled. “What do you mean not empty-handed?”

“This guy, called Rong Guang, I saw him in a video—a rural kid with incredible speed, really fast!”

“This one’s Su Xixi, quick reflexes, 1.9 meters tall, could be a goalkeeper!”

“And Zhang Meng is a beast—strong as a monster. I think he’d be perfect as either a defender, forward, or maybe a defensive midfielder.”

Seeing Mino’s playful expression, Momo’s eyes lit up with surprise and uncertainty.

“You mean...?”

Mino smiled mysteriously and said:

Page 3/3

“That’s right. I’m willing to sign them. I plan to bring them abroad, but their families aren’t too keen.”

“Rong Guang is easier to persuade—his family’s poor, though the villagers don’t trust me. Su Xixi’s family is well-off and wants him to join the military. Zhang Meng’s family is average, but he’s already attending a good university studying finance, so probably won’t pursue football.”

Momo looked at Mino and asked, “Do they like football?”

Mino nodded confidently.

“If I get involved, will their families let them go?”

Mino didn’t answer directly, but his words implied: “You won’t know unless you try.”

Momo suddenly smiled warmly, then bowed deeply.

“Thank you, Mino.”

Though uncertain about their talent, Momo trusted Mino’s judgment. Mino was known for his sharp eye and skillful transfer dealings.

“But there’s one question: after signing them, should I register them with the Chinese Football Association, or take them abroad for trials?”

Hearing this, Momo reluctantly admitted that the domestic system was a mess.

“Take them abroad. If necessary, I’ll add that condition to my transfer: bring these three boys to the youth academy.”

(This wasn’t hard to accept. After all, famous players like Kaka and Balotelli’s relatives have brought acquaintances to their clubs before. It actually helps foster loyalty.)

“You little brat! Are you so sure their families will let them go?”

Momo looked up with a confident smile. The allure of going abroad for Chinese players was undeniable—Mino just didn’t understand.

Thinking of this, Momo gazed at the sky. Maybe in 2006, 2010, or 2014, he’d have a chance to play in the World Cup.

If the national team ever needs an unrivaled football boss, let it be me!