The World Cup trophy gleaming in photos, the endless celebrations, the roar of a nation – it all felt like a dream, a glorious, impossible dream. But it was real. Nathan had an "S" rating. He was a World Cup winner. He was the GOAT. Or at least, on the path to it.
The return to Manchester was a whirlwind. The airport was mobbed, the streets lined with screaming fans, red flags everywhere. It was a hero's welcome. He was no longer just Nathan, the promising young talent. He was Nathan, World Cup Champion.
But the real world, the club world, beckoned. After a brief, well-deserved break, it was back to Carrington, Manchester United's training ground. The familiar red crest on his training gear felt heavier, imbued with new meaning.
He walked into the changing room, and the usual banter paused. A cheer went up, and he was immediately engulfed in a wave of hugs and slaps on the back.
