THE GREATEST OF ALL TIME
chapter-681

681 Season-Opening Game against West Ham

The moment Zachary found out he wasn't on the squad for Liverpool's upcoming match against West Ham United on Sunday, August 12th, it felt like a punch to the gut.

Being the dedicated footballer that he was, the news hit him hard. He couldn't help but feel frustrated as Jürgen Klopp revealed the squad during the team's tactical meeting on Saturday evening. After giving it his all in training and pushing himself to the limit, not making the cut was a tough pill to swallow.

Despite the disappointment, Zachary understood Klopp's decision. He recognized that he was still new to the club and had only been able to participate in a few training sessions. He understood why the head coach could doubt his match fitness for the big game.

Sighing, Zachary quickly pushed the disappointment behind him, setting new objectives. He resolved to continue training hard and aim to make the squad for the next game.

After the tactical meeting, he said his goodbyes to his new teammates and prepared to leave Melwood. However, Coach Jürgen Klopp called him aside for a private conversation.

"Zachary," Klopp began, his voice gentle yet firm, "I know you put in a lot of effort over the past two days, and it's tough not making the squad for tomorrow."

Zachary nodded, meeting Klopp's gaze. "I'm disappointed, but I get it, Coach. My main challenge is fitting into the squad, especially since I missed the preseason."

Klopp nodded and placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "You'll eventually make the squad and cement your place in this club. I have no doubt about that. But you've only had a couple of training sessions with us. Remember, we only left you out this time to allow you an opportunity to settle in and adapt to our style. Your talent and potential are unquestionable, and you're a vital part of my plans for this season."

The words eased Zachary's disappointment, replacing it with renewed determination. "Thank you, Coach. I'll keep working hard."

"That's what I want to hear," Klopp said with a smile. "Now, get some rest. We'll need you ready and sharp next week."

Feeling more motivated after the talk, Zachary left Melwood. The bodyguards arranged by Liverpool drove him back to his new mansion in Woolton, where he spent the night peacefully, his mind now focused on the future.

The following day, the morning of Liverpool's season opener against West Ham, Zachary woke up early. He went through his usual morning routine with a sense of purpose. Yoga, a refreshing shower, and a light, nutritious breakfast set the tone for the day. He then headed to Melwood for a light training session focused on fitness maintenance.

As Zachary stepped onto the grounds of Melwood, he sensed the crackling energy in the air as everyone hustled and bustled about, feverishly preparing for the upcoming game. The anticipation was palpable, lighting a fire in Zachary's belly and propelling him forward with renewed determination.

In the gym, he went through a series of light exercises designed to keep his body in peak condition without exhausting him. He kicked things off with a brisk treadmill warm-up, swiftly moving on to agility drills and light strength training. Throughout the session, Zachary locked into a steady groove, honing his every movement and technique with unwavering focus.

Zachary's mind remained clear and centered on his routines. The only distraction was the occasional glances at the clock that reminded him of the match scheduled to kick off at 2:30 PM. He could almost hear the roar of Anfield and feel the vibration of the stands under the feet of thousands of Liverpool fans, even though the stadium was close to 4 miles away from Melwood.

After completing his session, he showered and changed, feeling invigorated. Although he wasn't part of the squad today, he was still part of the team. So, as the hours ticked down to the match, Zachary spent some time reviewing tactical notes and watching footage of West Ham's recent games, immersing himself in Liverpool's strategy.

As noon approached, Zachary finally stopped reviewing West Ham's recent games as the atmosphere around Melwood grew tenser. He could already feel that the final preparations for the match were in full swing.

Players began arriving, each wearing expressions of intense focus and determination. The first-team players, like Sadio Mané, Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah, and the rest, all exuded powerful auras, like warriors preparing for battle.

Zachary greeted them warmly, wishing them luck. "Good luck out there, Sadio," he said, patting Mané on the back.

"Thanks, Zach," Sadio replied with a smile. "We'll bring home the win."

As Zachary continued to exchange greetings, he felt a sense of camaraderie building. Though he wasn't playing, he felt deeply connected to the team's journey.

Just before the players began boarding the bus to Anfield, Klopp approached Zachary and patted his shoulder. "Keep the fire, Zachary. Your time will soon come."

Zachary nodded, his heart swelling with resolve. "I'll be ready, Coach."

Klopp smiled, his eyes twinkling with his characteristic warmth. "That's the spirit. Are you planning to watch the game?"

"Of course," Zachary replied without hesitation.

"Good man," Klopp chuckled. "You're more than welcome to join us in the dressing room after the match. You can get a feel of the atmosphere."

"Thanks, Coach. I'd love that."

Klopp nodded, giving Zachary a final pat on the shoulder before boarding the bus. As Zachary watched the bus pull away, he felt a renewed surge of yearning and determination.

He was eager to be on that bus, heading to Anfield to play the game, but he knew he had to remain patient. As the coach said, his time would come, and he would be ready to seize the opportunity.

He turned away from the bus that had just disappeared beyond the gates and headed to the cafeteria. He chose a hearty lunch of grilled salmon, quinoa salad, and steamed vegetables. The meal was light yet packed with the necessary nutrients to keep him energized and focused.

By the time he finished his lunch, it was already 1:15 PM. Ray Haughan, Liverpool FC's player liaison officer, arrived just in time to pick him up. "Ready to go, Zachary?" Ray asked with a friendly smile.

"Absolutely," Zachary responded, eager to experience his first Premier League match day at Anfield.

The drive to Anfield was short but filled with excitement. As they approached the stadium, Zachary noticed the streets lined with fans dressed in red, singing and cheering in anticipation. Some of them caught a glimpse of Zachary in the car and waved enthusiastically.

"Hey, look! It's Zachary Bemba!" A fan's shout caused excitement to sweep through the crowd. More and more supporters turned towards the car, yelling Zachary's name and waving frantically.

Zachary reciprocated, feeling the warmth of the welcoming fans. The car glided through the bustling crowd, eventually pulling into a VIP parking area at Anfield.

Ray then led Zachary through the entrance, navigating past security and heading straight into the stadium's inner sanctum. The pre-game buzz was electrifying, filled with the sounds of chanting fans and the aroma of freshly cut grass drifting through the air.

As they arrived at the VIP section, Zachary settled into a plush seat with an unbeatable view of the pitch. The stadium was a sea of red, pulsating with energy as kickoff loomed. Zachary observed the players warming up, marveling at their agile and energetic movements.

The excitement continued mounting, and just before the match kicked off, the stadium reverberated with the heartfelt anthem "You'll Never Walk Alone." A shiver ran down Zachary's spine as he heard Ray's earnest yet off-key rendition, joining thousands of fans in song.

Despite Ray's slight disharmony, the unity and passion of the Liverpool supporters were evident, leaving Zachary moved by their unwavering camaraderie and devotion to their team.

As the game began, Zachary was fully immersed. He studied every move, every pass, and every tactical shift, absorbing the team's style and strategy. Despite not being on the pitch, he felt every moment deeply, living the highs and lows alongside his teammates.

The match continued, and Zachary cheered, clenched his fists in tension, and celebrated as Liverpool dominated West Ham. The team's fluid play and relentless pressing were a joy to watch, and the goals came in a flurry, each one met with a roar of approval from the Anfield faithful.

The first to score was Mohamed Salah with a right-footed shot after meeting a cross from Andrew Robertson during the 19th minute. The precision of the cross and Salah's positioning left West Ham's defense scrambling, and the stadium erupted as the ball hit the back of the net.

Sadio Mané then made the score 2-0 after getting to the end of James Milner's pass during the 45th minute. It was a well-timed run and a clinical finish demonstrating Mané's sharpness and composure. Then, as the half-time whistle blew, the fans were on their feet, cheering their team's impressive performance.

The second half continued at a similar tempo, with Liverpool pressing high and creating chances. Mané added another to make the score 3-0 during the 54th minute, displaying his incredible pace and finishing skills again. His celebration was a testament to the team's unity and determination.

Finally, Daniel Sturridge completed the thrashing by scoring the fourth goal during the 88th minute. Coming off the bench, Sturridge made an immediate impact, poking the ball in after a corner. The joy etched on his face was mirrored by the ecstatic fans in the stands.