The road to godhood starting from Ligue 1

Chapter 275 Where to next?
Gaio slowly spoke, facing Soriano's astonished gaze.

"Mr. Soriano, Mr. Begiristain, thank you again for coming all this way, and for Manchester City's high praise and exciting plans for me."

Top Premier League salary, a key role in the team, a championship blueprint—these are indeed things every player dreams of.

At this point, Soriano and Begiristain exchanged a glance, both of them frowning slightly.

Things didn't seem to go as smoothly as they had imagined.

really,

Gaio's next words confirmed their idea.

Gaio’s tone was gentle but very firm: “However, I’m very sorry to say that I must be honest, at this stage, Manchester City is not my ideal choice – just as I carefully considered and ultimately declined an offer from Paris Saint-Germain that was no less than that.”

These words immediately caused the two Manchester City executives to lose some confidence.

Paris Saint-Germain's financial resources are in no way inferior to Manchester City's.

They were well aware of the previous rumors linking PSG and Gaião.

Gaio continued,

"The decision between these two top offers has made me realize more clearly that while a grand vision for the competitive aspect is important for future choices, it is equally important."

But at a deeper level, it's about the alignment of environment, culture, and the team's DNA.

"For me, the ability to perform in a system where I feel completely comfortable, culturally integrated, and whose style resonates with me is a higher priority than contract numbers or short-term accolades."

Paris and Manchester are both great, but personally, they haven't yet touched a deep sense of belonging within me.

Gaio paused briefly, looked down at the team logo on his training uniform, and smiled slightly. "More importantly, my story with Bastia, and our shared goal, have not yet reached their proper end."

If I could, I would even like to stay in Bastia, but unfortunately, the club is facing financial challenges.

But that's precisely why I feel an even stronger sense of responsibility to complete our final chapter in Bastia in a more perfect way—whether it's competing for the league title or going as far as possible in the Europa League—helping the team reach a new level before embarking on a new adventure.

This perfect farewell,
This is of great significance to me, to the team, and to the fans who support us.

As soon as these words came out.

Both Soriano and Gaio were well aware that Gaio was rejecting them.

But Soriano wanted to try again: "Yan, Pierre, I fully respect your honesty and that strong sense of 'belonging'."

Bastia and Corsica truly create an irreplaceable bond for you and your family, and I know firsthand the power of that connection.

Please allow me to share something: I come from Barcelona, ​​and I deeply understand the Catalan emphasis on identity, culture, and a sense of community.

But in Manchester, we are not trying to replicate an existing 'culture'. Instead, in Manchester, the heart of the Industrial Revolution, we are committed to building a new, inclusive, and ambitious global family!
There are thousands of new fans here, whose enthusiasm rivals that of any traditional powerhouse club's supporters; they crave their own heroes and recognition.

Join us and you will become the soul of this rising football icon, defining its DNA.

Isn't this the ultimate challenge and glory of the 'sense of belonging' you cherish?

Begiristain immediately followed, speaking faster and with great passion:
“Gaio, I understand what you mean by ‘style resonance.’ You mentioned ‘completing the mission in Bastia.’ Very admirable!”
But isn't the core of this mission to challenge giants, create miracles, and overturn the traditional order?
In Bastia, you're competing against big-spending giants like Paris Saint-Germain; but at Manchester City, we'll stand at the heart of the Premier League, as challengers and disruptors, directly challenging historic powerhouses like Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal!
Isn't this a continuation of what you love and excel at on a broader stage?
In Bastia, you fight for Corsica;

At Manchester City, you will fight for a blue army that is awakening and eager to be recognized by the world!
Aren't both of them the most moving legendary stories?
Come join us and let's create a legendary story that the world of football will remember!

Both of them can be said to be very sincere.

Even Pierre was somewhat tempted; he really couldn't think of a reason to refuse.

If Paris Saint-Germain's offer could be rejected by citing the lack of competitiveness in Ligue 1, then what about Manchester City?
If Pierre had the authority, he would have agreed long ago.

however,
Gaio continued to shake his head, his tone indifferent, "Mr. Soriano, I completely agree with what you said. The passion and desire of new fans is one of the most moving forces in the world of football."

The city of Manchester and its fans undoubtedly possess a vibrant passion.

however,
Cultivating a deep-seated cultural identity and a genuine sense of belonging requires far more than just passion and desire.

It requires the club itself to demonstrate a strong, consistent, and inclusive set of values—a shared belief that ensures fans and players from all backgrounds can be united, regardless of highs or lows, or the controversies they face.

Gaio's words surprised Soriano and Begiristain. They didn't understand why a player would care about something so profound.
Gaio is only eighteen years old!
As far as they knew, Gaio's grades in school weren't that good either.

After a pause, Gaio continued, "Specifically, I have some observations and concerns about the maturity, sensitivity and clear stance that Manchester City as a whole has shown in dealing with complex socio-cultural issues—especially those sensitive ones involving race, respect and the dignity of different groups."

Ok?
Soriano and Begiristain both frowned deeply upon hearing this.

They just arrived in Manchester, so they don't know anything about it.

What happened?

Could it be that some historical issues left over from Manchester City have left Gaio somewhat dissatisfied?

In this ambiguous situation, they had no way to refute Gaio.

Gaio, immersed in a certain state, continued to output, "Football, today, its influence has long transcended the simple realm of sports."

A player, especially a core player who aspires to be a role model.

The ethical standards and values ​​demonstrated by the club behind him will profoundly influence how he is interpreted and accepted by hundreds of millions of fans from different cultural backgrounds around the world.

This directly relates to whether I can truly feel a profound sense of belonging there, and whether I can represent a spirit worthy of recognition.

The family I long to join must truly deserve the title—it needs to not only celebrate victories, but also demonstrate unconditional inclusion, a firm defense of basic dignity, and a clear stance against any form of discrimination when facing challenges, whether in the arena or at the level of social values.

This consistency in core values ​​is a prerequisite for my deep sense of belonging and my willingness to strive for it.

When Gaio finished speaking, he turned his gaze to the two of them.

"Mr. Soriano, Mr. Begiristain, I regret to say this, but based on the information I have and my observations of certain events, does Manchester City possess, or rather, can consistently demonstrate, this core value that I cherish?"
This is not a question, but a genuine concern I have.

therefore,

When it comes to belonging and cultural fit, it's not just about the stadium, tactics, or the passionate cheers of the fans, although those are all important. It's more about the soul of the club—its principles, its way of doing things, and how it protects and unites every member through thick and thin, regardless of their skin color, culture, or belief.

These unseen things are precisely the most solid foundation for building a 'home'.

On this point, I am not yet convinced that Manchester City is the 'home' I can entrust my future to without reservation.

At this point, Gaio decided not to continue, since there were some things he couldn't explain.

This metaphysical explanation is actually the best.

Soriano and Begiristain fell silent, still pondering Gaio's words.

When they wanted to ask Gaio more specific questions, Gaio had already ended the meeting prematurely.

Gaiola pulled Pierre aside and said, "My father, Pierre, is my agent, and he will be fully responsible for the follow-up matters. He is very clear about the reality the club is facing and understands my core demands."

Pierre Gaio interjected at the opportune moment, "Yes, Ferran (Soriano), Eto (Begiristain). We are very grateful for the top sincerity and investment from Manchester City and, previously, Paris Saint-Germain."

These two in-depth contacts also confirm Gaio's market value and his commitment to shared values. He is not rejecting any prestigious club, but rather seeking a next destination that can evoke a sense of 'home' in him, like in Bastia.

"My job is to ensure Gaio's transfer. We will continue to communicate with several top clubs that share our values ​​and have expressed a long-term commitment. The final result will be the best solution for the future that respects the core interests of all parties."

Gaio stood up and shook hands with the two men, saying solemnly, "Mr. Soriano, Mr. Begiristain, I sincerely thank Manchester City for their sincerity, just as I thank Paris for their kindness."

Chairman Mansour's vision and your professionalism are admirable.

Although we couldn't join forces this time, we wish Manchester City all the best in their future endeavors.

Thanks again!

Soriano and Begiristain were somewhat confused when Gaio rejected them.

after they leave.

Soriano was still somewhat confused. He looked at Begiristain and asked, "Why did he refuse us?"

Begiristain shrugged. "Waiting for a better price?"

Soriano shook his head. "I don't think so. From my interactions with Gaio, I feel that he has his own ideas. You see, his father is just standing by. This shows that from beginning to end, it was Gaio who made the decisions."

Begiristain sighed. "Never mind, let's talk about it later."

Soriano nodded.

In fact, both of them knew that the negotiations might not be fruitful, because Gaio never discussed specific terms, which was the most troublesome part.

If you're not satisfied with the pay, just ask for more money!

But things are a bit tricky for Gaio.

the other side.

After watching Soriano and the other man leave, Pierre looked at Gaio and asked, "Are you really not going to Manchester City?"

Gaio shook his head. "I have already explained the reasons clearly."

Pierre didn't say much; he wouldn't interfere with Gaio's decisions.

Gai then told him, "Go back and keep in touch with other teams. I'm focused on Bastia for now. I'll make a decision about things in the summer."

"it is good."

Pierre replied, patting Gaio on the shoulder, "Don't put too much pressure on yourself. You know, as family, we'll always be there to support you."

“I know,” Gaio then asked, “would you be willing to make that website, brother?”

Pierre laughed and said, "Of course he's willing to do what you ask. You can start building the website anytime you want. However, he can only do it part-time for now. You know he has a girlfriend, and his expenses are quite high."

Gaio waved his hand, "It's okay, let's get it set up as soon as possible. I want to take advantage of Bastia's popularity this season and make the website famous. I will write down the whole process of my transfer on it."

Upon hearing this, Pierre immediately felt that the hype would definitely explode.

But he still had some concerns: "How will we make a profit then?"

Gaio didn't explain in detail, saying, "You'll find out when the time comes. We need to get the website up and running first before we can do anything else."

"Ah."

After discussing some details with Gaio, Pierre left, as he needed to hurry and discuss the website setup with René.

When Gaio is alone.

He looked up at the Parisian sky, the only thought in his mind being—"What is true belonging?"

He doesn't have an answer yet.

When Gaio returned to the hotel, Bastia's teammates had already finished breakfast.

Upon seeing Gaio, they all greeted him with smiles.

Lukaku leaned closer with a mischievous grin. "You've been gone since early this morning. What have you been up to? You weren't keeping a mistress in Paris without telling us, were you?"

Gaio scoffed, "What's going on in your head all day? Haha, I'm just taking care of some family matters. My parents live in Paris."

Lukaku gave an awkward laugh.

This was just a minor incident; after lunch, everyone in Bastia set off back to Bastia.

They will face Tottenham in the second leg midweek!
on the way.

Hagi Bejic also reminded the players, "Don't run around these next couple of days. Also, everyone, restrain yourselves. It's only for a few days. Get some rest!"

(End of this chapter)