Stepping into the Spotlight

Mancini was full of confidence as he prepared for the match against Arsenal. Unlike Arsenal, Manchester City had won three consecutive games, including a stunning victory over Liverpool and a 6-0 win over Queens Park Rangers. 

Last season's Premier League title, secured with Aguero's last-minute goal against Manchester United, had cemented Mancini's legacy at the club. Facing Arsenal at home in the fourth round of the league, Mancini didn't underestimate his opponents. After analyzing Arsenal's squad, he predicted their starting 11 accurately. 

Louis, in Mancini's eyes, was just a newcomer likely to watch the game from the bench. 

The Etihad Stadium was buzzing with energy even before the match started. The atmosphere was electric with songs, cheers, and applause, making the stadium feel like it was vibrating. 

"How is it? Impressive, right?" Damian Martinez, the substitute goalkeeper from Argentina, smiled as he put his arm around Louis.

Louis shook his head slightly. "It's okay." He was used to such scenes, having grown up in AC Milan's youth academy and frequently being a caddy at San Siro.

As the players walked onto the field, the two head coaches shook hands before heading to their respective benches. Mancini smiled confidently, knowing Arsenal's lineup was as he expected. 

Compared to their previous games, Arsenal had only made one adjustment: Podolski replaced Gervinho, with Podolski on the left, Walcott on the right, and Giroud up front. Mancini had prepared his team accordingly, focusing on stopping Dzeko and Aguero from scoring.

In the media box, reporters echoed the same sentiments: a draw would be a good result for Arsenal at the Etihad.

The first half went as expected. Both teams had their chances, but neither could find the net. The game was goalless at halftime. 

After the break, Aguero scored in the 53rd minute, eluding Koscielny and cleverly shooting past Mannone. The Etihad erupted in celebration, turning the stadium into a roaring volcano.

Wenger, standing on the sidelines, frowned. He looked at the bench and then at Louis.

"Louis! Go warm up!" he commanded.

Louis immediately put on his vest and started warming up. The TV cameras focused on him.

"Louis is going to warm up!" Zhang Jun, the Xinglang sports commentator, exclaimed. "Arsenal needs a goal, and Wenger is showing his trust in Louis!"

Chinese fans in the live broadcast room were excited and nervous.

"Sending Louis out when we're behind?"

"He's only seventeen."

"Is he really that good?"

In the media box, English reporters were surprised.

"I thought 'Van Persie's replacement' was a joke, but Wenger might be serious."

"Sending a young player who has never played in a professional league when they're trailing?"

"What did Louis do to earn such trust from Arsenal's coaching staff?"

Fans in the stands were divided. Arsenal's away fans were mostly silent, unsure what to expect from Louis.

"Haha, what's the use of sending a seventeen-year-old kid? Our season is wasted again! Another disappointing season!" DT, the vocal Arsenal fan, complained loudly.

His complaints made other Arsenal fans frown, but no one contradicted him. Arsenal fans had experienced disappointment for several seasons. While Wenger's results were commendable given the club's investment, fans longed for the glory days.

Manchester City fans weren't polite. They soon started chanting, mocking Louis.

"Oh oh oh oh, let's see who it is? Is it one of your replacements for Van Persie?"

Wenger, hearing the chants, frowned. His assistant coach Bould expressed his concerns. 

"Arsene, this isn't the best time for his debut."

Wenger knew the challenges: an away game, trailing, and media pressure. But watching Louis warm up calmly, Wenger felt confident.