Chapter 4: Current status of the club

With just over two weeks remaining before the January transfer window, Miller had his work cut out for him. First on his agenda was securing the continued presence of David Bernstein, the current club chairman.

Bernstein, a loyal Manchester City fan, had steered the club through two promotions in two years, returning them to the Premier League. Miller recognized Bernstein's value as a figurehead and a bridge between the club's past and his ambitious future.San Dezi would remain in charge of business operations, but Miller needed a strong right-hand man for the sporting side. Bernstein, however, surprised him."Mr. Miller," Bernstein began, his brow furrowed, "I'd like to resign."Miller understood. He had researched this period of Manchester City's history and knew Bernstein would soon depart due to disagreements with manager Kevin Keegan. Bernstein favored a more cautious approach to transfers, avoiding expensive marquee signings. Keegan, on the other hand, craved established stars."Mr. Bernstein," Miller said, "I understand your frustration with past transfer policies. But things will change. I share your concerns about overspending on aging players."Bernstein was taken aback. Miller, with a disarming sincerity, continued, "My focus will be on young talent, under 25. There will be no more splurging on fading stars."Bernstein studied Miller, a flicker of hope rekindled. "And Mr. Keegan," he ventured, "does he fit into your long-term vision?""Mr. Bernstein," Miller declared, "my long-term vision is to turn this club into England's top team."Bernstein chuckled wryly. "Mr. Miller, perhaps we could discuss more realistic goals?"Miller's gaze remained steady. "Do you think I'm joking?"Bernstein fell silent, the weight of Miller's ambition settling in. "This will take years, Mr. Miller, a decade of solid groundwork."Miller smiled. "Luckily, I'm a young man."That simple statement convinced Bernstein. He nodded. "Very well, Mr. Miller. Consider me back on board."With Bernstein's commitment, the club's core structure remained intact. Miller next turned his attention to the coaching staff and players.He had already studied the current roster: Schmeichel, Weaver, Nash, Dunn, Chavey, Distin, Howey, Bischoff, and a host of others – a decent mid-table Premier League squad at best.The aging Schmeichel was nearing retirement. The backline, though containing some recognizable names like Distin, lacked top-tier talent. The midfield, with Sun Jihai playing out of position, had an aging captain and a young Wright-Phillips with promise. Vivian Foe's career was overshadowed by a health concern.The attack, while boasting Anelka and Wanchope, lacked firepower for a championship run. Other forwards, like Gott, while important for promotion, lacked the polish needed for Premier League success.Miller grimaced – mediocrity across the board. The exception was Wright-Phillips, a talented youngster with potential.The most glaring weakness was undoubtedly head coach Kevin Keegan. His outdated tactics and focus on aging stars did not align with Miller's vision. However, replacing Keegan mid-season made little sense, especially with the team performing reasonably well.After securing Bernstein, Miller scheduled a meeting with Keegan. The 51-year-old manager exuded a youthful energy despite his age. Pleasantries were exchanged before Miller inquired, "Mr. Keegan, any thoughts on potential January transfer window signings?"Keegan was direct. "Mr. Miller, I'd like to bolster the midfield with a left winger and a striker.""Do you have specific players in mind?" Miller asked politely.Without hesitation, Keegan proposed McManaman and Robbie Fowler. Their talent was undeniable, but Miller saw red flags – age and injury concerns. These were the exact type of expensive, low-value signings Bernstein previously resisted."Mr. Keegan," Miller thought, "you're out next summer."These initial meetings with Bernstein and Keegan solidified Miller's vision for the club. He needed to overhaul the squad with young, promising talent and find a new manager who shared his long-term ambitions. This was just the beginning, and Miller was determined to make Manchester City a force to be reckoned with.