The weather that day was surprisingly pleasant, with bright sunlight that made it hard to believe they were still in Manchester. It was a stark contrast to the gloomy rain that had lingered over the past two days since Richard had returned from Scotland.
A new manager. A new owner. A new season.
Only three days remained until the start of the 1994–95 Second Division season, with City set to open at home against Blackpool.
There were no plans for the match to be broadcast live—but for die-hard City fans, especially their notorious hooligan firm, it was the hottest topic of the weekend.
That afternoon, after training, Richard sat in the director's box overlooking the Maine Road pitch, awaiting the arrival of two guests he had personally invited.