Fm17 Redvee35's Story. Living the dream on the French Riviera

My name is Stephen Marren. I am 38 years old and an ex football player. I am from St Helens in England. I played for St Helens Town and Crewe Alexandria and recently Manchester United.

I was capped for my country 30 times. I scored 3 goals. I wasn't a great player but what I had was the ability to read a game and change the game accordingly.

My last game for Manchester United was against Chelsea. I walked out of the tunnel, to a cheer and a few boo's from Chelsea fans. My family went to there seats and we kicked off. I played 60 minutes then I was subsituted. After the game I was offered a coaching job with the youth.

The years of learning went by fast and I passed the examinations.

After completing my qualifications for my coaching badges. I wanted to go into management. My agent said there are a few jobs going.

Sunderland AFC

West Ham

Nice

I wanted the Nice job. I applied for all. After a few months waiting I heard.

I had an email sent to me. Congratulations we offer you the job of manager of Nice for two years. Also enclosed is details of your new home for you and your family.

After a few weeks, it was moving day. I flew from Newcastle to Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport. When I arrived I was met by press and the club sent Stephan Petit. He was a my driver to take me to the Chairman Jean-Pierre Rivère.

I arrived at the Allianz Riviera. What a stadium. I was in shock. It was beautiful.

Walking down toward Jean Pierre office. I was shaking with fear, I hope he is a nice guy. I sat down and we talked for hours. Leaving his office I knew I wanted to meet my players and one especially.

Mario Balotelli was one I needed to speak too.

Mario was being Mario. Big headed and loved himself.

Mario could I have a word "I am the new manager, and I am looking forward to working with you"

Mario said " I know who you are. I am Mario and I score goals"

Mario will have to learn who is the gaffa.

Always been tempted by a Nice save, best of luck managing a certain personality!

Thanks mate. Nice was a place I thought long and hard about.

Day one: Training.

Arriving at the training ground. Wesley Sneijder was there signing autographs for the kids. My first job is to find a captain for our club. Wesley or Dante could be captains.

Walked on the field with a back of balls and cones and there was Dante to greet me.

"Good morning gaffa. I'm Dante" he said

"I know who you are, I have studied everybody's fact sheet" I replied.

I also said "Thank you for saying hello"

I ran drills with all the players. Mario was working hard. Everything was running smoothly. I may use Mario as a lone striker. Wesley behind him supporting him.

I was impressed with Dante he was leading everyone. Wesley had freekick training. Then for fun I called everybody over for talk and then we did a crossbar challenge. Crossbar challenge was used for humour and bonding.

We have friendly's soon and I need to find who's good and who's bad. The end of training came and my decision was made Dante will captain and Wesley will be Vice captain.

Day 2 for me is a personal day. I have to look at houses that the club owns to rent until the end of my time here. Nice is beautiful and stunning.