Monday, August 4 – The Journey to Austria
Bradford's first taste of European football started with an early morning flight. The squad gathered at Valley Parade before sunrise, bags packed, headphones on, carrying the weight of the club's biggest challenge yet. There was excitement, but also focus—this wasn't a holiday.
Jake stood near the entrance, watching as the players boarded the team bus. Some were locked in their own worlds—Costa, earbuds in, staring out the window. Obi, always full of energy, chatting with Roney and Rasmussen. Vélez and Ibáñez sat together, discussing tactics, while Fletcher and Bianchi debated some VAR decision from the weekend.
Robert stepped up next to Jake. "First European trip as a manager. How's it feel?"
Jake exhaled. "Like the start of something."
Robert smirked. "Let's hope it's a long journey, then."
