Sustaining success and building a fan base isn't as easy as just winning games. Don't get me wrong, it certainly helps and makes things easier. But convincing your small town to drop everything they are doing to watch you play on a cold, rainy night in December is difficult. If the fans don't show up, we are out of job.
My financial backing has gotten us this far, but I have my own family I also have to support now, and losing money on a hobby project can only go on for so long before Grace says enough is enough. Yes, I have made a lot of money quickly over my football and cycling career, but the pitfalls of losing money quickly still exist.
We have to keep winning, we have to keep climbing the English football pyramid.
The Moments That Mattered
More Than A Friendly
Burnley makes a visit to Park Lane.
CANVEY ISLAND, England (July 6, 2027) — After the excitement generated by last season's thrilling match against Manchester City in the United British Cup, Canvey Island United hosted another British Super League team at their home ground, Park Lane. Burnley visited for a friendly match that drew the second-largest crowd in the club's history — 3,435 spectators. The record crowd of 4,508 was set last year when Canvey Island United managed an impressive 0-0 draw against Manchester City in the fourth round of the British Cup.
Despite the energetic support from the home crowd, Canvey Island fell short, losing 3-2. Marcus Diamond scored the equalizer and assisted Oscar Thorn’s goal to level the game at 2-2. However, Burnley snatched the victory in the 86th minute, with a goal from Nicolas Siri.
Stun By Salford
Survive and advance for Salford City in the United British Cup.
SALFORD, England (Oct. 5, 2027) — Salford City entered today’s United British Cup match as heavy favorites, sitting four tiers above Canvey Island United in the football pyramid. However, with former Real Madrid talent Marcus Diamond leading the charge, the Islanders always seem capable of pulling off an upset.
The hope for the unthinkable quickly faded, as Salford struck twice within the first three minutes, leaving Canvey Island on the back foot. The Islanders pulled one back in the 27th minute, courtesy of an own goal, but despite their efforts, they were unable to find an equalizer. Canvey Island was eliminated in the third round — one round earlier than their performance last season.
Goal Scoring Machine
Diamond has found his scoring boots halfway through the season.
CANVEY ISLAND, England (Apr. 8, 2028) — Marcus Diamond has been on a tear lately, scoring nine goals in his last six games as he leads Canvey Island United in their pursuit of another league title. The Islanders have now won six consecutive matches and remain unbeaten in their last 10. With just five league games remaining, only York City stands a chance of catching Canvey Island United, but they trail by seven points.
Another Crowning
Canvey Island United celebrates another successful season.
CANVEY ISLAND, England (May 13, 2028) — It was only fitting that Marcus Diamond scored the lone goal for Canvey Island United on the final day of the season. Though the match held little significance — with the Islanders having clinched the league title two weeks earlier — Diamond’s goal marked his 30th of the campaign, capping off a remarkable turnaround after netting just three in the first 17 league matches. Over 45 appearances, he also tallied 19 assists and posted an outstanding average match rating of 8.11. Unsurprisingly, he was named the league’s Player of the Year.
Canvey Island United Results
English Prime Division 2B
Spoiler
M#
Date
H/A
Opposition
Result
Pts-Place
G
A
AVG
1
Aug-14
at
Gosport
5 - 1
3 - 2nd
2
10.0
2
Aug-18
vs.
Gainsborough
1 - 3
3 - 12th
1
7.7
3
Aug-21
vs.
Glenafton
0 - 0
4 - 10th
7.1
4
Aug-25
at
Dorchester
1 - 0
7 - 10th
7.0
5
Aug-28
at
Spennymoor
2 - 2
8 - 10th
7.2
6
Sep-4
vs.
Met. Police
3 - 3
9 - 10th
7.3
7
Sep-8
at
Needham Market
2 - 0
12 - 7th
1
8.1
8
Sep-11
at
Morpeth
6 - 1
15 - 7th
1
8.2
9
Sep-18
vs.
Farsley
3 - 1
18 - 4th
1
8.3
10
Sep-22
at
Warrington
1 - 1
19 - 6th
7.7
11
Sep-25
at
Leatherhead
3 - 0
22 - 4th
7.6
12
Sep-29
vs.
Stourbridge
3 - 0
25 - 2nd
7.7
13
Oct-2
vs.
Scarborough Athletic
4 - 1
28 - 2nd
1
1
8.4
14
Oct-9
vs.
Bognor Regis
3 - 1
31 - 2nd
6.8
15
Oct-16
at
Cirencester
3 - 1
34 - 2nd
1
8.0
16
Oct-19
at
York
0 - 0
35 - 2nd
7.1
17
Oct-23
at
Staines
1 - 0
38 - 2nd
7.5
18
Oct-26
vs.
South Shields
6 - 4
41 - 1st
1
2
10.0
19
Oct-30
vs.
Southport
1 - 4
41 - 2nd
1
7.9
20
Nov-6
at
Stafford
5 - 0
44 - 2nd
7.4
21
Nov-13
at
Bamber Bridge
3 - 0
47 - 2nd
2
8.1
22
Nov-20
vs.
Ebbsfleet
5 - 1
50 - 2nd
3
1
10.0
23
Nov-27
vs.
FC United
1 - 0
53 - 1st
7.7
24
Dec-4
vs.
York
2 - 0
56 - 1st
1
7.7
25
Dec-11
at
Gainsborough
2 - 1
59 - 1st
1
8.2
26
Dec-18
vs.
Gosport
2 - 1
62 - 1st
1
8.0
27
Jan-1
vs.
Dorchester
0 - 1
62 - 1st
7.2
28
Jan-8
at
Glenafton
2 - 0
65 - 1st
1
1
9.8
29
Jan-15
vs.
Spennymoor
2 - 0
68 - 1st
7.4
30
Jan-22
at
South Shields
4 - 5
68 - 1st
1
7.5
31
Jan-29
vs.
Needham Market
2 - 2
69 - 1st
1
7.8
32
Feb-5
at
Met. Police
4 - 3
72 - 1st
1
8.2
33
Feb-12
at
Farsley
0 - 0
73 - 1st
6.5
34
Feb-19
vs.
Morpeth
5 - 0
76 - 1st
2
2
9.9
35
Feb-26
vs.
Warrington
1 - 1
77 - 1st
7.2
36
Mar-4
at
Stourbridge
3 - 2
80 - 1st
1
1
8.3
37
Mar-11
at
Scarborough Athletic
4 - 1
83 - 1st
2
8.9
38
Mar-18
vs.
Leatherhead
3 - 0
86 - 1st
2
8.7
39
Mar-25
vs.
Cirencester
4 - 1
89 - 1st
1
1
8.7
40
Apr-1
at
Bognor Regis
2 - 1
92 - 1st
1
8.4
41
Apr-8
vs.
Staines
5 - 0
95 - 1st
2
2
10.0
42
Apr-15
at
Southport
0 - 0
96 - 1st
7.2
43
Apr-22
vs.
Stafford
1 - 0
99 - 1st
1
8.0
44
Apr-29
vs.
Bamber Bridge
4 - 0
102 - 1st
3
10.0
45
May-6
at
Ebbsfleet
4 - 1
105 - 1st
DNP
46
May-13
at
FC United
1 - 0
108 - 1st
1
8.5
TOTALS:
30
19
8.1
LEAGUE WINNERS!
Canvey Island United has been promoted from the English Prime Division 2B (Tier 9) to English Prime Division 1 (Tier 8).
United British Cup
Spoiler
M#
Date
H/A
Opposition
Result
Round
G
A
AVG
1
Aug-4
at
Mayfield Utd
3 - 1
First
2
8.0
2
Aug-31
vs.
Spennymoor
6 - 1
Second
1
2
10.0
3
Oct-5
at
Salford
1 - 2
Third
7.2
TOTALS:
3
2
8.4
English Regional Cup
Spoiler
M#
Date
H/A
Opposition
Result
Round
G
A
AVG
1
Aug-10
at
Chesham
4 - 2
First
8.5
2
Sep-15
at
Leatherhead
6 - 2
Second
1
2
9.1
3
Nov-2
vs.
Harrow
e 3 - 2
Third
1
1
8.2
4
Dec-14
vs.
Rushall
3 - 0
Fourth
1
7.8
5
Feb-1
at
Truro
1 - 2
Quarterfinal
6.7
TOTALS:
2
4
8.1
Marcus Diamond's Season Stats & Awards
Spoiler
Date
Achievement
2027-28
English Prime Division 2B Player of the Season
2027-28
English Prime Division 2B Player of the Week (x4)
2027-28
English Prime Division 2B Goal of the Week (x1)
2027-28
English Prime Division 2B League Champions
Looking Ahead to 2028-29
Statistically, this season might look like a slight step back compared to last year, but I’m not too worried about that. Maybe it’s the tougher competition, maybe it’s just another year under my belt. Either way, 60 goal contributions in 52 matches is something I’m proud of. More than that, I’m buzzing about how far this club has come. We’re building something special here, and people around the country are starting to take notice. This is just the beginning.
Looking ahead, there’s a lot to be excited about. We’ve got the full coaching staff returning, which gives us consistency and belief. And we’re continuing to bring in top talent. These are players who fit into the winning, hard-working culture we’ve created over the last two seasons. The vibes are strong, the hunger is real, and we’re ready to make next season the best one yet.
What a season. Honestly, I’m still trying to figure out how it all went down, and whether I should laugh, cry, or just sit in a dark room questioning every decision I’ve ever made. You know, the usual. But here we are. 2028 — a year that had its fair share of highs, lows, and those “wait, did that really just happen?” moments.
The Moments That Mattered
Frenemies
With the help of a friend now on a rival team, Diamond wins big in Belgium.
WEVELGEM, Belgium (March 25, 2028) — In a thrilling display of tactical brilliance and teamwork, Marcus Diamond emerged triumphant in the prestigious Gent-Wevelgem classic, orchestrated by a strategic collaboration with his former teammate and roommate, Alex Vogel. With 15kms left to race, a calculated attack from Vogel created a decisive breakaway, propelling Diamond into contention amidst a select group of four contenders.
With Vogel's impeccable timing and selfless assistance, Diamond found himself perfectly positioned for the final sprint, a testament to their shared understanding forged through years of camaraderie on and off the bike. In a heart-pounding finale, Diamond unleashed a burst of speed, seizing victory in a hard-fought battle of endurance and skill. The man who replaced Diamond at SEG-Quickstep, Xander Das, took second while Vogel settled for third.
While some lauded the symbiotic display between Diamond and Vogel as a prime exemplar of the sport's essence — where teamwork and strategy reign supreme — others raised ethical eyebrows, questioning the integrity of two riders from rival teams collaborating to secure a win.
In response to the mixed reception, both Diamond and Vogel remained steadfast in their assertion that their actions were rooted in the natural ebb and flow of competitive cycling, devoid of any preconceived plan or intent to gain an unfair advantage. The two shared a lengthy hug after the race.
Gent-Wevelgem
1
Marcus Diamond
HSE-Liquigas
6h05'22
2
Xander Das
SEG - Quick Step
s.t.
3
Alex Vogel
WPR PCT
s.t.
4
Nils Politt
Team TomTom
s.t.
5
Fabio Jakobsen
Team Ridley
s.t.
The Most Miserable Day
The lead group of cyclists battle the elements on their way to Roubaix.
ROUBAIX, France (Apr. 8, 2028) — On a bitterly cold and rain-soaked day, the 126th edition of Paris-Roubaix unfolded amidst some of the most challenging conditions seen in decades. Battling through treacherous crashes and frequent punctures, cyclists embarked on the grueling 258-kilometer journey, determined to conquer the prestigious one-day monument.
As the race wore on, the lead group dwindled in size, with only seven riders persevering through the relentless onslaught of obstacles. Among them was heavy favorite Jarno Mobach, who found himself at the forefront of the action until misfortune struck in the form of a puncture with just 18 kilometers remaining. Forced to drop back to the chase group, which included the resilient Marcus Diamond, Mobach faced an uphill battle to reclaim his position at the front.
Undeterred by his setback, Mobach launched a blistering counterattack, leaving Diamond and the other chasers in his wake. With a display of sheer determination and raw power, Mobach bridged the gap to the two remaining leaders before ultimately outmaneuvering them in the finale sprint within the iconic velodrome.
Paris-Roubaix
1
Jarno Mobach
AEGON
6h20'29
2
Wout Van Aert
Zwift Pro Cycling
s.t.
3
Holstad Ludvik
Team Ridley
s.t.
4
Tebiro Pienaar
Dimension Data
+ 1'46
5
Nils Politt
Team TomTom
+ 2'15
Pretty in Pink
Marcus Diamond conquers the Giro d'Italia to claim his second Grand Tour conquest.
Milano, Italy (May 27, 2028) — Cobbles, what cobbles? Proving the naysayers wrong, Marcus Diamond etched his name into cycling lore with a cobble-free Giro d'Italia victory that exemplified both resilience and dominance throughout. Despite narrowly missing out on claiming any stage victories, Diamond's consistency saw him grace the podium six times during the 21-stage epic.
However, it was on Stage 10, a challenging hilly individual time trial, where Diamond seized the coveted pink jersey from Frenchman Vincent Leo, marking a pivotal turning point in the race. From that moment on, Diamond adorned the leader's jersey for an impressive 10 consecutive days.
As the peloton wound its way through the Italian countryside, Diamond's lead over his closest rival Leo continued to grow, with the latter unable to make significant inroads despite the mountainous terrain in the final week. Diamond then widened the gap with a commanding performance in the final Stage 21 time trial.
Leo ultimately settled for second place, trailing Diamond by a significant margin of 2 minutes and 47 seconds. Meanwhile, Koen Bouwman from SEG-Quickstep rounded out the podium in third place, over four minutes adrift. Diamond also won the points competition with a healthy 43-point cushion over Jose Alfredo Rodriquez after sprinter Fabio Jakobson didn't manage to make the time cut on Stage 17.
The Giro also witnessed the humbling of defending champion Brandon McNulty, whose promising start faded in the face of Diamond's relentless onslaught. Despite a strong showing in the opening week, McNulty faltered in the latter stages, ultimately finishing a distant seventh, nearly 14 minutes behind Diamond.
As Diamond stood atop the podium in Milano, clad in the pink jersey, he not only secured his second grand tour victory but also set his sights on the elusive Tour de France title, the only major accolade missing from his illustrious career.
Giro d'Italia (GC)
1
Marcus Diamond
HSE-Liquigas
93h20'36
2
Léo Vincent
FDJ
+ 2'47
3
Koen Bouwman
SEG - Quick Step
+ 4'16
4
Dmitri Gerasin
Strava
+ 6'33
5
Lucas Hamilton
GCN Racing
+ 6'59
The First Loser
Matthew Bostock edges out Marcus Diamond to win the GB RR National Championship.
STANFORDHAM, England (July 1, 2028) — Matthew Bostock from the CT squad Zulu Kingdom captured a memorable victory at the Great Britain Road Race National Championships, securing his first national title in a sprint finish that saw him edge out seasoned contender Marcus Diamond. Despite Diamond's bid for a third championship, Bostock's speed propelled him to the top of the podium.
Rory Townsend, Josie Pearson and Christopher Lawless rounded out the top five. Diamond collected his fourth top five in the last four seasons here, although wasn't pleased with his runner-up finish and didn't talk with the media after the race.
Great Britain Road Race National Championships
1
Matthew Bostock
Zulu Kingdom
4h42'07
2
Marcus Diamond
HSE-Liquigas
s.t.
3
Rory Townsend
ONE Pro Cycling
s.t.
4
Josie Pearson
WPR PCT
s.t.
5
Christopher Lawless
GCN Racing
s.t.
Giro-Tour Double?
Fan favourite Marcus Diamond stirs up an otherwise dull Tour de France.
PARIS, France (July 29, 2028) — For the fourth time in seven years, Great Britain topped the Tour de France podium as defending champion Tao Geoghegan Hart claimed his third yellow jersey. At 33 years old, he is now one victory short of Chris Froome's record for the most TDF wins by a British cyclist.
Because of Geoghegan Hart's dominance, the race lacked excitement, with only his fellow countryman Marcus Diamond injecting some life into the otherwise predictable event. Once a hero, Geoghegan Hart had lived long enough to become the villain — following the pedal strokes of the man he is chasing: Froome.
Geoghegan Hart started strong, winning the opening stage, but quickly lost the yellow jersey the next day in the team time trial. On Stage 4, Diamond unleashed a solo attack on a cobbled, hilly stage that caught everyone out. His impressive victory allowed him to wear yellow for the next three days.
Mikkel Bjerg took the leader's jersey for a day after a long Stage 7 time trial.
On Stage 10, Team HSE-Liquigas shook up the race again. Simon Yates, the reigning world champion, was used in a breakaway to set up Diamond for a memorable attack on the lower slopes of Le Mont du Chat. Diamond caught up to Yates, and the duo powered up the climb, leaving everyone else behind. Diamond, who started the day three minutes behind, gained over four minutes after a brave descent into the finishing town of Yenne, securing a solo victory for the ages, with Yates taking third. It was Diamond's fifth TDF stage win in his career.
However, the excitement was short-lived. The next day, Diamond, exhausted from his efforts, faltered on the Col du Finestre, losing all the time he had gained the day before plus an additional minute, dropping to third in the GC. Over the next week and a half, Diamond continued to struggle in the high mountains, eventually finishing sixth overall, nearly four minutes behind.
Geoghegan Hart maintained a steady pace throughout. He secured his victory with a 1'29" lead over Egan Arley Bernal and a 2'38" margin over Daniel Felipe Martinez, both former winners of the grand tour. Tebiro Pienaar won the points classification, while Valentin Madouas was King of the Mountains.
Tour de France (GC)
1
Tao Geoghegan Hart
Nikon
93h02'15
2
Egan Arley Bernal
Desigual
+ 1'29
3
Daniel Felipe Martinez
AEGON
+ 2'38
4
Jacob Eriksson
GCN Racing
+ 3'13
5
Mikkel Bjerg
AEGON
+ 3'19
Rainbow Warrior
Legacy moment as Diamond barely hangs on to win the 2028 World RR Championships.
PAU, France (Sept. 30, 2028) — A final bike lunge was all it took. Marcus Diamond glanced over, and the magnitude of the moment hit him. He raised both arms and screamed to the sky. After eight attempts, Diamond had finally achieved what many thought was impossible. He was now a World Champion.
It was a crowning achievement for the two-time Grand Tour champion, and he did it in style. Diamond launched an attack on the final climb, staying away solo for 8km, just narrowly holding off the peloton. By mere inches, he crossed the finish line first, ahead of Belgium's Vincent Beeckman and Enzo Wouters.
For the second consecutive year, Great Britain stood atop the World Championship podium. Diamond, who had helped Simon Yates secure the rainbow jersey last season, found his own moment of glory — a perfect example of how life has a way of working things out.
World RR Championships
1
Marcus Diamond
HSE-Liquigas
7h11'46
2
Vincent Beeckman
AEGON
s.t.
3
Enzo Wouters
TAP Portugal
s.t.
4
Domen Novak
SEG
s.t.
5
Maximillian Schachmann
Zwift Pro Cycling
s.t.
The Curse?
Chaos unfolds in the final Monument of the season.
LECCO, Italy (Oct. 13, 2028) — It was supposed to be Marcus Diamond’s moment. The rainbow jersey, the world champion’s badge of honor, now adorned his shoulders, and he was poised to add another prestigious Monument to his already impressive resume. Having already triumphed at Milano-San Remo in 2026, Diamond was in the perfect position to conquer Il Lombardia for the first time. Alongside his teammate Hugh Carthy and David Gaudu from Team FDJ, the trio had forged a decisive break on the final climb, with just 2 kilometers left to the line. With a 35-second gap to the peloton, Diamond was sitting in ideal position — right on Gaudu’s wheel, ready to launch his bid for glory.
But fate, it seemed, had other plans.
As they approached a sharp corner nearing 1km to go, disaster struck. Carthy, in the midst of his powerful pull, lost control and crashed, sending both Gaudu and Diamond tumbling to the tarmac in a brutal, chaotic heap. The image of the three riders sprawled on the road — so close to victory, yet so far from it — was almost surreal. The group behind quickly closed the gap as Diamond and Gaudu struggled to get their bikes in order, their hopes of victory slipping away in an instant.
In the confusion, Ronald Curley, seizing the opportunity in the madness, surged ahead and claimed his first-ever Monument win, while Diamond, battered and bruised, struggled to remount. With grit and determination, he somehow got back on his bike and, though the win was long gone, he managed to sprint ahead of Gaudu to finish 12th.
It wasn’t the glorious result Diamond had dreamed of, but rather a painful reminder of how fleeting victory can be. As he crossed the line, the whispers of the "curse of the rainbow jersey" seemed to hang heavy in the air. The superstition, a cruel joke whispered among the cycling world, claims that misfortune befalls World Champions when wearing the coveted stripes. For Diamond, this felt like a sick joke.
He had hoped to end his 2028 season with a second Monument victory. Instead, the crash left him questioning whether the curse was real or just the cruel hand of fate. This was a heartbreaking way to end the season, as the media quickly jumped on the “curse” narrative, Diamond couldn’t shake the feeling that his rainbow jersey had shifted from a symbol of triumph to one of tragedy.
Now, as the offseason begins, Diamond can only hope the "curse" doesn't follow him into the next season, and that the rainbow jersey will bring him the glory he so desperately desires.
Il Lombardia
1
Ronald Curley
Team Ridley
6h39'38
2
Dion Smith
Team Ridley
s.t.
3
Felix Gall
Expedia
s.t.
4
Ward Jaspers
Zwift Pro Cycling
s.t.
5
Andrey Tynyanov
Expedia
s.t.
Marcus Diamond's Race Results
Date
Race
GC
Other
Feb. 10
RdM Costa Calida
2nd (s.t.)
--
Feb. 14-18
V. a Andalucia RdS (S5)
12nd (+3'44)
--
Mar. 3
Strade Bianche
11th (+46)
--
Mar. 17
Milano - Sanremo
100th (s.t.)
--
Mar. 25
Gent - Wevelgem
WINNER
--
Mar. 31
GP del Navarra
4th (s.t.)
--
Apr. 8
Paris - Roubaix
7th (+2'15)
--
Apr. 15
Amstel Gold Race
13th (+1'01)
--
Apr. 18
La Fleche Wallonne
82nd (+4'50)
--
Apr. 22
Liege - Bastogne - Liege
79th (+1'33)
--
May 4-27
Giro d'Italia (S21)
WINNER
x6 Stage Podiums
June 7
GP du Canton d'Argovie
3rd (s.t.)
--
June 28
Great Britain ITT NC
17th (+2'38)
--
July 1
Great Britain RR NC
2nd (s.t.)
--
July 7-29
Tour de France (S21)
6th (+3'53)
x2 Stages
Sept. 2-9
Tour of Britain (S8)
4th (+35)
KoM
Sept. 22
Mem. Marco Pantani
6th (s.t.)
--
Sept. 30
World RR Championships
WINNER
--
Oct. 6
Giro dell'Emilia
4th (s.t.)
--
Oct. 13
Il Lombardia
12th (+50)
--
Cycling World Overview
Important Races
Pro Tour Standings
Team
Individual
1
Nikon
8781
Tao Geoghegan Hart
Nikon
4076
2
AEGON
8494
Egan Arley Bernal
Desigual
3379
3
SEG
7741
Marcus Diamond
HSE-Liquigas
2738
4
Desigual
7648
Andrey Tynyanov
Expedia
2220
5
Ridley
6750
Harry Zuurman
SEG
2211
6
HSE-Liquigas
6580
Brandon McNulty
Expedia
2145
7
Expedia
6199
Léo Vincent
FDJ
2040
8
Zwift Pro Cycling
6049
Lucas Hamilton
GCN
1951
9
Astana
5776
Jacob Eriksson
GCN
1902
10
GCN
5581
Enric Mas
SEG
1825
Looking Ahead to 2029
Okay, here’s the thing: As much as I love wearing the World Championship jersey, I know I’m going to have a giant target on my back all next season. So, let’s see how I deal with that pressure! Also, this is my last season under contract with HSE-Liquigas, and my future after that is murky.
Part of me is itching to keep going, but another part is like, "Hey, your family needs you, and maybe it's time to hang up the bike." Being away from them so much is getting harder, and I want to focus on building Canvey Island United into something amazing as well.
But then… there’s that voice in my head saying, “You’re not done yet.” The Tour de France victory is still out there, laughing at me, and I’ve got a few Monuments I want to add to my shelf before I call it a day.
I’m torn. But hey, maybe if I tick off a couple more bucket list items next season, making that decision will get just a little bit easier. Or at least, that’s the hope…
Man... what a year. I’m not gonna lie — stepping onto the field as QB1 for the first time was terrifying. Playing in front of packed stadiums, against top-25 defenses, getting knocked around every other play? Yeah, it was humbling. But it was also the most fun I’ve ever had.
I didn’t expect to be in this position. I thought I’d have another year to prepare, but when our senior starting quarterback decided to transfer at the last minute. I was handed the keys to the Pirates offense.
I learned what it means to lead — even when I didn’t have it all figured out. The picks? The fumbles? I’m not proud of them. But every week, I kept coming back hungry. My teammates believed in me. The coaches challenged me. And slowly, things started to click. One play at a time.
Week 1: @ #7 Notre Dame | Friday Night (Sept. 1) | Watch Game
Marcus faced a brutal welcome to college football — a primetime road start against a top-10 defense. He showed flashes of his dual-threat ability, especially on the ground, but costly turnovers in a hostile environment proved detrimental.
Week 2: vs. #17 Tennessee | Saturday Afternoon (Sept. 9) | Watch Game
East Carolina’s home opener brought another top-25 opponent. Marcus played with more confidence, mixing in deep throws and using his legs in the red zone. Still, ball security remained a problem. The learning curve stayed steep.
Week 3: vs. FCS East | Saturday Afternoon (Sept. 16) | Watch Game
A much-needed breather. Marcus looked in control for the first time, slicing up the secondary with poise. This was a chance to reset mentally and regain rhythm — and he made the most of it.
Week 4: @ #17 Illinois | Saturday Night (Sept. 23) | Watch Game
An ugly stat line, but a gutsy performance. The offense struggled to move the ball on the road, but MDJ came through with a third-down goal-line rushing touchdown. Even on a rough day, he found a way to contribute.
Week 5: @ Duke | Saturday Afternoon (Sept. 30) | Watch Game
An up-and-down outing — big yardage, but more mistakes through the air. The flashes of elite arm talent were there, but decision-making still held him back. The pressure was building for a breakout.
Week 6: vs. Coastal Carolina | Saturday Afternoon (Oct. 7) | Watch Game
Everything changed here. Marcus exploded for over 400 yards and 4 TDs through the air, commanding the offense like a veteran. It was the most complete performance of his young career and the start of something special.
Week 7: vs. Boston College | Saturday Afternoon (Oct. 14) | Watch Game
Another massive passing day. Marcus continued to build confidence, carving up BC with deep shots and quick reads. He was starting to look like a quarterback who could take over games.
Week 8: @ #24 Louisville | Saturday Afternoon (Oct. 21) | Watch Game
In one of the season’s loudest environments, Marcus stayed hot. Four more TDs and 400 yards — this one turned heads nationally as the redshirt freshman put on a show. He wasn’t just surviving anymore; he was thriving.
Week 9: @ South Carolina | Saturday Afternoon (Oct. 28) | Watch Game
A chaotic night. For every dazzling throw, there was a frustrating interception. But even with four picks, Marcus still found the end zone twice and refused to let the moment overwhelm him.
Week 10: vs. Virginia Tech | Saturday Afternoon (Nov. 4) | Watch Game
A bounce-back game in the rain. Marcus dialed in, hitting vertical routes with touch and making plays outside the pocket. The mistakes were cut down, and the Pirates played with swagger.
Week 11: vs. Georgia Tech | Saturday Afternoon (Nov. 11) | Watch Game
A video game performance. Marcus lit up the scoreboard with 528 passing yards and 6 touchdowns, adding another on the ground. It was the kind of game that put his name into award conversations.
Week 12: @ Charlotte | Saturday Afternoon (Nov. 18) | Watch Game
A letdown after weeks of excellence. The offense couldn’t get rolling, and turnovers crept back in. It was a reminder that even breakout stars still have off days.
ACC Championship: vs. NC State | Saturday Night (Nov. 25) | Watch Game
Marcus played with maturity beyond his age, spreading the ball efficiently and protecting possession. Under the brightest lights of the year so far, he showed up big-time.
Bowl Game: vs. Kentucky | Thursday Afternoon (Dec. 21) | Watch Game
What a way to finish in the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl. A bowl-record 7 touchdowns capped off Marcus’s redshirt freshman campaign in style. He looked fearless, fast, and completely in command — a rising star announcing his arrival.
2045 Season Results
Spoiler
Week
Opponent
Result
MDJ Passing Stats
1
@ #7 Notre Dame
L, 0-21
64yds, 0 TDs
2
vs. #17 Tennessee
L, 17-34
144yds, 1 TDs
3
vs. FCS East
W, 31-0
258yds, 2 TDs
4
@ #17 Illinois
W, 13-10
96yds, 0 TDs
5
@ Duke
L, 18-21
236yds, 1 TD
6
vs. Coastal Carolina
W, 38-7
403yds, 4 TDs
7
vs. Boston College
W, 31-20
405yds, 3 TDs
8
@ #24 Louisville
W, 41-24
400yds, 4 TDs
9
@ South Carolina
W, 21-20
273yds, 2 TDs
10
vs. Virginia Tech
W, 26-7
272yds, 3 TDs
11
vs. Georgia Tech
W, 59-0
528yds, 6 TDs
12
@ Charlotte
L, 13-24
195yds, 1 TD
CC
vs. NC State
W, 26-14
260yds, 2 TDs
BG
vs. Kentucky
W, 55-19
456yds, 7 TDs
Season Stats
Marcus Diamond Jr. finished the season with a 10-4 record, winning the ACC Conference and the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl. He completed 196 of 317 passing attempts for a total of 3,990 yards. Marcus threw 36 touchdown passes and rushed for 3 touchdowns on 100 carries, gaining 196 yards on the ground. He had 28 interceptions over the course of the season.
2045 College Football Playoffs
Looking Ahead to 2046
I’ve got so much more to prove.
Yeah, we had a pretty good season. But I threw 28 picks — I know that’s not gonna cut it if I want to take this team even further. This offseason, I’m locked in on decision-making, ball placement, and staying in the pocket just a second longer. I’m grateful. For the coaching staff that believed in me. For the vets who kept me grounded. For the fans who stuck with me through every up and down.
Next year? I’m coming back smarter, faster, and hungrier. #MDJ
Spoiler alert: League champions. That’s the story — and what a season it was.
But as sweet as another title is (third straight), one number still lingers: five.
Five times we walked off the pitch without a result. Five moments that didn’t sit right, no matter how much we won elsewhere. It doesn’t take away from what we achieved — nothing can — but it does leave something unresolved.
We’ll get into each of those losses. Each one told a story. And maybe, in the end, they’ll explain why winning didn’t quite feel like enough.
Defeats That Mattered
Missing in Millwall
Canvey Island players regroup after conceding late in a tough preseason test against a higher-tier opposition.
LEWISHAM, England (July 29, 2028) — Millwall wrapped up their preseason with a 4-1 win over eighth-tier Canvey Island United, but the scoreline masked a spirited showing from the underdogs. With star man Marcus Diamond away on cycling duty with HSE-Liquigas, Canvey traveled to The Den as heavy outsiders — and looked it early when Jed Wallace put Millwall ahead in the 7th minute. But newly signing Gregoire Arnould, a French midfielder making his Canvey debut, pulled his side level in the 27th with a composed finish that briefly stunned the home crowd.
Millwall dominated the possession (63%) and was clinical in their passing (90% completion), which finally wore Canvey Island down in the closing stages. Billy Mitchell made it 2-1 with a low driving shot before Jamie Maxwell added two more in the 88th and 94th minutes to seal the result. Despite the late collapse, Canvey Island left with their heads high — more than holding their own against a side five divisions above, and showing early promise ahead of their own league campaign.
Cup Run Ends Cold
Ipswich hands Canvey Island United its biggest loss of the season.
CANVEY ISLAND, England (Nov. 7, 2028) — Canvey Island United’s fairytale United British Cup run came to a halt in the Fourth Round, as Tier 2 side Ipswich Town flexed their Championship muscle in a 3-0 win. After storming through the first three rounds with a combined 12-0 scoreline, the Tier 8 minnows finally met their match — though they held their own for long stretches in front of a spirited home crowd.
Ipswich struck early through Fabril Kopo in the 7th minute, but Canvey Island stayed within reach until the final quarter-hour. A second from Joshua Zirkzee in the 74th and a stoppage-time strike by Oliver Burke sealed it, with Ipswich controlling 53% of possession and outshooting the hosts 25-13 (9-3 on target).
Reality Check on the Road
Heads hang after humbling second straight defeat for Canvey Island United.
STALYBRIDGE, England (Nov. 11, 2028) — Canvey Island United's perfect league start came to an end with a narrow 1–0 loss at Stalybridge, just four days after their United British Cup exit. The decisive moment came early, as Bobby Kamwa converted a 7th-minute penalty to give the hosts the lead. Canvey pushed for an equalizer with 12 shots, four on target, but couldn’t break through.
The defeat was Canvey’s first in league play since Jan. 22 and snapped a 19-match unbeaten run dating back to last season. They had opened this campaign with seven straight wins, including six clean sheets. Marcus Diamond earned the team’s highest rating at 7.0, but even his efforts couldn’t turn the tide on a frustrating afternoon.
Seeing Red
Dag & Red take down Canvey Island United.
DAGENHAM, England (April 7, 2029) — After 20 straight league victories, Canvey Island United finally hit a bump in the road, falling 2-1 to Dagenham & Redbridge in a tightly contested away match. Duane Carter, a January transfer window signing, gave Canvey an ideal start with a 6th-minute opener, but the hosts responded with first-half goals from Jim Swan and Mark Fulton to flip the momentum.
Canvey had a golden opportunity to mount a comeback when Dag & Red were reduced to 10 men following Ruairi Brown’s red card in the 55th minute. Despite dominating possession and posting a higher expected goals total (1.80 to 1.62), the equalizer never came. The loss served as a reality check for Canvey Island, who remain firmly in control of their title chase but now know they’re not invincible.
Cup Final Heartbreak
The rematch and trophy goes to Dag & Red.
CANVEY ISLAND, England (May 1, 2029) — Canvey Island United’s dream of lifting their first cup trophy since 2001 slipped away in a thrilling 3-2 defeat to Dagenham & Redbridge in the English Regional Cup Final. After a memorable run that included a penalty shootout win over Nuneaton Boro in the semifinals and a Duane Carter hat trick in an extra-time quarterfinal victory over Chelmsford, the Islanders looked poised for a storybook ending.
Dag & Red struck first in the 4th minute through Jim Swan after a defensive lapse, but Canvey stormed back with two stunning long-range strikes from Marcus Diamond and Pharrell Conteh to lead 2-1 at halftime.
The second half turned quickly as Caleb Chukwuemeka equalized just seconds after the restart, then gave Dag & Red the lead for good in the 71st minute. Conteh’s red card in the 64th minute left Canvey down a man and unable to mount another comeback.
The loss denied them a second major cup title, 28 years after their historic (albeit long-forgotten) 2001 FA Trophy win when the team was previously branded as Canvey Island FC.
Canvey Island United Results
English Prime Division 1
Spoiler
M#
Date
H/A
Opposition
Result
Pts-Place
G
A
AVG
1
Aug-12
vs.
Maidenhead
6 - 0
3 - 1st
1
1
9.7
2
Aug-16
at
FC Halifax
4 - 0
6 - 1st
1
8.3
3
Aug-19
vs.
Guiseley
2 - 0
9 - 1st
1
8.0
4
Aug-23
vs.
Aldershot
6 - 0
12 - 1st
3
1
10.0
5
Aug-26
at
Bath
4 - 0
15 - 1st
3
1
10.0
6
Sep-2
at
Dartford
4 - 1
18 - 1st
1
2
9.5
7
Sep-6
vs.
Leamington
4 - 0
21 - 1st
3
10.0
8
Sep-9
at
Kidderminster
1 - 1
22 - 1st
7.7
9
Sep-16
vs.
Cirencester
1 - 0
25 - 1st
8.1
10
Sep-20
at
St. Albans
3 - 1
28 - 1st
1
1
8.9
11
Sep-23
vs.
Dover
2 - 1
31 - 1st
2
9.1
12
Sep-27
at
Bromley
1 - 0
34 - 1st
8.3
13
Sep-30
at
Slough
3 - 1
37 - 1st
2
8.9
14
Oct-7
vs.
Chelmsford
2 - 0
40 - 1st
2
8.9
15
Oct-14
at
Havant & W
2 - 0
43 - 1st
1
7.8
16
Oct-17
at
Altrincham
0 - 0
44 - 1st
7.2
17
Oct-21
vs.
Dulwich Hamlet
5 - 1
47 - 1st
2
8.4
18
Oct-28
at
Horsham
3 - 2
50 - 1st
2
9.2
19
Nov-4
vs.
Dag & Red
2 - 1
53 - 1st
1
8.0
20
Nov-11
at
Stalybridge
0 - 1
53 - 1st
7.0
21
Nov-18
vs.
York
4 - 0
56 - 1st
1
8.4
22
Nov-25
at
Maidstone
5 - 2
59 - 1st
1
7.8
23
Dec-2
vs.
Brackley
1 - 1
60 - 1st
1
8.4
24
Dec-9
at
Maidenhead
5 - 2
63 - 1st
1
8.9
25
Dec-16
vs.
Bromley
2 - 0
66 - 1st
1
8.6
26
Dec-23
vs.
FC Halifax
2 - 1
69 - 1st
1
8.5
27
Jan-6
vs.
Bath
5 - 0
72 - 1st
2
9.6
28
Jan-9
at
Guiseley
3 - 1
75 - 1st
1
2
9.7
29
Jan-13
at
Aldershot
3 - 1
78 - 1st
1
8.0
30
Jan-20
vs.
Altrincham
2 - 0
81 - 1st
8.0
31
Jan-27
at
Leamington
3 - 2
84 - 1st
2
9.3
32
Feb-3
vs.
Dartford
3 - 1
87 - 1st
DNP
33
Feb-10
vs.
Kidderminster
2 - 0
90 - 1st
DNP
34
Feb-17
at
Cirencester
3 - 1
93 - 1st
1
1
8.7
35
Feb-24
vs.
St. Albans
2 - 1
96 - 1st
1
9.2
36
Mar-3
vs.
Slough
1 - 0
99 - 1st
1
9.0
37
Mar-10
at
Dover
1 - 0
102 - 1st
7.8
38
Mar-17
at
Chelmsford
2 - 1
105 - 1st
1
8.7
39
Mar-24
vs.
Havant & W
5 - 0
108 - 1st
1
1
9.1
40
Mar-31
at
Dulwich Hamlet
2 - 0
111 - 1st
1
9.0
41
Apr-7
at
Dag & Red
1 - 2
111 - 1st
1
7.3
42
Apr-14
vs.
Horsham
5 - 3
114 - 1st
1
1
9.3
43
Apr-21
vs.
Stalybridge
1 - 0
117 - 1st
1
8.7
44
Apr-28
at
York
2 - 0
120 - 1st
2
9.5
45
May-5
vs.
Maidstone
2 - 0
123 - 1st
1
7.4
46
May-12
at
Brackley
1 - 1
124 - 1st
7.5
TOTALS:
38
23
8.6
LEAGUE WINNERS!
Canvey Island United has been promoted from the English Prime Division 1 (Tier 8) to British South Prime Division 1 (Tier 7).
United British Cup
Spoiler
M#
Date
H/A
Opposition
Result
Round
G
A
AVG
1
Aug-29
vs.
Peterhead
4 - 0
Second
2
2
10.0
2
Oct-3
vs.
Bromley
2 - 0
Third
1
0
9.3
3
Nov-7
vs.
Ipswich
0 - 3
Fourth
6.5
TOTALS:
3
2
8.6
English Regional Cup
Spoiler
M#
Date
H/A
Opposition
Result
Round
G
A
AVG
1
Aug-8
at
Hednesford
6 - 0
First
2
2
10.0
2
Sep-12
at
Dunstable
2 - 1
Second
7.7
3
Oct-31
at
Matlock
2 - 0
Third
1
8.3
4
Dec-12
vs.
Grays
2 - 0
Fourth
1
7.8
5
Jan-30
vs.
Chelmsford
e3 - 2
Quarterfinal
7.8
6
Mar-13
at
Nuneaton Boro
p1 - 1
Semifinal
7.9
7
May-1
vs.
Dag & Red
2 - 3
Final
1
8.6
TOTALS:
4
3
8.3
Marcus Diamond's Season Stats & Awards
Spoiler
Date
Achievement
2028-29
English Prime Division 1 Player of the Season
2028-29
English Prime Division 1 Player of the Week (x3)
2028-29
English Prime Division 1 Team of the Year
2028-29
English Prime Division 1 Top Goalscorer
2028-29
English Prime Division 1 Goal of the Week (x1)
2028-29
English Prime Division 1 League Champions
Looking Ahead to 2029-30
I’ve played with a lot of teams — some good, some forgettable — but what we’ve built here feels different. This isn’t just a squad riding the momentum of one standout season. It’s a group with real depth, real balance, and a clear identity.
That’s what made it possible for me to put up 72 goal contributions in 54 appearances. Even now, that number feels unreal. But I wasn’t carrying this team. It took all of us.
We’re not naive about what lies ahead. Those records — 124 points, 123 goals in a single league season — mean little if we can’t prove ourselves at the next level. The climb only gets steeper from here.
We’ll need to stay healthy, bring in a few key players, and most importantly, stick to the style that defines us. We play aggressively, take risks, and control the game. That fearless approach has carried us this far, but now we have to show it can withstand tougher challenges and higher stakes.
The foundation is solid. The belief is real.
Now it's just about pushing forward, one division at a time.
Spoiler alert: League champions. That’s the story — and what a season it was.
But as sweet as another title is (third straight), one number still lingers: five.
Five times we walked off the pitch without a result. Five moments that didn’t sit right, no matter how much we won elsewhere. It doesn’t take away from what we achieved — nothing can — but it does leave something unresolved.
We’ll get into each of those losses. Each one told a story. And maybe, in the end, they’ll explain why winning didn’t quite feel like enough.
Defeats That Mattered
Missing in Millwall
Canvey Island players regroup after conceding late in a tough preseason test against a higher-tier opposition.
LEWISHAM, England (July 29, 2028) — Millwall wrapped up their preseason with a 4-1 win over eighth-tier Canvey Island United, but the scoreline masked a spirited showing from the underdogs. With star man Marcus Diamond away on cycling duty with HSE-Liquigas, Canvey traveled to The Den as heavy outsiders — and looked it early when Jed Wallace put Millwall ahead in the 7th minute. But newly signing Gregoire Arnould, a French midfielder making his Canvey debut, pulled his side level in the 27th with a composed finish that briefly stunned the home crowd.
Millwall dominated the possession (63%) and was clinical in their passing (90% completion), which finally wore Canvey Island down in the closing stages. Billy Mitchell made it 2-1 with a low driving shot before Jamie Maxwell added two more in the 88th and 94th minutes to seal the result. Despite the late collapse, Canvey Island left with their heads high — more than holding their own against a side five divisions above, and showing early promise ahead of their own league campaign.
Cup Run Ends Cold
Ipswich hands Canvey Island United its biggest loss of the season.
CANVEY ISLAND, England (Nov. 7, 2028) — Canvey Island United’s fairytale United British Cup run came to a halt in the Fourth Round, as Tier 2 side Ipswich Town flexed their Championship muscle in a 3-0 win. After storming through the first three rounds with a combined 12-0 scoreline, the Tier 8 minnows finally met their match — though they held their own for long stretches in front of a spirited home crowd.
Ipswich struck early through Fabril Kopo in the 7th minute, but Canvey Island stayed within reach until the final quarter-hour. A second from Joshua Zirkzee in the 74th and a stoppage-time strike by Oliver Burke sealed it, with Ipswich controlling 53% of possession and outshooting the hosts 25-13 (9-3 on target).
Reality Check on the Road
Heads hang after humbling second straight defeat for Canvey Island United.
STALYBRIDGE, England (Nov. 11, 2028) — Canvey Island United's perfect league start came to an end with a narrow 1–0 loss at Stalybridge, just four days after their United British Cup exit. The decisive moment came early, as Bobby Kamwa converted a 7th-minute penalty to give the hosts the lead. Canvey pushed for an equalizer with 12 shots, four on target, but couldn’t break through.
The defeat was Canvey’s first in league play since Jan. 22 and snapped a 19-match unbeaten run dating back to last season. They had opened this campaign with seven straight wins, including six clean sheets. Marcus Diamond earned the team’s highest rating at 7.0, but even his efforts couldn’t turn the tide on a frustrating afternoon.
Seeing Red
Dag & Red take down Canvey Island United.
DAGENHAM, England (April 7, 2029) — After 20 straight league victories, Canvey Island United finally hit a bump in the road, falling 2-1 to Dagenham & Redbridge in a tightly contested away match. Duane Carter, a January transfer window signing, gave Canvey an ideal start with a 6th-minute opener, but the hosts responded with first-half goals from Jim Swan and Mark Fulton to flip the momentum.
Canvey had a golden opportunity to mount a comeback when Dag & Red were reduced to 10 men following Ruairi Brown’s red card in the 55th minute. Despite dominating possession and posting a higher expected goals total (1.80 to 1.62), the equalizer never came. The loss served as a reality check for Canvey Island, who remain firmly in control of their title chase but now know they’re not invincible.
Cup Final Heartbreak
The rematch and trophy goes to Dag & Red.
CANVEY ISLAND, England (May 1, 2029) — Canvey Island United’s dream of lifting their first cup trophy since 2001 slipped away in a thrilling 3-2 defeat to Dagenham & Redbridge in the English Regional Cup Final. After a memorable run that included a penalty shootout win over Nuneaton Boro in the semifinals and a Duane Carter hat trick in an extra-time quarterfinal victory over Chelmsford, the Islanders looked poised for a storybook ending.
Dag & Red struck first in the 4th minute through Jim Swan after a defensive lapse, but Canvey stormed back with two stunning long-range strikes from Marcus Diamond and Pharrell Conteh to lead 2-1 at halftime.
The second half turned quickly as Caleb Chukwuemeka equalized just seconds after the restart, then gave Dag & Red the lead for good in the 71st minute. Conteh’s red card in the 64th minute left Canvey down a man and unable to mount another comeback.
The loss denied them a second major cup title, 28 years after their historic (albeit long-forgotten) 2001 FA Trophy win when the team was previously branded as Canvey Island FC.
Canvey Island United Results
English Prime Division 1
Spoiler
M#
Date
H/A
Opposition
Result
Pts-Place
G
A
AVG
1
Aug-12
vs.
Maidenhead
6 - 0
3 - 1st
1
1
9.7
2
Aug-16
at
FC Halifax
4 - 0
6 - 1st
1
8.3
3
Aug-19
vs.
Guiseley
2 - 0
9 - 1st
1
8.0
4
Aug-23
vs.
Aldershot
6 - 0
12 - 1st
3
1
10.0
5
Aug-26
at
Bath
4 - 0
15 - 1st
3
1
10.0
6
Sep-2
at
Dartford
4 - 1
18 - 1st
1
2
9.5
7
Sep-6
vs.
Leamington
4 - 0
21 - 1st
3
10.0
8
Sep-9
at
Kidderminster
1 - 1
22 - 1st
7.7
9
Sep-16
vs.
Cirencester
1 - 0
25 - 1st
8.1
10
Sep-20
at
St. Albans
3 - 1
28 - 1st
1
1
8.9
11
Sep-23
vs.
Dover
2 - 1
31 - 1st
2
9.1
12
Sep-27
at
Bromley
1 - 0
34 - 1st
8.3
13
Sep-30
at
Slough
3 - 1
37 - 1st
2
8.9
14
Oct-7
vs.
Chelmsford
2 - 0
40 - 1st
2
8.9
15
Oct-14
at
Havant & W
2 - 0
43 - 1st
1
7.8
16
Oct-17
at
Altrincham
0 - 0
44 - 1st
7.2
17
Oct-21
vs.
Dulwich Hamlet
5 - 1
47 - 1st
2
8.4
18
Oct-28
at
Horsham
3 - 2
50 - 1st
2
9.2
19
Nov-4
vs.
Dag & Red
2 - 1
53 - 1st
1
8.0
20
Nov-11
at
Stalybridge
0 - 1
53 - 1st
7.0
21
Nov-18
vs.
York
4 - 0
56 - 1st
1
8.4
22
Nov-25
at
Maidstone
5 - 2
59 - 1st
1
7.8
23
Dec-2
vs.
Brackley
1 - 1
60 - 1st
1
8.4
24
Dec-9
at
Maidenhead
5 - 2
63 - 1st
1
8.9
25
Dec-16
vs.
Bromley
2 - 0
66 - 1st
1
8.6
26
Dec-23
vs.
FC Halifax
2 - 1
69 - 1st
1
8.5
27
Jan-6
vs.
Bath
5 - 0
72 - 1st
2
9.6
28
Jan-9
at
Guiseley
3 - 1
75 - 1st
1
2
9.7
29
Jan-13
at
Aldershot
3 - 1
78 - 1st
1
8.0
30
Jan-20
vs.
Altrincham
2 - 0
81 - 1st
8.0
31
Jan-27
at
Leamington
3 - 2
84 - 1st
2
9.3
32
Feb-3
vs.
Dartford
3 - 1
87 - 1st
DNP
33
Feb-10
vs.
Kidderminster
2 - 0
90 - 1st
DNP
34
Feb-17
at
Cirencester
3 - 1
93 - 1st
1
1
8.7
35
Feb-24
vs.
St. Albans
2 - 1
96 - 1st
1
9.2
36
Mar-3
vs.
Slough
1 - 0
99 - 1st
1
9.0
37
Mar-10
at
Dover
1 - 0
102 - 1st
7.8
38
Mar-17
at
Chelmsford
2 - 1
105 - 1st
1
8.7
39
Mar-24
vs.
Havant & W
5 - 0
108 - 1st
1
1
9.1
40
Mar-31
at
Dulwich Hamlet
2 - 0
111 - 1st
1
9.0
41
Apr-7
at
Dag & Red
1 - 2
111 - 1st
1
7.3
42
Apr-14
vs.
Horsham
5 - 3
114 - 1st
1
1
9.3
43
Apr-21
vs.
Stalybridge
1 - 0
117 - 1st
1
8.7
44
Apr-28
at
York
2 - 0
120 - 1st
2
9.5
45
May-5
vs.
Maidstone
2 - 0
123 - 1st
1
7.4
46
May-12
at
Brackley
1 - 1
124 - 1st
7.5
TOTALS:
38
23
8.6
LEAGUE WINNERS!
Canvey Island United has been promoted from the English Prime Division 1 (Tier 8) to British South Prime Division 1 (Tier 7).
United British Cup
Spoiler
M#
Date
H/A
Opposition
Result
Round
G
A
AVG
1
Aug-29
vs.
Peterhead
4 - 0
Second
2
2
10.0
2
Oct-3
vs.
Bromley
2 - 0
Third
1
0
9.3
3
Nov-7
vs.
Ipswich
0 - 3
Fourth
6.5
TOTALS:
3
2
8.6
English Regional Cup
Spoiler
M#
Date
H/A
Opposition
Result
Round
G
A
AVG
1
Aug-8
at
Hednesford
6 - 0
First
2
2
10.0
2
Sep-12
at
Dunstable
2 - 1
Second
7.7
3
Oct-31
at
Matlock
2 - 0
Third
1
8.3
4
Dec-12
vs.
Grays
2 - 0
Fourth
1
7.8
5
Jan-30
vs.
Chelmsford
e3 - 2
Quarterfinal
7.8
6
Mar-13
at
Nuneaton Boro
p1 - 1
Semifinal
7.9
7
May-1
vs.
Dag & Red
2 - 3
Final
1
8.6
TOTALS:
4
3
8.3
Marcus Diamond's Season Stats & Awards
Spoiler
Date
Achievement
2028-29
English Prime Division 1 Player of the Season
2028-29
English Prime Division 1 Player of the Week (x3)
2028-29
English Prime Division 1 Team of the Year
2028-29
English Prime Division 1 Top Goalscorer
2028-29
English Prime Division 1 Goal of the Week (x1)
2028-29
English Prime Division 1 League Champions
Looking Ahead to 2029-30
I’ve played with a lot of teams — some good, some forgettable — but what we’ve built here feels different. This isn’t just a squad riding the momentum of one standout season. It’s a group with real depth, real balance, and a clear identity.
That’s what made it possible for me to put up 72 goal contributions in 54 appearances. Even now, that number feels unreal. But I wasn’t carrying this team. It took all of us.
We’re not naive about what lies ahead. Those records — 124 points, 123 goals in a single league season — mean little if we can’t prove ourselves at the next level. The climb only gets steeper from here.
We’ll need to stay healthy, bring in a few key players, and most importantly, stick to the style that defines us. We play aggressively, take risks, and control the game. That fearless approach has carried us this far, but now we have to show it can withstand tougher challenges and higher stakes.
The foundation is solid. The belief is real.
Now it's just about pushing forward, one division at a time.
After Il Lombardia, I vanished from the headlines. Rumors swirled — was I injured, burnt out, or something else entirely? The truth was far more personal.
Grace and I were welcoming our second child, Hannah Sierra Diamond, into the world. Becoming a father again changed everything about my perspective, my priorities, and even the way I approached racing. Balancing the demands of the peloton with the needs of a growing family tested me in ways no race ever could. Juggling early morning training sessions with late-night feedings quickly became my new kind of interval training.
The 2029 season wasn’t just about results or podiums. It was about learning to find harmony between two worlds that often pull in opposite directions. There were quiet struggles and sacrifices that never made the news, but shaped me into the rider and father I am today.
The Moments That Mattered
Secret Start
Marcus Diamond powers across the finish line to claim victory at the Trofeo Laigueglia, marking a stunning return to racing after a four-month break.
LAIGUEGLIA, Italy (Feb. 11, 2029) — Marcus Diamond made a quiet return to racing on Sunday, taking a surprise win at the Trofeo Laigueglia. The reigning world champion had been absent from competition since his crash in the closing meters of Il Lombardia, a race he looked set to win before disaster unfolded.
Although presumably uninjured, Diamond withdrew from public view during the offseason and kept his 2029 race schedule under wraps — prompting speculation about his form, his mindset, and what kind of condition he'd bring into the new season. On Sunday, he delivered a clear answer.
Starting without a team announcement and unlisted on preliminary rosters, Diamond rode quietly near the front for much of the race before making the decisive selection in the final circuits. He then outsprinted a five-man group, which included crowd favourite Vincenzo Albanese, to take the win.
It's his first triumph in the rainbow jersey, and a strong start to what could be a pivotal season. The 29-year-old is in the final year of his contract with Team HSE–Liquigas, and with no extension announced, rumors have circulated about his future in the peloton.
After the finish, Diamond did not speak to the media and was seen leaving the area shortly after podium duties. Team staff declined to comment on his race schedule or contract status.
For now, the result speaks for itself: The world champion is back in action and still keeping everyone guessing about when he’ll be racing again.
Trofeo Laigueglia
1
Marcus Diamond
HSE-Liquigas
4h51'46
2
Vincenzo Albanese
Abu Dhabi
s.t.
3
Arslan Nikolaev
Expedia
s.t.
4
Wout Van Aert
Zwift Pro Cycling
s.t.
5
Edmond Delcroix
Team Ridley
s.t.
Underwhelming Spring Classics
Alan Banaszek beats Marcus Diamond to the line to win the 2029 Strade Bianche.
MORBIHAN, France (May 26, 2029) — There was a grimace on his face, but no emotion in his eyes. Marcus Diamond, draped in the colorful stripes of the World Champion, crossed the line in sixth place at the GP Plumelec-Morbihan — a quiet finish to a spring campaign that never found its spark. The jersey was bright, but the body language said it all. Once again, Diamond looked defeated.
The result brings his spring classics season to a close, one marked more by consistency than standout success. Now, he turns his attention to the Great Britain National Championships and a confirmed start at the Tour de France.
Diamond placed inside the top 15 in all four spring Monuments but failed to reach the podium. His best performances came at Milano-Sanremo and Paris-Roubaix, where he made the final group but could only manage a sprint to fourth and ninth, respectively. In the smaller classics, he lost by a wheel at Strade Bianche and settled for fifth at Amstel Gold, a race he won in 2025.
More was certainly expected from the World Champion, especially from the media. Rumors continue to swirl about whether he still has the fire to chase greatness, or if his eyes were already set on chasing after the yellow jersey in July.
Marcus Diamond's History: Spring Monuments
Year
MSR
RvV
PR
LBL
2029
4th
11th
9th
15th
2028
100th
7th
79th
2027
10th
19th
35th
2026
1st
10th
12th
3rd
2025
23rd
20th
14th
12th
2024
20th
33rd
12th
2023
23rd
36th
26th
Free to Fly
Marcus Diamond tames Mont du Chat solo to win his sixth Tour de France stage.
CHAMBERY, France (July 15, 2029) — Marcus Diamond of Team HSE-Liquigas, wearing the rainbow stripes of the reigning World Champion, claimed a brilliant solo victory on Stage 9 of the Tour de France with a fearless attack halfway up the legendary Mont du Chat. The win was his sixth career stage victory at the Tour and one of his most memorable performances yet.
Diamond, sitting more than two minutes down in the GC at the start of the day, seized his chance as the favorites behind hesitated. With nine kilometers remaining on the climb, he surged clear, choosing ambition over caution on one of the hardest ascents in the race.
The peloton, filled with GC heavyweights like three-time TDF winner Tao Geoghegan Hart, GC leader Lucas Arauco, Miguel Angel Lopez, Ivan Sosa, and recent Giro d'Italia winner Brandon McNulty all remained locked in a tense tactical standoff. Each was more focused on watching the others than chasing down the lone figure slipping away up the road. That indecision gave Diamond all the room he needed.
By the summit, Diamond had built a sizable gap. He flew down the technical descent and powered through the final stretch into Chambéry, raising his arms in triumph as he crossed the line alone, the rainbow jersey glowing against the alpine backdrop.
“It was a gamble, but I had the legs and the belief,” Diamond said at the finish. “I knew they wouldn't chase me right away, and I wanted to honor the jersey. To win like this, on a climb like the Mont du Chat, is special.”
Diamond may still sit just outside the top tier of GC contenders, now in fifth place and 28 seconds back, but his ride on Stage 9 was a masterclass in timing, courage, and raw talent. While the battle for yellow remains tightly contested, it was the World Champion who lit up the race and claimed the day.
Tour de France - Stage 9
1
Marcus Diamond
HSE-Liquigas
5h33'09
2
Miguel Angel Lopez
TAP Portugal
+ 1'19
3
Kostya Baubekov
Astana Pro Team
s.t.
4
Brandon McNulty
Expedia
s.t.
5
Jai Hindley
SEG - Quick Step
s.t.
Tour de France - GC After Stage 9
1
Lucas Arauco
Nikon
39h33'49
2
Mikkel Bjerg
AEGON
+ 10
3
Miguel Angel Lopez
TAP Portugal
s.t.
4
Ivan Sosa
EF Nippo
+ 25
5
Marcus Diamond
HSE-Liquigas
+ 28
Controversy in the Alps
With four stages remaining, the yellow jersey has changed hands, though not without controversy as pundits question the ethics behind how it was claimed.
SERRE CHEVALIER, France (July 25, 2029) — The yellow jersey changed hands in dramatic and controversial fashion on Stage 17 of the Tour de France, as World Champion Marcus Diamond moved into the overall lead following a chaotic day in the Alps that saw race leader Lucas Arauco crash on the descent of the Col du Lautaret.
Diamond, who began the day 28 seconds behind Arauco in the GC, appeared unaware of the incident as it unfolded behind him. Focused on the reduced group of just eight riders after the descent — including two of his HSE-Liquigas teammates — he pushed ahead with his pre-stage plan. At the base of the final climb to Serre Chevalier, he used his team to ramp up the pace before launching an attack.
He quickly bridged to the remnants of the large breakaway and settled in with six of the day’s strongest climbers. The rainbow jersey was prominent at the front, and as the group neared the summit, it was clear the stage would come down to a sprint once they reached the bottom of the mountain.
Spanish rider Sara Pardeza (Team Desigual) edged Diamond at the line in a photo finish, denying him a second stage win. But the bigger result was behind them. Arauco, bloodied and shaken, had picked himself up after his crash and fought to minimize the damage, ultimately finishing a minute and a half behind the lead group. Once time bonuses were accounted for, Diamond moved into the overall lead by 1 minute and 14 seconds.
“It was full gas, and I didn’t realize anything had happened to Lucas until much later,” Diamond said. “We had a plan for today, and I stuck to it. I feel for him — no one wants to see a rival go down like that.”
Still, questions swirled in the aftermath. Some fans and pundits argued Diamond surely must have been informed of Arauco’s crash over team radio, and that he should have eased off rather than taking advantage of the situation. Others defended his actions, insisting he simply raced the course in front of him.
“Crashes are part of the sport,” said two-time defending champion Tao Geoghegan Hart. “You don’t wait unless there’s a clear decision in the peloton, and there clearly wasn’t one today. Still, that's not how I'd want to win the Tour de France”
Regardless of the debate, the standings are clear. With one more summit finish tomorrow and a decisive 21.5-kilometer individual time trial on Stage 20, the race still remains wide open. Arauco is the stronger climber and time trialist on paper, but for now, it’s Diamond in yellow, and the Tour is his to lose.
Tour de France - Stage 17
1
Sara Pardeza
Desigual
5h46'36
2
Marcus Diamond
HSE-Liquigas
s.t.
3
Kostya Baubekov
Astana Pro Team
s.t.
4
Norah March
EF Nippo
s.t.
5
Kevin Inkelaar
AEGON
s.t.
Tour de France - GC After Stage 17
1
Marcus Diamond
HSE-Liquigas
80h43'48
2
Lucas Arauco
Nikon
+ 1'14
3
Miguel Angel Lopez
TAP Portugal
+ 3'15
4
Ivan Sosa
EF Nippo
+ 5'09
5
Daniel Felipe Martinez
Expedia
+ 6'18
The Race of Truth
The 2029 Tour de France was decided on the Stage 20 ITT.
PARIS, France (July 29, 2029) — It all came down to Stage 20.
A 24.5-kilometer individual time trial through the twisting streets and seaside climbs of Marseille stood between Marcus Diamond and Tour de France immortality. Holding a 1'14" advantage over Lucas Arauco, the reigning World Champion had just one job: limit the damage. But time trials have a way of stripping things down to the bare essentials — legs, nerves, and the truth.
Arauco was calm and clinical as he rolled down the start ramp. The early checkpoints told the story. At the first split, he had already clawed back 29 seconds on Diamond, slicing into the gap with measured precision. By the time he hit the second intermediate point, halfway up the punishing climb to Notre-Dame de la Garde, he’d taken another 35 seconds. Just 10 seconds remained between them in the virtual standings, and the momentum had clearly shifted.
Arauco stopped the clock in 28 minutes and 26 seconds — good enough for sixth on the stage, but more importantly, a minute and 48 seconds faster than Diamond. It wasn’t until Diamond crossed the line that the final equation came into focus. Arauco had surpassed Diamond by 34 seconds.
The yellow jersey had changed hands once again. With it, the Tour.
After three weeks of daring moves, tactical stand-offs, and mountain battles, the Tour de France was decided not by a summit finish, but by the relentless tick of a stopwatch in Marseille. Diamond faltered under the pressure.
Stage 21 into Paris was ceremonial. The peloton glided into the capital under clear skies, with the Eiffel Tower looming over the final laps on the Champs-Élysées. Arauco, 31 years old and often overlooked in years past, now wore yellow. A first-time Grand Tour winner. A champion at last.
Diamond, just behind, rode in near silence. He congratulated Arauco with a pat on the back, but said little else. When he did face the media, his words were slow and distant.
“I came here to win,” he said. “I thought this might be the year. But the race has a way of choosing for you.”
Asked whether he’d return to the Tour again, Diamond didn’t answer directly.
“You give everything to this race. And when it takes something back... sometimes it’s hard to want more. Maybe this was it for me.”
The future for Diamond remains uncertain. For Arauco, the present is all that matters. After years of being a nearly man in the mountains, he now stood atop the final podium in Paris, yellow jersey zipped tight, arms raised beneath the Arc de Triomphe. A quiet climber, a late bloomer, and now a Tour de France winner standing a step above the World Champion.
Tour de France (GC)
1
Lucas Arauco
Nikon
89h09'53
2
Marcus Diamond
HSE-Liquigas
+ 34
3
Miguel Angel Lopez
TAP Portugal
+ 2'32
4
Ivan Sosa
EF Nippo
+ 4'09
5
Mikkel Bjerg
AEGON
+ 5'13
Homecoming
Canvey Island hosts the start line for RideLondon-Surrey Classic.
LONDON, England (July 31, 2029) — The peloton rolled out from Canvey Island on Tuesday morning to mild spring winds and waving flags. A new addition to the RideLondon–Surrey Classic, the Essex starting location was more than symbolic — it was a celebration. Ten months after claiming the rainbow jersey in Pau, France, Marcus Diamond returned to his hometown roads not only as World Champion, but as something more: Canvey Island’s favorite son.
This wasn’t just a bike race. It was a tribute.
Diamond, the star and part-owner of Canvey Island United, rode past the football stadium with a beaming smile on his face. A somewhat rare sight for what has been a grueling cycling season for him and his team.
And he wasn’t alone. In a rare public appearance, Diamond’s wife Grace stood just behind the barriers, hand-in-hand with their toddler son, Marcus Jr. Nestled in her arms was a surprise that quickly lit up social media: baby Hannah, the couple’s second child. Eight months old and entirely unknown to the press until today.
“She’s quiet — nothing like her brother,” Diamond joked after the race, juggling the attention like a man used to the spotlight. “Today was special. It’s not often you race from your backyard wearing the rainbow jersey.”
Once the flag dropped, however, the spectacle gave way to a subdued race. The RideLondon–Surrey route, redesigned this year to accommodate the coastal start, produced little action. A two-man breakaway dangled for hours before being reeled in on the outskirts of London. The climbs were short and the pace was predictable. A day for the sprinters — and everyone knew it.
Diamond did what he could. He covered moves, pulled for teammates, and even tested his legs with a surge on the final circuit around The Mall. But in the end, he lacked the top-end speed to contend.
The win went to Belgium’s Christophe Noppe (Team Ridley), who surged past Bram Welten (Team TomTom) in a tightly contested drag race to the line. Just behind them, Josie Pearson powered to third — the highest finish for Diamond’s team and another impressive result in her breakout season.
Diamond crossed in 11th, visibly spent but smiling.
“I had a go,” he shrugged post-race. “Didn’t quite have the zip for the finale. But to race here, with my family watching… that’s not something I’ll forget.”
Just two days removed from his heartbreaking second-place finish at the Tour de France — losing yellow on the final time trial on Stage 20 — the homecoming provided something he didn’t know he needed.
“It helps,” Diamond admitted. “I'm still gutted. You put everything into it, and sometimes it’s still not enough. But today reminded me why I ride in the first place. My people, my home. Today, cycling gave me something back.”
When asked about the Canvey Island departure and his growing legacy in British cycling, Diamond paused.
“I think it’s nice when people see more than the rider. That I’m also a dad, a husband, part of this community. This jersey is only mine for a year — but days like today, they’re forever. A moment I'll always cherish.”
The race may not have delivered fireworks, but in its own quiet way, it offered something rarer — a moment of stillness in the whirlwind of a champion’s life. Diamond didn’t win the race. But for one Tuesday at the end of July, he was exactly where he belonged.
RideLondon-Surrey Classic
1
Christophe Noppe
Team Ridley
5h18'58
2
Bram Welten
Team TomTom
s.t.
3
Josie Pearson
HSE-Liquigas
s.t.
4
Tie Luo
EvoPro Racing
s.t.
5
Gian Friesecke
Expedia
s.t.
Across the Pond
Pair of stage wins in America for the World Champion.
PARK CITY, Utah (Aug. 12, 2029) — Marcus Diamond made his long-awaited return to racing on American soil at the 2029 Tour of Utah, his first appearance in the U.S. since the 2027 Tour of California. This time, the World Champion arrived with form, ambition, and a hunger to make headlines — and he delivered from the opening stage.
Stage 1 featured a lumpy course that left only a select group at the front. Diamond stayed sharp through the climbs, then surged late in a reduced sprint, edging out André Looij of Hagens Berman Axeon in a photo finish. One stage in, and he was already in yellow.
Stage 2 saw more climbing and a similar finish, but Diamond changed tactics. With hesitation in the peloton, he launched a solo attack in the final kilometers, catching everyone off guard. He held on to take a second straight victory, extending his lead in the general classification and looking firmly in control.
That momentum was halted on Stage 3. On a fast and technical descent toward the finish, Diamond crashed. He remounted and finished, but not before surrendering his advantage. What had been a 32-second lead became a 1-minute, 24-second deficit. Jett Green of Australia inherited the race lead, and Diamond was suddenly chasing.
For the next few stages, he stayed patient. Then came Stage 6 — the queen stage — and with it, another flash of brilliance. Diamond attacked on the final climb and carved into Green’s lead, regaining nearly a minute and putting himself back into GC contention heading into the final day.
Stage 7 brought one final showdown. Diamond attacked again, hoping to complete the comeback. But this time, second-place Michel Ries was ready. Ries used Diamond’s move as a launchpad, distancing Green and taking the yellow jersey on the final stage. Diamond crossed the line just behind but would have to settle for third overall.
Despite missing out on the top step of the podium, Diamond’s week was far from disappointing. He claimed two stage victories, won both the points and King of the Mountains classifications, and reestablished his presence on U.S. roads with trademark aggression and style.
The 2029 Tour of Utah may not have ended in yellow, but it left no doubt that Marcus Diamond is still one of cycling’s most electrifying forces.
Tour of Utah (GC)
1
Michel Ries
EP Petroecuador
27h55'35
2
Jett Green
Origin Energy
+ 51
3
Marcus Diamond
HSE-Liquigas
+ 1'27
4
Simon Yates
Qantas
+ 2'20
5
Evgenii Kazanov
EF Nippo
s.t.
World Repeat?
Bunch sprint to decide the next wearer of the rainbow jersey.
BERGEN, Norway (Sept. 30, 2029) — In one of the most surprising results in recent World Championship history, 28-year-old Russian sprinter Salavat Dzaitaev outpaced a reduced lead group to win the 2029 Men’s Road Race World Championship in Bergen. Dzaitaev survived a punishing 280km hilly circuit and made the most of a flat finish to edge out Jasper De Buyst (Belgium) and Danny Gosling (Australia) in the final sprint.
The undulating course around Bergen gradually wore down the field, with constant climbing sapping the legs of even the strongest contenders. Late attacks on the final ascent of Fløyen failed to stick, and a group of 12 reached the line together. Dzaitaev, riding for Team Russia but contracted to Team Abu Dhabi, stayed patient in the wheels before launching a powerful sprint that caught De Buyst and Gosling off guard.
Defending champion Marcus Diamond (Great Britain) was rather quiet and faded late, finishing 14th at +34 seconds, unable to respond when the sprinting started. His result ended Great Britain’s hopes of a third consecutive world title, following wins from Diamond in 2028 and Simon Yates in 2027.
For Dzaitaev, whose résumé included just two Russian national titles and five career wins before today, the victory was a shock to nearly everyone — including himself.
“I just kept telling myself to hang on,” he said after the race. “Then suddenly, I had one chance, and I took it.”
For Russia, Dzaitaev’s win marked a historic moment as the nation’s first men’s road race title since Vyacheslav Kuznetsov claimed the rainbow jersey in 2019.
World RR Championship
1
Salavat Dzaitaev
Abu Dhabi
7h14'39
2
Jasper De Buyst
T-Mobile
s.t.
3
Danny Gosling
T-Mobile
s.t.
4
Tjeu Orie
Team Sunweb
s.t.
5
Nico Fletcher
Diema
s.t.
Swirling Rumors (Again)
Marcus Diamond finishes 16th to conclude the season.
LECCO, Italy (Oct. 13, 2029) — On a crisp October afternoon along the shores of Lake Como, David Gaudu turned back the clock to win Il Lombardia for the second time in his career — and perhaps reminded the cycling world that there’s still room for veterans to shine.
The 33-year-old Frenchman, who first lifted the Lombardia trophy in 2021, surged ahead in a reduced bunch sprint to outkick Austria’s Felix Gall and compatriot Guillaume Martin in the final meters. Italy’s Bruno Bottarelli and Briton Hugh Carthy rounded out the top five.
But it was the name further down the result sheet that drew just as much attention.
Marcus Diamond — the reigning World Champion and one of cycling’s most recognizable figures — finished 16th after launching a daring attack on the descent of Passo di Ganda with under 10 kilometers to go. It was vintage Diamond: bold, timed to perfection, and full of intent. But as the group behind clawed him back before the streets of Lecco, the bigger question loomed: Was this the last time fans would see the Brit in the pro peloton?
Diamond, still just 29 and set to turn 30 next month, has been the subject of swirling retirement rumors all week. With his contract at HSE–Liquigas expiring at the end of the season and no news of renewal or transfer talks, speculation has only grown louder. The usually media-savvy rider has avoided confirming or denying anything, brushing off post-race questions with a wry smile and saying only, “Today was about the race. That’s all I was focused on.”
For much of 2029, Diamond has ridden in the shadows — not poorly, but without the spark that won him the rainbow jersey just a year ago. He’s skipped major interviews and only won a handful of races. And yet, in the final monument of the year, there he was again: attacking solo, forcing the race open, trying to leave his mark.
“He went for it, and that’s always been him,” said Carthy, who covered moves behind after Diamond’s surge. “Whether it’s his last race or not, he raced like Marcus always does. A true professional.”
If it was a farewell, it was quiet but unmistakably true to form. No press conference, no grand sendoff — just a solo move and a respectful nod to the fans.
Meanwhile, for Gaudu, the win reaffirms his own twilight resurgence. Now 33, he joined a select group of two-time Lombardia winners, bookending a career that has seen him thrive on hilly terrain and punchy finales. “It’s special,” Gaudu said. “Eight years between wins... Not many get that chance.”
But even with the emotion of the Frenchman’s win, the image that may stick most is Diamond alone in the fading light, pushing ahead on the descent, chased but not giving in.
Diamond may or may not be done. He just isn’t ready to say it yet.
Il Lombardia
1
David Gaudu
FDJ
6h44'51
2
Felix Gall
Expedia
s.t.
3
Guillaume Martin
Bretagne
s.t.
4
Bruno Bottarelli
Expedia
s.t.
5
Hugh Carthy
HSE-Liquigas
s.t.
Marcus Diamond's Race Results
Date
Race
GC
Other
Feb. 11
Trofeo Laigueglia
WINNER
--
Feb. 14-18
V. a Andalucia RdS (S5)
5th (+4'34)
--
Mar. 3
Strade Bianche
2nd (s.t.)
--
Mar. 17
Milano - Sanremo
4th (s.t.)
--
Mar. 25
Gent - Wevelgem
12th (s.t.)
--
Apr. 1
Ronde Van Vlaanderen
11th (+4'04)
--
Apr. 8
Paris - Roubaix
9th (s.t.)
--
Apr. 15
Amstel Gold Race
5th (+21)
--
Apr. 18
La Fleche Wallonne
19th (+2'34)
--
Apr. 22
Liege - Bastogne - Liege
15th (s.t.)
--
May 26
GP Plumelec-Morbihan
6th (s.t.)
--
June 28
Great Britain ITT NC
11th (+1'19)
--
July 1
Great Britain RR NC
4th (s.t.)
--
July 7-29
Tour de France (S21)
2nd (+34)
x1 Stage Win
July 31
RideLondon-Surrey Classic
11th (s.t.)
--
Aug. 6-12
Tour of Utah (S7)
3rd (+1'27)
x2 S. Wins, Points, KoM
Sept. 18
GP Commercio di Prato
3rd (s.t.)
--
Sept. 23
Trofeo Matteotti
3rd (s.t.)
--
Sept. 30
World RR Championships
14th (+34)
--
Oct. 13
Il Lombardia
16th (s.t.)
--
Cycling World Overview
Important Races
Pro Tour Standings
Team
Individual
1
Expedia
12674
Jai Hindley
SEG
4558
2
SEG
11612
Lucas Arauco
Nikon
3097
3
Nikon
10036
E.A. Bernal
Desigual
2693
4
GCN
7593
Brandon McNulty
Expedia
2693
5
HSE-Liquigas
7017
Hugh Carthy
HSE-Liquigas
2247
6
Première Moisson
5790
Marcus Diamond
HSE-Liquigas
2117
7
Ridley
5455
Felix Gall
Expedia
2096
8
Education First Nippo
5375
Andrey Tynyanov
Expedia
2085
9
TAP Portugal
5256
Ivan Sosa
Education First
2076
10
AEGON
5102
Trevor Stanfield
Premiere
1804
Looking Ahead to 2030
I don’t know if I’ll be back.
That’s the truth. No dramatic goodbye, no firm decision. Just questions I’m still learning how to sit with. Somewhere between what was and what’s next, I’ve been trying to figure out who I am — not just as a rider, but as a person, a husband, a father.
This year didn’t unfold the way I imagined. But maybe it unfolded the way it needed to. I held my daughter for the first time. I watched my son cheer for me in my hometown. I felt the weight of the jersey and the silence after losing it. I stood on podiums. I walked away from them. And through it all, I kept riding.
Some days, I still feel the fire and the need to test myself, to prove something. Other days, I wonder if I’ve already done enough. That attack down the Ganda in Lombardia wasn’t about a podium or a headline. It was about proving to myself that I could still move a race, still feel alive in the chaos.
I don’t know what that moment means yet. Maybe it was the end of something. Maybe it was a reminder there’s still more left to give. What I do know is that when I crossed the line, I felt at peace — not because of the result, but because I’d left everything out there. If I walk away, it won’t be out of regret. It’ll be because I finally gave myself permission to let go.
Or maybe, just maybe, I’ll line up again.
Thank you for believing in me, for watching, and for making all of it matter.
Sophomore year hits different. You’re not the new kid anymore, and people start expecting things — consistency, leadership, production. It felt like the spotlight got hotter, and I didn’t always handle that the way I wanted.
There were games where I couldn’t get into rhythm. Some days, the turnovers piled up faster than the points. But I kept swinging. Kept growing. And by the middle of the season, I started finding ways to make plays with both my arm and my legs.
This year taught me a lot. About resilience. About preparation. About not letting the noise get in your head. I still have a long way to go, but this season? It showed flashes of who I believe I can become.
Week 1: vs. #11 Miami | Saturday Night (Sept. 1) | Watch Game
The season opener came with huge energy — a night game against a ranked opponent. Marcus flashed early, but also ran into trouble with pressure and timing.
Week 2: @ Temple | Saturday Afternoon (Sept. 8) | Watch Game
A more confident outing. Marcus found a groove downfield and showcased his arm strength on several big plays. Ball security still remained a theme.
Week 3: @ Arkansas State | Saturday Afternoon (Sept. 15) | Watch Game
An emotionally draining afternoon. MDJ had trouble with reads and placement, leading to some costly mistakes. But he battled through all four quarters.
Week 4: @ Appalachian State | Saturday Afternoon (Sept. 22) | Watch Game
Another tense road environment. Marcus moved the ball in spurts, made some athletic plays on the ground, but protection and ball control were issues.
Week 5: vs. North Carolina | Saturday Afternoon (Sept. 29) | Watch Game
A huge stage and a strong performance. MDJ made smart throws and added some tough yards with his legs. A turning point in his comfort level.
Week 6: vs. Virginia | Saturday Afternoon (Oct. 6) | Watch Game
One of his cleanest games to date. Marcus looked in control, delivering short and intermediate throws and using tempo to keep the defense on its heels.
Week 7: @ South Carolina | Saturday Night (Oct. 13) | Watch Game
A physical, grind-it-out performance. Marcus took some hits, made gutsy throws, and turned in a strong red zone showing.
Week 8: vs. Virginia Tech | Saturday Night (Oct. 20) | Watch Game
Tight windows, quick decisions, and steady execution marked this one. Still some mistakes, but the rhythm was clearly improving.
Week 9: @ NC State | Saturday Afternoon (Oct. 27) | Watch Game
Marcus showed his dual-threat ability here, mixing deep throws with designed runs. The offense felt fast and efficient.
Week 10: vs. Louisville | Saturday Afternoon (Nov. 3) | Watch Game
Smart, controlled football. Marcus took what the defense gave him and helped the offense sustain long drives, even if the stat sheet wasn’t explosive.
Week 11: @ Kentucky | Saturday Night (Nov. 10) | Watch Game
One of the most complete efforts of the season. MDJ delivered strikes through the air and found lanes as a runner — a true showcase of his playmaking potential.
Week 12: vs. Charlotte | Saturday Afternoon (Nov. 17) | Watch Game
A career day through the air. Marcus picked apart the secondary and looked comfortable airing it out with precision.
ACC Championship: vs. #15 App. St. | Saturday Night (Nov. 24) | Watch Game
A defensive battle from the jump. Marcus made plays with his feet, extended drives, and gave his team a chance deep into the fourth.
Bowl Game: vs. Missouri | Thursday Afternoon (Dec. 20) | Watch Game
An all-out offensive slugfest in the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl for the second year in a row. Marcus lit it up through the air and on the ground, pushing the pace and leaving it all on the field. But, was it enough to end the season with a win?
2046 Season Results
Spoiler
Week
Opponent
Result
MDJ Passing Stats
1
vs. #11 Miami
L, 10-45
76yds, 1 TD
2
@ Temple
W, 31-24
243yds, 3 TDs
3
@ Arkansas State
W, 23-17
156yds, 1 TD
4
@ Appalachian State
L, 12-14
111yds, 1 TD
5
vs. North Carolina
W, 27-24
201yds, 1 TD
6
vs. Virginia
W, 35-17
180yds, 2 TDs
7
@ South Carolina
W, 20-17
217yds, 2 TDs
8
vs. Virginia Tech
W, 23-10
251yds, 2 TDs
9
@ NC State
W, 31-10
154yds, 2 TDs
10
vs. Louisville
W, 29-10
179yds, 1 TD
11
@ Kentucky
W, 31-17
221yds, 3 TDs
12
vs. Charlotte
W, 35-13
274yds, 4 TDs
CC
vs. #15 App. State
L, 14-15
118yds, 1 TD
BG
vs. Missouri
L, 44-52
285yds, 2 TDs
Season Stats
Marcus Diamond Jr. finished his redshirt sophomore campaign with a 10-4 record. He completed 164 of 275 passes for 2,666 yards and 26 touchdowns, while throwing 21 interceptions. On the ground, he added 404 yards and 4 rushing scores on 99 carries.
2046 College Football Playoffs
Looking Ahead to 2047
There’s this weight I’ve been carrying since the season ended. Two games. Two chances to finish what we started. And both slipped right through my fingers.
The loss in the conference championship… I still see that scoreboard when I close my eyes. One point. One throw. One play. Then we go to the bowl game, and I put the ball on the ground — twice. I’ve watched that film more times than I probably should. I keep asking myself: What could I have done different? That kind of heartbreak doesn’t just fade. It lingers. It forces you to look in the mirror.
And when you're the quarterback, there’s nowhere to hide. You’re supposed to be the calm, the rock, the leader. But behind closed doors? I was hurting. I felt alone in it — like I’d let everybody down. My teammates. My coaches. My family. And truthfully… myself.
But maybe that’s part of the process. Maybe growth doesn’t come from the easy wins. Maybe it comes from the nights you can't sleep, the games you can't forget, and the pain you have to carry alone — until it turns into fuel.
So that’s where I’m at. Not broken. Not bitter. Just… motivated. Hungry. Quietly building myself back up from the inside out. Because when 2047 kicks off, I’m not just trying to throw touchdowns. I’m trying to lead with heart. To be the kind of quarterback that brings people together — even when things fall apart.
This next season isn't about revenge or redemption. It's about becoming someone who doesn’t flinch when it’s hard. Someone who stands tall, even in the silence. I’ve still got a long way to go. But I know who I want to be now.
And I’m ready to chase that with everything I’ve got. #MDJ
A decade ago, I was just a kid trying to get minutes. Now, I’m the one pulling the group forward. Wearing the armband. Taking the free kicks. Talking to the young lads before big matches. This season was another step in the right direction.
We’ve taken this club from one tier to the next, and every step has been earned. These are my people. My pitch. My team. And we’re not done climbing yet.
Moments That Mattered
Opening Day Eruption
Diamond pulls strings in a 5-0 rout to start the campaign.
CANVEY ISLAND, England (Aug. 18, 2028) — Canvey Island United opened their league campaign in dominant fashion, thrashing Boreham Wood 5-0 on a scorching afternoon at Park Lane. Duane Carter broke the deadlock inside 15 minutes, and the Islanders poured it on from there. Marcus Diamond, Patrick Okonkwo, and Emrah Aydin all scored before halftime to give the hosts a commanding 4-0 lead.
Diamond ran the show from midfield, dictating tempo and driving the attack with a blend of poise and precision. He added his second goal in the 71st minute, curling in a low effort from the edge of the area to cap a brilliant individual display. The Islanders outshot Boreham Wood 27-5, including a 12-2 margin in shots on target, and controlled every phase of the game.
The 29-year-old Diamond finished with two goals, an assist, and a perfect 10.0 rating — a performance that reminded fans why he remains the heartbeat of this team. For a Canvey Island side with promotion aspirations, it was an ideal start.
Veteran Composure
Canvey Island takes over top spot after a Diamond winner on the road.
ESSEX, England (Jan. 19, 2029) — Marcus Diamond delivered a true captain’s performance on Saturday, scoring the decisive goal as Canvey Island United edged Boreham Wood 2-1 to complete the season sweep. In a match marked more by composure than chaos, the Islanders handled their business with quiet authority, reclaiming top spot in the league with 13 matches remaining.
Turkish winger Emrah Aydin opened the scoring early, slotting home in the 10th minute for his sixth goal of the campaign. Canvey controlled the tempo for much of the first half, then doubled their lead six minutes after the restart when Diamond made a surging run into the box and finished calmly past the keeper. It was a goal worthy of a captain — measured, clinical, and right when his side needed it most.
Boreham Wood grabbed a late consolation in stoppage time through Jamie Conroy, spoiling Daniel Innocent’s clean sheet but never truly threatening to flip the result. The Islanders, focused and efficient, got the job done. With the league race tightening, Diamond’s influence continues to loom large — not just in moments of brilliance, but in the way Canvey carries itself when the pressure mounts.
Round of 32
Canvey Island's fearless Cup run ended against Championship opposition.
CANVEY ISLAND, England (Jan. 23, 2029) — Canvey Island United’s historic run in the United British Cup came to an end Tuesday night with a 3-0 home defeat to second-tier Middlesbrough. The scoreline didn’t reflect the competitive nature of the match, but it did signal the close of the deepest cup run in club history. Along the way, the Islanders recorded victories over Ballinamallard United (2-1, Second Round), Gillingham (4-2, Third Round), Llandudno (3-1, Fourth Round), and Boreham Wood (3-1, Fifth Round), earning nearly $1 million in revenue and widespread respect in the process.
Middlesbrough broke through early on a controversial penalty decision in the 14th minute, which Jung Sang-Bin calmly converted. Datro Fofana added a second in the 25th minute to give the visitors control at the break. Canvey battled back with efforts from Harrison Jones and Emrah Aydin, but both were stopped. Middlesbrough defender Dael Fry put the result beyond reach in the 81st minute, heading in a late third.
Despite the scoreline, the Islanders held their own. Canvey finished with 47 percent possession and generated a 0.79 xG compared to Middlesbrough’s 1.76. The visitors held a narrow edge in shots (14-8) and shots on target (8-2), but the match was far more balanced than the result showed. It was Canvey’s largest loss since a 3-0 defeat to Ipswich back in November last year, yet the performance was far from discouraging. The cup run is over, but the belief, experience, and financial boost it brought will linger long after the lights went out at Park Lane.
Sealing Another Title
A 4-2 victory over Barrow on April 13 sealed the league title with three games to spare.
CANVEY ISLAND, England (Apr. 13, 2029) — The celebrations began before the final whistle and didn’t let up for hours, as Canvey Island United sealed a dramatic 4-2 victory over Barrow to clinch their fourth consecutive league title. With three matches still remaining on the schedule, the Islanders officially locked up promotion to the sixth tier of English football, continuing their remarkable rise from the depths of the non-league pyramid.
The title was won in fitting fashion — at home, in front of a full Park Lane, with captain Marcus Diamond leading the way. Duane Carter opened the scoring in the 8th minute before Barrow answered just two minutes later through Tariqe Fosu. Ghislain Mbarga restored Canvey’s lead in the 38th minute, only for Dezso Szollosi to level the match again in the 82nd. But in the defining moments, Canvey found another gear. Diamond buried the go-ahead goal in the 89th minute, and Emrah Aydin added the exclamation point deep into stoppage time.
Canvey Island outshot Barrow 18-10 (9-5 on target), dominated 59 percent of possession, and once again showed why they’ve been the class of the league all season. From Tier 10 to Tier 6 in just four seasons, the Islanders’ climb has been relentless.
Canvey Island United Results
British South Prime Division
Spoiler
M#
Date
H/A
Opposition
Result
Pts-Place
G
A
AVG
1
Aug-18
vs.
Boreham Wood
5 - 0
3 - 2nd
2
1
10.0
2
Aug-25
at
Barry
1 - 1
4 - 5th
1
7.9
3
Sep-15
vs.
Notts Co
3 - 0
7 - 3rd
8.0
4
Sep-22
vs.
Barnet
0 - 0
8 - 4th
7.5
5
Sep-29
at
Solihull Moors
3 - 1
11 - 3rd
1
7.6
6
Oct-20
at
Darlington
0 - 1
11 - 5th
6.9
7
Oct-27
vs.
Harrogate
0 - 0
12 - 5th
DNP
8
Nov-3
at
Carlisle
1 - 1
13 - 6th
1
7.9
9
Nov-24
at
Dulwich Hamlet
2 - 1
16 - 5th
1
8.0
10
Dec-1
vs.
Dorking
4 - 2
19 - 3rd
1
1
8.6
11
Dec-8
vs.
Cardiff Met Uni
4 - 1
22 - 2nd
2
8.9
12
Dec-22
vs.
Eastleigh
1 - 2
22 - 3rd
1
7.4
13
Dec-26
at
Barrow
1 - 0
25 - 2nd
7.3
14
Dec-29
vs.
Yeovil
4 - 0
28 - 2nd
2
8.9
15
Jan-5
at
Boston Utd
2 - 2
29 - 2nd
6.7
16
Jan-12
vs.
Barry
2 - 0
32 - 2nd
7.0
17
Jan-19
at
Boreham Wood
2 - 1
35 - 1st
1
8.6
18
Jan-26
at
Notts Co
1 - 0
38 - 1st
7.9
19
Feb-2
vs.
Solihull Moors
2 - 1
41 - 1st
7.3
20
Feb-9
at
Barnet
2 - 1
44 - 1st
DNP
21
Feb-16
at
Harrogate
1 - 1
45 - 1st
6.6
22
Feb-23
vs.
Darlington
2 - 0
48 - 1st
1
8.4
23
Mar-2
vs.
Carlisle
3 - 0
51 - 1st
1
8.0
24
Mar-9
vs.
Dulwich Hamlet
2 - 1
54 - 1st
1
8.5
25
Mar-16
at
Dorking
3 - 1
57 - 1st
1
7.6
26
Mar-23
at
Cardiff Met Uni
3 - 0
60 - 1st
1
1
9.3
27
Apr-13
vs.
Barrow
4 - 2
63 - 1st
1
7.9
28
Apr-27
at
Eastleigh
3 - 1
66 - 1st
2
8.1
29
May-11
at
Yeovil
1 - 3
66 - 1st
1
7.1
30
May-18
vs.
Boston Utd
0 - 0
67 - 1st
8.4
TOTALS:
12
13
7.9
LEAGUE WINNERS!
Canvey Island United has been promoted from the British South Prime Division (Tier 7) to British National Championship 2 (Tier 6).
United British Cup
Spoiler
M#
Date
H/A
Opposition
Result
Round
G
A
AVG
1
Sep-4
vs.
Ballinamallard Utd
2 - 1
Second
1
9.1
2
Oct-9
at
Gillingham
4 - 2
Third
1
1
8.4
3
Nov-13
vs.
Llandudno
3 - 1
Fourth
1
1
9.0
4
Dec-19
at
Boreham Wood
3 - 1
Fifth
1
7.5
5
Jan-23
vs.
Middlesbrough
0 - 3
Round of 32
6.5
TOTALS:
3
3
8.1
British Prime Cup
Spoiler
M#
Date
H/A
Opposition
Result
Round
G
A
AVG
1
Aug-8
at
Dulwich Hamlet
4 - 1
First
2
2
9.9
2
Oct-2
vs.
East Fife
0 - 2
Second
6.8
TOTALS:
2
2
8.4
Marcus Diamond's Season Stats & Awards
Spoiler
Date
Achievement
2029-30
British South Prime Division Player of the Season
2029-30
British South Prime Division Player of the Week (x2)
2029-30
British South Prime Division Team of the Year
2029-30
British South Prime Division League Champions
Looking Ahead to 2030-31
Promotion never gets old and the fight never stops. Tier 6 is up next.
Then I got a call I wasn’t expecting. It was an old friend, Jay-Jay Okocha.
I figured he just wanted to catch up. Instead, he told me he was calling on behalf of the Nigerian national team and that I’d been selected for the preliminary 2030 World Cup squad.
I didn’t see this coming. At 30 now, with so many younger names in the mix, I thought my window had closed. But now, with the tournament set to take place here in England, I’ll be there... Wearing my country’s colors on the biggest stage.
What an honor. Time to get back to work and keep the legs fresh.
The Asheville Botanical Gardens wasn’t a place dad and I usually visited, but I chose it for one simple reason. It felt like a quiet corner of the world where I could finally find the words. The air was fresh, the early morning sun filtered softly through the tall pines, and a gentle breeze rustled the leaves. A small wooden bridge spanned a bubbling creek, a spot dad once said reminded him of home in England, a place he used to go when things got heavy.
I stood there, twisting the zipper on my jacket like a nervous habit, trying to steady the racing of my heart. I had been rehearsing this conversation in my head for weeks, but the reality was much more daunting. How do you tell your dad, the man whose footsteps you have followed your whole life, that you want to drop out of college before even completing a semester?
When dad arrived, his familiar calmness eased my nerves a little, but I could tell from his glance around that he did not know why I had asked him here. “Why the Botanical Gardens, Hannah? What’s going on?” His voice was steady but curious.
I swallowed hard and looked out at the creek, the water sparkling under the sun. “I needed somewhere quiet,” I said. “Somewhere I could talk without distractions.”
He nodded and leaned on the bridge’s railing. He waited, giving me space to speak, but all I wanted was for the words to come out clearly.
Finally, I took a breath and said it. “Dad, I want to quit school.”
His head snapped up, eyes sharp with surprise. “Quit? Hannah, why?”
I swallowed again, heart pounding harder. “I want to race. I want to go pro.”
Dad sighed, his expression turned more serious. “You know that’s a tough road. Especially for women. Even when I was racing, the sport was still dominated by men. Men still hold most of the power and control. There are success stories for women, yes, but they are rare. The barriers are real, Hannah.”
I met his eyes, steady but resolute. “I know dad. It has been hard watching from the sidelines, but it is also what fuels me. You and mom raised me on it. We trained together, rode together. It is who I am. You can’t deny that.”
He leaned back against the railing, “I know.”
I could tell he wanted to say more, but he turned and looked at me instead.
“Dad, this is what I want to do,” I said, meeting his eyes.
I held his gaze, waiting. The silence stretched, but I could tell he was turning it over in his mind. Still, he remained silent. I broke the tension.
“Well, this stubbornness you’re showing? It’s going to take me places too, whether you like it or not.”
He chuckled softly before finally responding. “I want you to succeed more than anything. You know that. But this is a big gamble. What if it doesn’t work? What’s your plan then?”
I hesitated, even though I knew this question was already coming. “If it doesn’t work out, I’ll go back to school. But… I’ve been thinking… What if I didn’t have to leave home right away? What if I started here, in North Carolina? You know this sport — and the business behind it — better than most. You’ve built teams before. Maybe you could help me build one now. Something I can grow with.”
A teasing grin flickering across his face, part amusement and part weighing the bold proposal. “So you want me to bankroll your dream, huh? You sure you’re not just trying to get me to keep funding an expensive hobby?”
“Maybe. But it doesn’t cost much more than paying for me to go to UNC. And if you don’t, who will? It’s just an idea. I could always just head over to Europe.”
Dad looked at me for a long moment, then sighed once again.
“Look, I’ll need to talk it over with mom first,” he said. “But… If we do this, we are doing it right. And if it doesn’t work, then you’re going back to school.”
“Deal,” I said, as a wave of relief and excitement washed over me.
I gave my dad a hug, and did my best not to cry.
For the first time, my future didn’t feel like a distant hope — it felt near, tangible, like something I could finally hold in my hands and squeeze. Now, I just had to put in the work to make it real.
I didn’t say it out loud, but I already knew mom was on board. She just smiled when I told her my plans, like she knew this was coming all along...
It was always going to be dad who needed convincing.
Still coming up with a sign-off… Maybe next time… #HSD… No that isn’t cool…
It was past 3 a.m. Hannah was crying again — feverish and fussy, barely settling even when I walked her around the living room. My wife Grace was asleep upstairs. She’d been up the night before, and I told her I’d take this one.
In the next room, Marcus Jr. was murmuring to himself in his sleep, probably dreaming about toy blocks or dinosaurs. The baby monitor buzzed quietly on the coffee table. I stood swaying side to side, her little head resting against my chest, warm and damp with sweat.
My laptop was still open on the kitchen counter. Three different offers from pro cycling teams stared back at me. None were headline-grabbing, but each one offered a chance to keep riding and chase the kind of accolades that had always felt just out of reach in my palmarès.
I had been staring at those emails all day. Couldn’t reply to any of them. Couldn’t bring myself to even type a full sentence. It wasn’t doubt. It was something else.
In that moment, holding my daughter, listening to the radiator tick and the distant sound of rain on the windows, it all hit me. I’ve missed so much already. First words, first wobbly steps, lazy Sunday mornings, evenings that didn’t involve a recovery shake and a massage gun. And I couldn’t do it again. Not this time.
I still had football, with the upcoming World Cup on the horizon and my locker in the Canvey Island United dressing room. Every weekend, I pulled my socks up over my shins and gave everything I had on the pitch. But that life was here, manageable, with training at nine in the morning, home by noon, and only the occasional away day a few hours away.
Cycling isn’t like that. You’re gone for months. You're never really home, even when you are. It's a never-ending grind.
So I closed the laptop. I didn’t call an agent. I didn’t start another training block.
This season being a leader felt heavier than ever before. It wasn’t just about making plays or winning games anymore. It was about carrying the hopes of my teammates, my coaches, and everyone who believed in me. That kind of pressure gets inside your head.
Things weren’t falling apart. In fact, everything was going great. But the pressure to not fail kept building as we kept winning somehow. Every win made the weight heavier, every game added another voice telling me I had to keep it going.
Some nights I’d lie awake thinking about what it would mean to slip up, to let people down after all we’d worked for. That fear never really leaves you. And that expectation can feel like a weight on your chest.
But you learn to push past the doubt and the second guessing. You learn to lead even when your confidence feels fragile. To find strength even when you don’t think you have any left. To win at all costs.
Week 1: @ Eastern Michigan | Saturday Afternoon (Sept. 7) | Watch Game
Marcus opened the season with a masterclass in precision passing and calculated runs. His ability to read the defense early and find open receivers set the tone, while his feet kept the offense unpredictable and dynamic.
Week 2: vs. Purdue | Saturday Afternoon (Sept. 14) | Watch Game
A showcase of arm strength and vision, Marcus pushed the ball downfield with confidence. Despite a few moments where the defense forced him into tough decisions, his leadership shined through as he balanced aggression with poise.
Week 3: @ Oklahoma State | Saturday Night (Sept. 21) | Watch Game
Efficiency was the name of the game here. Marcus executed the game plan with sharp accuracy and minimized mistakes, using short bursts on the ground to keep the defense off balance.
Week 4: vs. Ball State | Saturday Afternoon (Sept. 28) | Watch Game
This outing revealed Marcus’s flair for timing and anticipation. Several well-timed throws and smart decisions under pressure showcased his growing maturity as a field general.
Week 5: vs. UCF | Saturday Afternoon (Oct. 5) | Watch Game
Marcus mixed it up beautifully, balancing quick releases with well-placed deep shots. His composure under a relentless pass rush was a standout feature of this game.
Week 6: @ South Carolina | Saturday Afternoon (Oct. 12) | Watch Game
A gritty performance on the road, Marcus faced a fierce defense but showed resilience. His scrambling ability came through in key moments, and he led the offense with steady confidence despite the pressure.
Week 7: @ UConn | Saturday Afternoon (Oct. 19) | Watch Game
Near flawless in execution, Marcus’s connection with his receivers was electric. His ability to orchestrate rhythm and pace kept the offense clicking all afternoon.
Week 8: vs. West Virginia | Saturday Afternoon (Oct. 26) | Watch Game
Marcus showed his versatility in this contest, switching gears smoothly between precision throws and decisive runs. His football IQ was on full display, carving up a tough defense.
Week 9: @ Cincinnati | Saturday Afternoon (Nov. 2) | Watch Game
The pocket was a playground as Marcus delivered strike after strike with calm confidence. His ability to find open space and receivers downfield highlighted his elite skill set.
Week 10: @ NC State | Saturday Night (Nov. 9) | Watch Game
Controlled and calculated, Marcus balanced protecting the football with pushing the tempo. His decision-making and accuracy helped maintain the offensive flow in a tough environment.
Week 11: vs. North Carolina | Saturday Afternoon (Nov. 16) | Watch Game
Marcus turned up the heat with pinpoint throws and savvy leadership. His command of the offense was evident as he balanced aggressive passing with timely runs.
Week 12: @ Virginia Tech | Saturday Afternoon (Nov. 23) | Watch Game
An offensive explosion from Marcus, marked by sharp reads and a relentless pace. His ability to dissect the defense and keep plays alive made this one for the highlight reels.
ACC Championship: vs. #18 App. St. | Saturday Night (Nov. 30) | Watch Game
The spotlight was bright and Marcus rose to the occasion. His poise in the pocket and strategic playmaking gave the offense the edge in a high-stakes setting.
CFP Round 1: vs. #11 USC | Saturday Afternoon (Dec. 7) | Watch Game
Marcus managed the intensity of the playoffs with a mix of smart throws and calm leadership. Despite a couple of costly moments, his focus helped keep the offense on track.
CFP Quarterfinal: vs. #3 Washington | Saturday Night (Dec. 14) | Watch Game
In a hard-fought battle, Marcus showcased clutch passing and steady composure. His ability to deliver under pressure was a key factor all afternoon.
CFP Semifinal: vs. #7 Tennessee | Saturday Night (Dec. 21) | Watch Game
A mature and balanced performance from Marcus. He mixed precise passing with timely runs and maintained focus in a hostile environment.
National Title: vs. #1 Arizona State | Monday Night (Dec. 30) | Watch Game
Marcus put together a near-perfect game, showing why he’s one of the nation’s best. His leadership and playmaking under pressure defined this unforgettable championship battle.
2047 Season Results
Spoiler
Week
Opponent
Result
MDJ Passing Stats
1
@ Eastern Michigan
W, 52-14
355yds, 5 TDs
2
vs. Purdue
W, 45-10
435yds, 5 TDs
3
@ Oklahoma State
W, 29-3
128yds, 0 TDs
4
vs. Ball State
W, 38-17
367yds, 4 TDs
5
vs. UCF
W, 24-7
160yds, 3 TDs
6
@ South Carolina
W, 35-24
205yds, 3 TDs
7
@ UConn
W, 38-14
235yds, 2 TDs
8
vs. West Virginia
W, 34-14
258yds, 2 TDs
9
@ Cincinnati
W, 32-7
363yds, 3 TDs
10
@ NC State
W, 36-13
267yds, 1 TD
11
vs. North Carolina
W, 51-14
327yds, 3 TDs
12
@ Virginia Tech
W, 49-13
400yds, 6 TDs
CC
vs. #18 Appalachian State
W, 54-28
346yds, 5 TDs
R1
vs. #11 USC
W, 27-13
171yds, 1 TD
QF
vs. #3 Washington
W, 26-17
198yds, 3 TDs
SF
vs. #7 Tennessee
W, 30-13
247yds, 2 TDs
NT
vs. #1 Arizona State
W, 42-28
280yds, 2 TDs
Season Stats
MDJ capped off a perfect 17-0 redshirt junior season, leading East Carolina to both the ACC Championship and a National Title. He completed 237 of 343 passes for 4,742 yards, throwing 50 touchdowns against 12 interceptions. On the ground, he added 496 yards and 15 rushing touchdowns, turning into one of the stars of the college game.
2047 College Football Playoffs
Looking Ahead to 2048
This season was everything I dreamed it could be — undefeated, ACC champs, and national champions. But even as the confetti settled, a new kind of weight settled on my shoulders.
I’ve spent countless nights staring at the ceiling, thinking about what comes next. About leaving behind the place that raised me, the teammates who fought beside me, the fans who believed in me. It’s not just football. It’s family. It’s home.
But deep down, I know the time has come to step into the unknown. To take that leap of faith and put everything on the line at the next level.
I’ve made the decision to declare for the NFL Draft.
It’s scary and exciting all at once. The dream I’ve chased since I first picked up a football is finally within reach. I carry with me every lesson, every challenge, every moment of joy and heartbreak from my time at East Carolina.
Leaving this team and this community is the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but I’m taking it with me. It’s fuel. It’s fire. Thanks Pirates Nation! It's been real.
I'll always cherish these memories we made together.
I always dreamed of lifting the World Cup for Nigeria, but even now — 31 years old, 34 caps deep, and with two Round of 16 exits behind me — the fire still burns just as strong. This is my third World Cup, and probably my last. We made it to the knockout rounds in both 2022 and 2026, but couldn’t push any further. Portugal knocked us out in 2022 with a 3-0 win in China, and Brazil ended our hopes four years later in North America, 2-1.
Still, those tournaments gave me memories I’ll never forget: four assists in my World Cup debut, six in total in 2022 — just one shy of Pelé’s single-tournament record — and my first World Cup goal in 2026.
Now, I sit on nine career assists in World Cup play. One more, and I tie Pelé’s all-time record of 10. Two more, and I take it for myself. But none of that will matter if we can’t go deep. This year’s expanded 48-team format gives us a new path. Sixteen groups of three, top two go through. The format’s a little different, but the goal remains the same.
We had two warmups before the real test — a 1–1 draw with Ukraine and a thrilling 3–2 comeback over Belgium. I didn’t make the scoresheet in either, but I’ll take building chemistry over stats this time. We’re ready. Let’s go.
Moments That Mattered
Group Stage: Match #1
Nigeria and Switzerland square off to open Group B play.
MANCHESTER, England (June 13, 2030) — Nigeria’s 2030 campaign kicked off with a late winner and a hard-earned clean sheet, as the Super Eagles edged Switzerland 1–0 in a cagey Group B opener at Old Trafford. The breakthrough came in the 87th minute when fullback Marvin Park surged forward on a rare overlapping run and latched onto a perfectly weighted through ball from Isaac Mohammed before slotting it past the Swiss keeper.
While Marcus Diamond didn’t find the stat sheet, the veteran midfielder controlled the pace throughout and finished with a solid 8.0 match rating — second only to Park’s 9.3. Ranked 11th in the world, Nigeria outshot the 16th-ranked Swiss 12-7 and looked the more threatening side late, sealing three critical points to take early control of the group.
Group Stage: Match #2
Draw or win advances over Qatar advances Nigeria to knockout round.
MANCHESTER, England (June 17, 2030) — Needing just a draw to advance, Nigeria took no chances and rolled to a confident 3-1 win over Qatar behind a brace from Kelechi Iheanacho and a clinical finish from Marcus Diamond. Iheanacho opened the scoring in first-half stoppage time and struck again in the 71st minute after Qatar had briefly equalized through Mohammed Waad.
Diamond capped the night in the 82nd minute, sneaking in at the near post to finish off a low-driven cross — his second career World Cup goal, and a moment that officially secured Nigeria’s passage to the Round of 32. The Super Eagles overwhelmed 46th-ranked Qatar with 38 shots to 4, including 13 on target, and held 61 percent of possession in a dominant showing.
Round of 32
Win or go home in World Cup knockout battle against Algeria.
WEST MIDLANDS, England (June 25, 2030) — History was made in Wolverhampton as Nigeria earned its first-ever World Cup knockout win, demolishing Algeria 4-0 in a complete team performance. Kelechi Iheanacho scored twice — including a second-half penalty — while Peter Kabiru and Victor Osimhen added to the tally. Ranked 24th in the world, Algeria never settled into the match.
Nigeria tallied 31 total shots, with 18 on target and a towering 4.75 xG. Diamond, though quiet in the stat column, played a crucial role in buildup play and kept the midfield composed throughout. With 55 percent possession and their best defensive showing of the tournament, Nigeria sent a clear message: they’re not just here to compete — they’re here to make history.
Round of 16
Can Nigeria get over the Round of 16 hurdle against mighty Spain?
LONDON, England (June 29, 2030) — It was heartbreak at the Emirates as Nigeria’s World Cup journey ended in the Round of 16 once again, this time falling 4–2 to world No. 5 Spain in a dramatic, back-and-forth battle. Nigeria stunned the favorites early, going up 2-0 on goals from Igoh Ogbu in the 8th minute and Kelechi Iheanacho from the penalty spot in the 24th. Ogbu’s goal was assisted by Marcus Diamond — his tenth career World Cup assist, tying Pelé’s all-time record.
But Spain responded with ruthless precision. Aimar Hernandez pulled one back in the 32nd, and Mikel Oyarzabal equalized from the spot just before halftime. Hernandez struck again just two minutes after the restart, and Oyarzabal sealed it deep into stoppage time with his second. Though Nigeria outshot Spain 16-12 and matched them with six shots on target, it wasn’t enough. Spain’s 54 percent possession helped them control the final stages, while Nigeria's dream came to a bitter end — once again, just short of the quarterfinals.
Nigeria Results
Tune-Up Friendlies
Spoiler
M#
Date
H/A
Opposition
Result
Round
G
A
AVG
1
Jun-5
at
Ukraine
1 - 1
Friendly
7.1
2
Jun-8
vs.
Belgium
3 - 2
Friendly
6.5
TOTALS:
0
0
6.8
2030 World Cup
Spoiler
M#
Date
H/A
Opposition
Result
Round
G
A
AVG
1
Jun-13
N
Switzerland
1 - 0
Group Stage
8.0
2
Jun-17
N
Qatar
3 - 1
Group Stage
1
7.5
3
Jun-25
N
Algeria
4 - 0
Round of 32
8.4
4
Jun-29
N
Spain
2 - 4
Round of 16
1
7.7
TOTALS:
1
1
7.9
Final Results — Completed Bracket
Spoiler
CROATIA WORLD CHAMPIONS Defeats United States 1-0
Luka Sucic scores the game-winning goal in 57th minute to carry Croatia to its first World Cup title.
Tournament Awards
First
Second
Third
Best Player:
A. Hernandez
A. Fati
R. Simic
Golden Boot:
A. Fati (6)
A. Hernandez (6)
K. Iheanacho (5)
Most Assists:
A. Fati (5)
A. Hernandez (3)
R. Simic (3)
Golden Glove:
D. Livakovic
Best Youth:
G. Canarte
Dream Team
Marcus Diamond's 2030 World Cup Stats & Awards
Spoiler
Date
Achievement
June 2030
Tied All-Time World Cup Assist Record (10)
Looking Ahead to 2034 World Cup
With no nations interested in hosting, the World Cup is headed back to China for the 2034 edition. The cost of building stadiums and impact on the economy is hindering other countries from wanting to host the global event. China happily takes over for the second time in the last three editions. The new format was also a smashing success, so expect the same in four years.
Whether or not I'll be there remains to be seen. I seriously doubt it, but I'd love to hold the all-time assist record all to myself. And, of course, getting out of the Round of 16 for the first time in the team's history still needs to be accomplished.
Gent-Wevelgem
Xander Das
Nils Politt
Paris-Roubaix
Holstad Ludvik
Tebiro Pienaar
Giro d'Italia (GC)
Dmitri Gerasin
Lucas Hamilton
Egan Arley Bernal
Jacob Eriksson
Mikkel Bjerg
Domen Novak
Ronald Curley
Dion Smith
Felix Gall
Andrey Tynyanov
Brandon McNulty
Tie Luo
Michel Ries
Nico Fletcher
