Chapter 21 - Chapter 21:

Chapter 21:

After taking the lead, Atlético Madrid did not immediately switch to a defensive stance. Instead, they continued to attack aggressively.

Yang Hao had two tactical goals in mind:

Disrupt Liverpool's rhythm, forcing them to remain defensive.

If possible, secure another goal.

Houllier, a seasoned European tactician, responded quickly, making adjustments to his team.

The match soon entered a stalemate.

By the 15th minute, Atlético's offensive momentum began to wane, and Liverpool started to rebound.

But at this point, Houllier became frustrated as he noticed that their most reliable attacking route had been shut down.

Heskey was being tightly marked by Lucio.

The Brazilian center-back stayed true to his pre-match promise to Yang Hao, maintaining unrelenting focus from the first minute. He stayed firmly positioned in the backline, not venturing forward even once.

With Lucio fully committed to defending and matching Heskey's physicality, the English striker struggled to gain any advantage.

Houllier, realizing this, began exploring alternative attacking routes.

Liverpool tried everything, from Michael Owen to Gerrard and McAllister, but none of their attempts proved effective.

This exposed a longstanding criticism of Houllier:

Liverpool's attacking play lacked variety.

As Liverpool's offense struggled, Atlético faced similar issues.

Seeing their front line failing to make an impact, Houllier directed his team to focus more on defense.

Liverpool's defensive solidity, typical of English teams, caused problems for Atlético's players, especially with the frequent fouls committed by Liverpool.

Pandiani, a natural goal-scorer known for his aerial prowess and stamina, fought hard but couldn't dominate against Liverpool's robust center-backs, Henchoz and Hyypiä, in direct confrontations.

Although Atlético tried to create breakthroughs on the wings, Liverpool reinforced their flanks with Gerrard and Murphy actively tracking back.

In the midfield, Deco faced the dual challenge of Hamann and McAllister, making it difficult to find opportunities.

Atlético tried everything:

set-piece plays, through balls in the center, and coordinated wing attacks—but none worked.

Fortunately, their early goal ensured Atlético maintained the lead.

The first half ended with Atlético leading 1-0.

...

In the second half, Yang Hao aimed to launch another wave of attacks.

However, in the 48th minute, Liverpool intercepted the ball in their own half and quickly passed it to German midfielder Hamann.

Hamann sent the ball to the right flank—Atlético's left side.

Heskey charged forward, overpowering Pochettino to win the aerial duel and heading the ball to Gerrard.

Gerrard controlled it with his chest, strode forward confidently, and delivered a diagonal pass from outside the penalty area.

Owen's explosive speed took him past the defenders, streaking into Atlético's box like a bolt of lightning.

In that moment, no one could stop him.

With danger imminent, Van der Sar boldly rushed out to challenge Owen, cutting off his angle.

Owen managed a hurried shot, but the Dutch goalkeeper made a crucial diving save, deflecting the ball out for a corner.

Van der Sar sprang to his feet, roaring in triumph.

The stadium erupted into cheers and applause from Atlético's fans.

It was a pivotal save!

However, Liverpool won their first corner of the match, sending all their tallest players into Atlético's box.

With four towering defenders, Hamann (1.91m), Heskey (1.88m), and others, Liverpool posed a significant aerial threat. Even Gerrard (1.83m) and Owen, the shortest of the bunch, positioned themselves just outside the box.

It was a daunting sight for Atlético's defense.

Throughout the game, Atlético had been disciplined in avoiding fouls and set pieces near their goal, knowing Liverpool's strength in these situations. But this corner presented a massive challenge.

As McAllister delivered the ball, chaos erupted in the box.

Heskey, Hyypiä, and others were heavily marked, but Liverpool's height and physicality far outmatched Atlético. Markus Babbel broke free from Joaquín's desperate attempts to hold him back, leaping high at the edge of the six-yard box and connecting with a powerful header.

McAllister's corner flew into the back of Atlético's net.

1-1!

...

As Babbel celebrated his goal, Yang Hao could only shake his head helplessly, turning toward the home dugout.

"The gap is just too big," he muttered.

"Exactly. Joaquín tried everything to hold him, but it was impossible," agreed Lillo and the others with wry smiles.

For a Spanish player, Joaquín was already considered physically strong. But against someone like Babbel, he simply wasn't in the same weight class.

This match was fascinating.

Atlético had scored in the 8th minute of the first half.

Liverpool equalized just 3 minutes into the second half.

Both teams were exploiting each other's weaknesses.

Realizing this, Yang Hao made a decisive call.

"Get Adriano warmed up!"

Minutes later, Adriano was on the sidelines.

"When you go on, coordinate with Pandiani. Joaquín and Belletti will deliver crosses from the right. Be ready to contest headers," Yang Hao instructed.

The tactic was straightforward—target Liverpool's left side, where Carragher was the weak link.

"Got it."

"Go for it."

Yang Hao patted Adriano on the back and sent him onto the pitch.

...

In the 55th minute, Adriano replaced center-back Pochettino.

It was a bold and surprising substitution.

"Atlético has made an early and shocking decision, substituting a center-back for striker Adriano."

"This is undoubtedly a bold move, but it's also incredibly risky."

"Now, Atlético has only Lucio as a center-back on the field. Both Aurelio and Belletti are attacking full-backs, while Liverpool's attack features Heskey and Owen up front."

"It's hard to understand why Yang Hao would make such an audacious decision at this stage."

"Perhaps it's his youth and lack of experience, leading him to make a rash gamble in a critical moment."

"This doesn't look like a tactical decision—it looks more like a desperate gamble."

Adriano embraced Pochettino before sprinting onto the pitch.

Yang Hao, meanwhile, hugged Pochettino and sent him to the bench, a moment captured live by the cameras.

...

Yang Hao didn't appear to have lost his mind, but the decision he made was undeniably bold.

Even on the visiting team's bench, Houllier immediately returned to discuss countermeasures with his three assistant coaches. It was clear that none of them had expected Yang Hao to make such a risky move.

In the end, Houllier came to one conclusion:

Yang Hao is crazy!

...…

The match quickly resumed.

Despite fielding one fewer defender, Atlético Madrid maintained their midfield dominance, continuing to control the game's tempo and launching relentless attacks—primarily down Joaquín's right flank.

After several unsuccessful attempts, the breakthrough came in the 61st minute. Joaquín and Belletti executed a precise one-two on the right wing, with Belletti delivering a curling cross to the far post.

At the near post, Pandiani drew Hyypiä's attention, leaving Adriano to battle Henchoz at the back.

The Brazilian surged forward, overpowering Henchoz, and connected with a header.

Belletti's cross was well-placed but had a slightly higher arc and slower pace, giving Liverpool's goalkeeper, Westerveld, enough time to position himself.

Westerveld managed to parry Adriano's header with both hands.

But what happened next stunned everyone.

Adriano, who had just leapt for the header, landed, shrugged off Henchoz, and surged forward. Before Markus Babbel could intervene, Adriano unleashed a thunderous left-footed strike from close range.

The shot was so powerful and precise that it seemed to tear through the net. The sound of the ball hitting the net echoed across the stadium, leaving everyone momentarily speechless.

This was a display of raw, overwhelming strength. Adriano wasn't just a striker—he was a force of nature.

After scoring, Adriano sprinted toward the Atlético fans, pointing to the sky in prayer. Across the stands, his parents stood, clapping and cheering for him.

"My God, I don't even know how to describe my emotions right now!"

"Just five minutes after coming on, Adriano has scored another goal for Atlético with a signature rocket shot!"

"In this moment, he reminds us of Serie A legends like Vieri and Batistuta—players who lived for these powerful, exhilarating strikes."

"Watching this goal, I can't help but think: this guy is an absolute monster!"

...…

Houllier shook his head in frustration.

He hadn't expected Atlético to keep attacking Liverpool's left flank so relentlessly after Adriano came on.

Houllier and his coaching staff had prepared for Adriano's physicality, but they hadn't anticipated Yang Hao making such a bold move by substituting a center-back in the 55th minute.

This wasn't just risky—it was reckless.

But it was working.

Atlético's attack showed no signs of weakening, and Adriano seized his moment when it mattered most.

1–2.

Liverpool had no choice now.

Houllier responded decisively, substituting Smicer for Henchoz.

"If it's a gamble you want, I'll gamble with you!"

Liverpool shifted to a three-at-the-back formation, with Smicer playing behind their two forwards. Houllier wasn't holding back anymore.

...…

The UEFA Cup final had reached a fever pitch.

From the 65th minute, both teams went all-out on the attack, seemingly neglecting their defenses entirely.

Both played with three defenders, making the match incredibly thrilling and fast-paced.

Liverpool's three-man defense, featuring Carragher and Babbel—both capable of covering centrally and on the flanks—tightened up to contain Atlético's two strikers whenever defending.

But this opened up space on the wings.

Although Murphy worked hard to track back, his preference for his right foot made it difficult to handle the combined pressure from Joaquín and Belletti on Atlético's right flank. Even with Hamann providing support, Liverpool's left side remained highly vulnerable.

Atlético's defense, however, was even more precarious.

Lucio continued his relentless marking of Heskey, while defensive midfielders Baraja and Gravesen tracked Owen's runs.

The sustained pressure from Atlético's attack limited Liverpool's ability to commit players to their counterattacks.

But even so, every Liverpool counter sent shivers through Atlético's defense.

For anyone with a weaker heart, it was a nerve-wracking ordeal.

By the 70th minute, Houllier recognized Yang Hao's strategy: Heskey was struggling against Lucio and failing to make an impact.

In response, Houllier made his second substitution, replacing Heskey with Robbie Fowler.

Houllier wasn't pretending anymore.

"I'm not going to fight you head-to-head. I'll exploit the space behind your lines."

Yang Hao immediately noticed Houllier's intentions and reacted accordingly.

Carvalho came on to replace Pandiani.

Houllier was furious.

"What the hell? We agreed to go all-out, and now that I've set up my cannons, you pull this?"

If not for his public image, Houllier might have flipped Yang Hao the middle finger.

Yang Hao, seemingly oblivious to the fiery glare from the Liverpool bench, remained focused on the pitch.

"Old man, I'm not that naive."

When it came to Robbie Fowler, most people remembered the infamous "choosing not to shoot" moment from English football textbooks, a commendable display of sportsmanship.

But Fowler was far more complex.

Undeniably one of England's most gifted talents, he was also a player surrounded by controversy.

England had a peculiar phenomenon: their most naturally talented players often succumbed to off-field distractions.

George Best, Paul Gascoigne, and Robbie Fowler were all examples of prodigies who struggled with discipline.

In contrast, players like Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker, and Teddy Sheringham—though undeniably talented—lacked the same raw genius but achieved more consistent success.

Fowler epitomized this dichotomy. He could display moments of extraordinary sportsmanship, like refusing to capitalize on a penalty, but could also shockingly celebrate a goal by mimicking cocaine use against Everton in 1999.

While rumors of drug use were never conclusively proven, the incident itself was outrageous enough to fuel speculation.

As a Liverpool academy graduate, Fowler's position within the team had been increasingly threatened by Owen and Heskey. This season, he even had a public falling-out with assistant coach Phil Thompson, declaring his intention to leave Liverpool in the summer.

Fowler was a complex figure, but Yang Hao wasn't about to underestimate him.

Because, for all his flaws, Robbie Fowler was undeniably a genius.

Atlético Madrid and Liverpool kept making substitutions, with Yang Hao and Houllier engaged in a constant battle of wits and strategies.

After Carvalho came on, Atlético's defense stabilized significantly compared to Liverpool's.

Lucio, though tall, strong, and quick, struggled against Owen due to the English striker's agility. Carvalho, on the other hand, was shorter, faster, and excelled at covering and positioning.

In Yang Hao's previous life, there had been ongoing debates about Carvalho and Terry's roles at Chelsea—who pressed forward and who covered? It was a tough question because both had strong positional awareness; if one advanced, the other naturally stayed back.

At Atlético, however, it was clear: Lucio went forward, while Carvalho stayed back to cover.

As the season progressed, Carvalho had steadily proven himself and was even beginning to eclipse Pochettino.

Substituting a center-back for a striker and then replacing the striker with a center-back within 15 minutes had yielded a goal for Atlético.

Worth it.

Once Carvalho entered, Yang Hao signaled the team to increase pressure on Liverpool's midfield.

Houllier, aware of his weakened backline, had no choice but to press forward and push for a goal. Only by equalizing could Liverpool stabilize the game. Otherwise, they would have no choice but to throw everything forward.

...…

The unexpected shift in momentum caught everyone off guard.

What had been a relatively subdued UEFA Cup final in the first half—aside from the early goal—turned into an exhilarating end-to-end battle in the second half.

Both the youthful Atlético and Liverpool, returning to a European final after many years, played with nothing held back, showcasing their best tactics and lineups.

After Atlético reverted to a 4-2-3-1 formation with Carvalho on, it became apparent that the team had subtly shifted to a more defensive stance. However, they remained heavily fortified in midfield.

As the clock ticked past the 80th minute, Liverpool's players began showing signs of impatience.

One clear indicator was their increasing reliance on speculative long-range shots. Many were poorly executed, desperate attempts to break through Atlético's defense.

This anxious mindset cost Liverpool dearly in the 82nd minute.

Under pressure from Baraja and Gravesen, Smicer's pass to Fowler was intercepted by Lucio.

The Brazilian defender cut off the ball just before Fowler could reach it and surged forward with possession.

It was one of Lucio's rare forward runs in the match—and perhaps the only one Yang Hao could recall.

Lucio accelerated past Smicer's area with remarkable speed.

At that moment, Liverpool's defensive line had pushed up to midfield.

When Lucio broke through Smicer's zone, Hamann had no choice but to step up, with Murphy coming in for support.

On the sidelines, Yang Hao's heart raced.

"Pass the ball already!" he thought.

If Lucio hesitated and got dispossessed, Liverpool could exploit the open space behind him—a dangerous situation Yang Hao had seen before in a previous match against Alavés.

But Lucio kept going.

As Hamann and Murphy closed in, the Brazilian defender leaned toward Murphy, using his strength to force an opening. Before Hamann could intervene, Lucio played a precise forward pass with his right foot.

Deco, timing his run perfectly, darted in behind Hamann to receive the ball.

McAllister was hot on Deco's heels, but the Brazilian midfielder spotted Adriano up front, using his body to shield the ball from Carragher while signaling for a pass.

Deco, however, had other plans.

"Adri, behind you!" he shouted before lofting the ball over Carragher and Adriano's heads, aiming for open space on Liverpool's right side.

Adriano, hearing Deco's call, instantly spun around and sprinted.

Carragher, reacting a moment too late, reached out in vain to grab Adriano but was shaken off. The English defender stumbled and nearly fell.

Adriano raced ahead, catching up to Deco's pass and nudging the ball forward as he surged toward Liverpool's penalty area from the right flank.

Hyypiä chased relentlessly, staying glued to Adriano's left side. He knew the Brazilian was left-footed, and as long as he blocked Adriano's left foot, the threat could be neutralized.

Simultaneously, Carragher recovered and sprinted back, while Babbel retreated from the center to cover.

Three-on-one.

Despite the numbers, Liverpool's defense was in a perilous position.

Adriano carried the ball into the box and suddenly stopped with a sharp right-footed cut, halting his momentum entirely.

Hyypiä, caught off guard, struggled to stop in time. Though he managed to brake quickly, his inertia carried him slightly past Adriano.

Adriano, after the cut, used his left foot to shift the ball laterally, positioning himself beside Hyypiä. When Carragher lunged for the ball, Adriano pulled it back with his left foot, dodging the challenge.

Hyypiä, large and powerful but slower to turn, was outmaneuvered. Adriano used his body to shield the ball, leaving Hyypiä unable to recover in time.

As Hyypiä turned, he saw Adriano at the edge of the six-yard box, the ball perfectly positioned at his right foot.

In that split second, one thought flashed through Hyypiä's mind:

"Pray."

"Dear God, isn't his right foot useless? Please, stop him!"

But not even divine intervention could stop Adriano.

The Brazilian striker planted his left foot firmly and unleashed a powerful strike with his right foot.

As the ball left his foot, Adriano's mind replayed the grueling hours he had spent training over the past year.

Every afternoon after team practice, he stayed back for extra sessions—polishing his technique, refining his right-footed shooting, and perfecting free kicks with his left foot. He even trained with Ortega to learn how to use his body more effectively in duels.

Some days, the training was exhausting.

But his father always came to pick him up after work, standing silently outside the training ground, watching with a proud smile.

Adriano loved that feeling.

He loved seeing his father smile.

Adriano preferred to turn his head and see his father waiting for him outside the fence.

This memory was what drove him to train so diligently every day.

And tonight, in this very moment, a sudden realization flashed through his mind.

He thought of Hyypiä to his right, Carragher and Babbel on his left, and suddenly understood why all the hours spent honing his right foot had been so important.

If he hadn't trained his right foot, he would have needed to shift the ball back to his left, giving Carragher and Babbel enough time to block his shot.

But now? Unless Hyypiä had legs growing out of his back, no one could stop him.

Not even God.

As this clarity washed over Adriano, he let out an uncontainable roar, channeling all his strength into his right foot and blasting the ball with a ferocious strike.

From just outside the six-yard box on the right, at point-blank range, Liverpool goalkeeper Westerveld braced himself as if facing a storm.

But when he heard the sound of the shot, he couldn't even register the trajectory of the ball—just a blur of movement as it whooshed past him.

Westerveld instinctively dove toward the sound, but it was far too late.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!!"

"ADRIANO!!!!"

"82nd MINUTE, ADRIANO SCORES AGAIN!!!"

"A BRACE!!!"

The Westfalenstadion erupted into chaos, a deafening explosion of cheers and shouts.

Thousands of fans leapt out of their seats, screaming at the top of their lungs.

Adriano clenched both fists, letting out another primal roar as he turned and sprinted off the pitch.

The Brazilian striker ran wildly, shouting and howling in pure ecstasy.

This time, he didn't head toward the stands where his father was sitting. Instead, he sprinted straight to the Atlético bench, grabbing his celebrating head coach and lifting him off the ground in a bear hug.

The Atlético fans were delirious.

On the pitch, the players flooded toward the bench, even Van der Sar abandoning his penalty area to join the celebration on the sideline.

A jubilant mob surrounded Yang Hao and Adriano at the Atlético bench.

"My God! This is a masterful display of individual brilliance!"

"Adriano has just delivered an explosive piece of skill and power to secure another goal for Atlético!"

"And here's the kicker—he did it with his RIGHT FOOT!"

"For those familiar with Atlético, this is a moment to remember. Just last year, Yang Hao publicly criticized Adriano's right foot, even calling it useless."

"Since then, Atlético has emphasized training Adriano's right foot, and tonight, in this crucial moment, his right foot has delivered a decisive blow!"

"The Brazilian striker is now embracing his coach with uncontainable joy."

"Adriano has often said in interviews that apart from his family, he would do anything for Yang Hao."

"This is a moving display of the bond between coach and player!"

"The Atlético players are ecstatic, and many fans in the stands are in tears."

"And they have every right to cry."

"Last season, Atlético endured hardship after hardship, teetering on the edge of despair. If not for Yang Hao stepping up to save the club at a critical moment, Atlético might be playing in the second division right now."

"But look at them now—they've not only won the La Liga title but are also on the brink of glory in the UEFA Cup final."

"This is nothing short of a miracle!"

"This night will undoubtedly be etched into the history of European football!"

...…

As Adriano's shot hit the back of the net, Houllier felt the strength drain from his body.

A wave of weightlessness washed over him, followed by an overwhelming fatigue.

After fighting so hard for so long, it seemed that Liverpool's dream of victory had slipped away in the final moments.

Then came a spark of defiance.

There was still time.

There had to be time!

"Damn it, if Manchester United can score twice at the death, so can we!"

Houllier stormed to the touchline, shouting furiously at his players to rally.

On the pitch, Liverpool's players were stunned by the goal.

But spurred on by Houllier's yells, they snapped out of their daze.

Captain Hyypiä shouted to his teammates, urging them forward, while Gerrard, Owen, and McAllister rallied their spirits and called for the fans to get behind them.

In the stands, Liverpool supporters broke into a thunderous rendition of You'll Never Walk Alone, willing their team to fight until the final whistle—win or lose.

Houllier didn't make any more substitutions. This was already the strongest attacking lineup he had.

Unless Heskey could somehow return to the pitch, Liverpool would have to fight with what they had.

After the restart, Liverpool launched an all-out assault on Atlético's defense.

They became fiercer and more reckless, throwing caution to the wind.

In the first 85 minutes of the match, there had only been three yellow cards—two for Atlético.

But in the span of just three minutes after Adriano's second goal, Liverpool players racked up three yellow cards, matching the total from the previous 85 minutes.

This demonstrated Liverpool's desperation and determination in their final push.

Even defenders like Hyypiä, Carragher, and Babbel surged forward to join the attack, leaving everything on the pitch.

...…

Yang Hao stood stoically on the sideline, watching Liverpool's frenzied assault.

A deep sense of respect swelled within him.

In his previous life, Yang Hao had been a Real Madrid fan, but he had never harbored animosity toward other teams. In fact, he even admired Guardiola's Barcelona for their brilliance—though not for the dull possession tactics or theatrical performances that came later.

He had always respected Manchester United under Ferguson and had a soft spot for Liverpool.

To Yang Hao, both clubs embodied a traditional, almost timeless spirit—an unyielding resolve that transcended the eras, representing the soul of English football.

It was a spirit of perseverance and relentless pursuit, a hallmark of modern football's fighting ethos.

Now, watching Liverpool's players throw themselves into every attack, with even their goalkeeper pushing forward, Yang Hao stood straight and resolute.

It was the only tribute he could offer Liverpool—a worthy opponent.

But tonight, at the Westfalenstadion, Atlético Madrid must win.

As the referee blew the final whistle, Liverpool's frenzied momentum came to an abrupt halt, as if their batteries had been suddenly removed. Players collapsed all over the pitch.

A young Steven Gerrard fell to his knees, tears streaming down his face.

They had fought tooth and nail to reach the UEFA Cup final, daring to dream of lifting the trophy and completing their treble.

But with that one whistle, all hope was shattered.

Meanwhile, Atlético's players erupted into celebration.

Despite being pushed to their limits by Liverpool's relentless assault in the final moments, the sound of the whistle made all the struggle worthwhile.

The UEFA Cup!

Double Crown Champions!!

The Atlético players cheered wildly on the pitch, overcome with joy.

Some of the team's senior players—Toni Muñoz, Aguilera, Kiko, and Fresnedoso—had left their seats in the stands and were now waiting at the tunnel.

As soon as the whistle blew, they rushed onto the field to celebrate alongside their teammates.

Though they hadn't played that night and had gradually lost their spots in the lineup this season, they remained steadfastly united with the team, fighting shoulder to shoulder until the very end.

"Let us congratulate Atlético Madrid! Congratulations to Yang Hao!"

"Tonight, Yang Hao becomes the youngest championship-winning coach in the history of European football!"

"It's absolutely incredible!"

"At the Westfalenstadion tonight, Atlético displayed remarkable resilience. Facing a formidable Premier League side in Liverpool, they held their own and even dominated large stretches of the game."

"Yang Hao has crafted a fiercely competitive team."

"After winning La Liga and now the UEFA Cup, there's every reason to believe that next season Yang Hao and his young Atlético squad will deliver even more thrilling performances and surprises."

"Having secured the La Liga title, Atlético will compete in next season's UEFA Champions League."

"Any team that watched Atlético's performances this season must be wary. This squad is tenacious, aggressive, and capable of delivering jaw-dropping displays. Expect them to shine again next season."

"At just 26 years old, Yang Hao has already won four major trophies, with tonight's UEFA Cup cementing his place among Europe's elite coaches."

"He's undoubtedly a prodigy—a coach to watch and one of Europe's brightest managerial talents!"

...…

The entire Westfalenstadion transformed into a stage for Atlético's players and fans to revel in their triumph.

Jesus Gil, the club's long-absent chairman, was also in attendance, visibly moved.

When the whistle blew, the normally irascible Gil leapt from his seat, clapping and cheering alongside the Atlético fans.

His hefty frame and declining health forced him to sit back down quickly, but his excitement remained evident.

This was Atlético's first-ever UEFA Cup title—the most significant trophy in the club's history.

Before the match, Gil had joked that if they won, he could die content.

But now that victory was theirs, he felt a renewed zest for life.

"Now I'm thinking... maybe next year, or the year after, we might have a shot at the Champions League, don't you think?"

Miguel Gil and Enrique Cerezo laughed heartily, nodding in agreement.

"Yang Hao's coaching ability, particularly his eye for talent, is truly remarkable," Cerezo praised.

Although the compliment was directed at Yang Hao, Miguel Gil couldn't help but feel a deep sense of pride.

Seeing his father nod in approval only heightened that feeling.

After all, it had been Miguel's unwavering support that led to Yang Hao's appointment as Atlético's head coach. That decision had brought them the UEFA Cup tonight and the La Liga title this season.

For years, Miguel had yearned for his father's recognition.

Now, he had it.

"Michel," Jesus Gil said, reaching out to his son.

Miguel quickly took his father's hand, ready to listen attentively.

"Do you know what my biggest regret was after the last time we won the double?"

Miguel thought for a moment before nodding. "I do—you regretted selling Diego Simeone and Penev."

Indeed, the towering striker Lyuboslav Penev had been pivotal to Atlético's 1995/96 double-winning season, finishing as the team's top scorer with 16 goals in La Liga. At just 28 years old, he was in his prime.

Argentine midfielder Diego Simeone, the team's second-highest scorer that season, had even outperformed Kiko in terms of goals.

But after that historic season, Jesus Gil approved Simeone's €6 million transfer to Inter Milan and sold Penev to Compostela for €1.8 million.

In the following seasons, Penev continued to score prolifically in La Liga, and Simeone thrived in Serie A, while Atlético fell into a downward spiral, narrowly avoiding relegation multiple times.

Though Jesus Gil often claimed he never regretted his decisions, selling Simeone and Penev was an exception.

Over the years, he had often wondered how different things might have been if Simeone and Penev had stayed.

Now, on the night of Atlético's UEFA Cup triumph and double-winning season, Gil brought up this regret to remind Miguel not to repeat his mistakes.

"Yang Hao is a rare talent. Someone like him should be kept at all costs and used to our full advantage."

Everyone knew that if there was one indispensable figure at Atlético this season, it was Yang Hao.

The team could replace anyone—but not Yang Hao. He was the soul of this Atlético side.

"Don't worry, Father," Miguel assured him. "I've already spoken with him. Once this match is over, we'll renegotiate his contract."

The purpose of renegotiating was, of course, to extend his stay and significantly improve his terms.

Reports had surfaced that Barcelona's Ferrer had signed a two-year coaching contract worth $6 million—about €2.5 million per season. Considering Yang Hao's current stature and importance to Atlético, how much should they offer him?

Although Atlético couldn't match Barcelona's financial clout, they couldn't afford to be stingy either.

More importantly, everyone at the club was already looking ahead to next season and the Champions League.

If Yang Hao could lead Atlético to a decent run in the Champions League—even just reaching the Round of 16—the club would earn around €20 million in revenue.

For Atlético, that kind of windfall was monumental.

Miguel Gil knew exactly where his priorities lay.

After returning to Madrid from Dortmund, Atlético celebrated for two whole days.

The day after the UEFA Cup final was marked by a victory parade, followed by a grand celebration banquet.

This UEFA Cup triumph was the most significant trophy in Atlético's history, and with Jesus Gil's typically extravagant style, the celebrations were unprecedented in scale. Even the Spanish royal family, the Prime Minister's office, and the Madrid city government sent representatives to offer their congratulations.

As the team's head coach, Yang Hao had to attend every event, forcing him to deal with a wide range of dignitaries and well-wishers.

By the end of it all, he felt more exhausted than after coaching the UEFA Cup final.

Once the celebrations concluded and the team disbanded for their break, Yang Hao retreated to his home for three days of uninterrupted rest and comfort.

He disconnected his landline, turned off his mobile phone, and ignored all responsibilities.

That peace was shattered three days later when Miguel Gil showed up at his door, forcing him to come downstairs to open it.

Miguel then essentially kidnapped Yang Hao from his home.

"I'm telling you, young man, you need to practice moderation," Miguel chided during their drive to the Calderón stadium. "Sure, your girlfriend is beautiful, but you can't go all out just because you're young. You've got to take care of yourself."

Yang Hao couldn't help but smirk. Miguel, however, was still stunned by the sight of Alessandra Ambrosio, who had answered the door in nothing but an oversized white shirt.

"Come on now, Miguel. You're just jealous. You're older, so you have to worry about staying healthy. I'm young—I'd regret not enjoying myself now!" Yang Hao teased.

Miguel rolled his eyes in exasperation. "Fine, but as your elder, can I at least offer some advice? This is a critical time in your career. You shouldn't be so careless—"

"Stop right there," Yang Hao interrupted with a laugh. "I'm on vacation. What's all this about ambition?"

Miguel sighed, realizing he couldn't win this argument. After a moment of thought, he gave up.

Truthfully, Miguel had come in person only because Yang Hao had been unreachable. If the phone lines had been open, Miguel wouldn't have had to interrupt Yang Hao's time off.

"Next time you want to take a break, let me know," Miguel offered as they approached the stadium. "My family has a beach house in Marbella. I could set you up there, maybe arrange a yacht trip or something. It's way better than staying in Madrid."

"Why didn't you say so earlier?" Yang Hao exclaimed, eyes lighting up.

"Should I make arrangements for you?" Miguel asked.

"Go for it!" Yang Hao replied eagerly.

By the time they arrived at the Calderón, Yang Hao was all smiles, treating Miguel like his newfound best friend.

...…

The reason for dragging Yang Hao out of his house was simple: summer preparations.

While the players, coaching staff, and other personnel were on break, the Calderón offices were busier than ever. There was much to be done—transfers, contract renewals, sponsorship deals, and more.

The club's trip to the Middle East in January had yielded limited results, as breaking into a new market wasn't easy.

"I've confirmed with Emirates that they're interested in continuing as our main shirt sponsor," Carlos Leo reported enthusiastically. "With our participation in next season's Champions League, I've also proposed deepening our partnership."

Success on the pitch had made Leo's commercial work much easier. Once a breakthrough was made, everything else followed naturally, sometimes even falling into place effortlessly.

"I've also reached out to several companies in Japan and South Korea," Carlos continued. "With the World Cup happening there next year, they're showing a lot of interest. We could consider a visit to Asia or even hold our summer training camp there."

Since Paulo Futre's departure, all football-related decisions had been left to Yang Hao. Even Enrique Cerezo and Miguel Gil deferred to him most of the time.

The club's executives were well aware of Yang Hao's influence—not just as a coach but as a shareholder. Yang Hao owned 15% of Atlético's shares (though paperwork for 5% was still pending).

This dual role made Miguel's earlier frustration—about having to "deliver money to an ungrateful recipient"—somewhat understandable.

"Not this summer," Yang Hao replied, shaking his head. "Rushing such plans could backfire, especially if it disrupts our preseason preparations for next season. I think we should aim for next summer instead."

Carlos nodded in agreement. "Alright, I'll start working on plans for a trip to Asia next year."

Confirming such plans a year in advance was a reasonable approach, given the stakes.

...…

After the marketing department's updates, the public relations and finance teams presented their reports on the past season's operations and plans for the next.

One key initiative had been a proposal by Fernando Vázquez to establish a salary cap tied to the club's revenue. This would introduce a more structured pay system.

However, there were still challenges to address.

Several veteran players had lost their places in the squad. Kiko, for instance, had barely played this season. Club captain Toni Muñoz had not played a single match. Aguilera had fared slightly better, but Santi Denia and Fresnedoso had only made appearances in the Copa del Rey.

The crux of the issue was simple: Atlético was now a team bursting with talent. Even in their prime, these veterans would have struggled to secure starting roles.

Toni Muñoz had already decided to retire, while Kiko was still deliberating between retiring or transferring. For the others, no clear decisions had been made.

While their salaries were significant, their contributions were negligible.

However, handling this situation delicately was critical. Fans held these players in high regard as club legends from the double-winning era. Any abrupt decisions could alienate the fanbase.

On the other hand, retaining them strained the club's finances and complicated the salary structure.

"I'll find some time to speak with them," Yang Hao said, rubbing his temples.

This wasn't just a football problem—every organization faced challenges with long-serving employees nearing the end of their careers.

The public relations department had been busy as well, building relationships and connections with the media. Surprisingly, many journalists who publicly criticized Atlético maintained good personal ties with the club and Yang Hao.

In some cases, they even sent articles to Yang Hao for review before publication, seeking his approval or feedback. Yang Hao rarely interfered, but there had been exceptions—three or four instances, including one where Baraja had vented about Spain's national team coach, Camacho. Yang Hao had intervened to protect Baraja from the potential fallout.

If the story had gone public, Camacho's notoriously volatile temper would have made Baraja's life miserable.

...…

The focus of this meeting revolved around the team itself.

Miguel Gil began by sharing some news with Yang Hao: Pandiani's agent had approached the club, seeking clarification about the striker's role in the team.

Of course, this was just a polite way of saying that Pandiani was worried about his position as a starter and wanted assurances, potentially written into a contract renewal.

It wasn't surprising.

Throughout the past season, Yang Hao had rotated between Pandiani and Adriano, with neither having a definitive edge. In fact, Pandiani had slightly more appearances.

However, it was clear to anyone paying attention that Yang Hao favored Adriano and was actively grooming the Brazilian striker.

After a strong season of development—and especially his two-goal performance as a substitute in the UEFA Cup final—Adriano had become a breakout star in European football. At just 19 years old, the Brazilian was being hailed as a future legend.

This raised a crucial question for next season: who would lead Atlético's attack?

Pandiani had delivered impressive performances in La Liga and the Copa del Rey, scoring frequently and making a name for himself. But now, he seemed concerned about being relegated to a backup role behind Adriano.

This situation wasn't easy to resolve.

"Next year is a World Cup year," Yang Hao began, "and La Liga's schedule will be compressed. On top of that, we'll be competing in the Champions League and Copa del Rey. At the start of the season, we also have the Spanish Super Cup and the UEFA Super Cup. If you add it all up, we're looking at a packed calendar."

La Liga alone consists of 38 matches. The Champions League group stage adds six more. Then there's the Copa del Rey and the two Super Cups. Altogether, that's at least 50 matches.

If Atlético performs well and progresses past the Champions League group stage into the second group phase (common at the time), it would mean an additional six matches—pushing the total to nearly 60.

In this scenario, Yang Hao felt that relying on just Adriano and Pandiani as forwards would be far from sufficient.

While Fernando Torres had great potential, he was only 17. Expecting him to shoulder the responsibility of being a primary striker was unrealistic.

Sometimes, forcing a young player into the spotlight too early could do more harm than good. Yang Hao preferred Torres to continue developing at a measured pace, primarily playing in the second division and making occasional appearances in cup matches or as a substitute for the first team.

"Is this another case of Irureta trying to poach our players?" Yang Hao asked, glancing at Miguel.

Miguel smiled wryly and nodded. "Irureta is indeed very interested in Pandiani."

Deportivo La Coruña already had a strong attacking lineup with Roy Makaay, Diego Tristán, and Luque, but they were still looking to further bolster their forward options by signing Pandiani.

Meanwhile, Atlético was heading into a multi-front campaign with just Adriano and Pandiani as reliable forwards—a situation that felt precarious.

Last season, Atlético had managed to cope partly because they were eliminated early from the Copa del Rey and because the UEFA Cup's knockout format meant fewer matches compared to a group-stage setup.

The Champions League, however, was a different beast entirely, featuring a lengthy group stage and a more demanding schedule.

It wasn't until the tragic death of Marc-Vivien Foé in 2003 that UEFA decided to streamline the Champions League, reducing it to a single group stage and converting the Round of 16 into a knockout phase. This change cut four matches from the schedule, significantly easing the burden on players.

For now, though, the Champions League format remained grueling. Even eliminating just one match could provide a significant reprieve for the squad.

Given the circumstances, Yang Hao's plan for the upcoming season involved strengthening the squad—not weakening it.

But if Irureta was serious about pursuing Pandiani, things could get tricky.

In recent years, Deportivo had been one of Spain's most stable and successful clubs. While Atlético had oscillated between title challenges and relegation battles, Deportivo had been consistently strong.

Last season, Deportivo had reached the Champions League quarterfinals, eliminating European powerhouses like Juventus, Hamburg, AC Milan, and PSG along the way.

To many, Deportivo seemed like a step up from Atlético.

It was understandable why Pandiani might be tempted to join Deportivo and compete alongside stars like Makaay and Tristán rather than share the spotlight with Adriano.

As the saying goes, people strive for better opportunities.

"Let Irureta come," Yang Hao said calmly. "If he's willing to pay, we'll sell."

Miguel Gil and Enrique Cerezo exchanged surprised glances.

Pandiani had been Atlético's top scorer last season. Were they really going to let him go?

"Yang, we shouldn't be too hasty about this," Cerezo said cautiously.

"Of course," Yang Hao replied with a smile. "But if Irureta is willing to spend, we might as well make him pay handsomely."

Everyone could tell Yang Hao wasn't joking. If Deportivo offered the right price, he'd sell without hesitation.

"But Yang," Miguel interjected, "if we sell Pandiani, that leaves Adriano as our only striker. He's only 19, and Torres is just 17. That's not sustainable."

"Then we'll bring in reinforcements," Yang Hao said with a grin.

After all, identifying and signing players was one of his specialties.

They could try to poach his players, but Yang Hao knew how to fight back.

Finding a replacement for Pandiani? That wouldn't be a problem for him.

The others exchanged uncertain glances. Yang Hao's success in overhauling the squad last year spoke for itself, but they still worried about the consequences of selling Pandiani.

"Who else?" Yang Hao asked, moving on.

"Barcelona—they're interested in Adriano and Deco," Miguel replied cautiously, studying Yang Hao's reaction.

Yang Hao didn't disappoint.

"Tell them to get lost," he said without hesitation.

The room burst into laughter. This was the response they had been hoping for.

Atlético had worked hard to develop their star players, and selling them now was out of the question—especially with the Champions League on the horizon.

"Both of them are untouchable," Yang Hao declared firmly. "No offers, no negotiations."

"Understood," Miguel said.

"There's also interest from Manchester United in Gravesen," Miguel added.

"Not for sale," Yang Hao said immediately.

Gravesen was a critical piece in midfield, and Yang Hao had no intention of letting him go.

Last season's success with the 4-2-3-1 formation had been impressive, but Yang Hao and his coaching staff had identified limitations, especially in La Liga.

The issue was that 4-2-3-1 often restricted the team's offensive potential.

When Yang Hao initially chose the formation, it was a practical decision. As a rookie coach inheriting a defensively weak team, he had prioritized stability to ensure the club could regain its footing.

Now, however, Yang Hao's ambitions had grown.

With Atlético's recent success, more teams were treating them as a strong opponent. This shift in perception had a significant impact.

Previously, opponents had seen Atlético as a weaker side, adopting aggressive tactics to secure three points. In such situations, the 4-2-3-1 formation had worked well, allowing Atlético to defend tightly and capitalize on counterattacks.

Now, with teams employing more conservative strategies, some even settling for a draw, Atlético's biggest challenge was breaking down defenses.

If they wanted to unlock their full attacking potential, sticking to 4-2-3-1 wouldn't be enough.

The formation, designed for balance, wasn't particularly friendly to offensive strategies.

Even from a tactical perspective, the 4-2-3-1 formation wasn't ideal for wingers or forwards.

Football strategy might seem complex, but Yang Hao always believed it could be boiled down to one key principle: creativity fuels offense.

Whether relying on counterattacks or dominating possession, teams must unleash creativity to score. This trait was a hallmark of every successful European team.

Take Real Madrid's 2002 Champions League triumph—it came down to Zidane's brilliance.

Why was the 2003 Champions League final a goalless affair? Many would point out that AC Milan had Rui Costa, Pirlo, and Seedorf—plenty of creative talent. But under Ancelotti, Milan played a rigid 1-0 style, as the coach's hunger for trophies was insatiable.

In 2004, Mourinho's Porto won because of Deco, and Rehhagel's Greece triumphed in the Euros thanks to the technical prowess of Charisteas, who often came off the bench.

By 2005, Milan had grown more fluid and creative than their 2003 squad but fell victim to their premature celebrations.

In 2006, Barcelona boasted Ronaldinho, and Arsenal was among Europe's most creative teams. Milan roared back in 2007, combining tactical discipline with individual brilliance.

Year after year, Europe's greatest successes hinged on unlocking creativity.

Why did Mourinho's Chelsea dominate the Premier League but falter in the Champions League? It wasn't just because they faced Barcelona—it was also a lack of creativity. If Mourinho's Chelsea had a Deco-like figure, their Champions League success might have come much sooner.

Yang Hao valued creativity highly. That's why he placed so much trust in Deco, and the midfielder had rewarded him with stellar performances. However, based on the previous season's matches, it was clear that wasn't enough.

Atlético needed to unleash even more creativity—not just from Deco but from the entire squad—to boost their attacking potency.

With that in mind, Yang Hao decided to experiment with a 4-3-3 formation for the new season.

This formation had been tried and tested by the greatest managers, known for its offensive prowess and openness. However, it also demanded exceptional individual skills from players.

Given Atlético's current roster, a shift to 4-3-3 seemed feasible.

The forward line was strong, with Deco capable of excelling as the left-central midfielder and Baraja on the right. The main challenge lay in the defensive midfield role (the "number 4" position). While Gravesen was a candidate, Yang Hao wasn't yet certain about his suitability.

Yang Hao was considering Cambiasso and Xabi Alonso for this role.

Meanwhile, Marcos Senna, who had impressed in the second division, still needed another year to secure Spanish citizenship. Until then, he was limited to 10 first-team appearances, so Yang Hao would use him sparingly.

Of course, Yang Hao wouldn't stick rigidly to one system. Depending on the opposition, he was open to reverting to 4-2-3-1, experimenting with 4-3-1-2, or even adopting the Christmas tree-like 4-3-2-1 formation.

But one thing was certain: in the upcoming La Liga and Champions League campaigns, Yang Hao planned to shock all his competitors!

...…

With the league season just concluded, Atlético quickly got to work.

Veterans Toni Muñoz and Juanma López announced their retirements.

Two other players, Santi Denia and Fresnedoso, were informed by the club—and personally by Yang Hao—that they could seek transfers as free agents.

Yang Hao assured them that if they couldn't find new clubs, they were welcome to stay and train with Atlético.

In a press interview, Yang Hao explained the decision, emphasizing the 25-player limit for the first-team squad. The club needed to free up spots to strengthen the team for La Liga, the Champions League, and other competitions.

Atlético's official channels also issued heartfelt messages thanking the departing players for their contributions over the years, reiterating that the club would always be their home.

Thanks to the club's proactive PR efforts, the situation was handled smoothly.

Meanwhile, Kiko and former captain Aguilera decided to stay with the team. After discussions with Yang Hao and Miguel Gil, they agreed to remain as key figures in the locker room.

Their presence was invaluable for maintaining team morale, mentoring younger players, and helping new signings adapt to the club.

Both Kiko and Aguilera were fully aware of their reduced roles but pledged to stay ready and follow Yang Hao's lead.

...…

In early June, European football was rocked by a major announcement.

Argentine coach Héctor Cúper, who had been embroiled in a public feud with Valencia fans, stepped down to take charge of Inter Milan.

Italian media reported that Inter's president, Massimo Moratti, personally invited Cúper to lead the Nerazzurri. The offer included an eye-popping €3.5 million net annual salary, making Cúper the highest-paid coach in football history, surpassing Capello's record.

Moratti also handed Cúper a blank check for transfers, with one demand: win Serie A and the Champions League to restore Inter to its former glory.

Cúper reportedly presented a star-studded shopping list, including Toldo, Conceição, and three Atlético players: Adriano, Joaquín, and Lucio.

Atlético quickly issued a public statement denying any plans to sell the trio, declaring them untouchable.

With Cúper gone, Valencia scrambled to find a new manager.

They first approached Deportivo's Irureta, who leveraged the opportunity to negotiate a new contract with Deportivo, earning €3 million net annually.

Valencia then contacted Alavés' Mane and Mallorca's Luis Aragonés, but both declined the offer.

Even Yang Hao received a call from Valencia president Pedro Cortés. Yang Hao politely declined, stating he was happy at Atlético.

However, media leaks about Cortés's call caused a stir, nearly giving Miguel Gil a heart attack. In response, Miguel pushed Yang Hao to sign a new contract, raising his salary to €3 million—a level comparable to Irureta's.

Eventually, Valencia settled on Rafa Benítez, then managing Tenerife.

...…

Yang Hao also received another unexpected call—this time from Barcelona president Joan Gaspart.

The call came while Yang Hao was vacationing on a yacht in Marbella.

Gaspart inquired whether Yang Hao would be interested in joining Barcelona. His proposal? Yang Hao would start as assistant to Rexach to ease fan concerns. If the team performed well, Yang Hao could eventually be promoted to head coach.

Yang Hao could barely contain his amusement.

He'd already heard from Miguel that Barcelona had offered €15 million for Adriano earlier that summer. He assumed it was a negotiating tactic, but after speaking to Gaspart, he realized the Barça president was genuinely clueless.

Yang Hao wanted to ask: What gave you the confidence to think every coach dreams of managing Barcelona?

Assistant coach? Why would he leave Atlético, where he was in full control, to be someone else's assistant?

"Ridiculous," Yang Hao thought. "No wonder Laporta steamrolled this guy."

Politely but firmly, Yang Hao declined the offer.

Unsurprisingly, Barcelona's coaching vacancy continued to scare off top managers, leaving them in limbo.

...…

At Real Madrid, Florentino Pérez wasted no time after the season ended.

Fresh off a campaign featuring Zidane and Figo, Pérez announced plans at the club's annual general meeting to build a state-of-the-art training facility, securing 1,100 votes in favor.

The vote passed with overwhelming support—only 39 votes opposed, all from former president Lorenzo Sanz and his supporters.

Florentino Pérez had achieved a landslide victory.

Spanish media attributed his success to a nearly irresistible proposal: Pérez planned to sell Real Madrid's training grounds to the Madrid city government for the construction of four skyscrapers, which would become iconic landmarks for the city.

In exchange, Real Madrid would receive a larger plot of land near the airport to build a state-of-the-art, five-star training facility.

This deal would net Real Madrid €350 million, enough to pay off all debts and make a significant splash in the transfer market.

At the club's general assembly, Pérez unveiled his ambitious summer transfer targets:

Striker: Among the candidates were Andriy Shevchenko (AC Milan), Thierry Henry (Arsenal), and Ronaldo (Inter Milan). Ronaldo, having recently returned from a year-long injury, showed promise in a few amateur matches, convincing Pérez and his team that the Brazilian could regain his peak form.

Midfield: Top of the list was Valencia's Gaizka Mendieta. Marca reported that Real Madrid had prepared a staggering €40 million bid for him, awaiting Valencia's approval. Valencia president Pedro Cortés had assured Pérez he would try to make the deal happen. However, Valencia's fans, still seething after forcing Hector Cúper's departure, had made it clear they would not tolerate their star player joining Real Madrid.

The friction between the clubs dated back to the 1990s when Real Madrid controversially signed Predrag Mijatović from Valencia. Relations had soured ever since, with no players transferring between the two clubs in the intervening years.

Defense: AS revealed that Real Madrid's pursuit of Alessandro Nesta had been rebuffed by Lazio. Their new targets were Parma's Lilian Thuram or Fabio Cannavaro, with negotiations reportedly underway. Whichever defender they signed, the transfer fee was expected to exceed €30 million, potentially breaking the record set by Rio Ferdinand and making history for the most expensive defender ever.

Real Madrid's bold moves to bolster their attack, midfield, and defense demonstrated Pérez's ambition and the club's financial muscle.

However, Pérez's plans to replace coach Vicente del Bosque met resistance. Despite a trophyless season, Pérez wanted to appoint a high-profile manager like Arsène Wenger, as failure to win silverware was unacceptable for Real Madrid. Pérez was also dissatisfied with Del Bosque's tactical approach.

But club members voted overwhelmingly to keep Del Bosque, leaving Pérez with no choice but to relent.

...…

As the transfer window opened, the European market grew increasingly lively.

As La Liga's breakout team and Europe's most surprising underdog, Atlético Madrid naturally became a target for top clubs. Rivals sought not only to strengthen themselves by poaching Atlético players but also to weaken Atlético's competitiveness.

Deportivo's coach, Javier Irureta, had long been rumored to covet Pandiani, even contacting Atlético about him. But Deportivo's first official offer was shockingly aimed at Lúcio, with a bid of €10 million.

Atlético swiftly rejected the offer, declaring Lúcio untouchable.

To reinforce their stance, Atlético announced plans to renew Lúcio's contract as recognition for his outstanding season.

The Brazilian defender, currently with the national team at the Confederations Cup, told the media he had no intention of leaving Atlético:

"I'm very happy here. This is a team on the rise, and I see no reason to leave."

Lúcio's statement was met with widespread approval from Atlético fans. Despite occasional lapses, his overall performance was excellent, and his future looked bright.

The second bid Atlético received came from Valencia, who offered €20 million for Rubén Baraja.

Media interpreted this as a sign Valencia was preparing to sell Mendieta. Both players shared similarities as versatile midfielders, though Baraja offered better defensive capabilities and explosiveness.

Valencia's new coach, Rafa Benítez, openly stated that Baraja fit perfectly into his tactical plans.

However, before Atlético's management could respond, Baraja himself publicly rejected Valencia's approach:

"I've been with Atlético for five years, and I plan to stay here."

Baraja expressed confidence in the team's potential, believing they could achieve even greater success next season.

Upon hearing the news, Yang Hao was both annoyed and amused.

Valencia seemed fixated on raiding Atlético. Did they take him for a pushover?

Yang Hao quickly called Paulo Futre, Atlético's former sporting director. Although Futre had left the club, his departure had been amicable, and he remained on good terms with both Yang Hao and Atlético.

Futre had strong connections in Portugal, particularly with agent José Vega. Yang Hao asked him to reach out to Benfica and facilitate Atlético's pursuit of Carlos Marchena.

Yang Hao had initially wanted to sign Marchena from relegated Sevilla the previous year but was beaten to the punch by Benfica.

Marchena's time in Portugal had been turbulent. After arriving at Benfica, he started under Jupp Heynckes, who trusted him as a starting center-back. However, Heynckes was sacked after just five matches.

José Mourinho, fresh from serving as Van Gaal's assistant at Barcelona, took over in September. While Mourinho eventually recognized Marchena's talent, he was dismissed after 10 matches.

Next came former Sevilla coach Toni, under whom Marchena initially regained stability. However, a string of poor performances in March led to him losing his starting role.

By now, Marchena was completely out of favor at Benfica.

For Yang Hao, Marchena's career trajectory—having experienced coaching changes under Heynckes and Mourinho—was almost comically dramatic. Few players could claim to have seen so much upheaval in such a short time.

With Benfica uninterested in keeping him, Atlético quickly reached an agreement to sign Marchena for €2 million.

Yang Hao viewed Marchena as the perfect replacement for Santi Denia, who was no longer in his plans.

This new-look Atlético was vastly different from the club of Yang Hao's past life. Competing in La Liga and the Champions League, Atlético needed players of Marchena's caliber—a future Spanish national team regular.

The signing also served as a form of retaliation against Valencia, weakening their future defense. The Ayala-Marchena partnership that would dominate Valencia's backline for years was now impossible.

"Let Benítez deal with the headache," Yang Hao thought.

If Valencia wanted to covet Atlético's Baraja, Yang Hao would hit back by raiding their targets.

But Marchena wasn't the only Valencia-linked player Yang Hao had his eye on. He was far from finished.

Every coach has their own unique way of managing relationships with players.

Fabio Capello and Louis van Gaal preferred to maintain a sense of mystery and authority by keeping their players at a distance. Coaches like José Mourinho and Diego Simeone thrived by becoming leaders in the dressing room, demanding respect through dominance. Meanwhile, figures like Carlo Ancelotti and Vicente del Bosque leaned toward being friendly with players, offering trust and autonomy.

Naturally, different styles created different team dynamics.

As for Yang Hao? He wasn't sure which category he fell into. He didn't overthink it; his methods were rooted in instinct.

For example, before signing a player, he liked to sit down and talk with them or visit the places where they lived to better understand their environment and character.

Perhaps it stemmed from his previous life as a devoted football fan.

This time, his journey took him from sunny Marbella in southern Spain to the northern mountains of Asturias, eventually arriving in Langreo, a small coal-mining city with a population of just over 50,000.

Langreo was notable for its coal production and, surprisingly, its railway connectivity.

A few kilometers northeast of Langreo's city center lay Tuilla, a tiny town that was little more than a village, home to roughly 1,000 residents.

Despite its modest size, Tuilla had a train station, a convenience store, and even a football field.

The field was made of sand, a common sight in these parts. When Yang Hao arrived, he spotted a young player training intensely on the sandy surface. Beside the field sat a burly middle-aged man.

As Yang stepped out of his car, the man immediately noticed him.

"Hello! Are you... Yang?"

Yang Hao recognized him immediately. His distinctive thick beard matched the description provided by Sporting Gijón's contacts.

"Yes, and you must be Mel?"

"That's right, Mel Villa."

Mel Villa was a former coal miner. Years of hard labor had left him with a muscular frame, but the decline of the mining industry in the area had led to layoffs and financial instability. He had since gained weight and now looked distinctly round.

"That's my son out there—David."

Yang Hao turned to observe the player more closely.

From what Yang had read in his previous life, Mel Villa had been instrumental in shaping his son's career. He had instilled discipline and determination in young David, pushing him to rise above the limitations of life in a mining town.

David Villa had already begun to repay that faith, earning a spot at Sporting Gijón. In the previous season, he had scored 12 goals for the club's B team.

While 12 goals in a lower division wasn't groundbreaking for a 19-year-old, Villa's speed, explosiveness, and technical skills had impressed scouts. Still, he wasn't considered a generational talent.

This was why Sporting Gijón was caught off guard when Atlético Madrid expressed interest in Villa, offering €300,000—a fair price for a promising prospect.

"Mr. Yang, I've always told the people in Langreo and at Sporting: don't judge David too quickly. Give him time, and you'll see what makes him special," Mel said earnestly.

It was clear Mel was worried Yang might dismiss his son based on a cursory glance.

"Don't worry, Mel," Yang replied with a smile. "I came all this way because I believe in him."

Mel's face lit up with surprise. His son didn't have the reputation to attract a high-profile coach like Yang Hao personally.

...…

The local café was the town's social hub, where everyone knew everyone.

Mel was somewhat of a legend in Tuilla. Years ago, he had survived a mining accident that claimed many lives in an underground collapse 800 meters deep. This story would later be immortalized in a letter David Villa wrote to his father, crediting him as his greatest inspiration.

"You probably noticed earlier—he's right-footed. But actually, his left-footed shots are more powerful," Mel explained over coffee.

When Villa was four, an accident on the football field left him with a broken right leg. While his leg was in a cast, Mel began training him to use his left foot. Over time, Villa's left foot developed to a level equal to, if not better than, his right.

"At one point, we even went to Athletic Bilbao for a trial. They rejected him because they thought he was too short. Can you imagine? Maradona and Romário weren't tall, either!" Mel shook his head in exasperation.

Yang Hao couldn't help but laugh. He recalled how David Villa and David Silva, two future stars, had both been overlooked by big clubs for their height. He wondered if they had ever bonded over this shared experience during their time at Valencia.

"That's football for you," Yang said, still smiling.

After their coffee, Mel introduced Yang to David Villa.

Although Villa had been aware of Yang's visit, he had kept his head down during training, focusing on his drills with an intensity that impressed Yang.

This wasn't for show—conversations with locals revealed that even during the off-season, Villa trained daily with unwavering dedication.

When Villa joined them at his family's home, his older sister brought out several scrapbooks chronicling his journey, starting from his chubby childhood days. As he grew, the clippings transitioned to local newspaper articles celebrating his achievements in youth football.

The Villa family radiated warmth and harmony, qualities Yang admired.

"Your coach at Sporting, Pepe Acebal, speaks highly of you," Yang began as they sat down to talk. "He told me you've made significant progress over the last two years—not just in technique, but also in stamina and physicality. He believes you have the foundation to become an excellent professional player."

Villa responded modestly. "Coach Acebal has always supported me."

Acebal's assessment was clear: David Villa had natural instincts as an attacker, with excellent explosiveness and a sharp finishing touch. His recent improvements in endurance and technical precision had made him even more promising.

Yang Hao continued, "Acebal suggested I let you stay at Sporting for further development. But I'm offering you two choices:

Stay with Sporting on loan, grow at your own pace, and return to Atlético when the time is right.

Join Atlético immediately, train with the first team, and play matches for the B team in the Segunda División."

Both options had their merits.

Joining Atlético immediately meant competing alongside top players like Adriano, Pandiani, Vicente, and Joaquín. However, the intense competition might overwhelm Villa.

On the other hand, staying at Sporting was the safer choice, allowing him to build confidence in familiar surroundings.

Villa hesitated. He was torn between ambition and practicality.

Yang Hao gave him a moment, then added, "David, whatever you choose, know this: I believe in your talent. The decision is yours."

It's tough for players to succeed at top-tier clubs.

Many players from smaller teams find themselves crushed under the weight of fierce competition after joining elite sides.

For young talents like David Villa, the pressure is even more daunting. Even his father, Mel Villa, struggled to decide after hearing Yang Hao's proposal.

...…

Despite the Villa family's warm hospitality, Yang Hao eventually left Tuilla and began his journey back to Madrid. Before leaving, he left his contact information with the family, asking them to call him once they made a decision.

Regardless of Villa's choice—to stay at Sporting Gijón or join Atlético Madrid—Yang Hao assured them of his support.

On the road back to Madrid, Yang Hao received an unexpected call from Thomas Gravesen.

As soon as he answered, he had a sinking feeling that something was amiss.

Gravesen quickly confirmed Yang Hao's worries. The Danish midfielder wanted Yang to seriously consider the offers he had received from Premier League clubs.

Gravesen confessed that he wasn't happy in La Liga. While Atlético's results were excellent, he felt out of place in the Spanish football environment. He preferred the direct and fast-paced style of the Premier League.

Among the interested clubs were Liverpool, whose manager Gérard Houllier had reached out to Gravesen. Houllier saw the Danish player as an ideal successor to the 36-year-old Gary McAllister.

Manchester United had also shown interest, although their primary target was Lazio's Argentine playmaker, Juan Sebastián Verón.

Leeds United, fresh off a Champions League semi-final run, were ambitiously bolstering their squad, targeting Robbie Keane and Fowler for their attack and Gravesen for their midfield.

Newcastle United, who had underperformed in the previous season, were another contender. Manager Bobby Robson hoped to build a more competitive squad, and Gravesen was on his shortlist.

Atlético's impressive performances had put several players in the spotlight. Adriano, in particular, was a hot commodity, attracting interest from nearly every European powerhouse.

As one of the team's standout midfielders, Gravesen was naturally on the radar of numerous clubs, especially Premier League teams, which traditionally valued Scandinavian players.

Although the Premier League wasn't yet the financial juggernaut it would become, its clubs already wielded significant purchasing power.

With Gravesen openly admitting his discomfort in La Liga, Yang Hao saw little point in keeping him. Forcing him to stay would likely necessitate a hefty salary bump, which didn't align with Atlético's financial strategy.

Yang Hao sighed and made up his mind: Gravesen would leave.

...…

Upon returning to Madrid, Yang Hao headed straight to the Vicente Calderón Stadium.

The club's management, including Miguel Gil, had already been informed about the situation.

It wasn't just Gravesen. Deco was being aggressively pursued by Barcelona, while Pandiani, Adriano, and Lucio were also attracting interest from other clubs.

Atlético had become the darling of the transfer market—a "must-have" item for every club looking to strengthen their squad while simultaneously weakening a rival.

"If Gravesen wants to leave, let him go. We still have Esteban Cambiasso and Xabi Alonso. We'll manage."

Yang Hao was confident in Cambiasso and Alonso after seeing their growth during the previous season. In particular, Xabi Alonso had left a strong impression on him during their conversations, demonstrating both maturity and ambition.

With these two midfielders ready to step up, Gravesen's departure didn't seem like a crisis. Besides, Yang Hao had his eye on another player to bolster the squad.

As for Pandiani, Yang Hao was equally decisive.

"If he wants to leave, he can go."

However, Yang was firm about key players like Adriano, Deco, Lucio, Vicente, and Joaquín.

"These players are the backbone of our system. If we lose them, there's no point in competing next season."

Miguel Gil nodded, understanding Yang Hao's priorities.

...…

Back in Madrid, Yang Hao took the lead in handling the team's transfer negotiations.

Meanwhile, Barcelona kicked off the La Liga transfer frenzy with a major signing, announcing the €36 million acquisition of 19-year-old Argentine sensation Javier Saviola from River Plate.

Saviola, widely regarded as one of Argentina's brightest talents, had dazzled in the domestic league for three consecutive seasons.

In the ongoing U-20 World Cup, Saviola was one of two standout stars—the other being Atlético's Adriano.

Initially, Barcelona had pursued both players, but after signing Saviola, they shifted their focus entirely to Deco, offering €20 million.

Atlético swiftly rejected the offer.

Catalan media reported that Barcelona would likely increase their bid for Deco. If negotiations failed, their fallback plan was to sign Giovanni, a Brazilian international from Cruzeiro, for a similar fee.

Barcelona was also vying with Real Madrid for Valencia's Gaizka Mendieta, potentially setting up another record-breaking transfer.

While Atlético resisted Barcelona's advances, they accepted a €15 million bid for Gravesen from Leeds United.

The Danish midfielder, on vacation, confirmed the move in an interview with Danish media, expressing his excitement about joining Leeds. He believed they had the ambition and resources to compete in both the Premier League and Champions League.

Atlético's decision to sell Gravesen was followed by another major deal. Deportivo La Coruña signed Pandiani for €20 million.

Deportivo's manager, Javier Irureta, couldn't contain his delight, calling the signing a game-changer for their attack. However, everyone knew Irureta was equally thrilled to have weakened one of his strongest competitors.

...…

With Gravesen and Pandiani gone, Atlético faced intense scrutiny. Fans grew anxious, and the Spanish media began speculating about the team's potential collapse.

Valencia's president, Pedro Cortés, even declared that if Mendieta left, they would immediately target Baraja from Atlético.

Two days after selling Pandiani, Atlético announced the signing of 22-year-old Uruguayan striker Diego Forlán from Independiente for €4 million.

Forlán, a dual Uruguayan-Spanish citizen, had scored 18 goals in 36 appearances in Argentina's league but was yet to debut for the Uruguayan national team.

In a press release, Yang Hao expressed confidence in Forlán, stating that the young forward would fill the void left by Pandiani.

However, the Spanish media remained skeptical.

One AS journalist wrote, "Pandiani's shoes are far too big for Forlán to fill. Atlético's transfer policy seems more focused on making a profit than building a competitive squad."

The skepticism deepened when Atlético announced another signing the following day: 23-year-old Didier Drogba from French second-division club Le Mans for just €100,000.

AS Doubts Atlético's Transfers: "Disaster in the Making?"

AS reported skepticism over Atlético Madrid's recent acquisition of Didier Drogba for a mere €100,000 from Le Mans, a second-division French team. They noted that Drogba had struggled with injuries in recent seasons and failed to show significant potential. Furthermore, his contract was set to expire in 2002, allowing Atlético to sign him at such a low price.

"I've never seen such a disastrous transfer move," Oscar criticized in his column. "Does Yang Hao seriously believe that replacing Pandiani with a second-division Ivorian who can't even secure game time and a Uruguayan forward who hasn't made his national team will work?"

Oscar accused Yang Hao of amateurish transfer dealings, claiming,

"Atlético's success last season was built on the brilliant signings orchestrated by former sporting director Paulo Futre. Now, with Futre gone, Yang Hao's handling of transfers exposes his inexperience. Perhaps he is a qualified coach, but he is no transfer wizard. The season hasn't even started, and Atlético is already losing."

AS editor-in-chief Alfredo penned an overview of La Liga's summer transfer activity. He praised Real Madrid's ambition despite hurdles in pursuing stars like Mendieta, Ronaldo, Cannavaro, and Thuram. Madrid was focused on high-profile signings while relying on internal talent for depth.

Barcelona, having signed Saviola, added Christanval, Rochemback, and Patrik Andersson, with ongoing pursuits of Deco or Giovanni, pushing their transfer expenses to astronomical levels.

Valencia, under new coach Benítez, also made significant acquisitions, including Mista, Rufete, Salva, and Gonzalo, while Celta Vigo, despite selling Turdó, strengthened with signings like Almunia and Silvinho.

However, AS noted, "Only Atlético Madrid seems to lack ambition. After winning La Liga and the UEFA Cup, Yang Hao's team appears content, with no signs of aiming higher for the new season."

...…

Amid media criticism, there was a glimmer of hope for Atlético: Adriano's stellar performances at the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Scoring frequently and competing neck-and-neck with Argentina's Saviola, Adriano outshone his performances from Yang Hao's previous timeline, attracting even more attention from top clubs.

Scouting Croatia's Hidden Talent

In Zadar, Croatia, at the Bani Football School, Stipe Modrić approached Tomislav Bašić's office. Bašić, the school's director, was entertaining two guests. Hesitating at first, Stipe turned to leave, but Bašić called him inside.

"Stipe, come meet our visitors."

Bašić had a good relationship with Stipe Modrić despite a recent fallout. Stipe had taken his son, Luka, for an unauthorized trial at Hajduk Split, leading to a three-month suspension. But their friendship had since been restored.

"This is César Mendiódoto, Atlético Madrid's scouting director, and his associate responsible for Eastern Europe."

Stipe stiffened upon hearing "Atlético Madrid." A former soldier, he instinctively displayed military precision as he greeted Mendiódoto.

"Atlético Madrid—your UEFA Cup final was incredible!"

"Thank you," Mendiódoto replied with a smile. Atlético's recent success had boosted his reputation wherever he went.

Stipe, who had served as a volunteer during Croatia's war, now worked locally while staying closely involved in his son Luka's football development. He was curious about the Spaniards' presence in Zadar.

"César, let me introduce Tomo properly," Stipe said. "He's a legend in Croatian football. He and his family have dedicated their lives to nurturing talent here."

Bašić waved the praise off modestly. "Stipe, César isn't here for me. He's here for Luka."

"Luka?" Stipe was stunned.

Bašić nodded. "They want to take Luka to Spain."

"To Spain? I don't quite understand." Stipe, hardened by war, was cautious and protective of his family.

Mendiódoto explained,

"Our head coach, Yang Hao, watched Luka's footage and was impressed. He heard about Luka's trial at Hajduk and received a glowing recommendation from a friend who saw him there."

Hearing "Hajduk," Stipe winced, stealing a glance at Bašić. Memories of Luka's suspension were still fresh.

"Yang Hao values Luka highly," Mendiódoto continued. "He wanted to come here personally, but his schedule didn't allow it. Instead, he sent me to express his genuine interest."

The Modrić family's humble circumstances made the prospect of Luka playing in Spain almost unbelievable. Stipe was both excited and skeptical.

"Do you truly believe in Luka's potential?" Stipe asked.

"Absolutely," Mendiódoto replied. "My presence here should prove that, shouldn't it?"

Traveling from Spain to Zadar wasn't easy, especially for scouting. Mendiódoto's visit underscored Atlético's commitment.

"Had Yang Hao not been tied up, he would've come himself. He instructed me to convey his utmost sincerity."

For Stipe, who had dreamed of opportunities abroad during Croatia's war, the thought of Luka achieving that dream was surreal. But he remained cautious.

"I'm sorry, César, but what's your plan for Luka? You're aware that foreign players face limitations in La Liga," Bašić interjected, pointing out a critical detail.

Mendiódoto nodded. "Atlético has prioritized youth development for years. Under Yang Hao, we've revitalized our academy, winning numerous youth competitions in Spain and across Europe."

"We're confident Luka will thrive in our system. Yang Hao sees immense potential in him."

Bašić's professional approval finally put Stipe at ease. Luka Modrić might just find his path to greatness through Atlético.

...…

Atlético's strategy in the transfer market—targeting underappreciated talent like Drogba, Forlán, and now Modrić—was unconventional, but Yang Hao believed in these players' potential to shine on the grandest stage.

Atlético Madrid made clear its commitment to nurturing young talent, even for non-EU players like Luka Modrić. César Mendioto, the club's scouting director, assured Luka's father, Stipe Modrić, of their long-term development plan.

"In our academy, we've successfully integrated young non-EU players. For Stipe and his wife, we can arrange legitimate employment in Madrid, ensuring Luka's seamless integration into Atlético," Mendioto explained.

Luka wouldn't immediately play for the first or second team due to foreign-player restrictions. However, Mendioto clarified that Atlético's Segunda División (LaLiga 2) team, which had three foreign slots, could offer Luka opportunities by the following season.

Hearing this, Tomislav Bašić—Luka's mentor—nodded in approval. Competing in LaLiga 2 would provide better development than remaining in Croatia. The decision about Luka's future now rested with his family.

...…

After Mendioto's departure, Bašić and Stipe stayed behind, discussing the path ahead. Soon, they summoned Luka. The 15-year-old entered the room, small and wiry, far from the image of a future football icon. Yet Bašić spoke with conviction:

"Luka's technical intelligence on the pitch is remarkable. He has the potential to surpass every footballer Zadar has produced."

Bašić also revealed an alternative route: joining Zdravko Mamić, a well-known football agent managing young talent through a program tied to Dinamo Zagreb.

"I know why Hajduk didn't appreciate Luka," Bašić said. "They follow their own system, just like Mamić does for Dinamo."

Croatian football was rife with irregularities and political dynamics, leaving families like the Modrićs caught in a dilemma. Mamić's program was reliable but kept Luka in Croatia. Conversely, Atlético Madrid offered a more ambitious leap, albeit with greater uncertainty.

"I'm not thrilled to admit it," Bašić confessed, "but Luka is ready to step up. He needs exposure to tougher competition to unlock his full potential."

Stipe hesitated until Luka, standing by his side, lightly tugged his arm.

"Dad, I'm ready," Luka said with a smile. "No matter where I go, I'll succeed. I promise."

This confidence tipped the scales for Stipe. Turning to Bašić, he sought confirmation.

"What do you think, Tomo?"

Bašić chuckled. "You've already made up your mind, haven't you?"

Laughing, Stipe agreed. However, he added, "I'd like to leave something for the academy."

"Then just submit a written request to terminate Luka's contract," Bašić replied.

"What? Isn't this a free transfer?" Stipe and Luka were both puzzled.

Bašić explained:

"Luka isn't a professional yet, so there's no contractual obligation. But if you submit the request, our academy will secure a share of any future transfer fees as compensation for Luka's training and development."

Understanding the importance of this arrangement, Stipe eagerly complied.

"Get the paperwork ready, Tomo. I'll sign it right now," he said, ensuring a swift resolution.

...…

When Yang Hao received Mendioto's update that Luka Modrić had officially joined Atlético, he was ecstatic. The acquisition of a future Ballon d'Or winner signified a significant victory for the club.

However, Yang Hao couldn't help but laugh at a humorous dilemma:

"With Messi already here, how will we decide future Ballon d'Or winners? Who takes it when Luka and Leo are in the same team?"

This "problem" was one he welcomed. Regardless of who won, it would stay within Atlético's family.

Yang Hao had even reached out to Paulo Futre recently to gauge Cristiano Ronaldo's interest in joining Atlético. Unfortunately, Ronaldo and his agent, Jorge Mendes, declined.

Ronaldo, now thriving in Sporting CP's first team, was being groomed as a star. Mendes saw little reason for a transfer at this stage, even with Yang Hao's offer of first-team opportunities at Atlético.

Though disappointed, Yang Hao saw the bigger picture. Messi, Kaká, and Modrić were already part of Atlético's future. Adding Ronaldo would have secured a dynasty, monopolizing football's top accolades for the next two decades.

Still, Yang Hao couldn't complain. Atlético was building a foundation for dominance.

...…

Financial Realities and Rising Stars

Yang Hao knew Atlético had to address financial challenges to keep its rising stars. Leeds United offered Thomas Gravesen double his Atlético salary, while Deportivo La Coruña promised Pandiani a significantly higher wage. Both left despite Yang Hao's efforts to retain them.

Atlético couldn't afford to lose players like Messi, Adriano, or Vicente due to salary constraints.

"I could criticize Leeds' reckless spending," Yang Hao mused, "but in the end, they have the money to pay."

Future transfer markets would only intensify competition. Atlético needed to modernize its operations—boosting revenue streams and building a new stadium—to stay competitive.

For now, Yang Hao focused on maximizing the resources at hand. Balancing so many future superstars was challenging, but it was a "problem" most clubs would envy.

Final Thoughts:

"Too many superstars can be a headache, but it's a problem I'm happy to have," Yang Hao thought with a smile. "Let's focus on turning these prospects into legends—one step at a time."

End Chapter

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