Chapter 60 - Chapter 56

Chapter 56

As October began and the international break arrived, Atlético's coaching staff still had no time to rest.

Match reviews were essential to help Yang Hao and his staff gain a clearer understanding of the team's current state.

The La Liga standings were still uncertain. Atlético and Barcelona both stood at 15 points with 5 wins and 1 loss each, though Atlético topped the table on goal difference. Valencia, with 14 points, occupied third place, followed by Sevilla with 11 points in fourth.

And Real Madrid?

A disappointing 3 wins and 3 losses left them in 10th place with 9 points, marginally better than Deportivo La Coruña, who had only 8 points after 2 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses.

This partly validated Yang Hao's earlier observation: as more teams became adept at exploiting the new offside rules, strategies like Javier Irureta's high-pressing game would face increasing challenges.

Both Atlético and Barcelona had shifted their key zones of possession and pressing from the final third to the midfield. With improved training and enhanced player stamina, Yang Hao believed there was potential to replicate Pep Guardiola's Dream Team from his previous life.

But was it necessary?

Relentlessly pinning opponents into submission—would it truly yield better results?

The bottom three teams at this stage of La Liga were Mallorca, now struggling under Aragones's departure; Real Sociedad, despite their win over Atlético; and Athletic Bilbao.

Yang Hao, however, focused primarily on Atlético's internal issues.

After the match against Real Sociedad, Marchena approached Yang Hao to apologize. He admitted to losing his head during the game and revealed that the foul on Kovacevic was an act of retaliation. He promised to reflect deeply on his actions.

Yang Hao accepted the apology, but trust, once lost, was hard to rebuild.

On the pitch, players are extensions of the coach's tactical vision. If the "brain" cannot trust the "arms," how can the team function effectively?

Yang Hao began dissecting the team's defensive issues and refining plans.

Both Ramos and Pepe had shown potential but were not yet mature. The lack of top-tier center-backs was a glaring issue in European football. Even a player like Marchena would be highly sought after if Atlético decided to sell him. Clubs across La Liga—and even Real Madrid or Barcelona—would likely jump at the chance.

But Yang Hao wasn't thinking about money. After selling four key players last summer and generating significant revenue, finances were no longer a pressing concern. The real question was how to address the defensive vulnerabilities.

Signing a high-quality, immediately impactful center-back seemed out of the question due to the exorbitant costs involved.

For instance, Valencia's veteran Ayala, already over 30, was far from cheap.

Years later, when Real Madrid paid €30 million for Pepe, many deemed the fee absurd—yet hindsight proved it reasonable.

Top talent comes at a premium.

Yang Hao considered three potential candidates:

Juan: The Brazilian center-back from Bayer Leverkusen was not tall but performed well alongside Lucio, forming a complementary pairing of height and speed. However, Leverkusen's third-place finish in the Bundesliga last season had driven Juan's value beyond €10 million.Nemanja Vidić: The Serbian defender, currently at Spartak Moscow, was within Atlético's financial reach.

In Yang Hao's previous life, Vidić and Ferdinand formed one of the Premier League's most formidable center-back duos at Manchester United. Vidić excelled at tackling, while Ferdinand's passing, defensive organization, and game-reading made him invaluable.

However, Vidić's passing ability was less polished. Early in his Premier League career, his pass completion rate hovered around 80% before gradually improving to about 87% by the 2012/13 season.

By comparison:

Pepe's passing accuracy was consistently 85%-90%, improving later in his career.Ramos's stats mirrored Pepe's before reaching a career-high of over 90% during his peak years.

Considering Atlético's tactical emphasis on possession and ball circulation, Vidić's passing and technical limitations could pose integration challenges. Additionally, his physical style of defending might not suit La Liga's environment.

Thiago Silva: The 20-year-old Brazilian was an intriguing option.

Yang Hao couldn't help but recall the meticulous data he had collected in his previous life, specifically a forum post analyzing the 2021/22 season performances of Europe's top 15 center-backs.

Thiago Silva's stats stood out in every category—elite across the board.

His passing metrics were especially eye-popping:

The highest number of passes per game with the highest accuracy.Top-tier success rates in both defensive and attacking halves.Even his long-ball accuracy reached 65%.

Defensively, while not as eye-catching as his passing, Silva's overall stability and consistency ranked him first among his peers.

He also boasted the lowest number of turnovers and fouls per game, with no errors leading to shots or goals.

In Yang Hao's prior life, even at 37 years old, Thiago Silva maintained jaw-dropping stats.

Passing accuracy: consistently 90% or higher since joining AC Milan.Champions League accuracy: 86% and above despite AC Milan's decline.His PSG tenure: routinely 95%-96%, surpassing Van Dijk's Liverpool-era range of 89%-91%.

After analyzing Silva's data, Yang Hao realized the young defender could be a perfect fit for Atlético's evolving tactical philosophy.

Moreover, Silva's intelligence, composure, and adaptability gave him a significant edge. Yang Hao believed the Brazilian could thrive in a system emphasizing technical ability, positional awareness, and disciplined ball progression.

Silva might not be the most physical or aggressive, but his technical and mental attributes made him a rare gem.

As the team entered October, Yang Hao remained laser-focused on his plans, preparing to shape Atlético into an even more formidable force.

By this point, Thiago Silva's situation had already been well-researched by Yang Hao. Having analyzed the player's past, including his struggle with tuberculosis, Yang Hao had braced himself for this possibility.

In his meticulous planning, Yang Hao saw Thiago Silva as the perfect addition to bolster Atlético's backline. Alongside Ramos and Pepe, Silva could bring stability to the team's defense for the next decade.

While Silva was known to be one of the standout defenders in Brazil's domestic league, Yang Hao remained cautious, choosing to invite him for a trial rather than making an outright signing. His goal was clear: evaluate Silva's level and, more importantly, his physical condition.

Silva's Illness Confirmed

When Juanma Lillo entered the office with a concerned expression, Yang Hao immediately noticed something was amiss.

"The results are in," Lillo began. "The medical team confirmed early-stage, asymptomatic tuberculosis."

Yang Hao paused, letting the news sink in. While not entirely unexpected, it was still disheartening. Tuberculosis wasn't life-threatening if caught early, but the treatment would be lengthy and demanding.

"The doctors estimate a recovery time of 3 to 6 months," Lillo added.

Sitting back in his chair, Yang Hao tapped his pen thoughtfully on the desk. He was well aware of Silva's past struggles, having pieced together the details from the defender's interviews in his previous life.

Back then, Silva's initial signs of tuberculosis were overlooked during his stint with Porto. What was first dismissed as homesickness turned out to be a severe case of the disease that nearly cost him his career—and his life.

A Career Nearly Derailed

As Yang Hao recalled, Silva had moved to Porto in 2004 after being recommended to Jorge Mendes. However, persistent chest pains, fevers, and night sweats plagued him during his time in Portugal. Misdiagnosed as "homesickness" by the club's medical team, Silva's performance suffered.

His fortunes didn't improve when he transferred to Spartak Moscow in 2005, where the cold Russian climate exacerbated his condition. It wasn't until a thorough medical examination in Moscow that doctors diagnosed the tuberculosis, which had already severely damaged one lung.

The situation was so dire that Silva almost had to undergo surgery to remove his right lung. Thankfully, extensive treatment saved both his life and his career, though he was sidelined for over a year.

A Calculated Gamble

Knowing Silva's history, Yang Hao wasn't deterred by the diagnosis. His confidence stemmed from Atlético's robust medical infrastructure and Silva's resilience.

"He's not officially our player," Lillo reminded, lowering his voice.

Yang Hao gave a faint smile, recognizing the implicit suggestion. Releasing Silva now would save the club time, resources, and potential controversy.

But Yang Hao shook his head. "We keep him."

"Are you sure?" Lillo raised an eyebrow.

Yang Hao leaned forward, his tone resolute. "He's a generational talent. A few months of treatment won't change that."

Lillo sighed but didn't press further. He had seen Yang Hao's instincts pay off time and again.

Shaping the Team

Yang Hao's decision to invest in Thiago Silva was part of a broader strategy. Atlético's recent rise had brought increased attention, and with it, challenges to maintain team discipline and cohesion.

The incident with Marchena was a stark reminder of how success could inflate egos. His behavior—culminating in the reckless fouls against Real Sociedad—had not only cost the team a match but also disrupted the locker room atmosphere.

Ramos and Marchena had even clashed over the issue, with Ramos openly criticizing Marchena's lack of respect for the coach.

"If it weren't for the boss, you'd still be warming the bench at Benfica!" Ramos had reportedly shouted.

The outburst highlighted a growing divide within the squad. Yang Hao saw the need to assert his authority and set a clear example. Marchena's apology, delivered late and with questionable sincerity, did little to repair the damage.

Looking Ahead

With Thiago Silva undergoing treatment, Yang Hao turned his attention to developing Ramos and Pepe.

Both players showed immense potential but required careful guidance to avoid becoming disciplinary liabilities. Yang Hao was particularly mindful of their temperaments, given their reputations in his previous life.

"The environment makes all the difference," he told Lillo. "Ramos came up under Joaquín Caparrós at Sevilla—a coach known for his fiery approach. And Pepe? He's already showing signs of improvement with our structure."

Yang Hao firmly believed that proper coaching and a stable team culture could shape young players into stars.

He cited the stark contrast between Cristiano Ronaldo and Ricardo Quaresma as an example.

"Quaresma had more talent, but Ronaldo had the right guidance," Yang Hao explained. "At Sporting, Quaresma was seen as the future, yet it was Ronaldo who thrived at Manchester United."

Yang Hao was determined to ensure Atlético's young talents followed the Ronaldo path, not the Quaresma one.

A Long-Term Vision

As Thiago Silva's medical report confirmed his condition, Yang Hao saw an opportunity, not a setback.

He instructed Lillo to work with the medical team to provide Silva with the best possible care. "This is a minor bump in the road," Yang Hao said. "Once he's healthy, he'll prove he belongs here."

With Silva's arrival and the development of Ramos and Pepe, Yang Hao envisioned a defensive trio that could dominate for years to come.

"Discipline, growth, and patience," Yang Hao emphasized. "That's how we build a dynasty."

"I understand," Yang Hao nodded and, after some thought, added, "Tell the doctors that Thiago Silva is one of our players. I want them to provide him with the best care possible, and all medical expenses will be covered by Atlético."

After a brief pause, he continued, "Inform Thiago Silva's agent and his family. Oh, and I heard he has a girlfriend—if they want to come over, we'll cover their travel costs as well."

Juanma Lillo slapped his forehead, a look of "I knew this would happen" written all over his face.

From the time Yang Hao personally paid Messi's medical bills, Lillo had understood his boss's character and compassion.

Finally, Yang Hao picked up his phone and made a call to Miguel Gil at the Calderón offices.

"An Opportunity to Shine"

Having gone through the Messi experience, Miguel Gil and the others fully trusted Yang Hao. When Yang told them that Thiago Silva had the potential to become a world-class center-back, they didn't hesitate.

"Whatever it takes to treat him, do it," Miguel Gil had said. "This kind of money is nothing for Atlético now."

As for signing him, that wasn't even a question. "We can't treat the illness and then let him go, can we?"

Of course, Yang Hao wasn't going to let the club absorb all the costs without a benefit. He called Andrew Barrasco, the club's PR director, to discuss strategy.

"This isn't just about helping Thiago Silva," Yang Hao explained. "This is an excellent opportunity to showcase our club's image. We need to show the world that Atlético is a club that cares—a club with heart."

Barrasco immediately came up with a plan, ready to execute it without delay.

When Yang Hao hung up the phone, Juanma Lillo, who had been sitting across from him, looked stunned.

"You can handle things this way?"

In that moment, Lillo finally understood why Yang Hao was in charge while he was just an assistant coach. The difference in vision was astronomical.

At the Hospital

After receiving his diagnosis of tuberculosis, Thiago Silva was devastated.

In Brazil, he'd had minor symptoms and had consulted Juventude's medical staff, who told him it was just a minor cold. Thiago hadn't worried much about it.

But during his medical examination at Atlético, irregularities had surfaced. After additional tests at the hospital, the truth came out—it was tuberculosis.

Sitting on the hospital bed, Thiago Silva felt utterly lost.

He had come to Madrid with high hopes, determined to seize the opportunity to make a name for himself at a club like Atlético. He had been so close to realizing his dream.

Now, it felt like everything was falling apart.

He had little money—barely enough to support himself—and treating tuberculosis in Spain would be expensive. He would need to stay for months, find food, housing, and perhaps even hire someone to take care of him.

How could Atlético possibly keep him under these circumstances? The club would likely terminate his trial immediately and send him back to Brazil.

In Brazil, stories of players losing everything after illnesses or injuries were common. Thiago Silva had heard too many such tales and even witnessed a few firsthand.

And if he returned home, how could he possibly continue his career?

In just one day, he had gone from a hopeful young talent to a man on the brink of despair. Tears threatened to fall, but he fought to hold them back, sitting alone on the hospital bed with his head hung low.

Just then, Yang Hao knocked on the door.

"You're One of Us"

This was Thiago Silva's first close-up look at Yang Hao.

Before, he'd only seen the young coach in newspapers, magazines, or on TV. Now, Yang stood before him, exuding an approachable charisma.

"Don't worry," Yang began. "Focus on recovering. I've already spoken to the club, and we'll cover all your medical expenses. You won't have to spend a single penny."

Thiago Silva lifted his head in disbelief, his eyes silently asking, But I'm not even officially an Atlético player.

Yang ignored the unspoken question and continued, "I've spoken with the doctors about your condition. It's nothing too serious, but you can't engage in intense activity for now. Your priority is getting healthy.

"I've arranged for a house with a garden so you can recover comfortably. I've also contacted your family and girlfriend. If they want to come to Madrid to take care of you, we'll pay for their travel expenses. Having them here will help with your recovery."

"Also, someone from the club will visit this afternoon to discuss your contract. We're offering you a long-term deal, maybe five years—or three if you prefer. The salary will match our current youth team standards, which should be enough to support you and your family during your recovery."

Yang Hao smiled warmly. "Once you're fully recovered, report back to the first team."

Thiago Silva was overwhelmed. His emotions swung wildly from despair to disbelief. Could this be real?

He was so stunned that all he could do was repeatedly murmur, "Thank you, thank you."

"One more thing," Yang added. "This story might attract media attention. If you don't feel like talking, you can stay silent, or you can tell them the truth. Either way, focus on your recovery. Leave everything else to me."

Thiago Silva nodded emphatically, gratitude etched into his expression.

A Story That Captured Hearts

Unsurprisingly, news of Thiago Silva's diagnosis and his trial at Atlético quickly spread, drawing media attention to the hospital.

For Thiago, it was a bewildering experience—he had never been chased by so many reporters before.

Fortunately, Atlético's PR chief, Andrew Barrasco, arrived in time to address the press.

"While Thiago Silva was only here on a trial basis, we consider anyone who comes to Atlético part of our family. When one of our own faces challenges, we step up to help," Barrasco declared.

He then announced that Atlético would offer Silva a professional contract, bypassing the trial entirely. The club would also cover all medical expenses and provide housing for Silva and his family.

The gesture quickly made headlines across Spain and beyond.

Atlético's fans were the first to applaud the decision. Though they didn't yet know much about Thiago Silva's abilities, the club's actions filled them with pride.

The story resonated worldwide, earning praise from media outlets and fans alike.

While few had heard of Thiago Silva, Atlético's decision to stand by a relatively unknown player highlighted the club's humanity and class.

The move didn't just help Thiago Silva—it elevated Atlético's reputation as a club with a heart.

Upon learning about Atlético Madrid's actions, the Brazilian Football Federation immediately contacted the club to express their support and commend the gesture. FIFA and UEFA also reached out to show concern and praise Atlético for their behavior.

This incident not only enhanced the club's global reputation but also firmly established Atlético's positive image and core values among fans and media worldwide.

In just one week, the story spread across the globe.

No one was happier than Carlos Leo, who excitedly called Yang Hao to share the news. Many sponsorship and partnership deals that had stalled were now back on track, with new brands—ones that hadn't previously considered working with Atlético—also showing interest.

"This might be the most brilliant marketing move in the history of the club," Carlos Leo declared.

Years of internal restructuring and effort culminated in this moment, giving Atlético a surge of momentum.

Confidently, Carlos Leo predicted that the club's commercial revenue for the season would exceed €100 million, though he hesitated to estimate how much higher it could go. It marked a definitive step toward joining the ranks of Europe's financial elite.

Carlos Leo, emboldened, aimed for even more significant achievements.

Yang Hao knew this moment signified the end of the old Atlético. The next step was to solidify its brand image further.

"The only minor downside," Carlos Leo mused, "is that we'll likely need to keep this Thiago Silva guy for years, at least long enough to fulfill the goodwill we've built."

At this point, everyone assumed Thiago Silva was simply a promising young prospect.

Yang Hao didn't correct them. Whether it was Miguel Gil, Enrique Cerezo, or department heads, his response was always the same:

"He's worth it."

Of course, Yang Hao couldn't tell them that Thiago Silva was destined to become a world-class center-back—arguably the best. They would have to see his achievements unfold over time, and when they looked back on this decision, it would only enhance Yang Hao's legendary status.

Support from Teammates

After the two-week international break, players returned to the club. Rubén Baraja and Fernando Torres, representing the team, visited Thiago Silva at the hospital.

Brazilian teammates Kaká and Lúcio also paid visits to their compatriot, reassuring him that they were available for help and introducing him to life at Atlético.

Yang Hao went a step further. He instructed the coaching staff to compile defensive highlight reels featuring legendary defenders like Nesta, Cannavaro, Stam, and Thuram.

Following his philosophy of equitable opportunity, Yang Hao didn't just send these videos to Thiago Silva. Sergio Ramos and Pepe each received a set as well, encouraging them to learn and improve.

Yang Hao also personally purchased simple training equipment for Thiago Silva's rented house—approved by doctors—to help him maintain light fitness exercises during his recovery.

Atlético's coaching staff provided tailored training plans to ensure Thiago Silva could gradually build his strength.

All these gestures deeply touched Thiago Silva, who, during an interview with Brazilian media, emotionally declared:

"I don't want to think about anything else. I don't want to go anywhere else. All I want is to recover in Madrid and fight to play for Atlético."

Thiago Silva's family, girlfriend, and agent also arrived in Madrid and couldn't praise Atlético enough.

The agent, in particular, was effusive in his compliments. Speaking to Brazilian media, he stated:

"I manage many players in Europe, but Atlético is the warmest and most player-focused club I've encountered. This is the dream destination for any professional footballer."

While other clubs treated players like commodities, Atlético's actions added immense value to their brand, reinforcing their appeal to players and fans alike.

A Stronger Dressing Room

Yang Hao hadn't anticipated the effect this event would have on Atlético's locker room.

As Rubén Baraja privately confided to him:

"It's simple. Now we all know the club will always have our backs, standing as our strongest support."

"In most clubs, statements like that are just empty promises. But this situation proves that here, it's a principle that will always be upheld."

Moreover, thanks to Yang Hao's previous actions—covering Adriano's father's medical expenses and paying for Messi's treatment—there was no skepticism about Atlético's sincerity.

The global media and fans unanimously agreed: This was exactly the kind of thing Atlético would do.

This trust was invaluable, more potent than any PR campaign.

October 16: Atlético vs. Racing Santander

In the 7th round of La Liga, Atlético faced Racing Santander at the Calderón.

Before the match, fans in the stands displayed banners supporting Thiago Silva, signaling their approval of the club's actions.

With Lúcio fatigued from two international fixtures, Yang Hao once again paired Sergio Ramos and Pepe as the center-back duo—a combination that many saw as a weak link.

The match began with Racing nearly capitalizing on a defensive lapse, but Cech made a miraculous save, diving to block Guerrero's shot.

The Czech goalkeeper, rising quickly, reassured Ramos and Pepe, who were visibly shaken.

Atlético responded immediately with an attack.

A through ball from Andrés Iniesta found Fernando Torres, who deftly evaded a defender and slotted the ball between the legs of the advancing goalkeeper, Aouate.

1-0!

From that moment, Atlético controlled the game.

In the 42nd minute, Rubén Baraja delivered a precise pass to David Villa, who made a diagonal run into the right side of the box. Villa calmly slotted the ball home.

2-0!

Three minutes into the second half, Dani Alves surged down the right flank, delivering a cross into the box. Torres, slightly ahead of the ball, improvised brilliantly, setting it up for Baraja, who rifled it into the net from the penalty spot.

3-0!

By this point, Atlético was firmly in command, their morale soaring.

Though Racing Santander occasionally threatened, their attempts were thwarted by timely interventions. Dani Alves, in particular, made a crucial clearance in the 64th minute, denying a clear scoring opportunity.

In the 74th minute, Franck Ribéry dazzled on the left wing, weaving past defenders before curling a shot into the net.

4-0!

Three minutes later, Iniesta unleashed a long-range strike that deflected off a defender, wrong-footing the goalkeeper.

5-0!

By the final whistle, Racing had managed just four shots—fewer than Atlético's total goals.

Meanwhile, Barcelona edged Espanyol 1-0, courtesy of a Baptista goal, keeping the two clubs level on points atop the table.

Real Madrid, however, continued to falter, drawing 1-1 with Real Betis and slipping to 11th place.

On October 19th, in the third round of the Champions League group stage, Atlético Madrid hosted Werder Bremen at the Calderón Stadium.

Following their legendary championship run last season, Werder Bremen sold their top scorer, Aílton, over the summer and signed German international striker Miroslav Klose from Kaiserslautern.

Eight matches into the Bundesliga, Thomas Schaaf's team had a record of 4 wins and 4 losses, placing them 5th in the league.

While not terrible, the performance was underwhelming. Recent losses—2-1 at home to Bayern Munich and 2-1 away to Jürgen Klopp's Mainz—raised further doubts about their form.

Ahead of their crucial Champions League clash against Atlético, these setbacks worried the German media.

However, Werder Bremen's confidence remained unshaken. Schaaf told reporters his team was not in crisis and would prove their strength at the Calderón. Midfield star Johan Micoud added that the team was fully prepared.

"We're prioritizing the Champions League this season. We'll unleash an offensive storm at the Calderón!"

These bold declarations thrilled the German media, eager for drama and high stakes.

In Madrid, Schaaf stuck to his preferred 4-4-2 diamond formation:

Goalkeeper: Reinke

Defense: Magnin, Pasanen, Ismaël, Stalteri

Midfield: Fabian Ernst (left), Borowski (right), Frank Baumann (deep-lying), Micoud (attacking midfielder)

Attack: Klasnić and Klose

Among this lineup, Klose stood out as the most prominent name. French playmaker Johan Micoud was also highly regarded as one of Europe's most creative midfielders, though his career was overshadowed by sharing an era with Zinedine Zidane. Another familiar name was center-back Valérien Ismaël, remembered for his time at Bayern Munich.

Ismaël's connection brought back memories for Yang Hao. In the 2004/05 Champions League quarterfinals, Bayern Munich suffered a 6-5 aggregate defeat to Chelsea, with Didier Drogba scoring twice and assisting once across both legs.

Following that loss, Bayern spent €8.5 million to sign Ismaël from Bremen—but the move didn't yield the expected results.

At this moment, though, Ismaël was performing well for Bremen. Unfortunately for him, Atlético fielded Drogba, who had a history of tormenting him.

Yang Hao opted for a 4-3-3 lineup and implemented an aggressive opening strategy. Recognizing Bremen's reliance on their diamond midfield, he instructed Kaká and Baraja to exploit the flanks early and disrupt the visitors' structure.

"We'll teach our opponents a valuable lesson tonight," Yang Hao told his team before the match.

"The louder the talk, the harder the fall!"

"If they come to the Calderón, they better tuck their tails between their legs!"

"Tonight, no goals—no retreat!"

Yang Hao's confidence stemmed from his understanding of Schaaf's teams, known for their attacking prowess but weak defense. Werder Bremen had once suffered a humiliating 7-2 loss to Lyon in the Champions League semifinals, a record that stood until Roma eventually broke it.

Yang Hao was determined to demolish them with relentless offense.

A Dream Start for Atlético

"Atlético are on the attack again. Evra on the left receives a pass from Kaká."

"Evra moves forward and finds Villa, who passes it back to Kaká."

"Kaká sends a through ball into the box."

"It's Drogba! He's in position!"

"Goal! GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!"

"Drogba! Just five minutes into the match, Drogba receives the ball on the left, and with a brilliant strike, opens the scoring for Atlético!"

"1-0!"

"Atlético have unleashed wave after wave of attacks right from the start."

"Bremen are entirely on the back foot. Despite Schaaf's pre-match claims of aggression, his team appears more conservative at the Calderón, aiming for stability."

"But it wasn't enough to stop Atlético's early goal!"

"Credit to Drogba, the Ivorian striker, for that fantastic finish!"

As the Calderón roared in celebration, Yang Hao raised his fists with a satisfied smile.

His tactical setup was paying dividends. Marcos Senna marked Micoud closely, while Kaká and Baraja pressed high. Villa on the left and Robben on the right added width to the attack.

If Bremen dared to push forward, Yang Hao was confident they'd be crushed on the counter.

Schaaf, despite his pre-match bravado, avoided an all-out counterattack after conceding. He understood that recklessness against Atlético could lead to a catastrophic defeat.

At the 12th minute, Kaká's through ball created another chance, but Drogba mistimed his run. Six minutes later, Robben drew a foul on the right wing. From the ensuing free kick, Lúcio's header grazed the post.

Just two minutes after that, Villa attempted an audacious lob that struck the crossbar.

For over 30 minutes, Atlético launched a relentless assault, rendering Bremen helpless. The visitors managed their first shot on target only in the 32nd minute, a stat that left commentators astonished.

"No one could have predicted that Bremen would play this passively at the Calderón," remarked the commentator.

"This is partly due to their recent poor form, but mostly, it's because Atlético's quality is clearly a level above."

Atlético's Dominance

Atlético's relentless pressure in the first half broke Bremen's resolve. Schaaf's pre-match declarations were silenced as his team struggled to find their rhythm.

Micoud, the "German Zidane," was neutralized by Marcos Senna's dogged marking, crippling Bremen's attacking flow.

In the 73rd minute, Maicon delivered a long diagonal pass behind Bremen's defense. Drogba controlled it with his chest, sprinted into the box, and slotted the ball past Reinke to secure his second goal.

2-0!

The Ivorian striker's performance this season had been stellar, a marked improvement from before.

Post-Match Reactions

Yang Hao praised his team's performance while highlighting their missed opportunities.

"We created numerous chances tonight, but unfortunately, we didn't capitalize on enough of them."

"Scoring just two goals doesn't reflect the dominance we showed."

However, he commended his players' overall execution, crediting the team's recent high morale.

"Our Champions League campaign has started brilliantly with three straight wins. It's a strong foundation for the challenges ahead."

When asked about Drogba's brace, Yang Hao quipped:

"Didier was unlucky tonight. He converted two chances but had plenty more to complete a hat-trick. His luck wasn't quite there today."

"I even doubt if he could hit the backside of an elephant from 10 meters away."

The room erupted with laughter from the gathered journalists.

Yang Hao went on to discuss the team's progress, specifically highlighting Robben.

"Arjen's talent is undeniable, and he is working hard to channel that talent to benefit the team. I thought his performance tonight was excellent, but I'm confident he will continue to improve. He hasn't yet reached his peak—he can be even better and create even more threats on the field."

Yang Hao also praised Pepe, who started alongside Lúcio in the defense.

"For him, this was a solid performance. I'm pleased to see he can now maintain focus for 90 minutes, which is a remarkable improvement. Moving forward, he needs to set even higher expectations for himself because he has the ability and talent to do so."

When asked by Spanish media about Marchena, who had been left out of the squad for two consecutive matches, Yang Hao denied rumors that he had completely lost faith in the Spanish international or relegated him permanently.

"There's no doubt he's encountering some issues right now. I think it's a good time for him to take a step back and cool down—it'll be beneficial for him."

When asked when Marchena might return to the lineup, Yang Hao smiled and responded, "I don't know."

Atlético defeated Werder Bremen 2-0, while Paris Saint-Germain also secured a 2-0 win over Roma in France.

The unlucky Giallorossi had now lost all three of their group stage matches and sat at the bottom of the table with 0 points. Atlético, with three wins from three, led the group, followed by Werder Bremen and PSG.

At this stage, Atlético looked like the clear favorite to top the group.

Spain's Marca reported that Atlético's qualification was practically a certainty. The newspaper's front page featured a cartoon of Drogba aiming a shot from the edge of the six-yard box at a goal with a giant elephant's backside visible inside. The artwork was a playful nod to Yang Hao's post-match comments about Drogba's finishing.

"We could have hit double digits, but Didier missed too many chances!"

Despite the humor, Marca offered high praise for Drogba, noting that the Ivorian displayed the attributes of a strong, dominant striker. The only concern was his inconsistent finishing. But as Yang Hao had mentioned, Drogba was improving steadily.

Atlético fans took the banter in good spirits, with many growing increasingly fond of Drogba. If Torres was the spearhead of Atlético's attacks, Drogba was the battering ram for breaking down defenses in tight games.

The media and fans alike commended Atlético's performance this season. Despite selling four key players during the summer, the team remained stable and consistently performed at a high level.

Numerous outlets praised Yang Hao's ability to maintain the team's competitiveness despite high-profile departures.

"As long as Yang Hao remains in charge of Atlético, the Colchoneros will continue to be one of the strongest and most competitive teams in La Liga and European football."

A Historic Day for Atlético Madrid

The morning after their victory over Werder Bremen, Yang Hao led several of Atlético's star players—Torres, Drogba, Villa, Xabi Alonso, Kaká, Baraja, Lúcio, and Čech—in a visit to the Calderón Stadium.

The journey wasn't just for recovery training; it was for a historic event. The area between the Calderón and the site of Atlético's new stadium had been meticulously decorated for the occasion, including a stage for the signing ceremony.

Over 300 media outlets from around the world gathered on the red carpet.

After meeting with the club's executives, Yang Hao and the players joined club president Enrique Cerezo, general manager Miguel Gil, and various department heads to welcome the sponsors and other guests.

The highlight of the event was the formal signing of Atlético's new sponsorship deals, particularly with Emirates Airlines.

Record-Breaking Sponsorship Deals

After months of negotiations, Atlético Madrid officially signed their largest sponsorship deal in club history.

Stadium Naming Rights:

Emirates Airlines secured the naming rights to Atlético's new stadium for 15 years, at a total cost of €150 million. Once the stadium is completed, it will be known as Emirates Stadium, with an annual payment of €10 million—surpassing the €9 million annual fee Bayern Munich receives from Allianz for their stadium naming rights.Shirt Sponsorship:

Emirates also became Atlético's shirt sponsor in an eight-year deal worth €100 million (€12.5 million annually). This deal is second only to Real Madrid's €14 million-a-year partnership with Adidas in La Liga.

Club general manager Miguel Gil and Emirates executives signed the contracts on stage, displaying the landmark agreements to the gathered audience.

In his speech, Miguel Gil expressed gratitude to Emirates for their support and highlighted the club's decision to sell naming rights to fund the construction of their new stadium. He also promised that ticket prices would remain affordable, even after the team moved to their new 75,000-capacity stadium.

New Kit Deal with Nike

Alongside the Emirates deal, Atlético signed another major agreement with Nike, replacing their previous contract with the sportswear giant.

Starting in July 2005 and lasting until June 2012, Nike would pay Atlético €150 million over seven years (€21.4 million annually).

This new deal far exceeded the club's previous sponsorship agreement with Nike.

While Real Madrid's €24 million-a-year deal with Adidas remained the highest in La Liga, Atlético's improved deal with Nike positioned them as a rising power in European football.

Comparatively, Premier League clubs like Manchester United and Arsenal enjoyed even larger kit sponsorships, reflecting the global reach of the Premier League.

However, both Atlético and Real Madrid retained higher profit-sharing agreements for jersey sales than their Premier League counterparts, who sacrificed some revenue in exchange for larger upfront payments.

A Celebratory Atmosphere

The signing ceremony was a lively affair, drawing praise from all attendees.

The agreements solidified Atlético Madrid's place among Europe's elite clubs, with the new deals representing a significant leap forward for the club's commercial success.

Atlético Madrid aimed to showcase their strength and commercial value to all potential partners through this collective sponsorship event. The successful negotiations were closely tied to the recent Thiago Silva incident.

Initially, Atlético had been in prolonged talks with both Nike and Emirates Airlines, with disagreements over specific pricing details. However, following the Thiago Silva situation, major sponsors significantly changed their perception of Atlético.

"Do you know?" Carlos Leo said excitedly. "The Nike deal wasn't finalized until three days ago. We initially thought we'd have to compromise, but instead, they became much more proactive."

After the signing ceremony, Atlético hosted a banquet for the attending guests, while the players returned to Majadahonda. Yang Hao stayed behind at the Calderón for a meeting.

With these major sponsorships in place, the club began discussing how to allocate the funds.

Carlos Leo's team had been instrumental in securing the deals, and other departments had also made significant contributions. In recognition of this, Yang Hao, Enrique Cerezo, and Miguel Gil decided to reward each participant with a generous bonus.

However, Carlos Leo and his team believed the greatest credit went to Yang Hao, especially for orchestrating the Thiago Silva event, which had an unexpectedly powerful impact.

"To exaggerate a bit," Carlos Leo said with a laugh, "our sponsorship deals used to require us to approach companies. Now, they're coming to us. The difference is night and day."

Others in the room laughed in agreement.

Yang Hao, ever humble, attributed the success to teamwork.

"This outcome might seem like the marketing department's victory," he said, "but in reality, it's the result of every department working together—media relations, marketing, finance, and even the fan services team."

His words were met with applause.

Carlos Leo shared that the club was in talks for another deal worth over €5 million. Previously, Audi had been their automotive sponsor, but competitors like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Toyota were now interested in partnering with Atlético.

"Now I fully understand what you meant, Yang, when you talked about building a strong foundation and steady progress," Leo said. "The market is completely opening up for us. As long as we don't mess it up, I believe we can catch up to Real Madrid in a few years, maybe even rival Manchester United and Bayern Munich."

In the commercial football world, Manchester United and Bayern Munich were leaders, often outpacing even Real Madrid. Everyone in the room brimmed with optimism, seeing a bright future for Atlético as both a football club and a business.

Sponsorship Clauses and Future Challenges

However, these sponsorship deals came with performance clauses: Atlético needed to qualify for the Champions League. This was standard practice; without Champions League participation, sponsorship fees could shrink.

Yang Hao was unfazed, confident the team could consistently secure Champions League qualification. He also inquired about the financial status of the new stadium project.

Work on the stadium's foundations had already begun. The project included complex underground facilities such as parking and commercial spaces. Once the above-ground structures were underway, progress would accelerate.

Despite the headline-grabbing sponsorships, Yang Hao noted that payments from Emirates and Nike would be made annually, not as lump sums. The team's public emphasis on these deals was part of a strategy to demonstrate Atlético's commercial value and attract further opportunities.

Yang Hao remarked, "When companies see what Nike and Emirates are offering us, they'll recognize Atlético's standing and potential. That confidence will fuel future collaborations."

Additionally, these sponsorship contracts could be used as collateral for bank loans if the club ever faced financial difficulties.

Stadium Financing and Comparisons to Rivals

While Atlético's financial situation was healthy, Yang Hao was aware that many clubs in Europe resorted to unconventional methods to secure funds. For instance, Barcelona had already mortgaged future revenues from Champions League and domestic competitions—including basketball and handball divisions—to Sogecable, Spain's largest pay-TV company.

Barcelona's agreement reportedly extended until 2009. If they failed to qualify for the Champions League during this period, they would face penalties. This approach had allowed Barcelona to fund summer transfers but came at a significant risk.

"European clubs are employing increasingly creative strategies to raise money," Yang Hao noted. "Some are even mortgaging future ticket revenues."

Compared to such practices, Atlético's current position was enviable. Financial reserves were adequate for the stadium project, but future expenses loomed large.

"At the current pace, the new stadium should be operational by the summer of 2007," said Fernando Vázquez, head of finance. "By 2005, once construction progresses, we can start pre-leasing luxury suites."

The stadium would feature 250 luxury suites, priced between €10,000 and €15,000 annually. This alone could generate €20 million annually for the club. With 75,000 seats, matchday revenues would also see a significant boost.

Unlike individual ticket sales, luxury suites were sold by the season, providing a steady revenue stream.

Vázquez emphasized that the pricing for suites would align with Real Madrid's rates. "For high-end clients, service quality matters more than price."

Global Media Attention

Atlético's collective sponsorship ceremony quickly dominated headlines worldwide.

Spanish, European, and international media agreed that this event symbolized Atlético's growing power. Even Catalan outlets expressed admiration, acknowledging Atlético as one of Spain's strongest football forces and suggesting they might have surpassed Barcelona.

For instance, while Atlético secured lucrative shirt and kit sponsorships, Barcelona had yet to sell shirt sponsorships due to internal opposition.

Some Catalan media lamented, "Atlético's deal with Nike is over four times larger than Barcelona's. This is outrageous!"

Barcelona's current agreement with Nike, signed in 2003 under then-vice president Sandro Rosell, provided just €5 million annually, far below Atlético's new deal.

As Atlético celebrated its milestones, rivals couldn't help but feel envious. The club's steady progress under Yang Hao's leadership was turning aspirations into achievements, setting a new standard in Spanish football.

Why Does Atlético Get So Much While Nike Gives Barcelona So Little?

The "Daily Sports" newspaper added fuel to the fire, suggesting Nike doesn't value Barcelona enough.

Their reasoning?

When Barcelona signed their deal with Nike, the entire team—management, board members, and players—traveled to the U.S. to Nike's headquarters to sign the contract, giving the brand plenty of respect.

In contrast, for Atlético's deal, Ian Todd, Nike's global business development head, personally flew to Madrid to finalize the agreement.

"The €150 million sponsorship contract includes a clause granting Nike priority renewal rights under the same conditions. This alone proves Nike's high regard for Atlético," the paper reported.

"In comparison, Barcelona's sponsorship deal doesn't even include such a clause."

Catalan media argued that the disparity in treatment was too great and that the collaboration between Barcelona and Nike would not last.

Reportedly, opposition members in Barcelona's board have already called for Joan Laporta to renegotiate with Nike or, failing that, to switch to another sponsor. Suggestions include Puma, Umbro, or Kappa.

There's also outside speculation that given Atlético's rising influence and Barcelona's current situation, Nike might not even renew its deal with Barcelona after 2008.

In other words, Barcelona shouldn't hope for a price increase—whether they'll even continue receiving the current sum is uncertain.

Yang Hao's Reaction

When Yang Hao read this report, he couldn't help but laugh.

Previously, Carlos Leo had told him that Barcelona's commercial value was underdeveloped, which had made Yang Hao skeptical. Now it seemed clear—it truly was an issue.

€5 million per year from Nike? That paltry sum hardly befits a club of Barcelona's stature.

At this rate, Atlético might replace Barcelona as one of Spain's two superclubs.

Or rather, as Yang Hao mused, "Atlético might become the 'anti-hero' of La Liga's elite."

Why?

Because Real Madrid wasn't doing much better.

Yang Hao envisioned a future where Atlético would stand atop Spanish football, one foot on Real Madrid and the other on Barcelona, commanding the league with authority.

October 23rd: La Liga Matchday 8 — Atlético vs. Sevilla

Atlético traveled to face Sevilla, a clash between the league leaders and the third-placed team.

The match didn't start well for Atlético.

In the 10th minute, during a set-piece situation, Ramos failed to mark Sevilla defender Pablo Alfaro, who scored with a header.

Sevilla led 1–0.

However, in the 31st minute, Kaká drove forward, weaving through two defenders before delivering a perfect pass for Torres, who slotted it home to equalize.

The first half ended 1–1.

During halftime, Yang Hao made tactical adjustments, urging Franck Ribéry and Arjen Robben to exploit their individual abilities and trouble Sevilla's defense.

When the second half began, Atlético attacked relentlessly.

In the 59th minute, Ribéry received a pass from Patrice Evra on the left, performed a beautiful flick over the defender, and delivered a low cross to Kaká. The Brazilian surged into the penalty area and scored with a low left-footed shot.

2–1. Atlético completed the turnaround.

Four minutes later, Robben cut inside and provided a precise horizontal pass. Baraja arrived and unleashed a thunderous right-footed shot, scoring Atlético's third goal.

Final score: 3–1.

Round Highlights

Torres, Kaká, and Baraja each scored as Atlético triumphed.

Elsewhere:

Real Madrid edged Valencia 1–0 at the Bernabéu, thanks to a Michael Owen goal.Barcelona defeated Osasuna 3–0 at home, with two goals from Samuel Eto'o and a Ronaldinho penalty.

After eight matches, Atlético and Barcelona were tied on 21 points, leading the league, while Real Madrid climbed to 7th place.

October 26th: Copa del Rey Second Round — Atlético vs. Orense

Atlético visited Orense, a small Galician town in northwestern Spain famous for its hot springs.

Continuing a long-standing tradition of team bonding, Yang Hao brought the entire squad to Orense, treating the trip as a mini-retreat. The players even spent the morning relaxing in the town's renowned hot springs.

Local guides explained that mornings were the best time to visit, as the mist lingering in the valleys combined with steam from the springs created an ethereal, otherworldly atmosphere.

Perhaps due to the relaxation—or "leg fatigue" from the hot springs—Atlético's performance in the match was less than stellar.

Yang Hao fielded a lineup full of young players. Despite David Villa opening the scoring in the 4th minute, Atlético struggled to find the net again for much of the game.

Lionel Messi finally added a second goal in the 42nd minute, his exuberant celebration highlighting his excitement.

Luka Modrić scored another goal in the second half, sealing a 3–0 victory for Atlético.

On the return trip to Madrid, Yang Hao joked that the team should reflect on whether they were deliberately "going easy" on Orense after enjoying their hospitality.

October 30th: La Liga Matchday 9 — Atlético vs. Valencia

Atlético faced Valencia at the Mestalla.

Barcelona had played earlier that evening, earning a 1–1 draw against Athletic Bilbao. Eto'o scored for Barça in the 11th minute, but Yeste equalized just two minutes later.

With Barcelona dropping points, Atlético had a chance to open a lead at the top of the table if they could beat Valencia.

Before the match, Yang Hao cautioned his players not to focus on Barcelona's result or the league standings.

"Ranéiri's team won't be easy to break down. This will be a tough battle!"

And he was right. Valencia adopted a defensive strategy, looking to capitalize on counterattacks, particularly targeting Ramos' vulnerabilities.

Both teams had chances in the first half, but in the 64th minute, Di Vaio unleashed a long-range strike that Cech parried. Ramos failed to clear, allowing Angulo to pounce and score on the rebound.

1–0 to Valencia.

Yang Hao immediately adjusted his tactics, bringing on Andrés Iniesta for Baraja and pushing both midfielders forward. He also instructed the team to dribble more in the final third.

"Tell them I want to see a comeback tonight!"

"Atlético with a rapid counterattack."

"The ball is passed to the left, Ribéry picks it up."

"A beautiful turn and control, Ribéry drives forward."

"Mohamed Sissoko steps in to defend, but Ribéry sends a diagonal pass to Iniesta."

"Iniesta plays it back behind Sissoko."

"Brilliant!"

"Atlético executes a stunning one-two on the left flank!"

"Ribéry now faces Curro Torres..."

"A nutmeg!!"

"My goodness, Ribéry is through, and he crosses into the middle!"

"Torres heads it!"

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!"

"1–1!"

"Atlético equalizes!"

"In the 78th minute, Atlético levels the match thanks to a Torres goal!"

"This was an incredibly skillful combination. On the left flank, Ribéry and Iniesta played through Valencia's dense defense with a dazzling one-two, completely toying with the defenders."

"There were four defenders in the vicinity, yet none of them could stop Atlético's two attackers from breaking through."

"Since making substitutions, Atlético's wings have come alive. Moments ago, it was Robben on the right; now, Ribéry and Iniesta are shining on the left."

"In a short span, Valencia has been forced to concede four yellow cards."

"Navarro, Albelda, Angulo, and Di Vaio are all on yellows now."

"Ranieri's defense is tight, but Atlético's players are using their individual skills—especially Ribéry and Iniesta on the left. Both are small in stature, with exceptional technique."

"These technically gifted, fast, and diminutive players are proving to be a nightmare for Valencia's defense."

"1–1!"

"Both teams are back on level terms."

"But look at this—after scoring, Torres rushes into the net to retrieve the ball. He's signaling to his teammates not to celebrate and to get ready to restart play immediately."

"Atlético's morale is clearly sky-high."

The Push for Victory

After equalizing, Atlético kept pressing for a winner. Their front-line players drove forward aggressively with every opportunity, and when they lost the ball, they pressed relentlessly.

Valencia, set up in a 4-4-2 with two holding midfielders, had been able to withstand Atlético's pressure for much of the match. But as the game neared its conclusion, Atlético's relentless attacking wore Valencia down.

Ranieri became visibly anxious on the touchline. His team began retreating deeper, with most players camped in their own half. In a final defensive maneuver, Ranieri substituted Mista and brought on another midfielder to bolster his defense.

The message was clear: Valencia was playing for a draw.

Yang Hao's Gamble

Yang Hao observed from the sidelines, taking in Valencia's ultra-defensive setup. He turned to the bench.

Most expected him to speak with his assistants. Instead, he strode directly to Lionel Messi, motioning for him to come over.

The move surprised everyone.

"Boss?" Messi stood up and approached.

"The opposition is playing rough. Are you ready to handle it?"

Messi glanced at the pitch and shook his head, his long hair swaying. "If you want me out there, I'm ready."

"Honestly, I'd prefer not to put you on now. The pressure is intense."

Messi nodded. He knew Yang Hao had been protecting him and was grateful for it.

"But I need you now."

The young Argentine's face lit up with excitement. He smiled, genuinely pleased.

"Tell me what you want me to do, and I'll do it," Messi replied confidently.

"Look at Carboni, their left-back. Robben has been tormenting him all game—he's exhausted. But their midfield is packed with three holding players, so space is tight."

Messi nodded again, fully focused.

"I need you to do what Ribéry and Iniesta are doing on the left. Use your dribbling to create openings in their dense defense. Take the shot if you can, or pass to a teammate. Just make something happen."

"Got it."

Yang Hao tousled Messi's hair—a habit that amused him.

Why do Argentine players love long hair so much? he wondered. Even Pochettino had a similar look. Don't they find it inconvenient?

"Alright, go on. Including stoppage time, you've got about 10 minutes. Play freely—don't hold back."

Messi nodded firmly.

He didn't need additional warm-up time and went straight to the touchline. Moments later, he subbed in for Robben.

The Dutch winger high-fived Messi and then Yang Hao.

"You did great, Arjen," Yang Hao said, patting Robben's back.

Messi Takes the Stage

"Atlético makes a substitution—number 30, Lionel Messi, replaces Robben."

"Since last season, Messi has been coming off the bench for Atlético, and he's shown some promise."

"The young Argentine's playing style resembles Ribéry's on the left—they're both excellent dribblers."

"It's clear Yang Hao wants Messi to use his dribbling skills to unlock Valencia's packed defense."

Messi's first touch came from a diagonal pass by Xabi Alonso.

Positioned on the right wing, Messi shielded the ball from Carboni before controlling it with one smooth touch.

It was a masterful piece of control, the ball seemingly glued to Messi's feet.

The experienced Carboni, knowing his physical limits, chose not to challenge Messi immediately. Instead, he waited, expecting the young player to lose control of the ball under pressure.

But Messi's touch was flawless, and Carboni quickly realized the danger.

"An incredible first touch!"

As Messi controlled the ball, Carboni closed in. Albelda also rushed over to provide cover, forming a two-man trap.

Messi remained composed. With his low center of gravity, he darted away from Albelda's lunge, nudging the ball past him and taking a step sideways.

The Moment of Magic

Messi's burst of acceleration left both Carboni and Albelda trailing.

"He's through!"

Cutting inside from the wing, Messi weaved through Valencia's compact defensive lines.

Approaching the edge of the box, he faked a shot, drawing another defender before sliding the ball through a narrow gap to Torres.

Torres, already in position, controlled the pass and struck with precision.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!"

"Torres scores!"

"2–1! Atlético has turned the game around!"

"What a run by Lionel Messi!"

As Torres celebrated with the fans, Messi jogged back with a quiet smile, his impact undeniable.

Aftermath

Atlético's 2–1 victory over Valencia solidified their place at the top of La Liga.

For many watching, it wasn't just the result that stood out—it was Messi's brilliance.

As fans and pundits alike began to draw comparisons to a certain Argentine legend, Yang Hao couldn't help but think:

"Maradona's successor? Maybe. But for now, he's our secret weapon."

As Messi was about to slip past Albelda, the Valencia midfielder quickly closed in to block him. However, Albelda immediately realized he had made a mistake.

Messi moved like an eel, agile and elusive. The ball seemed glued to his feet, seamlessly transitioning from turn to sprint without any adjustment. The speed at which he could change direction was astonishing. Albelda had no choice—either let Messi glide past and directly threaten the defensive line, or commit a foul.

The referee's whistle rang sharply.

Messi lost his balance and fell onto the turf, drawing jeers from the Valencia fans.

The referee showed Albelda a yellow card, Valencia's fifth of the second half.

The issue wasn't bias—it was that they simply couldn't stop Messi. Moments like this highlighted the dilemma: if Albelda didn't foul, Messi would've been through, leaving Valencia's defense in shambles.

Understanding the inevitability of the booking, Albelda didn't argue. He walked over, pulled Messi to his feet, muttered an apology, and retreated to his position.

This was Messi's first touch since coming off the bench.

Yang Hao's Guidance

In the second half, Atlético was attacking from left to right, with Messi's wing directly in front of the away bench. Yang Hao stood on the sideline, clapping enthusiastically.

"That's it! Slow and steady, no need to rush," he shouted in encouragement.

Yang Hao refrained from overloading Messi with tactical instructions at this point. All that mattered now was progressing the ball forward effectively.

While Kaká's dribbling was a critical asset during transitions from defense to attack, his effectiveness waned in positional play, particularly against a tightly packed defense like Valencia's. The same applied to Robben.

Players like Ribéry, Iniesta, and Messi—who excelled in tight spaces and were adept at ball progression—became far more valuable in such situations.

Unfortunately, Atlético failed to capitalize on the subsequent free kick.

Messi's Second Involvement

Messi's next opportunity came not from a teammate's pass, but through his own defensive effort. Near the halfway line, he dispossessed Carboni, winning the ball cleanly before initiating a counterattack.

Skipping past Carboni with a deft move, Messi accelerated to retrieve the ball, continuing his advance along the right flank. Albelda, already booked, approached cautiously and was promptly outmaneuvered as Messi's rapid footwork left him stranded.

Messi reached the edge of the penalty area, pursued by Carboni and met by center-back Pellegrino. Just as they closed in to trap him, Messi executed a sudden stop and cut inside with his left foot, threading between the two defenders.

The sequence was seamless—fluid and perfectly timed, drawing gasps even from Valencia's home crowd.

After cutting inside, Messi lofted a left-footed cross into the box, targeting Torres. Navarro managed to head it clear, but Messi had already made his mark.

Increasing Pressure

Noticing Albelda's frequent presence near Messi, Kaká began pushing further forward to occupy him. This provided Messi with slightly more freedom on the ball.

In the 86th minute, Iniesta passed horizontally to Kaká, who took a touch and shielded the ball from Albelda before slipping a pass down the right flank.

Messi latched onto it, darting past Carboni once again. Entering the right side of the penalty area, he stopped abruptly, dragging the ball with his left foot to avoid Pellegrino before facing Albelda once more.

With a subtle movement, Messi threaded a low pass to the edge of the six-yard box.

Caught off guard, Torres—positioned near the penalty spot—hesitated, not expecting the ball. By the time he realized, the opportunity had passed. He raised his hand apologetically toward Messi, acknowledging the wasted chance.

"This kid is unbelievable!" exclaimed Juanma Lillo in admiration.

Torres, despite his clean-cut appearance, played with an aggressive, Adriano-like style. His technical ability, honed in Atlético's academy, was solid, but his movement lacked sharpness.

As for Messi?

Yang Hao smiled. "This is just the beginning."

Currently, Messi's physicality wasn't fully developed—a gradual process essential for his long-term growth. At just 17, a sudden emphasis on strength training would do more harm than good.

Yang Hao planned to focus on Messi's physical development after he turned 18, strengthening him incrementally over the next two to three years. By then, Messi's performances would leave the footballing world in awe.

Final Push

Yang Hao walked to the sideline, issuing fresh instructions.

"Kaká!" he called out, signaling for the Brazilian to make more forward runs.

"Ferni!" he addressed Torres by his nickname, urging him to position slightly to the left to stretch Valencia's defense.

"Plenty of time—don't rush it!"

The clock ticked down. On the left flank, Ribéry and Iniesta combined for another incisive move. Ribéry navigated through two defenders and delivered a cross into the box, but Navarro cleared it to the right sideline, conceding a throw-in.

Maicon stepped up to take the throw, wiping the ball on his jersey before raising it overhead. He scanned his options—Kaká was catching his breath after a sprint, and Xabi Alonso was closely marked by Di Vaio.

"Over here!" Messi shouted from the edge of Valencia's penalty area, having shielded Carboni behind him.

Maicon didn't hesitate, tossing the ball toward Messi.

A Moment of Brilliance

Messi controlled the throw-in with his chest, but Albelda was already closing in.

With a flick of his left foot, Messi nudged the ball toward the center, slipping between Albelda and Carboni like a slippery eel.

Sissoko joined the defensive effort, but Messi stopped abruptly, shielding the ball and turning to evade him. Albelda, recovering from behind, was outmaneuvered yet again.

From chest control to flick, stop, and turn, Messi's movements were fluid and rhythmic, leaving defenders scrambling.

More remarkably, Messi seemed to anticipate every defensive move. It was as if he had eyes in the back of his head, seamlessly evading Albelda's approach.

"Unbelievable," murmured the commentators as Messi dribbled deeper into the heart of Valencia's defense, orchestrating another attack with mesmerizing precision.

Even Valencia's home fans were left gasping in amazement at what they had just witnessed.

After dribbling past Albelda, Messi used his right foot to pass the ball to Maicon, who had surged into the right side of the penalty area. As Messi completed the pass, he saw both Carboni and Albelda immediately closing in on Maicon, attempting to pin him to the flank and prevent a cross.

But in doing so, they inadvertently exposed a channel stretching from Messi's position through the edge of the box to the near corner of the six-yard area.

"Maicon!" Messi shouted, sprinting forward into the gap between Albelda and Carboni.

Maicon's pass was perfectly timed, a horizontal delivery that Messi didn't even need to adjust to. He carried the ball seamlessly with his right foot, accelerating into the penalty area.

Pellegrino stepped up to confront him, but Messi abruptly stopped, nudging the ball toward the byline with his right foot, evading Pellegrino with ease. The Valencia defender was left lunging into thin air, his balance completely thrown off.

At this point, Mohamed Sissoko was the only player tracking Messi, racing toward the byline. However, Messi, with a sudden stop and a series of feints, deftly poked the ball through Sissoko's legs. He dashed around the outside of the byline, regained possession, and played a precise cutback with his left foot from just outside the six-yard box.

At the far post, Kaká arrived right on cue, needing only a simple tap-in to slot Messi's return pass into Valencia's empty net.

And just like that, Atlético scored.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!"

As the commentator's exclamation echoed through the broadcast, Mestalla Stadium erupted in a mixture of astonishment and reluctant admiration. Even many Valencia fans rose from their seats to applaud Messi's sheer brilliance.

No one could believe that Valencia's tightly packed, disciplined defense had been dismantled like that. And not only did Messi break through—he also provided a pinpoint assist for the winning goal.

It was unbelievable.

"I don't even know how to describe what I'm feeling right now," the commentator continued. "But here's a number for you: from the moment Messi controlled the ball with his chest to Kaká scoring, it took just 10 seconds.

"In those 10 seconds, except for his pass to Maicon, the ball never left Messi's feet.

"He singlehandedly tore Valencia's right-side defense to shreds, leaving their back line in absolute disarray."

"I don't know how else to put this, but Atlético's young star is nothing short of extraordinary. I've followed his progress for a while, but tonight—tonight he has left me speechless!"

"He's a genius. An undeniable genius."

The Celebration

After Kaká's goal, he dashed straight toward Messi, lifting him up in celebration as they sprinted toward the sidelines, arms around each other. Soon, Torres, Iniesta, Ribéry, and others joined in, forming a jubilant huddle by the touchline.

The camaraderie among Atlético's players was palpable, radiating through the stadium.

From the sideline, Yang Hao clapped vigorously for his players, a proud smile on his face.

At that moment, he realized he had underestimated Messi's rapid development.

It was an indescribable feeling—watching Messi execute something in 10 seconds that could take a writer paragraphs or even pages to fully capture. In real time, it was pure magic.

Even as the head coach, Yang Hao found himself wanting to cheer out loud for Messi. He had an overwhelming urge to tell Messi:

"Don't be afraid. I'm here. I will do everything in my power to help you achieve all your dreams.

"Every regret from your past—I'll erase them all.

"I will personally elevate you to the pinnacle of football."

Post-Match Applause

After the final whistle, as Atlético's players exited the pitch to shake hands with Yang Hao on the sidelines, a special moment unfolded.

When Messi approached, Mestalla Stadium erupted in applause.

Yang Hao laughed and raised Messi's hand, prompting even louder cheers.

Fans may have their allegiances, but when faced with raw talent and moments of undeniable brilliance, they can't help but put rivalries aside to show genuine admiration.

This was the beauty of football.

Yang Hao's Post-Match Comments

"I don't know how to put into words how I felt in that moment," Yang Hao said during his post-match press conference. "Perhaps some people think subbing Messi on in the final moments was a gamble, but I truly believed he could do it.

"And even if we had drawn the match, it would've been fine. It would've been a valuable learning experience for him."

Yang Hao lavished praise on Messi's performance while also managing expectations.

"I won't call him a genius, though many others already have. He's only 17—this is just the beginning. I have no doubt he'll achieve incredible things, but for now, I'd like everyone to focus on the game and give him the space to grow."

Defensive Struggles

Having secured back-to-back comeback victories, Yang Hao addressed the team's defensive issues.

"Everyone can see that our defense has been a bit unstable recently. But we're all working on it, and the entire team understands what's happening and accepts the process."

When asked if the club would pursue defensive reinforcements in the winter transfer window, Yang Hao firmly replied, "No, not at all."

He reiterated his faith in his current defenders:

"This season, our central defenders are Lucio, Ramos, Pepe, and Thiago Silva. That's it. No one else. I trust them completely, and I'm willing to give them all the time they need to grow."

Even if it meant occasional losses, Yang Hao remained steadfast in his belief that developing his young defenders was more important than signing reinforcements.

"Pepe and Ramos, for example—both are talented enough to be starters at any La Liga club, except perhaps for Madrid, Barça, or Atlético. Their skill levels are undeniable; they just need experience."

Words of Encouragement

After the press conference, Yang Hao called Ramos and Pepe into the dressing room for a private conversation.

"We won't be signing any new center-backs this winter," he told them. "This season, it's just you two, Lucio, and Thiago Silva. That's our core.

"I believe in you. Not just this season—I don't plan to bring in any new defenders next summer either. You won't need to worry about your place in the team. I have absolute trust in you both."

His words struck a chord, instilling confidence in the young defenders. They knew their coach had their backs, no matter what.

"Your only task right now is to improve your skills as quickly as possible—that's enough!"

Yang Hao's words served as a reassurance for Ramos and Pepe, solidifying their confidence.

It was well known within the Atlético Madrid squad that Marchena had been relegated to the sidelines. His standing in the team's locker room was fragile, largely due to a series of mistakes that had eroded trust.

Lucio's position was secure, while Ramos and Pepe alternated in the starting lineup. As for Thiago Silva, his signing was widely seen as an example of the club's humanity rather than a direct reflection of his current ability. Few believed he would contribute significantly, given his relative anonymity before joining.

Ramos and Pepe, however, promised Yang Hao that they would give their all.

Yang Hao, in turn, considered the idea of offering them contract extensions to further cement their futures with the club and give them peace of mind. He also realized it was time to raise Ribéry's salary, as the Frenchman was still on a relatively modest contract.

Extending Their Lead

After a 2–1 comeback victory against Valencia, Atlético extended their lead over Barcelona to two points, continuing to sit atop La Liga.

The team's triumph was significantly influenced by two substitutes: Andrés Iniesta and Lionel Messi.

Iniesta, a homegrown talent, had garnered media attention since transferring from Barcelona to Atlético and performing impressively. Catalan media, in particular, had criticized former Barcelona president Joan Gaspart for allowing such a promising talent to leave.

This season, Iniesta's consistent displays had secured his position in Atlético's starting XI. Following Deco's departure, Iniesta had become a stabilizing force in midfield, capable of maintaining possession under pressure.

In the match against Valencia, his interplay with Ribéry on the left flank stood out. Marca praised their synergy, stating, "Atlético's left side sparkled with brilliance."

Meanwhile, Messi's rise was even more sensational.

At just 17, the Argentine prodigy had already made several first-team appearances. Emerging as one of the first stars produced by Atlético's youth system since its reform, Messi was part of a new wave that included Sergio Ramos, David Silva, and Luka Modric. The Spanish media marveled at the club's burgeoning academy.

Following the Valencia game, Messi received widespread acclaim from Spanish outlets, with some newspapers calling him "the next Maradona."

Winter Transfer Plans

Yang Hao's post-match comments on avoiding winter signings sparked discussion.

Some believed it was a gesture to give Marchena another chance, while others speculated that Yang Hao was fully committed to developing Ramos and Pepe, even if it came at the cost of short-term results.

Yang Hao, however, remained silent on the matter, allowing the speculation to run its course.

Champions League: Group Stage Progress

Atlético then faced Werder Bremen in the fourth round of the Champions League group stage. Having won their first three matches, Atlético entered the away fixture in high spirits.

Just two minutes in, Kaká scored to give the visitors an early lead. The match was evenly contested for much of the first half.

However, in the 55th minute, Miroslav Klose received a brilliant through ball from Johan Micoud and attempted to dribble past Ramos. The Spanish defender resorted to pulling Klose's shirt, conceding a penalty and earning his second yellow card, resulting in a red.

Klose calmly converted the penalty to equalize at 1–1.

With 10 men on the pitch, Atlético adopted a more defensive approach and managed to hold on for the draw.

In the other group match, Roma, playing behind closed doors, drew 1–1 with Paris Saint-Germain.

After four matches, Atlético topped the group with 10 points (3 wins, 1 draw), followed by Werder Bremen with 7 points (2 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss). PSG was third with 4 points, while Roma languished at the bottom with just 1 point.

Atlético's progression to the knockout stage was virtually guaranteed, with the main question being whether they would finish first in the group.

Yang Hao expressed confidence in securing top spot and dismissed concerns over Ramos' red card.

"It wasn't about poor discipline—it was about him being outmatched by Klose," Yang Hao said. "You can't blame a player for being penalized while trying to do his job."

He also encouraged Ramos to treat the experience as a valuable lesson.

Contract Extensions

After the match against Werder Bremen, Atlético's general manager, Miguel Gil, announced that the club had initiated a new round of contract renewals.

Promising youngsters like Ramos, Pepe, Ribéry, and Iniesta would all be rewarded with extensions, while established stars such as Torres, Drogba, Villa, Robben, Kaká, Baraja, and Lucio would see their salaries increased.

Torres, Kaká, Baraja, Xabi Alonso, and Lucio were set to join the top salary bracket, previously occupied by Deco, making them the club's highest earners.

While Atlético had ample room in their wage budget, the club planned to increase salaries incrementally to maintain financial sustainability.

"Players like Kaká and Torres are still young—just 22 and 20, respectively," Yang Hao explained. "If we give them the maximum salary now, we'll have no room for future increases as they mature."

As for Messi, he was still on a youth contract, so his salary adjustments were less of a priority.

Marchena's Situation

Meanwhile, Marchena's agent revealed that several La Liga clubs, including Valencia and Deportivo La Coruña, were interested in signing his client.

"We're exploring the possibility of leaving Atlético because Carlos needs more playing time," the agent said, framing the situation as an ultimatum to the club.

Atlético and Yang Hao responded with silence, opting to let the issue resolve itself.

La Liga: Round 10

On November 7, Atlético hosted Zaragoza at the Calderón.

In the 12th minute, Iniesta advanced through the midfield and delivered a perfectly lofted diagonal pass. Villa beat the offside trap, sprinted into the right side of the penalty area, and calmly chipped the onrushing goalkeeper to open the scoring.

1–0!

Atlético capitalized on their momentum. In the 26th minute, Ribéry dribbled past two defenders on the left before cutting the ball into the box. Torres controlled it, sidestepped a defender, and unleashed a powerful shot into the net.

2–0!

Atlético completely dominated the game, consistently creating scoring opportunities, though many were not ideal. It wasn't until the 52nd minute of the second half that Ribéry, again receiving the ball on the left flank, skillfully outmaneuvered a defender and delivered a precise cross into the box. Torres, positioned just outside the six-yard box, executed a deft left-footed volley to score his second goal of the match.

3–0!

The scar-faced Frenchman, motivated by Yang Hao's promise of a contract renewal, was determined to secure a better deal through his outstanding performances. Ribéry's hunger for success was evident—he had endured poverty and was desperate to avoid returning to it.

Yang Hao understood Ribéry's mindset, which is why he used the prospect of a renewal to ignite his drive.

In this match, Ribéry truly unleashed his potential.

Even with a three-goal lead, Atlético showed no intention of slowing down, relentlessly pressing their opponents.

In the 67th minute, a brilliant one-two combination between Ribéry and Torres on the left flank resulted in a perfectly threaded through ball behind the defense. Torres received the pass in the box, beat the goalkeeper in a one-on-one situation, and completed his hat trick.

4–0!

The entire Calderón Stadium erupted into a frenzy!

Atlético fans roared in excitement as their team's relentless attacks tore apart Zaragoza's defense.

As Zaragoza's players began to falter physically in the second half, the match transformed into a showcase of Atlético's offensive prowess. Fans and pundits alike noticed a key advantage—Atlético's fitness levels far surpassed those of their opponents.

Just two minutes after Torres' third goal, Ribéry received the ball near the halfway line, suddenly accelerating past two defenders with his trademark dribbling. Charging into Zaragoza's penalty area, he skillfully rounded the goalkeeper and calmly slotted the ball into the empty net.

5–0!

The goal sent the stadium into a euphoric uproar!

Even Yang Hao couldn't believe what he was witnessing—Ribéry was on fire!

The Frenchman wasn't done yet. Later, he delivered a sublime diagonal pass from the left flank, finding Patrice Evra, who surged into the left side of the penalty box and struck a clean shot into the net.

6–0!

Atlético continued creating chances, with Iniesta almost assisting Villa for another goal and Maicon narrowly missing with a sudden long-range effort that hit the side netting.

The match ended with Atlético securing an emphatic 6–0 victory over Zaragoza at home.

Post-Match Reactions

After the game, Marca heaped praise on Yang Hao's team, describing the 6–0 victory as a "miracle."

Ribéry's sensational performance turned him into an overnight sensation. While his talent was well known, this match demonstrated just how extraordinary he could be, as he virtually dictated the entire attacking display.

"When Atlético boasts such formidable offensive firepower, does their defense even matter?"

Marca used this rhetorical question to defend Yang Hao's decisions.

Following the Champions League draw against Werder Bremen and Ramos' red card, Yang Hao had faced criticism for his approach. However, Atlético's commanding victory silenced skeptics, proving that the team's firepower could overshadow any defensive frailties.

Moreover, Yang Hao had publicly stated he was willing to sacrifice results to develop his young defenders, a decision supported by Atlético's management.

Copa del Rey Upsets

This season's Copa del Rey was proving to be a breeding ground for upsets. In the second round, several La Liga clubs were eliminated, including Barcelona, Valencia, Espanyol, and Villarreal.

After Matchday 10 in La Liga, the competition resumed for the third round, bringing more surprises. Málaga, Deportivo La Coruña, Mallorca, Real Sociedad, Albacete, and Racing Santander all fell to lower-division teams.

Real Madrid, however, managed to scrape through. Facing Segunda División side Tenerife away, they drew 1–1 in regulation time, with Solari scoring the decisive goal in extra time to secure their progression.

Atlético had a smoother experience. Thanks to Drogba's goal, assisted by Modric, they edged out Tarragona 1–0 in regulation time to advance.

After the third round, Yang Hao was surprised to discover that only eight La Liga teams remained in the tournament, with the other twelve eliminated in the first two rounds.

Atlético's luck held as they drew Rocafort CF, a team from the Tercera División.

Interestingly, Rocafort's manager was a familiar name—Unai Emery. At just 33 years old, Emery had recently transitioned from player to coach following his retirement at the club. In his first match as manager, he led Rocafort to a 5–2 victory over Málaga, securing their place in the Copa del Rey Round of 16.

Yang Hao looked forward to facing Emery, especially at this early stage in his career. Unfortunately, the Round of 16 match wouldn't take place until mid-January.

La Liga and European Progress

After their Copa del Rey win, Atlético returned to La Liga for Matchday 11, where they drew 2–2 away against Mallorca due to defensive lapses.

Meanwhile, Barcelona suffered a 1–2 defeat to Real Betis, widening Atlético's lead at the top of the table to three points.

Three days later, Atlético secured a narrow 2–1 home win against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. Werder Bremen also defeated Roma 2–0, effectively confirming Atlético and Bremen's advancement to the knockout stage.

Transfer Request

The morning after the PSG match, as Yang Hao arrived at his office, two documents were waiting on his desk.

One of them was a written transfer request from Marchena.

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