Chapter 73
Even before Yang Hao's time travel, Riquelme remained a polarizing figure among football fans.
Some celebrated him with reverence, marveling at his artistry on the pitch, while others dismissed him as overrated and an anachronistic relic of football's past.
This debate persisted, even in 2006.
There was no denying Riquelme's genius, but Yang Hao's feelings toward him were complicated.
To put it simply: "I recommend him for others, but I wouldn't sign him myself."
Every time Yang Hao watched Riquelme play—whether in games against Villarreal or through match footage—he felt a certain contradiction, as though something about Riquelme's game was off.
On one hand, Yang Hao admired the rhythm and unique beauty of Riquelme's play. Yet, on the other hand, he couldn't help but think: What the hell is this guy doing?
Take a clear open space in front of him—he wouldn't pass. Instead, he'd dribble, linger, and hold up the play.
"Are you serious, man?"
Modern football thrives on repetition. You pass when there's an opportunity, recover possession when it's lost, and immediately look for the next pass. It's a relentless cycle of probing and movement.
Riquelme didn't play that way.
How to describe his style?
Imagine 11 ballet dancers performing on stage. Everyone moves harmoniously—except for the lead dancer. The soloist stands out, not fitting in, but commanding all the attention.
In that moment, everything else—the surroundings, the other players—seems to be in vibrant color, while he and the ball under his feet are in stark black and white.
It's a sense of purity, a raw encapsulation of football.
Riquelme makes you think: This is how football should be.
And yet, almost immediately, you question yourself, dismissing the thought as naive. Modern football, shaped by its unyielding pragmatism, tells you that his way of playing doesn't belong.
That evening, sitting in the spacious coach's office at the Majadahonda training center, Yang Hao, Juanma Lillo, and others silently watched Villarreal's match broadcast on the big screen. Ignoring the commentators, they simply observed the game—particularly the man wearing the number 8 jersey.
The way Riquelme danced on the field mesmerized them.
When he assisted José Mari—whose initial touch nearly botched the moment—Yang Hao's mind suddenly latched onto a single word to describe Riquelme:
Defiant.
Neither positive nor negative—just neutral.
Riquelme was incredibly self-centered.
An extraordinarily self-reliant form of defiance.
When others saw an opportunity, he might see it too, but if it didn't align with his vision, he wouldn't pass.
When others thought the tempo should quicken, he might disagree—and he wouldn't pass.
He played football entirely according to his understanding of the game, his reading of the match, and the simulations and deconstructions unfolding in his mind.
Yet football is a team sport. It requires defenders, attackers, facilitators...
It's like a ballet troupe.
Even the lead dancer, Riquelme, needed the other ten players running constantly to support his vision.
Yes, running endlessly.
Don't worry about what he's thinking. Don't worry about what he's planning. Just keep running.
Then, in an instant, when inspiration struck, he would deliver a pass so unexpected that it left everyone—opponents, teammates, and perhaps even himself—dumbfounded.
Fast, slow, classical, modern—none of it mattered.
Riquelme played football as if chasing fleeting moments of brilliance.
Many said playing alongside him was frustrating. You never knew what he was thinking or planning.
That was the essence of it—not even he always knew.
And when he did pass, it was often difficult to receive.
Because you could never anticipate the timing, angle, or method of his passes, you weren't ready.
Yet, when you successfully connected with one of those passes, it created a moment of danger—a chance to score.
To capitalize on such moments, though, the entire team had to run tirelessly for 90 minutes, aligning their efforts with his creativity.
Riquelme knew his teammates' strengths, habits, and tendencies intimately. He continually ran mental simulations, calculating every possibility.
This ability was a rare gift.
But no one enjoys feeling subservient, especially among the exceptionally talented players in elite leagues.
In the short term, people might tolerate it. But as the team found success, patience waned.
Particularly when the lead dancer began to believe they were more important than the troupe.
In Yang Hao's previous life, Riquelme's fallout with Pellegrini stemmed from this dynamic.
Accommodating a defiant personality came at a high cost.
At Villarreal, Riquelme enjoyed countless privileges.
Not tracking back to defend? That was minor.
He could skip training sessions whenever he liked. If he wanted to return to Argentina, he only needed to ask. Missing major matches wasn't an issue.
His tax-free annual salary of €4 million put him in a league of his own at Villarreal—high even by the standards of Spain's "Big Three."
He had a reserved parking spot closest to the training ground. No one else could park there. If someone did, even accidentally, he would throw a fit.
After matches, the club assigned someone to shield him from reporters if he didn't feel like giving interviews.
Though not particularly eloquent, Riquelme was domineering. He thrived on being the center of attention and openly criticized teammates and even Pellegrini.
This behavior made everyone uncomfortable.
He believed Villarreal's success was his doing. Others reluctantly agreed, so they indulged his whims.
In Yang Hao's previous life, the breaking point came in the summer of 2006, when Argentine international Sorín transferred to Hamburg.
Riquelme strongly opposed the move and lobbied both Pellegrini and Villarreal president Fernando Roig to keep Sorín.
When his requests were denied, he threw tantrums, becoming increasingly difficult.
This went beyond the purview of a player, openly positioning himself above the locker room and the club.
Still, Villarreal tolerated his resistance and erratic behavior, believing he would eventually settle down.
When Riquelme's third child was born in Buenos Aires before a crucial away match against Barcelona, the club allowed him to return to Argentina to be with his family.
As a result, Villarreal suffered a 4–0 loss at the Camp Nou.
After returning from Argentina, Riquelme's behavior took an even sharper turn. He openly declared that he didn't want to train or play anymore.
Pellegrini tried to reason with him, offering opportunities to mend fences, but he eventually reached his breaking point.
Following a humiliating 1–4 home defeat to Osasuna, Pellegrini erupted in the locker room, yelling at Riquelme, "You shouldn't be playing here anymore. My biggest mistake was selling Sorín instead of selling you both!"
From that moment, Riquelme was excluded from Villarreal's squad list.
Remarkably, not a single teammate spoke up in his defense—not even Diego Forlán, who had been closest to him.
Villarreal president Fernando Roig attempted to mediate between the coach and the star player, hoping for reconciliation.
And Riquelme's response?
"Talk to my agent."
Infuriated, Roig issued a directive: Riquelme was done.
That winter, Riquelme was loaned back to Argentina.
Yang Hao suspected that Riquelme left with resentment, convinced that Villarreal would regret their decision. He likely envisioned a scenario straight out of a feel-good sports drama: without him, Villarreal's form would collapse, and the president, coach, and teammates would come begging for his return.
But that wasn't what happened.
Without Riquelme, Villarreal actually performed better in the second half of the season, with an improved win rate.
And then, Riquelme panicked.
Desperate, he turned to the media, expressing his willingness to reconcile. He insisted he never wanted to leave Villarreal and hoped to stay.
By then, however, Villarreal had moved on.
Cani, Matías Fernández, and Robert Pirès had filled the void he left.
Though Riquelme's legendary moments were fondly remembered, there was no longer a place for him at Villarreal.
At its core, the entire debacle boiled down to one word: defiance.
Riquelme's life mirrored his playing style, perfectly embodying the concept of "defiance."
Yang Hao couldn't be certain if the events he remembered from his previous life would play out the same way in this one. The trajectory of history had already shifted.
Everything had changed.
Perhaps Villarreal wouldn't sell Sorín this time, preventing the fallout with Riquelme.
Perhaps they'd sell Sorín but sign a player Riquelme approved of.
Perhaps...
Who could say?
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La Liga Round 34: Atlético Face Alavés
After their Champions League semifinal first-leg victory, Atlético traveled to face Alavés in Round 34 of La Liga.
Antonio López scored the winning goal in the 23rd minute, securing a 1–0 victory for Atlético.
Yang Hao was increasingly impressed with López, a homegrown left-back from Atlético's academy. Quiet and unassuming, López consistently stepped up when it mattered most, often delivering crucial goals that turned matches in Atlético's favor.
Over the past two or three seasons, he had been instrumental in securing numerous points for the team. A homegrown talent, a Spanish international, and a solid performer—Yang Hao couldn't be happier.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid hosted Málaga and secured a narrow 2–1 victory.
Deschamps had intended to rotate his squad, resting key players like Zidane, given that Málaga were bottom of the league and posed little threat. However, things didn't go as planned.
It wasn't until Zidane and other regulars came off the bench in the second half that Madrid managed to turn the game around.
Elsewhere, Villarreal also rotated their squad heavily. Pellegrini was clearly betting everything on reaching the Champions League final, chasing the dream of making history. With a manageable 1–2 deficit from their first-leg match at Camp Nou, Villarreal's hopes were still alive.
However, the gamble cost them in La Liga, as they lost 0–2 at home to Real Sociedad.
Barcelona made similar moves, fielding an entirely second-string lineup against Sevilla in an away match.
Interestingly, Sevilla—battling in the UEFA Cup—fielded a mix of regulars and substitutes.
In a scrappy contest between understrength squads, Sevilla edged Barcelona 3–2.
Incidentally, Juande Ramos' Sevilla side had reached the UEFA Cup semifinals, drawing 0–0 away to Schalke 04 in the first leg. With everything to play for in the return leg, Sevilla's fate hung in the balance.
The other UEFA Cup semifinal featured Middlesbrough of the Premier League against Romania's Steaua Bucharest, with Middlesbrough favored to reach the final.
If Sevilla could emulate their success from Yang Hao's previous life and win the UEFA Cup, then both the Champions League and UEFA Cup would be claimed by La Liga teams—a historic milestone for Spanish football.
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April 25: Champions League Semifinal Second Leg
At the Calderón, Atlético hosted Real Madrid for the second leg of their Champions League semifinal.
Yang Hao made several changes to his lineup. Lucio, suspended in the first leg, returned to the starting XI. Xabi Alonso, back from injury, also started, while Iniesta was rested in favor of Rubén Baraja.
Real Madrid, trailing 0–3 from the first leg, came out with a determined, attacking mindset.
Though the odds were against them, their attitude reflected their pride as a club that wouldn't give up without a fight.
Real Madrid's players pushed aggressively from the opening whistle, seeking an early goal to spark a comeback.
In the 4th minute, Ashley Cole delivered a cross from the left wing, and Van Nistelrooy's header forced a save from Čech.
Madrid continued to attack relentlessly. Deschamps and his team had no choice but to go all out.
However, in the 13th minute, Atlético struck a decisive blow.
After intercepting the ball in their defensive half, Xabi Alonso delivered a pinpoint diagonal pass to the left wing.
Robben surged forward, attempting to beat Cicinho but failing. Forced to pass back, he found Kaká trailing behind.
The Brazilian controlled the ball with his right foot, nudged it forward to create space, and took a step to the side to evade Beckham's challenge.
Then, with his right foot, Kaká unleashed a thunderous strike from distance.
"GOAL!!!"
The Calderón erupted into chaos.
More than 50,000 Atlético fans leaped to their feet, shouting and cheering at the top of their lungs.
"Kaká!!"
"Kaká delivers an absolutely stunning long-range strike!"
"A magnificent world-class goal from the brilliant Kaká!"
"Just 13 minutes into the game, while Real Madrid were pressing hard, Atlético struck back with a lightning-fast counterattack. Robben's setup, Kaká's cutting move, and his incredible finish—sheer brilliance!"
"What a beautiful goal!"
"We can take another look at this goal—it was stunning, absolutely brimming with confidence!"
"Since winning the Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year, Kaká has become more confident and carries himself with the aura of a true superstar."
When Atlético scored to increase their aggregate lead to 4–0, the match was effectively over.
Barring a complete collapse by Atlético that allowed Real Madrid to score four unanswered goals, a comeback was practically impossible.
The goal dealt a heavy blow to Real Madrid's morale.
Deschamps, pacing the touchline, shouted instructions, while Raúl attempted to rally his teammates on the pitch.
But it was clear to everyone that Madrid's energy was forced and their fight was fading.
Atlético, already with a commanding lead, adopted a more conservative approach. There was no need to take risks by pressing further or hunting for more goals.
After all, if tensions flared and tempers boiled over, things could spiral out of control.
The first half ended with Kaká's brilliant strike giving Atlético a 1–0 lead.
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Second Half
When play resumed, Real Madrid launched another wave of attacks.
First, Joaquín cut inside from the left flank and unleashed a shot, but Čech made a spectacular save.
Then Ashley Cole delivered a cross into the box, where Van Nistelrooy attempted a header, only for Čech to snatch it out of the air.
Madrid desperately sought at least one goal, if only to salvage some pride.
But their efforts were in vain.
In the 67th minute, Kaká carried the ball forward on the left, weaving through midfield before passing to Robben on the wing.
Using his pace, Robben blew past Salgado and sent a low, driven cross into the center.
Drogba, sandwiched between Cannavaro and Samuel, couldn't get to the ball.
But Messi arrived at the far post, perfectly positioned. Without taking a touch, he met the cross with his left foot and calmly slotted the ball into the net.
2–0.
Aggregate score: 5–0.
At that moment, the match was truly over.
Deschamps retreated to the bench, clearly accepting the inevitable.
Everyone knew Deschamps had done his best.
Since taking charge, he had improved Real Madrid's league performances significantly. Though unable to challenge Atlético's dominance, Madrid had competed closely with Barcelona and held their own.
Reaching the Champions League semifinals was already a notable achievement.
As for the 0–5 aggregate loss to Atlético, it was hardly surprising.
In recent years, Real Madrid had struggled against Atlético under normal circumstances. With Atlético in such strong form, the result was almost inevitable.
In the Copa del Rey, Deschamps led Madrid to victory, thrashing Zaragoza 6–1 in the semifinals before defeating Deportivo 4–2 in the final to secure their first trophy in years.
Though it was "just" the Copa del Rey, for a club starved of silverware, it was a significant milestone.
At least Madrid avoided the embarrassment of their infamous "Round of 16 curse" in the Champions League—a situation that haunted them in Yang Hao's past life.
When the match ended, Yang Hao immediately walked over to the visitors' dugout to shake hands and embrace Deschamps.
He offered high praise for Deschamps' tenure at Madrid.
"I'm certain we'll meet again very soon," Yang Hao said with a smile.
Given Deschamps' managerial talent, clubs across Europe's top leagues were undoubtedly taking notice. Offers were sure to follow.
Deschamps confirmed as much.
"Several teams have already contacted me," he admitted.
"Really?" Yang Hao asked, curious. "Any from La Liga?"
Among La Liga's top-performing clubs, most had stable coaching situations.
"Deportivo La Coruña reached out," Deschamps revealed.
Yang Hao laughed, murmuring, As expected.
Valencia, Sevilla, Osasuna, Celta Vigo, and Villarreal all had strong seasons and secure managerial positions.
For example, Juande Ramos at Sevilla was pushing for UEFA Cup glory, while Villarreal were in the Champions League semifinals. Their biggest worry was whether Pellegrini might be poached.
Celta Vigo, a newly promoted side, sat impressively in 8th place.
Osasuna, led by Mexican coach Javier Aguirre, also had an excellent season.
Deportivo's decision to contact Deschamps likely stemmed from dissatisfaction with Joaquín Caparrós' performance. For a club once known as "Super Depor," their recent results in the Copa del Rey final and La Liga left much to be desired.
"Deportivo is a pragmatic choice," Yang Hao remarked.
With the financial backing of Amancio Ortega, Deportivo wouldn't face funding issues—a rare luxury in modern European football. For a coach like Deschamps, it was a highly attractive opportunity.
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Back to the Champions League
Atlético Madrid's 5–0 aggregate victory over Real Madrid secured their place in the Champions League final once again.
Although fans and media had expected this outcome, it still generated shockwaves across the football world.
Atlético's dominance this season was extraordinary.
From the group stage to the semifinals, they had played 12 matches and won all 12—a feat unprecedented in Champions League history.
The question wasn't whether Atlético would beat Real Madrid; it was whether anyone could beat Atlético.
When the result was confirmed, the world's media heaped praise upon Atlético.
Even Real Madrid's loyal mouthpiece, AS, acknowledged the gap between the two sides.
"The Colchoneros are the strongest team in world football today—without question!"
AS even suggested that Florentino Pérez should look to Atlético for inspiration—not just in team-building strategy but also in their footballing philosophy.
Yang Hao's approach—emphasizing passing, technical ability, off-the-ball movement, and teamwork—had become Atlético's defining identity and a subject of intense interest across Europe.
Many declared that Yang Hao was ushering in a new era in European football.
Spain's national team coach, Luis Aragonés, openly expressed a desire to incorporate Atlético's style into the national setup.
However, the structural differences between the national team and Atlético limited his ability to fully implement those ideas.
Even within La Liga, clubs began adopting aspects of Atlético's footballing philosophy.
Barcelona's coach, Frank Rijkaard, had started introducing more lateral ball movement into their play.
Though Johan Cruyff famously revered possession and disapproved of long balls, even he recognized the value of wide horizontal switches, calling them "an excellent way to destabilize opposing defenses and create opportunities."
If Barcelona were taking cues from Atlético, it was clear how much influence Yang Hao and his team had across the league.
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This marked Atlético's third Champions League final appearance in five years.
Should they win, it would mean three Champions League titles in five years, along with four consecutive La Liga titles.
Such success would solidify Atlético's position at the pinnacle of Spanish and European football.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the UEFA Champions League, and the final will take place at the Stade de France in Paris on May 17.
However, Yang Hao wasn't overly focused on that just yet.
Atlético had plenty of time to prepare, and regardless of whether their opponent would be Barcelona or Villarreal, Yang Hao felt confident about their chances.
The day after their match against Real Madrid, following an afternoon training session, Yang Hao, along with Juanma Lillo and Parales, made a trip from Madrid to Valencia, heading further north to Villarreal and their home ground, El Madrigal (known as the Estadio de la Cerámica today).
In the past, Yang Hao had only ever visited El Madrigal as Atlético's coach, leading his team in battle.
But this time, he came as a spectator, sitting in one of the stadium's private boxes.
This arrangement was personally organized by Pellegrini, Villarreal's head coach. Villarreal's president, Fernando Roig, even came by before the match to greet Yang Hao and welcome him and his team to El Madrigal.
Yang Hao had a positive impression of Fernando Roig, especially because of the way the Spanish businessman managed Villarreal.
Compared to his brother's approach at Valencia, Fernando Roig had chosen a different path: pragmatic and cautious.
During their pre-match chat, Roig shared some insights about Villarreal's situation and their plans to strengthen their midfield and attack ahead of the next season.
This season had been impressive for Villarreal, but competing on multiple fronts had clearly taken a toll on them.
For clubs like Villarreal, maintaining two competitive squads was nearly impossible.
They typically relied on one main lineup supplemented by a few capable substitutes. This lack of depth often resulted in fluctuating performances when rotation was necessary.
For instance, focusing on the Champions League often meant sacrifices in La Liga or the Copa del Rey. Their league standings had slipped, and while their Champions League run had been inspiring, it was far from certain they'd go further.
"Not every team can do what you've done," Roig remarked, half-jokingly.
By this, he meant Yang Hao's ability to recruit future stars seemingly at will. Atlético's backups were not only highly skilled but also filled with potential—all while maintaining relatively low wage costs.
When Roig sought Yang Hao's advice on how to approach Villarreal's future, Yang Hao offered a simple but heartfelt response:
"Stick with youth development. Stay on your current path—I think it's the best one."
"Results are something no one can guarantee, but if your squad stays young and you keep nurturing talent, you'll eventually see the rewards."
Yang Hao's advice wasn't groundbreaking—it was standard wisdom in football.
The real challenge lay in whether Villarreal could stay committed to this approach.
For instance, Villarreal's run to the Champions League semifinals this season had already earned them a windfall of 30–40 million euros.
The question now was: how would they use it?
Would they take a risk, splashing the cash to sign established stars and aim for instant success?
Or would they stick to their cautious, pragmatic strategy, prioritizing long-term growth?
There was no right or wrong answer, only a matter of perspective and priorities.
Yang Hao leaned toward the latter approach: prudence and sustainability. However, prudence didn't mean inaction.
For example, Sevilla's acquisition of Vincent Kompany had proven to be a brilliant move. The young defender's impressive performances had drawn widespread attention, significantly boosting his market value.
As for more specific decisions, Yang Hao refrained from prying or offering unsolicited opinions.
"Thank you, Yang. We'll think about your suggestions carefully," Roig said with a smile before leaving Yang Hao and his companions to enjoy the match.
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The Match
Villarreal stuck to their usual game plan, deploying a double-pivot midfield of Josico and Tacchinardi, which freed up Riquelme to operate in his favored playmaker role.
Barcelona, meanwhile, maintained their signature 4-3-3 formation, looking to leverage their superior overall quality to dominate the game.
Under Pellegrini, Villarreal had learned how to handle Barcelona effectively, especially defensively.
Last season, Villarreal had stunned Barcelona with a 3–0 victory at El Madrigal. However, this season, they suffered a 0–2 defeat.
As a result, both teams approached this game cautiously, knowing they couldn't afford mistakes.
The match lacked the excitement of the first leg.
Villarreal spent much of the game on the back foot but defended tenaciously, keeping Barcelona at bay.
The first half ended 0–0, but tension rose steadily in the second half.
After the 60th minute, Villarreal began committing more players forward in attack.
José Mari replaced Josico to bolster their offensive options, and Roger García also came on later.
Pellegrini's changes signaled Villarreal's determination to take risks in search of a breakthrough.
The 23,000 fans at El Madrigal roared with deafening support, urging their team forward.
From the 70th minute onward, Barcelona found themselves pinned back, struggling to deal with Villarreal's relentless pressure.
By the 85th minute, even Villarreal's goalkeeper, Pepe Reina, was venturing out of his box to support the attack.
Reina, a product of Barcelona's academy, had nearly joined Liverpool last summer. Villarreal's decision to keep him had paid off handsomely, as his confidence and leadership lifted the entire team.
As the match approached its conclusion, Villarreal threw caution to the wind, committing everyone forward.
In this frenetic context, Riquelme's calm, deliberate style seemed oddly out of place—yet mesmerizing.
Yang Hao couldn't help shaking his head as he watched the Argentine playmaker.
"That guy," Yang muttered, "he's always like this—so out of sync, yet so integral."
The clock ticked into stoppage time.
In the 91st minute, Riquelme, strolling with the ball as if unbothered by the chaos around him, suddenly sprang into action.
He dribbled past Xavi and, when confronted by Edmílson, delivered a perfectly weighted through ball into the penalty area for José Mari.
José Mari controlled the pass on the right side of the box and prepared to shoot.
But before he could, Van Bronckhorst slid in from the side, crashing into him and bringing him down.
The referee immediately blew his whistle.
The stadium fell into a brief, stunned silence.
Barcelona's players reacted first, surrounding the referee in protest. Villarreal's players swarmed in as well, adding to the chaos.
The fans, meanwhile, erupted into deafening cheers, their voices reverberating throughout El Madrigal.
The referee, unwavering, pointed to the spot: penalty.
The crowd erupted in celebration.
Riquelme, without hesitation, stepped forward to take the kick.
As the players cleared the penalty area, Riquelme stood alone over the ball, staring down Barcelona's goalkeeper, Víctor Valdés.
No one could guess what was running through his mind at that moment.
He had once suffered humiliation at Barcelona and had fought back against it.
Now, he exhaled deeply, took a few swift steps, and struck the ball cleanly with his right foot.
The ball shot forward at an incredible speed, drilling into the right side of Barcelona's goal.
Valdés had guessed left and missed it completely!
Beep!
As the referee's whistle signaled the validity of the goal, the entire stadium erupted.
Every Villarreal fan leapt from their seats, screaming in pure ecstasy.
On the pitch, Villarreal's players sprinted toward Riquelme, completely forgetting themselves in the celebration.
Even Pellegrini, usually calm on the sidelines, couldn't contain his excitement, cheering with abandon.
1–0!
With the first leg at Camp Nou having ended in a 2–1 loss for Villarreal, the aggregate score was now 2–2, but Villarreal advanced on the away goals rule, eliminating Barcelona!
At that moment, it was Barcelona's turn to feel the pressure.
While Villarreal's players were still caught up in their celebrations, the Barcelona players rushed to the referee, urging him to quickly call the Villarreal players back so the game could resume.
But everyone knew it was virtually impossible to overturn the result at this stage.
The game restarted.
Pellegrini immediately made his third substitution, using the opportunity to run down the clock.
Barcelona, unable to muster another attack, saw the match end.
El Madrigal exploded into a frenzy.
Every Villarreal fan in the stadium was delirious with joy, cheering and celebrating as though in a dream.
Who would have thought that Villarreal could reach the Champions League final?
A true underdog story!
Yang Hao, watching from the box, couldn't help but applaud for the Yellow Submarine.
This was a team from a town of barely 40,000 people, yet they had achieved the unthinkable: reaching the Champions League final.
What could be more legendary than this?
If this wasn't a miracle, what could be called one?
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The Aftermath
The match was over, but the celebrations reverberated across Spain, Europe, and even the entire world.
Thanks to promotion by La Liga, Villarreal's Cinderella story quickly spread to every corner of the globe.
Fans and media alike marveled at how a small-town team had pulled off the impossible, eliminating giants and advancing to the biggest stage in club football.
Even more remarkable was that Villarreal had no true superstars in their squad.
Instead, they had toppled teams loaded with stars.
Many hailed this as a victory for football itself.
Like Atlético Madrid, Villarreal had committed to their youth academy, the development of young players, and prudent management strategies—and now both clubs were enjoying the fruits of those efforts.
For Villarreal and Atlético to meet in the Champions League final represented a triumph for these principles.
Atlético, under Yang Hao, had sold one star player after another over the years, but consistently nurtured talent from within their youth ranks. This approach gave the team an unmistakably Atlético identity.
Yang Hao, in just a few short years, had gone from an unknown to one of Europe's most sought-after elite coaches. Now, Pellegrini was also stepping into the spotlight.
After seeing Villarreal's triumph, Yang Hao didn't linger at El Madrigal.
He sent Pellegrini a congratulatory text before departing.
At that moment, the stadium continued to resonate with the joy of the fans, echoing through every corner—except for the visitors' locker room.
The next day, Pellegrini found a moment to return Yang Hao's message with a phone call.
"Remember our deal," Yang Hao teased with a laugh. "You made it to the final, but the trophy belongs to us!"
"I don't recall agreeing to any such deal."
Yet Yang Hao was genuinely happy for Villarreal and for Riquelme.
He had finally scored that pivotal penalty!
This could mark a turning point in his life, a fresh start on a path wholly different from his past.
As for the Champions League final…
Well, we'll see!
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Domestic Focus
Following the Champions League semifinal, La Liga's Round 35 resumed.
Atlético Madrid secured a narrow 1–0 home win against Mallorca, while Barcelona, still reeling from their elimination, managed a 1–0 home victory over Cádiz.
Real Madrid claimed a 1–0 away win against Osasuna, and Villarreal fought to a 1–1 draw at Getafe.
Villarreal's relatively shallow squad struggled to cope with the demands of competing on multiple fronts.
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Three days later, Round 36 unfolded.
Atlético earned another slim 1–0 home victory, this time against Osasuna.
Real Madrid defeated Racing Santander 3–2 away, while Barcelona secured a 1–0 away win against Celta Vigo.
Villarreal, still fighting for a Europa League spot, overcame Málaga 2–1 at home.
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During the weekend's Round 37, Atlético, having already clinched the title, fielded a rotated squad and drew 1–1 away against Valencia.
Barcelona defeated Espanyol 2–0 at home, while Real Madrid and Villarreal played out an entertaining 3–3 draw at the Bernabéu.
Yang Hao's team was focused on fine-tuning and preparing for the Champions League final, opting to rest many of their key players.
For Villarreal, however, every game was crucial as they fought to secure European qualification for next season.
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In the final Round 38, Atlético played out a 1–1 draw at home against Real Betis, sealing their campaign with another steady performance.
Real Madrid suffered a 3–4 away defeat to Sevilla, while Barcelona fell 1–3 away to Athletic Bilbao.
Villarreal ended on a high note, defeating Racing Santander 2–0 at home.
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Final Standings
Atlético, Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Valencia finished in the top four, securing Champions League spots for the next season.
Osasuna, Sevilla, Celta Vigo, and Deportivo La Coruña qualified for the Europa League.
Málaga, Alavés, and Cádiz were relegated.
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For Villarreal, narrowly missing out on European qualification presented a unique challenge.
Their only hope now was to emulate Liverpool's feat: winning the Champions League and qualifying as defending champions, starting from the first round of qualifiers.
But that would mean defeating Atlético in the final…
May 17th.
As night fell, in a small town 20 kilometers southwest of Birmingham, England, Police Officer Mark carried his three-year-old son in his arms and opened the door to his modest home.
"Denise, we're heading out!"
His wife, holding their infant son, watched them leave from the doorway. Hearing Mark call out, she smiled warmly and nodded. "Drive safely, take your time."
Denise, an Englishwoman of African descent, had stayed at home to care for their two children ever since their marriage. Mark was a police officer with the county police department, living a modest but fulfilling life. Outside of work, he had a passion for football and played as a striker for various amateur teams.
In recent years, clubs from nearby towns had frequently invited him to "transfer" to their teams. Last summer, he joined the Stourbridge Football Club, which was closer to their home.
Mark was a prolific forward in the amateur leagues, earning the nickname "Alan Shearer of the Local Leagues." Denise often took their children to watch him play, though with a baby at home, her visits had become less frequent.
Tonight, with the Champions League final taking place, the club was hosting a viewing party for players and fans. Denise stayed home to care for the baby, leaving Mark to take their eldest son.
Through the living room window, she watched Mark buckle their three-year-old into the back seat before sliding into the driver's seat. Moments later, their car reversed out of the driveway, turned onto the road, and disappeared into the night.
"Do you remember which teams are playing tonight?" Mark asked his son, glancing into the rearview mirror as they drove.
"Yes! Atlético Madrid and Villarreal!"
"What about their colors? Remember those?"
The boy thought for a moment. "Red and white for Atlético, yellow for Villarreal."
"Right! That's great!" Mark smiled, pleased with his son's memory.
"Dad, who are you cheering for?"
"Why do you ask?"
"Because whoever you cheer for, I'll cheer for them too," the boy said earnestly.
"Well then, I'm cheering for the red and white team."
"Why?"
"Because they're the best team in the world."
"Oh. Then I'll work hard and play for them when I grow up."
"Haha, great! I'll come watch every game you play."
Laughing and chatting, the father and son soon arrived at the club.
The Stourbridge Football Club wasn't large—its facilities included an English-style clubhouse that doubled as the owner's residence and the team's locker room. The grounds boasted two full-sized football pitches: one served as the main competition field, while the other was reserved for youth training.
The club often hosted youth training programs for kids as young as eight and organized gatherings during major football events like the Champions League final, World Cup, or European Championship. Fans would come together to share drinks, enjoy grilled food, and discuss football.
"Hey, Mark!"
"Good to see you, mate!"
As a local football legend, Mark received a warm welcome upon arrival.
He was their star, their "Alan Shearer."
"Ah, little Mark! This kid looks like he's got talent—he'll be better than his dad someday."
The three-year-old beamed up at the familiar faces, unafraid of the attention. "I'm going to play for Atlético Madrid!"
The adults around him froze briefly before bursting into laughter.
"Little Mark, that won't do! You're British; you should play for Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, or maybe even Chelsea—or at least Birmingham City!"
But the boy shook his head stubbornly. "No, my dad said Atlético is the best team in the world."
"Maybe for now, but they can't stay on top forever. One of our British teams will take their place someday. Then you'll change your mind!"
The boy tilted his head, contemplating this new idea before declaring, "When I join them, they'll stay the best team in the world."
For a moment, the adults were stunned into silence before breaking into cheers and applause.
"Well said, little Mark! You've got ambition!"
"We've never had anyone from around here make it to a big team. Maybe he'll be the first!"
Mark, juggling his roles as a footballer and a police officer, was a well-respected figure in the community. Leading his son through the crowd, he refused the offer of a beer, opting instead to grab a juice for his son before settling into a seat.
From the grill in the distance, the smell of sizzling meat wafted over, making mouths water.
"Game about to start?" Mark asked.
"Not yet. Oh, by the way, I placed a big bet on Villarreal winning tonight."
"What? Are you out of your mind?" Mark exclaimed, visibly startled.
The group around them erupted into laughter.
"Everyone knows Atlético has this in the bag, and you're betting on Villarreal?"
"Hey, what if they pull off an upset?" his teammate countered defensively.
Mark rolled his eyes, exasperated.
It was clear that some had indeed wagered on Villarreal, though the majority had backed Atlético.
Everyone knew Villarreal's miraculous run would likely end in the final. In modern football, underdog fairytales rarely survive against elite clubs.
Except, of course, for Atlético's own rise years ago.
But now, Atlético stood as the dominant force, unlikely to let another underdog steal the spotlight.
Bookmakers were well aware of this dynamic: bets on Atlético to win carried low odds, while Villarreal's potential upset attracted hopeful risk-takers.
Waiting for the match to start always felt agonizingly slow. But amidst the lively debates, the aroma of grilled meat, and the company of friends, the time passed quickly.
________________________________________
The final between Atlético Madrid and Villarreal was about to begin.
The question on everyone's mind wasn't whether Atlético would win—it was whether Villarreal could produce one last miracle.
As the two teams, led by Norwegian referee Terje Hauge, walked onto the pitch at the Stade de France, the stadium erupted with thunderous cheers.
Even though most spectators were British.
Even though they were neither Atlético Madrid nor Villarreal fans.
Even though many of them had probably never watched a single match involving either team…
Tonight, they cheered all the same—for the two teams that had fought their way to the Champions League final.
Sitting beside Mark, his 3-year-old son watched the match with wide-eyed fascination.
He couldn't yet understand what was happening, but he could sense the excitement, especially from the expressions on his father's face. Unknowingly, the magic of football planted a seed in his young heart.
He wanted to play football, just like his father.
And he remembered the name of the first great team in his life: Atlético Madrid.
________________________________________
20:45, Stade de France, Paris, France.
After a brief song-and-dance performance celebrating the Champions League's 50th anniversary, the highly anticipated final began.
At the sound of the opening whistle, Villarreal immediately launched an attack on Atlético Madrid.
Villarreal's lineup (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper: Reina Defense: Arruabarrena, Álvarez, Peña, Venta Midfield: Tacchinardi, Josico behind Sorín, Riquelme, and José Mari Forward: Figueroa
Atlético Madrid's lineup (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper: Čech Defense: Evra, Thiago Silva, Lúcio, Maicon Midfield: Xabi Alonso as the deep-lying playmaker, with Iniesta and Kaká ahead of him Forwards: Robben, Drogba, Messi
The first shot of the match came within the opening minute. Kaká struck from near the penalty spot, but his effort was deflected for a corner by Villarreal's defense.
From the resulting corner, Lúcio's header flew just over the bar.
This early offensive set the tone for Atlético, who pressed forward with intensity.
Villarreal responded a minute later with a long-ball opportunity. Sorín advanced down the left wing, driving into the box and sending a cross into the area. However, Lúcio intercepted it before it could become a threat.
After the opening exchanges, Atlético gradually took control of the match.
In the 5th minute, Messi received a cross-field pass from Iniesta on the right flank. Controlling the ball, he faced Arruabarrena's defense, using a series of feints to cut inside. Skipping past Tacchinardi, he laid the ball off to Kaká.
The Brazilian threaded a perfectly weighted through ball into the box. Drogba used his strength to shield Peña, but his touch was too heavy, allowing Reina to rush out and claim the ball.
Before the match, Yang Hao was confident that Villarreal wouldn't play conservatively. It wasn't clairvoyance—it was a tactical inevitability.
Pellegrini knew that parking the bus against Atlético wouldn't work. Instead, Villarreal opted for their usual pressing strategy, which offered a better chance of success.
Yang Hao responded in kind. He avoided using the more defensively inclined Baraja in midfield, opting instead for the technical brilliance of Iniesta to enhance Atlético's passing rhythm.
This decision ensured that Villarreal's pressing lacked its usual bite, as Atlético's quick passing sequences bypassed the pressure.
As for Riquelme, Yang Hao had issued clear instructions: the moment Riquelme touched the ball, the nearest player would close him down immediately.
"Don't give him time or space. Suffocate him. He won't have the chance to make his genius passes if we swarm him every time he gets the ball!"
In these head-to-head clashes between two familiar La Liga sides, Atlético's superior overall quality made it difficult for Villarreal to resist effectively.
The disparity was evident in the 9th minute.
Despite being tightly marked by Xabi Alonso and Iniesta, Riquelme managed to deliver a clever pass into the left side of the box for Sorín.
The Argentine surged forward, but Maicon stuck to him like glue. Though Sorín got his cross off, Figueroa, nicknamed "Little Batigol," found himself outmuscled by Lúcio, who left him with no room to maneuver. The forward stumbled, sending the ball out for a goal kick.
This sequence underscored the gap in individual quality. Villarreal's players couldn't match Atlético's in one-on-one duels.
In La Liga, Villarreal could sometimes hold their own against Atlético thanks to less preparation from their opponents or fatigue from Atlético's multi-competition schedule.
But in a meticulously prepared final, Villarreal had little room to exploit.
Atlético's primary attacks came down the flanks, avoiding Villarreal's double-pivot midfield. Robben on the left and Messi on the right were particularly lively.
Messi, playing in his first Champions League final at just 18 years old, was electrifying on the right wing. He frequently attempted daring dribbles, though Villarreal's defenders resorted to physicality to neutralize him.
The young Argentine's lack of physical strength led to frequent falls, drawing criticism from Villarreal fans, who accused him of diving. Atlético supporters, however, countered by reminding them of his youth.
After all, it wasn't fair to expect an 18-year-old to go toe-to-toe with seasoned European defenders in physical duels—unless that 18-year-old was Adriano.
As both teams exchanged attacks, the clock ticked on. Atlético dominated possession, but Villarreal occasionally threatened on the counter.
From the 27th minute, Villarreal enjoyed a brief spell of pressure on Atlético's right flank, earning several throw-ins.
In one instance, Maicon cleared a ball that had deflected off Sorín's leg, granting Atlético a throw-in near their own penalty area.
Villarreal kept pressing high, eager to capitalize on this rare opportunity.
Maicon's quick throw-in found Xabi Alonso, but Tacchinardi intercepted his first touch. Lúcio stepped up, blasting the ball forward.
Messi dropped deep to receive the pass near Atlético's 30-meter line, with Arruabarrena hot on his heels.
The young Argentine deftly controlled the ball with his left foot, flicking it toward the right central channel before spinning away and sprinting forward.
Atlético's midfield surged ahead in unison.
Kaká was the first to react. Collecting Messi's layoff, he burst past Josico with long, elegant strides, accelerating rapidly into Villarreal's half.
The Brazilian maestro's intent was clear—this was an opportunity to strike.
The entire Stade de France bore witness as Kaká charged forward like the wind. He sprinted past the halfway line, into Villarreal's 30-meter zone, and up to the edge of the penalty area.
Álvarez and Peña, retreating all the way, could backtrack no further and were forced to step up.
Kaká feigned a pass to Drogba on the left and Robben on the flank, causing Villarreal's defenders to shift leftward. But instead, the Brazilian suddenly struck a diagonal pass with his left foot, threading the ball into the right side of the penalty area.
There, Messi arrived just in time, outpacing Arruabarrena to reach Kaká's pass. The young Argentine executed a sudden stop, pulling the ball back with his right foot, then nudging it forward with his left to evade Arruabarrena. With a single step to his left, he unleashed a low shot.
The ball skimmed along the grass with blistering speed, nestling perfectly into the bottom-left corner of Villarreal's net.
"GOAL!!!"
"Messi! Messi!!"
"28th minute! Messi scores the opening goal for Atlético Madrid after a brilliant assist from Kaká!"
"1-0!"
"Atlético breaks the deadlock!"
The entire stadium erupted in celebration.
Atlético players rushed to the sidelines, embracing each other in jubilation. Yang Hao stood at the edge of the technical area, clapping vigorously for his team.
This quick counterattack was Atlético's signature move, and Kaká's blistering pace had been on full display. Equally important was the team's diverse offensive repertoire, which included Xabi Alonso's pinpoint long balls and swift, versatile attacks tailored to each match's needs.
As the players celebrated, a new wave of cheers erupted from Atlético's fans. Yang Hao paused, puzzled by the surge in excitement.
"A record! Messi has just broken another record!"
"He has surpassed Dutch legend Patrick Kluivert's record from the 1994/95 Champions League final to become the youngest scorer in Champions League final history!"
"Congratulations to Atlético Madrid! Congratulations to Messi!!"
"This young Argentine sensation is a record-breaking machine. Not only is he the youngest scorer in Champions League history, but now he's also the youngest scorer in a Champions League final!"
"What an incredible achievement!"
"Messi's performance this season has been phenomenal. He's so young yet already so dazzling!"
"Interestingly, Messi and Kluivert's records are remarkably close. Both scored their goals on the same calendar day—May 24 for Kluivert in 1995 and May 17 for Messi this year."
"Kluivert was born on July 1, while Messi's birthday is June 24, making their ages at the time of their goals virtually identical."
"UEFA confirmed the record by factoring in their goal times. Kluivert scored his goal in the 85th minute of the second half as a substitute, while Messi scored in the 28th minute as a starter. Based on these details, Messi has officially broken the record!"
"For the first time in 11 years, this Champions League final record has been shattered!"
"Congratulations to Messi! Congratulations to Atlético Madrid!"
________________________________________
With Atlético's opening goal, the momentum shifted.
Villarreal, desperate to equalize, sought to restore parity and regain their footing. Their urgency was understandable—trailing a superior Atlético side would deal a significant blow to their morale.
However, Atlético's defensive approach to Riquelme was meticulous.
While Yang Hao didn't assign a dedicated man-marker to Riquelme, Atlético's disciplined execution ensured the Argentine playmaker was constantly under pressure. Whenever he touched the ball, nearby Atlético players swarmed him, disrupting his rhythm and limiting his effectiveness.
As Riquelme struggled, Villarreal's entire midfield faltered, forcing them to rely on his individual brilliance to create opportunities.
This limitation highlighted the inherent vulnerability of single-playmaker systems and the decline of traditional No. 10s in modern football.
Meanwhile, Atlético maintained their composure after the goal. Villarreal's attempts to mount a response were met with patient and calculated resistance.
In the 41st minute, Messi once again dazzled on the right flank. Facing a three-man blockade of Arruabarrena, Tacchinardi, and Sorín, he nimbly weaved through them, finding a narrow gap to release the ball.
Kaká picked it up, surged forward with explosive speed, and passed to Drogba, who had dropped back near the edge of the penalty area.
The Ivorian shielded Peña with his body and laid the ball off for Kaká, who executed a clever nutmeg on Álvarez, slipping the ball through the defender's legs.
Kaká raced into the box, recovered the ball, and with Reina rushing out to close him down, he lofted a delicate chip over the keeper's head. The ball sailed into the net from a tight angle.
"GOAL!!!"
"Kaká! Kaká!!"
"Atlético scores again!"
"A brilliant chip from Kaká doubles the lead!"
"That was a beautiful one-two between Drogba and Kaká, capped off by an imaginative nutmeg and a precise finish."
"Villarreal's defense had no answer for this level of skill and creativity."
"You can see the devastation on Villarreal's players' faces—they've given everything but still can't contain Atlético."
"In truth, the gulf in quality between these teams is undeniable."
"Atlético Madrid remains unbeaten in this Champions League campaign. If they win tonight, they'll become the first team in history to achieve a perfect record en route to the title!"
________________________________________
By the time the score reached 2-0, the outcome seemed all but certain.
Even Villarreal's players knew it would be nearly impossible to mount a comeback against Atlético.
Yet, at the start of the second half, Villarreal demonstrated commendable determination, launching a spirited wave of attacks.
Yang Hao made constant adjustments from the sidelines, ensuring that Atlético maintained their defensive focus.
Their game plan remained unchanged: neutralize Riquelme, block the flanks, and exploit Villarreal's vulnerabilities.
Full-backs Evra and Maicon limited their overlapping runs, leaving the forward trio and midfielders to carve open Villarreal's defense through individual brilliance and incisive passing.
Against such a formidable Atlético side, Villarreal's efforts—valiant as they were—seemed destined to fall short.
At the 66th minute, as Villarreal's attack began to wane, Atlético Madrid mounted yet another offensive from midfield.
Kaká intercepted the ball, initiating a counterattack. Drogba pulled defenders to the right, while Kaká charged straight down the center with Messi running in support.
Kaká and Messi attempted a one-two pass, but Tacchinardi intercepted the ball. However, Kaká immediately launched a sliding tackle, reclaiming possession and passing it to Iniesta, who promptly delivered a through ball.
Robben accelerated past Venta on the left and sent a low cross into the box.
Drogba made a diagonal run into the area and, near the edge of the six-yard box, struck the ball into Villarreal's net with a precise finish.
3-0!
At that moment, the match was effectively over.
If Villarreal could overturn this scoreline, Yang Hao might as well retire!
The Yellow Submarine looked deflated, their spirit crushed by the relentless onslaught.
The final 20 minutes of the match turned into garbage time.
With a comfortable lead, Atlético saw off Villarreal's half-hearted attempts to mount a comeback.
At the 70th minute, Yang Hao began making substitutions. Ribéry, Baraja, and Ramos came on to replace Messi, Kaká, and Lúcio, respectively.
When the trio exited the field, they were met with rapturous applause from the Atlético fans and even a portion of Villarreal supporters. It was clear that this was a special acknowledgment orchestrated by Yang Hao for his star players.
________________________________________
Standing silently on the sideline, Yang Hao watched the game unfold.
On the field, the match continued, though both sides had come to terms with the outcome.
On the bench, Atlético's substitutes were already preparing to storm the pitch in celebration.
Pallares, one of Yang Hao's assistants, shared some remarkable statistics with him.
In Spain alone, over 20 million viewers were tuning in to watch this final. With a national population of just 44 million, nearly one in two people were glued to their screens.
Globally, the match was being broadcast live in nearly 200 countries and territories, underscoring its massive significance for both Atlético Madrid and Villarreal.
UEFA estimates revealed that Atlético would earn at least €33 million in prize money for their Champions League campaign, while Villarreal was set to collect close to €30 million—a life-changing sum for a smaller club.
This didn't include revenue from matchday earnings, sponsorships, and other associated income, which would add significantly to their coffers.
For top clubs like Atlético, the Champions League was a lucrative venture. For Villarreal, the money they earned this season was astronomical.
Meanwhile, the financial health of La Liga as a whole had seen dramatic improvements.
Atlético's league title secured them a share of over €40 million in broadcasting revenue—a noticeable increase compared to previous seasons.
Real Madrid and Barcelona, who once earned €75 million each in TV rights, saw their share slashed to €40 million, effectively halving their income. Yet, despite this, neither club was in dire straits.
With La Liga fully committed to globalizing the league and supporting its top three clubs, the potential benefits for Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atlético were substantial.
Real Madrid had already surpassed Manchester United as the world's highest-earning club, while Barcelona trailed just behind Atlético with annual revenues exceeding €200 million.
This season, La Liga's collective efforts were expected to push revenues even higher.
For mid-table and lower-tier teams, the changes in broadcasting revenue distribution provided much-needed stability. Even relegated clubs were expected to receive around €18 million, far surpassing their previous earnings.
These financial reforms had earned widespread support from almost all clubs in La Liga, even benefiting Segunda División teams, albeit to a lesser degree.
This progress also allowed Yang Hao to propose further reforms to tighten financial controls across La Liga. His suggestions for managing club debt, limiting agent fees, and regulating player wages had gained traction.
Yang Hao's primary goal was to avoid La Liga following the English Premier League's path, where inflated TV rights deals funneled excessive money into the pockets of players and agents, leaving clubs to do the heavy lifting while reaping fewer long-term rewards.
________________________________________
While these thoughts swirled in Yang Hao's mind, the referee, Terje Hauge, blew the final whistle.
The game ended.
Atlético Madrid had triumphed 3-0.
The players on the bench flooded the pitch, and those on the field celebrated with unrestrained joy.
"The match is over!"
"The final score: 3-0!"
"With goals from Messi, Kaká, and Drogba, Atlético Madrid has decisively defeated Villarreal."
"This result comes as no surprise. Villarreal showed great determination, but against an Atlético side with superior quality and preparation, they struggled to create meaningful opportunities."
"The scoreline speaks for itself."
"We witnessed some standout performances from Atlético's stars tonight. Kaká, with a goal and an assist, was the standout player, while the young Argentine Messi continued to dazzle."
"On the other hand, Riquelme couldn't rise to the occasion under Atlético's relentless pressure."
"Perhaps Riquelme needs to learn how to integrate himself better into the team's overall structure."
"After their celebrations on the field, Atlético's players have turned their attention to the sidelines, lifting their manager Yang Hao into the air!"
"Congratulations to Yang Hao! Congratulations to Atlético! And congratulations to all Atlético players and fans!"
"3-0!"
"Atlético Madrid has won this season's Champions League, completing a domestic and European double!"
________________________________________
Atlético's victory at the Stade de France marked another high point in their historic campaign.
The undefeated Champions League run was an unprecedented achievement in football history.
France's L'Équipe lauded Atlético as a team far ahead of its contemporaries. Whether crushing Real Madrid or defeating Villarreal in the final, Atlético's dominance was undeniable.
"The Colchoneros look like a team from another planet!"
Kicker, the German football magazine, was quick to comment: "On a legendary night in France, Atlético Madrid made history!"
The publication praised Atlético's performance, singling out Kaká as the Man of the Match and acknowledging young Messi, who shattered Patrick Kluivert's historic record at the Stade de France.
"On the 50th anniversary of the Champions League, Messi's record-breaking moment brings immense joy," Kicker stated. "Currently holding both the record for the youngest scorer in Champions League history and the youngest scorer in a Champions League final, Messi has a bright future ahead. He is Europe's most exciting young talent."
Marca highlighted Atlético's double triumph at the Stade de France, marking their third Champions League victory in five years and the establishment of their golden era.
"Without a doubt, Atlético's story is far from over," the article stated. "Yang Hao and his players are still at the peak of their powers, and their dominance will continue for years to come."
Even AS, typically critical of Atlético, couldn't help but applaud:
"Atlético has been the most aesthetically pleasing team in Europe over the past few years, earning admiration from all corners of the footballing world."
"This season, their La Liga and Champions League double has secured their place in history!"
From Catalonia, Mundo Deportivo noted Atlético's fair and decisive victory at the Stade de France, where they defeated Villarreal to claim the double.
"They are the rightful masters of Europe!"
________________________________________
As Atlético Madrid hoisted their third European Cup trophy in history at the Stade de France, tens of thousands of fans began gathering at Neptune's Fountain in Madrid.
Fans watched the final from homes, bars, fan clubs, and outdoor plazas across the city. Now, they converged at Atlético's traditional celebration spot to cheer for their team.
When the players lifted the trophy in Paris, fans in Madrid erupted in simultaneous cheers.
That night, Madrid was painted red and white.
________________________________________
The celebrations lasted all night, spilling into the next day.
After a brief lull in the morning, the city came alive again by midday, especially as thousands of fans flocked to the airport to greet the returning team.
Atlético Madrid's players arrived aboard an Emirates flight, donning special commemorative shirts celebrating their treble triumph. The shirts, printed overnight, sold out almost immediately in Atlético's fan shops. Enthusiastic supporters even tried to break down store doors, demanding more stock.
The streets of Madrid overflowed with fans. Among them were not only Atlético supporters but also some Real Madrid fans and visitors from other regions. To everyone, the parade was a joyous celebration of football.
With three Champions League titles, Atlético had now surpassed Manchester United and Inter Milan to become Europe's sixth most decorated club, behind only Real Madrid, AC Milan, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, and Ajax.
Barcelona, in contrast, had just one Champions League title, a statistic that thrilled Atlético fans.
For those who had witnessed Atlético's transformation over the past six years, the journey from a struggling club on the verge of relegation to Europe's newest superpower felt miraculous.
At the heart of this transformation stood their manager, Yang Hao.
________________________________________
Yang Hao, however, opted out of the parade, citing exhaustion. At the airport, he quietly slipped into a car with Enrique Cerezo and Miguel Gil, heading straight to the Vicente Calderón Stadium.
When the team bus finally arrived at the stadium after making its way from Neptune's Fountain, Yang Hao rejoined his players on the field to share the joy of their historic season with tens of thousands of fans.
Atlético had secured the Spanish Super Cup, La Liga, and the Champions League—a historic treble.
During his address to the crowd, Yang Hao reassured fans:
"This team's journey is far from over. I promise you, our mission continues. We will only grow stronger!"
The stadium erupted in applause, with fans rising to their feet to honor the man they credited for Atlético's incredible rise.
Led by Rubén Baraja, Fernando Torres, and Xabi Alonso, the players paraded their trophies around the stadium, thanking fans in every corner. The applause and cheers seemed endless.
________________________________________
Though Atlético fans had grown accustomed to post-season victory parades, each triumph felt just as joyous.
After all, who could tire of celebrating championships?
Standing in the stadium with Enrique Cerezo and Miguel Gil, Yang Hao watched his players and fans in celebration.
Even as he enjoyed the moment, his mind was already turning to the future.
Looking up at the dark night sky, he envisioned the challenges of the upcoming season, the looming World Cup in Germany, and the ramifications of Italy's unfolding Calciopoli scandal.
As clubs from the Premier League and La Liga prepared to raid Serie A for players, Yang Hao couldn't help but anticipate what Real Madrid's president, Florentino Pérez, might have in store.
Florentino had a penchant for bold moves, and Yang Hao had no doubt that this summer would bring yet another audacious play from their eternal rivals.
Yang Hao smiled to himself.
"I wonder what surprise Florentino has planned this time?"
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