Chapter 87
Monaco, Monte Carlo's yacht harbor.
At the farthest end of the marina was a massive luxury yacht. Everyone knew it belonged to a Russian oligarch, but no one knew his identity.
Every time the dock's residents, including other yacht-owning magnates, spotted this behemoth, they couldn't help but steal envious glances.
What they didn't know, however, was that aboard this ship, a Middle Eastern man of far lesser wealth stood watching them from above, relishing the feeling of being admired.
His name was somewhat known in the British financial world: Farhad Moshiri.
It's true—comparisons are the thief of joy.
While others his age reveled in immense wealth, Farhad Moshiri was still toiling away.
But the 50-year-old quickly suppressed his feelings, calming himself.
He knew complaining was useless. What he needed was to seize the opportunity at hand.
"Alisher, every time you park your ship here, do you ever notice that conference center across the water?"
A rotund, bald, middle-aged man approached, following Moshiri's gesture toward the building. He shook his head.
"Never been there. Not my thing. Now, the casino—that's more my speed," he quipped, laughing heartily.
"That's the Grimaldi Forum," Moshiri explained. "Every year at the end of August, it hosts the UEFA Champions League group stage draw, gathering executives from Europe's biggest clubs in one place."
Pausing briefly, he added with a hint of regret, "For years now, you've been so close to them."
The straight-line distance couldn't have been more than 300 meters.
"Is that so?" the middle-aged man chuckled knowingly, already guessing where the conversation was headed.
"I've already agreed to buy David Dein's shares in Arsenal. Once that deal is finalized, I'll finally have a foothold among them."
Moshiri, who worked as a legal accountant at Deloitte, had long managed various acquisitions and investments across Europe for his employer. His job often involved orchestrating transactions and providing strategic counsel.
Among those vying for Alisher Usmanov's favor, Moshiri stood out for his sharp mind and discerning eye.
For someone like Usmanov, who attracted opportunists like moths to a flame, Moshiri's competence was a breath of fresh air. Usmanov didn't mind giving a capable person a share of the spoils—or at least a sip of the soup.
"I understand, Alisher. You're paying £75 million—€112 million—for 14.58% of Arsenal's shares. Your ultimate goal is to take full control of the club, isn't it?"
Moshiri's insight into his employer's intentions was clear as day.
This particular billionaire wasn't just any wealthy oligarch; Alisher Usmanov was a globally renowned tycoon.
"Of course. My love for Arsenal is like a man's love for a woman," Usmanov declared theatrically.
"You've said that in interviews many times," Moshiri chuckled.
Usmanov joined in the laughter. Somehow, repeating it enough made him believe it himself.
"But from what I understand, Arsenal's other shareholders—including chairman Peter Hill-Wood—strongly oppose the deal. And let's face it, Arsenal isn't what it used to be. Wenger's at Real Madrid, and the Gunners can't even make it into that conference center."
Moshiri pointed toward the Grimaldi Forum again, delivering a pointed truth.
"They're letting you buy in because they're financially strapped from building a new stadium. At the same time, they've already invited American investors. In the end, who will really control Arsenal?"
"David Dein promised to help me."
"Yes, my respected Mr. Usmanov, but Dein will have already sold his shares."
Usmanov fell silent, sinking into a sofa and gesturing for Moshiri to sit beside him to continue the discussion.
This was a transaction worth over €100 million, after all.
"I know it's those financial bigwigs in the City of London pushing you toward Arsenal, but let me tell you: it might not be the best investment."
"Go on."
"English clubs are massively overvalued these days, especially London-based ones like Arsenal. Spending £75 million for 14.58%? What about the rest? How much more would it cost to gain control? And how many variables could derail it along the way?"
This was precisely what worried Usmanov.
"I understand your ambitions, Alisher. We've worked together for years, and I know what you're aiming for. But there's a better option."
"Let's hear it."
"Spain."
"Don't be ridiculous, Farhad. La Liga is full of near-bankrupt paupers without proper financial oversight. Are you seriously suggesting that? And how does their market compare to the Premier League's?"
Clearly, Usmanov wasn't entirely uninformed.
He'd had his sights set on the Premier League for a long time and had been biding his time.
"You're talking about the past, Alisher. La Liga has changed significantly over the last few years."
Moshiri leaned forward, making his case.
"In recent years, La Liga has aggressively pursued globalization, becoming one of the world's most influential sports leagues. Their growth trajectory is remarkable."
"La Liga's broadcasting rights reform has been running smoothly for three years now. Atlético Madrid, Real Madrid, and Barcelona lead the charge, and many smaller clubs are benefiting as well. Since last year, they've implemented strict financial audits."
Moshiri added pointedly, "Our company helped conduct those audits."
Usmanov was intrigued. He knew Moshiri had access to detailed financial data for La Liga clubs.
"Go on."
Taking a deep breath, Moshiri saw that Usmanov's interest was piqued.
"La Liga is like an airplane accelerating for takeoff. Those unfamiliar with its inner workings still cling to outdated impressions."
"From reliable sources, I've learned that La Liga's global broadcasting rights auction in early 2008 will shock the world."
"Are you saying they'll outdo the Premier League in globalization?"
Moshiri smiled knowingly.
"Let me ask you: where are the world's best football stars today?"
"Atlético. Kaka. Everyone knows that," Usmanov replied without hesitation.
"And after him?"
"Messi? Ronaldinho? Cristiano Ronaldo? Henry? Beckham…" Usmanov trailed off.
It suddenly dawned on him that the world's most influential football superstars were all in La Liga—and concentrated within its big three.
"Alisher, you must understand: most football fans care little for so-called loyalty or legacy. Those things are illusions. What they really care about is the spectacle, the stars, and the drama."
"They only want to chase the world's best superstars, watch the most exciting matches, and support the strongest teams. That's why Atlético is the most influential club globally right now, with Real Madrid and Barcelona right behind them. And the Premier League?"
"Domestically, yes, the Premier League has an edge over La Liga, but the gap isn't that big. On the global stage, however, La Liga has started to catch up. And we both know how massive that market is."
"So, you're saying La Liga is better than the Premier League now?"
"No, no, Alisher. That's not a judgment I can make, but I can provide you with a comparison so you can decide for yourself." Farhad Moshiri could sense that Usmanov was intrigued.
"With €100 million, you can only buy 14.58% of Arsenal in the Premier League. But in La Liga?"
Moshiri's tone grew persuasive, almost theatrical. "You could choose a team in Madrid, take on Atlético and Real in the local derby. Or go to Barcelona and challenge Barça in the Catalan derby. Or perhaps Valencia…"
"You've heard, haven't you? The Middle Eastern Abu Dhabi consortium has bought Valencia and plans to invest heavily. I've just received intelligence on their unprecedented offer to Atlético."
Moshiri adopted a dramatic tone, feigning astonishment to drive home his point.
"How much?"
"Four players, €250 million."
"How much?" Usmanov's voice rose in surprise.
"€250 million for four Atlético players: goalkeeper Petr Čech, center-back Lúcio, left-back Antonio López, and forward David Villa."
"They're insane!" Usmanov exclaimed, struggling to process the figure.
That was €250 million—enough to purchase more than 30% of Arsenal's shares.
Moshiri stayed silent, allowing Usmanov to connect the dots himself.
Of course, Abu Dhabi wasn't insane.
Usmanov had heard of the consortium's reputation: assembling the best investment minds globally, making every decision strategically and with long-term goals in mind. Insanity wasn't in their vocabulary.
"I can only tell you this—Valencia made it to the Champions League quarterfinals last season, while Atlético won the treble. If Valencia signs these four players, they could soar to become one of Europe's strongest teams."
"More importantly, they'd shock the world. Even their manager, Carlo Ancelotti, has declared that their aim is to win the Champions League."
Usmanov needed a moment to digest this. The numbers were staggering.
"One more thing," Moshiri added. "Barcelona has already spent €150 million in this transfer window, and their revenue last season was nearly €300 million."
Usmanov, a sharp businessman, quickly understood the underlying message.
From a business perspective, the Premier League still led the pack, but English clubs were undeniably expensive.
Even Arsenal, underperforming last season, commanded a sky-high valuation.
Newcastle United, despite being a mid-table team, sold for €200 million to a local billionaire. Had it been foreign investors, the price could've been even higher.
And Newcastle? No prime location, no significant success—just a mediocre club.
But as Moshiri outlined, €100 million could buy an entire club in Madrid, Barcelona, or Valencia—directly challenging La Liga's Big Three while riding their coattails for exposure.
After all, business is about maximizing returns with minimal investment.
If La Liga could develop to rival the Premier League—or even come close—such an investment would yield astronomical returns.
Wait?
Every savvy investor knew the risks of waiting. The moment you think it's the right time, so will everyone else. By then, the prices would have soared.
In business, timing was everything.
"La Liga has another major advantage: lower wages. Player salaries are much cheaper than in the Premier League, and while revenues are lower, operating costs are significantly reduced. With Spain's recent talent boom and the influx of African and South American players, the league's financial structure is far more sustainable than the Premier League's—except for the very top stars."
"With that foundation, La Liga's growth potential exceeds the Premier League's."
Moshiri paused for effect, then delivered his final argument.
"Remember Amancio Ortega? Spain's richest man? He bought Deportivo La Coruña for just €20–30 million. Last season, they almost qualified for the Champions League and made it to the UEFA Cup final."
"As far as I know, many are watching closely—investors from London's financial hub and even the U.S. They're waiting for La Liga's prospects to become clearer before making their moves."
"But I believe we need to act quickly—especially in key cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. Those are prime locations."
Moshiri's closing remarks cemented Usmanov's resolve.
"Farhad, prepare an investment plan immediately and start investigating. I want a report as soon as possible. Just as you suggested, focus on the core cities where we can directly compete with Atlético, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. That's the kind of spotlight we need!"
If they were going to ride the hype, they'd ride it to the fullest.
Anything less would be a missed opportunity.
As someone who had invested in social media ventures like Facebook, Usmanov knew a thing or two about leveraging exposure.
Moshiri nodded with a grin, but then shifted gears. "What about Arsenal?"
Usmanov laughed heartily, recognizing Moshiri's ulterior motive.
"Don't worry. I only gave David Dein a verbal promise. No contracts have been signed. In business, things change in an instant—that's just how it is."
"Understood," Moshiri replied with a smile.
He knew he had seized an opportunity of a lifetime.
If he played his cards right, this could be his breakthrough moment, solidifying his relationship with Usmanov.
Even if crumbs fell from the billionaire's table, those crumbs would still be worth millions—perhaps even billions.
Among the "Big Three" of La Liga, Atlético Madrid has remained relatively quiet in the transfer market, while Real Madrid and Barcelona are on a global hunt for stars. Barcelona has already spent €150 million, and Real Madrid, after signing Pirlo, followed up this summer with Philipp Lahm, spending a total of €50–60 million.
Deportivo La Coruña, sticking to their tradition of balancing their books, sold Andrade and bought Mexès, making up the difference with a small amount of additional funds. Now, Super Depor has three capable center-backs: Juan, Coloccini, and Mexès.
The gap between those who truly understand football and those who don't becomes particularly evident here.
Sevilla, despite their Champions League qualification and a sharp revenue increase, hasn't gone big in the transfer market. They signed Arteta, Seydou Keita, Gallas, and Rakitic from Switzerland while selling Ocio and Kepa, netting €7 million. Russian striker Kerzhakov was also sold to Dynamo Moscow for €8 million.
In the end, Sevilla has effectively spent almost nothing.
Monchi, Sevilla's bald-headed sporting director, continues to amaze with his savvy dealings. Of course, such operations require the club's overall structure as support—Monchi alone, or with his small team, couldn't accomplish this without the proper backing.
Similarly, Villarreal has been gradually strengthening their squad, signing Giuseppe Rossi and Alou Diarra, bringing Ángel López from Celta Vigo, Ayala on a free transfer from Valencia, and Capdevila on a free from Deportivo. Each move is a stroke of genius.
Deportivo's decision not to renew with Capdevila largely stemmed from his age. At 29, Capdevila reached a sensitive point in his career, especially regarding contract renewals. After parting ways with him, Deportivo quickly signed Filipe Luís.
This issue of age isn't unique to Deportivo—it's one that Yang Hao must also face at Atlético. Both Lúcio and Drogba are 29 as well.
________________________________________
At Atlético's headquarters, Yang Hao noticed that the debris from the three demolished stands had already been cleared. The next step involved building a temporary access road for vehicles, after which the western stand would be dismantled.
Once the western stand is removed, the city will take over, digging the roadway underground and transforming the area into a riverside park.
When Yang Hao arrived, Enrique Cerezo, Miguel Gil, and other department heads were already waiting for him. As soon as he entered, the atmosphere shifted—they'd regained their anchor.
"Alright, tell us what we should do," Miguel Gil urged, clearly anxious.
After all, this was a €250 million offer. None of them had ever encountered something of this magnitude before.
Even Cerezo and Miguel Gil felt torn. On the one hand, the club desperately needed the money. On the other, they worried about the potential damage to the team from selling four players, especially crucial ones like Lúcio and Čech.
David Villa, one of Spain's top domestic forwards, was second only to Torres in terms of performance. Could the team maintain its strength if he left?
"I spoke with them on the phone before boarding the plane, so I have some idea of their intentions," Yang Hao said calmly.
His composure was evident—this wasn't his first rodeo, and over the years, he'd always prepared for such scenarios.
Only a few days ago, fans online were asking why no one was targeting Atlético's players in the transfer market. Now, here it was—fast, direct, and ruthless.
"Antonio López told me Valencia promised him a starting spot. That old fox Ancelotti even spoke to him personally. Their salary offer is also very high. We can't keep him."
Could they keep him by offering a starting role or matching Valencia's salary?
Evra, at just 26, was in his prime. Replacing him with Antonio López, even for the sake of a domestic player, would be absurd.
Yang Hao wasn't one for such sentimentality. Unlike Ferguson, who leaned into local loyalties, Yang Hao prioritized player development and overall team strength. If Evra fit the requirements, there was no reason to compromise for someone else.
"Does that mean he wants to leave?" Miguel Gil frowned.
Yang Hao nodded. "We can't hold him, nor should we try."
Parting on good terms would be better for all involved.
"What about the left flank, then?" Cerezo asked.
"We've got Marcelo, who's been on loan in Brazil. He's ready to return, and we'll focus on developing him."
At 19 years old, Marcelo had room to grow, and in three or four years, he'd be ready to replace Evra.
"So, you're saying Villa is also likely to leave?" Miguel Gil asked, disappointed.
Fans adored Villa, who was a Spanish international, but Valencia sought to make him their marquee player. Their €80 million offer was astronomical—close to the value of a superstar like Kaka, Messi, or Ronaldo.
Valencia's aim was to replace Vicente, whose injuries had sidelined him too often, with Villa as their new icon.
For Villa, the move was appealing. At Valencia, he'd lead the team and earn €7 million annually—a salary Atlético couldn't match without upsetting their pay scale.
Would Yang Hao break that scale for anyone?
Yes—for Messi.
"Valencia offered Lúcio a five-year contract with a €7 million annual salary," Yang Hao revealed.
Valencia's poaching wasn't just about high transfer fees. Their strategy included demonstrating goodwill with hefty offers, signaling they weren't here to burn bridges but to foster a long-term relationship.
Their unspoken message was clear: We're rich, and we can help. Let's keep this friendly.
And therein lay the imbalance.
Situations like this are common, especially with clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona. Their membership-based structures make it inherently unfair compared to Atlético Madrid's corporate ownership model.
But fairness doesn't matter in reality—only the terms on the table do.
A five-year contract with an annual salary of €7 million—can Atlético match it?
If not, Valencia has already shown their sincerity with a high price to secure Lúcio.
In professional football, emotions often take a back seat to business.
Take the example of Philipp Lahm moving to Real Madrid for €40 million. Yang Hao considered that price a steal. Based on the information he received, Lahm explicitly told Uli Hoeness he wanted to leave for Real Madrid.
Why?
The Champions League was part of it, but a major reason was Real Madrid offering him a net salary of €5 million after taxes.
In Spain, this net €5 million cost Real Madrid just over €6 million before taxes, but for Bayern to match the same take-home pay, they'd have to pay nearly €9 million due to Germany's tax policies.
It's no wonder Bayern likely cursed Spain's favorable tax laws, which are arguably the Spanish government's biggest support for La Liga.
Čech's situation mirrored Lúcio's. Valencia offered a higher salary and better terms to lure him away.
As for Čech himself, he had already won everything there was to win at Atlético, achieving a club-level grand slam.
Could he surpass Buffon?
Highly unlikely, as the Czech Republic lacked international honors. Forget Buffon—even catching up to Iker Casillas seemed difficult. Under Yang Hao's management, Spain had been performing spectacularly.
For any professional player, their career is built on two pillars: club success and international achievements. For players from weaker footballing nations, one of these pillars is always shaky.
"Čech's situation is under control. I've already asked Mendiódo to prepare," Yang Hao stated calmly.
The others immediately understood—Yang Hao had made up his mind.
During his journey back from Marbella, he had thought everything through.
The core and structure of the team would remain intact. Players coming and going was simply part of the game.
It's like a body of water—without fresh inflows and outflows, it stagnates.
In Yang Hao's previous experience, Barcelona's eventual stagnation occurred because the team became too static. Even Guardiola couldn't stay and ultimately left.
However, while turnover is necessary, the core structure cannot be dismantled, or else the team risks losing its status as a powerhouse.
Yang Hao's strategy was clear: anyone looking to poach Atlético's players, even rotational ones like Antonio López, would have to pay a premium.
Meanwhile, Atlético's own acquisitions wouldn't break the bank.
This highlights the importance of having options.
Professional football operates like a pyramid—the higher up you go, the more elite and rare the players become.
Players like Antonio López, Villa, Lúcio, and Čech are among the very best in Spain, with Lúcio and Čech being some of the world's top players.
If Atlético says no to selling, where can Valencia turn?
Nesta? Would Inter Milan sell? Or perhaps they could try to poach Nemanja Vidić from Manchester United?
Does Vidić measure up to Lúcio right now?
On the flip side, if Atlético wanted a replacement for Lúcio, Yang Hao had plenty of choices: David Luiz, Alex, even Gerard Piqué.
If none of those worked out, Atlético still had three other center-backs on their roster.
Having more options gave Atlético a negotiating edge, preventing the other party from setting exorbitant prices.
Negotiation tactics also mattered.
For example, if Čech left, the world would know Atlético needed a top-tier goalkeeper. What then?
Yang Hao would start by leaking interest in Gianluigi Buffon, then shift attention to Villarreal's Pepe Reina, Hugo Lloris from France, or Germany's rising star René Adler.
Finally, he'd zero in on his true target: Schalke 04's Manuel Neuer.
While this approach required more effort, it effectively prevented other clubs from inflating prices.
________________________________________
Once Yang Hao made his decision, all departments at Atlético sprang into action.
The PR department began drafting plans to manage fan reactions, focusing on mitigating negative sentiment caused by beloved players leaving.
The finance department started analyzing financial scenarios, negotiating payment methods, and exploring how to structure the deals. In modern football, transfers are often capital-driven, and upfront cash deals are increasingly rare.
The marketing department's role was crucial, ensuring a smooth transition for sponsorship agreements tied to departing players. Sometimes, sponsorship contracts remained even after a player transferred, requiring careful management.
This complexity is why major transfers during the winter window are rare unless one party makes significant concessions.
For instance, Real Madrid's acquisition of Pirlo involved substantial compromises.
But even that didn't stop Atlético from achieving their historic fifth consecutive La Liga title.
Rumor had it that during Real Madrid's latest members' meeting, the rallying cry was clear: Stop Atlético. No six consecutive titles for the Rojiblancos!
Old rivalries, new battles.
After the department heads left, Yang Hao stayed behind with Enrique Cerezo and Miguel Gil to discuss the summer window in more detail.
"Will it affect us? Of course. Losing four key players always does. But will it cripple us? Definitely not," Yang Hao said with a confident smile.
"What concerns me more is Ancelotti. Signing so many players at once—can he manage that?"
Signing four Atlético stars and integrating them with Valencia's existing squad could lead to chaos if not handled well. If Ancelotti mismanaged, it could spell disaster for him.
In contrast, Mourinho was accustomed to heavy spending and had a proven ability to integrate new squads. Yang Hao wasn't worried about him.
As for Real Madrid, Wenger was entering his second season as manager. With tactical foundations in place and Lahm now in the mix, their lineup looked solid.
"€40 million for Lahm—Real Madrid and Bayern's relationship must be excellent," Yang Hao quipped.
"Looking at the current situation, La Liga's investment this year is massive. Among the top four, Valencia and Barcelona alone have spent €400 million. Other clubs are also active…"
Enrique Cerezo let out a heavy sigh. "This La Liga feels more and more unfamiliar. The way capital plays the game is becoming increasingly sophisticated."
Yang Hao chuckled, wanting to say, This is just the beginning.
The private equity funds haven't even entered the scene yet. Wait until American investors get involved, and then watch how outrageous things can get.
But Yang Hao wasn't entirely sure if U.S. investors would actually put their money into La Liga. After all, the Premier League is more accommodating to capital and more familiar to Americans.
What concerned him most at the moment was the Twin Towers project.
Selling four star players would bring in €250 million in transfer fees, which Yang Hao insisted be paid within two years. If the Abu Dhabi consortium could pay cash, that would be even better.
With this influx of funds, Atlético Madrid would be able to fulfill its portion of the construction costs for the project.
However, Yang Hao was increasingly worried about the MSM Group and its partners. The fallout from the subprime mortgage crisis might affect their contributions, which was a risk that couldn't be ignored.
But the plan had already reached the point of no return.
Deep down, Yang Hao held a thought he hadn't shared with anyone—not even his closest associates. Or perhaps everyone knew it but simply avoided voicing it.
Selling these four players would free up significant wage space for Atlético.
Moments earlier, Yang Hao had already instructed Fernando Vázquez, the club's financial chief, to prepare for a round of salary increases.
This would stabilize morale and demonstrate that Atlético wouldn't sell players lightly. Any club looking to poach Atlético's stars would need to think twice about whether they could match the team's wage standards.
If Kaka and Torres's salaries were raised further, they would likely reach around €8 million annually—making them among the highest-paid players in world football.
Compared to the salaries of players in Yang Hao's previous timeline, where superstars earned tens of millions annually, the current wages were relatively low. But so were club revenues.
Real Madrid had only just surpassed €400 million in annual revenue.
In Yang Hao's original timeline, by the time he "traveled," Real Madrid had exceeded €700 million—and that was after being set back by a few years due to the pandemic. Otherwise, their growth would have been even faster.
Additionally, Real Madrid had been renovating the Bernabéu stadium. Once the new venue was completed, their income would skyrocket.
Sometimes, this constant movement of players—comings and goings—wasn't necessarily a bad thing.
As Yang Hao, Cerezo, and Miguel Gil were discussing future plans, Cerezo's phone suddenly rang.
"Antonio Ponte," Cerezo muttered in surprise.
Yang Hao and Miguel Gil fell silent, waiting.
Cerezo answered the call. Moments later, he shared the news he'd received.
"Apparently, Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov is coming to Spain for an inspection."
"Who?" Yang Hao asked, stunned.
"Usmanov."
Yang Hao exchanged glances with Miguel Gil, noting that Cerezo was equally surprised.
"Wasn't he supposed to be investing in Arsenal?"
"Who knows?" Cerezo shrugged, equally puzzled.
Antonio Ponte's call had been to request that Cerezo, along with the La Liga offices, prepare to welcome Usmanov. His itinerary included a visit to Atlético Madrid's new stadium and training facilities, which were now seen as benchmarks in La Liga.
"Apparently, he plans to visit three cities: Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia."
Hearing this, Yang Hao immediately grasped the situation.
"He's not coming without a plan."
"Exactly," Cerezo said with a wry smile.
Usmanov had recently been a hot topic in British media due to his attempts to invest in Arsenal. The club's chairman and other shareholders were against it, with only vice-chairman David Dein showing support.
For reasons unknown, however, Usmanov had now turned his attention to La Liga.
"Could this be a negotiating tactic to pressure Arsenal?"
As the thought crossed Yang Hao's mind, he pulled out his phone. "Let me check."
He called Sir Alex Ferguson first.
Despite their frequent sparring, the two shared a strong personal bond. Yang Hao would often send Ferguson bottles of fine wine during the holidays.
Ferguson told him he'd heard the same news—Usmanov had withdrawn after talks broke down, though he wasn't privy to the details.
Yang Hao then called Arsène Wenger, who still had connections at Arsenal.
Wenger confirmed Usmanov's interest in La Liga, adding, "He had his heart set on Arsenal, but according to David Dein, the club's stubborn shareholders pushed him away."
Yang Hao couldn't determine the full truth but wasn't particularly interested in the gossip.
The only certainty was that Usmanov, one of the world's richest men, was indeed coming to Spain.
This was someone wealthier than Roman Abramovich.
If Usmanov truly invested in La Liga, the league's landscape would be utterly transformed.
"How would La Liga even function after that?" Yang Hao mused aloud, half-jokingly, as he explained the situation to Cerezo and Miguel Gil.
Usmanov's chosen destinations—Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia—were no coincidence.
His potential targets were clear: Getafe in Madrid, Espanyol in Barcelona, and Levante in Valencia.
"Obviously, he's done his market research and is here with a clear purpose," Yang Hao concluded.
For Russian oligarchs, transferring their wealth abroad was a priority. Compared to the UK, Spain was a much safer option.
€250 million!
When Atlético Madrid and Valencia officially announced one of the most astonishing transfer deals in football history, fans worldwide were left in shock.
This was undeniably one of the most unbelievable transactions ever in world football—a single club spending €250 million to poach four players from another.
As some online fans jokingly remarked: "Why not just buy the whole club? Isn't that simpler?"
But these comments were quickly met with a wave of replies: "Do you even know Atlético? €250 million isn't even enough to buy one of their star player's legs!"
"Can you buy Kaka for that price? Messi? Torres? Do you even understand how much Atlético's players are worth?"
The uninformed fan quickly found themselves chastised into silence, too embarrassed to rejoin the conversation.
The Breakdown by Marca
Marca analyzed the transfer in detail and concluded that both Valencia and Atlético Madrid had made excellent deals.
For Valencia, signing four top-tier players for €250 million was unquestionably worth it:
Petr Čech: At just 24, he was already one of the world's top two goalkeepers. With his age, he could easily guard Valencia's goal for the next 10 years, cementing his position as a future all-time great. Lúcio: Widely regarded as the best center-back in the world. Despite the fame of players like Nesta, neither club nor country could boast more silverware than Lúcio. Antonio López: Though a backup to Patrice Evra at Atlético, his performances for Spain demonstrated his quality as one of the nation's finest defenders. David Villa: A clinical striker whose scoring rate in La Liga rivaled that of Henry, Eto'o, and Ibrahimović. Villa's only "weakness" was playing in the shadow of megastars like Kaka, Torres, and Messi.
For Villa, transferring to Valencia represented a chance to shine as a leading figure. Similarly, López, Lúcio, and Čech had all made decisions understandable in light of their individual circumstances and lucrative offers.
Atlético's Position
Atlético Madrid officially wished their departing stars success at their new club, highlighting the mutual benefits of the deal. Surprisingly, most Atlético fans expressed little anger or disappointment. Instead, many fans left encouraging messages online:
"Of course, we hope you all continue to perform well... just not against Atlético!"
Marca also revealed the financial pressures behind Atlético's decision to sell. The club had invested heavily in their new stadium and headquarters as part of a redevelopment agreement with the Madrid City Government and the MSM Group.
One key element of this agreement was the Twin Towers Project, a €700 million undertaking with Atlético responsible for €350 million over three years.
"To build their state-of-the-art stadium, Atlético had to spend heavily and will need to continue investing for several more years," Marca explained.
Valencia had also reportedly tried to sign Kaka for an eye-watering €150 million, which Atlético firmly rejected, declaring the Brazilian a non-negotiable asset. Similarly, Chelsea's €100 million bid for Fernando Torres was turned down, as were numerous inquiries about Lionel Messi from clubs including Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Marca concluded that Valencia's acquisitions would make them a formidable force in the upcoming season, provided coach Carlo Ancelotti could successfully integrate the new players.
For Atlético, despite selling four key players, the team remained among the strongest in the world and the top contender for the La Liga title.
________________________________________
Behind the Headlines
While global attention focused on the blockbuster transfers, few noticed Atlético Madrid's quiet moves elsewhere.
Two young Chilean talents, Alexis Sánchez and Arturo Vidal, had been brought in from Colo-Colo but were promptly loaned out to Mallorca.
Yang Hao personally called both players, explaining that there was currently no place for them in Atlético's squad. He promised them opportunities in the future and arranged for them to gain experience at Mallorca.
Additionally, Yang Hao contacted Luis Aragonés, who still owed him a favor. Upon hearing the request, the seasoned coach enthusiastically pledged to nurture the young Chileans:
"Don't worry, I'm a lifelong Atlético fan too!"
Every summer, Atlético's youth academy opens its doors to a new batch of players, with scouts and coaches meticulously selecting and grooming the next generation of talent. Yang Hao always reviewed the final list personally, ensuring no hidden gems were overlooked.
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The Youth Revolution
As the summer progressed, hordes of young players from across Spain flocked to Atlético's facilities in Majadahonda to participate in trials. The atmosphere was electric, reminiscent of the day Yang Hao first scouted David Silva at Real Madrid's training grounds.
Now, Atlético had surpassed Real Madrid in prestige, drawing aspiring talents and their families from across the country.
Walking through the familiar grounds of Majadahonda, Yang Hao observed matches taking place across multiple fields. Coaches and scouts took notes, while cameras recorded footage for the analytics team to study later.
On one field, players aged 10–12 showcased their skills under the watchful eyes of their parents, many of whom were proud Atlético supporters.
Yang Hao couldn't help but marvel at how far the club had come. What was once a dream was now a reality: a thriving academy feeding into one of the world's most successful teams.
"Feels like a dream," Yang Hao thought, as he prepared to oversee the future of his beloved Atlético Madrid.
Not only did joining Atlético's youth academy mean an opportunity to play for the club, but it also opened doors to becoming a professional footballer. Even Segunda División players in Spain could earn hundreds of thousands of euros annually—a hefty salary by any standard.
"How's it looking, Manolo?" Yang Hao approached youth academy director Manolo Jiménez, asking casually.
The veteran coach, who had worked in Atlético's academy for years, turned around in surprise at Yang Hao's sudden appearance. "What brings you back here?"
"Had some matters to deal with, so I thought I'd stop by and take a look." Yang Hao smiled, scanning the bustling scene. "Looks lively."
"This year, the number of players invited for trials has hit an all-time high," Jiménez replied.
He then pointed to a forward on the pitch. "What do you think of that kid?"
Yang Hao followed his gaze and noticed a boy who stood out—tall, physically strong, and adept at using his body to gain an advantage over his peers. As a striker, he seemed to have the natural edge required for the position.
"He's from Rayo Majadahonda," Jiménez explained.
"You mean the club right next door?"
"Exactly. They've got some real gems this year."
"Aren't they partnered with us?" Yang Hao asked, puzzled.
"We've supported them quite a bit these past few years, but this kid… there's nothing we can do."
"Why not?" Yang Hao was intrigued. Rayo Majadahonda was just a stone's throw away from Atlético's training grounds in Majadahonda.
"They told me early on he's heading to Real Madrid."
Yang Hao raised an eyebrow. "Why?"
"His name is Marcos Llorente, and he's Paco Llorente's son."
Ah, so that's why.
The Llorente Legacy
Yang Hao quickly pieced it together. Marcos Llorente wasn't just any player—he came from a family deeply intertwined with Real Madrid's history.
To understand the nickname "Real Madrid's Crown Prince," one needed to look back at his family tree, a story often misunderstood by fans.
At the heart of it was Paco Gento, one of Real Madrid's greatest legends and later honorary president. Paco had two brothers, Julio and Antonio Gento, both of whom also played for Real Madrid.
The Gento brothers had a sister who married into the Llorente family. Her two sons, Paco Llorente and Julio Llorente, continued the footballing tradition. Paco Llorente started in Atlético Madrid's academy but moved to Real Madrid as a professional, eventually earning caps for the Spanish national team.
Paco Llorente married the daughter of Ramón Grosso, another Real Madrid legend, and their union produced Marcos Llorente.
This tangled web of familial ties often confused fans. Many mistakenly believed Ramón Grosso to be Marcos Llorente's grandfather due to their shared history with Real Madrid.
Marcos Llorente's Future
In Yang Hao's previous life, Llorente's most notable moment was his positional rivalry with Fede Valverde at Real Madrid. The club ultimately chose Valverde, sending Llorente to Atlético, where he flourished before being moved to right-back—a change that diminished his impact due to injuries.
But was Marcos Llorente a forward during his youth? Yang Hao couldn't quite recall. Regardless, with the Llorente family's deep ties to Real Madrid, it seemed inevitable he would join their ranks.
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Yang Hao quickly shifted his focus away from players he couldn't sign. Marcos Llorente was simply tagging along with Rayo Majadahonda for the experience. Instead, Yang Hao's attention was soon drawn to three other boys on the pitch.
"Who are those three?" he asked, pointing them out.
Jiménez chuckled knowingly. "You noticed them too, huh?"
"The two in the back are brothers—Lucas Hernández and Theo Hernández. Their father, Jean-François Hernández, used to play for Rayo Vallecano. Lucas is 10, and Theo is 9."
"They're from Rayo Majadahonda too?"
"Yep. Their parents are divorced, so they live with their mother, Laurence, near Majadahonda."
This little club seemed to be a goldmine of talent this year.
"Llorente's family and the Hernández brothers all live nearby, so naturally, their parents sent them to Rayo Majadahonda," Jiménez explained.
Yang Hao nodded. It wasn't exactly a mystery—proximity was key. But Rayo Majadahonda's youth program also deserved credit for producing such promising talents.
Wait a second—Hernández brothers? That meant the third player must be…
"Who's the other one?"
"His name is Rodrigo Hernández Cascante, but everyone calls him Rodri. He's got great footwork and composure."
Rodri!
Rayo Majadahonda was on fire this year. Four potential future stars in one batch—unbelievable.
The Hernández brothers were destined to become elite European players, but Rodri? Yang Hao knew from his previous life that Rodri was one of the best, most complete defensive midfielders in Europe.
Yang Hao couldn't contain his excitement, though he maintained a composed facade.
"What's your opinion of these three?"
"The Hernández brothers have tremendous potential, and Rodri shows promise too. I plan to sign all three. What do you think?"
Yang Hao nodded. "I trust your judgment. Go ahead."
Jiménez beamed with pride, feeling empowered by Yang Hao's faith in his decisions.
In truth, Yang Hao had no intention of letting these gems slip away. In his previous life, Rodri was infamously overlooked in Atlético's youth system, eventually being released before flourishing at Villarreal.
This time, Yang Hao wasn't going to let history repeat itself. But as Atlético's coach and owner, he avoided micromanaging the academy, knowing it could backfire. Instead, he subtly influenced decisions.
"Manolo, I'm confident in your eye for talent. Train them well—I believe they'll become pillars of our future!"
Jiménez, motivated by the praise, silently vowed to nurture the trio—and also Achraf Hakimi, another standout in the academy.
Unbeknownst to Jiménez, Yang Hao left the pitch practically bursting with joy.
He even toyed with the idea of anonymously posting online: "How do you celebrate 'accidentally' acquiring three world-class talents?"
For now, he had other plans—like discussing this unexpected windfall with Blake Lively back home.
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In last season's Bundesliga, Schalke 04 defied expectations by surpassing Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen, and Werder Bremen to finish as runners-up, just behind Stuttgart. This raised hopes that Schalke might contend for the Bundesliga title.
However, those familiar with Schalke 04 knew that failing to clinch the title last season meant their window of opportunity had likely closed.
The club was drowning in debt and had begun selling players to stay afloat.
According to public reports available to Yang Hao, Schalke 04's debt had already exceeded €100 million and was growing rapidly. Their annual losses ranged from €20 million to €30 million.
Schalke's financial woes stemmed from the construction of their iconic Veltins-Arena—originally known as the Arena AufSchalke—a state-of-the-art stadium costing nearly €200 million, famed for its retractable roof and movable pitch.
When Atlético Madrid was planning its new stadium, representatives even visited the Veltins-Arena for inspiration. Unfortunately, Madrid's urban landscape didn't allow for similar features.
The movable pitch in the Veltins-Arena operates on a pre-installed rail system, allowing the grass to be rolled out beneath the stands and outside the stadium for maintenance. The process takes about four hours.
While this setup worked for the stadium's remote location, Madrid's limited and expensive central land made such a system unfeasible for Atlético. Instead, the club left provisions for future upgrades but shelved the movable pitch idea for now.
The construction of the Veltins-Arena, coupled with the collapse of German broadcaster Kirch Group, plunged Schalke into financial difficulties in the early 2000s. To make matters worse, the club had aggressively pursued high-profile transfers in recent years.
Players such as Bordon, Aílton, Lincoln, Rafinha, Ernst, and Kuranyi had all joined during this period.
Schalke's recruitment strategy often involved signing players between 28 and 30 years old, providing immediate impact but incurring high wages. Once these players hit 30, their performances often became inconsistent.
This approach resulted in Schalke's volatile form, including last season's surprising second-place finish.
The combination of stadium debt, costly signings, and rising wage bills left Schalke financially strained.
This summer, they had no choice but to sell players like Lincoln and Hamit Altıntop to ease their debt burden.
When Atlético approached Schalke, the German club offered little resistance.
By this time, rumors were already swirling that Atlético was interested in René Adler. Even when the club officially expressed interest in Manuel Neuer, many assumed it was a negotiation tactic to drive down Adler's price.
But Schalke, desperate for cash, couldn't afford to reject Atlético's offer.
As for Neuer, he was a perfect fit for Atlético's ambitions.
Last season, Neuer was named Bundesliga Goalkeeper of the Year. Over 27 matches, he conceded just 21 goals and even registered an assist—an impressive display for the then-21-year-old.
More importantly, Bayern Munich—still committed to Michael Rensing as Oliver Kahn's successor—was not in the market for another goalkeeper. This left Atlético with a clear path to Neuer.
Atlético secured the young star for €10 million, exceeding his market valuation of €7 million.
After the deal was finalized, Yang Hao personally called Neuer to welcome him.
"You're the only goalkeeper we've pursued from start to finish," Yang Hao told him.
"I've always believed that a goalkeeper with your excellent technical skills and composure deserves to play in La Liga for a team like Atlético. I'm already looking forward to seeing you at the Majadahonda training base."
Manuel Neuer, caught off guard by the personal call, was deeply moved.
Having the club's head coach reach out directly made him feel valued. He expressed his eagerness to join Atlético and promised to give his all under Yang Hao's guidance.
Yang Hao ended the call with a light-hearted promise: "Once you arrive in Madrid, dinner's on me."
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A Fiery Transfer Window
As the European transfer window heated up, the arms race between La Liga and the Premier League became the central theme of the summer.
By early July, most major signings had been completed, and both leagues had shattered their respective records for transfer spending.
The Premier League's total expenditure reached €580 million, setting a new historical high.
Clubs like Liverpool, Tottenham, Manchester City, and Sunderland each spent over €50 million, while traditional powerhouses like Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal tightened their belts.
Manchester United's only significant signing was Owen Hargreaves for £17 million. Sir Alex Ferguson had aimed to sign Carlos Tévez, but Barcelona snatched him up. Attempts to poach Nani and Anderson from Valencia were also rebuffed.
Even after selling Alan Smith, Giuseppe Rossi, and Kieran Richardson for a combined £17.5 million, United barely broke even this summer.
Chelsea, embroiled in financial disputes with José Mourinho, spent sparingly. Arsenal, as always, operated on a shoestring budget.
While the Premier League's spending was significant, much of it came from clubs like Tottenham, Sunderland, and Manchester City. The latter benefited from Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's financial backing.
But the Premier League's €580 million paled in comparison to La Liga's record-breaking €810 million.
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La Liga Dominates
Spanish clubs obliterated expectations, with Valencia and Barcelona leading the charge.
Valencia's €250 million spree included the acquisition of four players from Atlético, alongside others like Aquilani. Barcelona followed with €150 million in spending.
Together, the two clubs accounted for €400 million—half of La Liga's total outlay.
While Valencia's bold moves positioned them as Europe's most active buyers, Barcelona wasn't far behind. This summer, La Liga clearly outshone the Premier League.
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A Tale of Two Markets
Unlike the Premier League, where inflated prices for domestic players were the norm, La Liga clubs conducted more pragmatic business.
For instance, Zaragoza secured Andrés D'Alessandro from Wolfsburg for just €3.5 million. Mallorca acquired Dani Güiza from Getafe for €5 million.
In contrast, Everton paid €17.5 million for Yakubu, a striker with similar stats to Güiza.
This stark contrast highlighted the inefficiency of the English market. Transfers within the Premier League or involving homegrown players often came with hefty premiums.
A prime example was Sunderland spending £9 million (€14 million) on Scottish goalkeeper Craig Gordon, far exceeding the €10 million Atlético paid for Bundesliga Goalkeeper of the Year Manuel Neuer.
As media outlets pointed out, English clubs were hamstrung by a combination of overvaluation and limited options. While La Liga aggressively scouted talent across Europe, English clubs remained confined to inflated domestic markets.
Despite the Premier League's spending power, recent seasons in the Champions League and UEFA Cup demonstrated that La Liga remains Europe's dominant league.
"Teams like Sevilla and Deportivo La Coruña are capable of defeating top Premier League clubs in European competitions, proving that La Liga's overall strength is ahead of the Premier League."
Experts believe this gap in quality is likely to grow.
Although La Liga clubs spent over €800 million during the transfer window, the actual player valuations were significantly lower. In contrast, the Premier League's €580 million spending was inflated by high domestic valuations, indicating that La Liga is rapidly improving its overall competitiveness.
As for Serie A, Juventus, back in the top flight after relegation due to the Calciopoli scandal, led the league's spending with €55 million—the highest in Italy. Bayern Munich topped the Bundesliga's spending with €45 million, acquiring stars like Luca Toni and Miroslav Klose.
In the broader European context, La Liga and the Premier League remain the main players. However, unlike in the past, La Liga's growing purchasing power has allowed it to compete with, and in some ways surpass, the Premier League.
British media have published numerous reports summarizing the transfer market and urging Premier League clubs to adapt. If the current trend continues, they warn, the Premier League's title as the most lucrative league might be overtaken by La Liga.
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Preparations for the New Season
After attending the youth academy's selection process, Yang Hao allowed himself a brief holiday before returning to Majadahonda to start pre-season preparations.
The release of the season schedule set things into motion. Last season's treble had created additional pressure for Atlético Madrid, which now faced a demanding season ahead.
Before the league even began, the team had to play two matches in the Spanish Super Cup and one in the European Super Cup, along with mid-season obligations like the Club World Cup.
To top it off, the opening match of the La Liga season was none other than the Madrid Derby.
This shocking scheduling drew widespread disbelief. Yang Hao joked that the fixture planner must have been inspired by Hollywood blockbusters, which start with a "bang" before easing into the story.
The opening weekend was packed with high-stakes matches.
Atlético would face Real Madrid at the Bernabéu. Deschamps' Deportivo La Coruña hosted Unai Emery's Almería. Ancelotti's Valencia clashed with Pellegrini's Villarreal at the Mestalla. Mourinho's La Liga debut saw Barcelona visiting Marcelino's Racing Santander.
Each game promised to be a tough battle, making for an exciting start to the season.
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Managing a Packed Schedule
One challenge stood out for Yang Hao and his coaching staff. Atlético's participation in the European Super Cup meant their Week 2 La Liga match against Real Mallorca would be postponed, tentatively rescheduled for December.
Since 2008 was a European Championship year, La Liga's schedule was already compressed, with midweek fixtures becoming the norm.
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Transition and Player Communication
Returning to Majadahonda, Yang Hao focused not only on training and planning but also on communicating with his players.
This summer, Atlético had sold four key players—Čech, Lúcio, Villa, and Antonio López—all of whom had been instrumental to the team's success. Yang Hao needed to discuss the changes with the squad, especially those closest to the departing players.
Take the center-backs, for example. Lúcio had been a cornerstone of Atlético's defense for years, particularly after Ricardo Carvalho left. Players like Thiago Silva, Sergio Ramos, and Pepe had developed significantly under Lúcio's guidance.
With Lúcio gone, Yang Hao needed to restructure the defensive hierarchy and gauge the players' mindset.
Similarly, replacing Čech in goal was no small task.
Goalkeeping coach Pedro Jaro began preparing Manuel Neuer's transition even before his arrival, gathering detailed information about Neuer's training regimen in Germany and his personal preferences.
Yang Hao was keenly aware of potential pitfalls. Dutch goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar once shared how challenging it was to adapt to Italian training methods after leaving the Netherlands. Italian goalkeeper coaches rarely adapted their approach, which frustrated him early on.
A cautionary tale came from Timo Hildebrand, a German goalkeeper whose stellar performances for Stuttgart faltered after a move to Valencia. Yang Hao wanted to ensure Neuer wouldn't face similar challenges.
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Neuer's Integration
To ease Neuer's transition, Atlético Madrid took several steps.
Pedro Jaro engaged in multiple conversations with Schalke 04 goalkeeping coach Oliver Reck, a Bundesliga legend who holds the league's second-highest record for clean sheets. Reck provided valuable insights into Neuer's training routine and style.
Atlético also hired a bilingual German-Spanish translator for Neuer, who would accompany him not only during training but also during the pre-season tours in Australia and Asia.
Before the team's official training camp, Neuer arrived in Madrid. Atlético arranged his accommodation and provided several housing options for him to choose from. Yang Hao also took time to meet Neuer in person at Majadahonda.
During their conversation, Yang Hao emphasized how Neuer's playing style perfectly suited Atlético's philosophy.
"Passing, positioning, and ball control are central to Atlético's identity. I watched you carefully, and your composure with the ball convinced me that you're exactly the player we need."
Yang Hao's confidence reassured Neuer, who, despite his young age of 21, showed remarkable composure. "I believe in you, Manuel. Don't feel pressured—just play your game. You'll be the best goalkeeper in the world!"
Neuer, clearly motivated, promised to give his all.
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Integrating the Squad
Other players also began reporting for pre-season.
Toni Kroos, arriving directly at the first team, required no translator, having already studied Spanish for two years. Marcelo, familiar with Atlético after previous visits, felt at ease. Eden Hazard, though still young, was included in the pre-season tour to gain experience.
The 25-player squad for the summer preparations included:
Goalkeepers: Neuer, Palop.
Defenders: Evra, Alves, Pepe, Ramos, Thiago Silva, Zabaleta, Godín, Marcelo.
Midfielders: Baraja, Xabi Alonso, Kaká, Iniesta, Mascherano, David Silva, Modrić, Kroos.
Forwards: Drogba, Torres, Robben, Messi, Di María, Suárez, Hazard.
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With a meticulously crafted squad, Yang Hao's Atlético looked to dominate yet another season, balancing the challenges of defending their treble while navigating a packed schedule.
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