Chapter 41
"Ah, I just want to fall in love already!"
After finishing a day of training, the gates of the Majadahonda training facility were crowded with parents picking up their kids.
Sergio Ramos stretched dramatically, looking up at the sky and speaking with a sigh.
The five of them stood in a line, instantly drawing attention. Most of the parents recognized them—they were the best talents in Atlético's youth academy.
Sergio Ramos, David Silva, Luka Modrić, and Lionel Messi.
And their tag-along: Ángel Di María.
Di María was still in school and part of the U16 team. His training schedule didn't always align with theirs, but he often hung around the second team.
Everyone knew these five were inseparable.
Whether at school or in Atlético's youth ranks, they were already considered stars—especially Lionel Messi.
Over the past year, Messi had rapidly progressed through the U16s and U18s and was now a core player in the second team.
This past June, Atlético was invited to the 4th Toyota Cup Youth Championship in Japan. The tournament featured Europe's top youth teams, with players under 17. Thanks to outstanding performances from Messi and Di María, Atlético dominated the competition.
Messi's breathtaking run past four defenders in the match against Feyenoord became an instant classic.
By the end of the tournament, Messi was named its best player.
Rumor had it that Nike was negotiating sponsorship deals with Messi and several other young talents, having already approached the club.
Among them, Ramos stood out for his "quirky" personality, always up to something unusual.
"When that girl in your class confessed to you, didn't you say you were focusing on football and wouldn't date until you became a world-class star?" David Silva teased, clearly familiar with Ramos' antics.
"You even said women would slow you down on the pitch."
"You don't get it," Ramos retorted. "It's not that I wasn't interested—I just didn't want to hurt her feelings. I needed an excuse."
"Oh, then why were you picking fights with that guy from the next class?"
"Was I?"
David Silva nodded seriously.
"So obvious?" Ramos turned to Modrić.
The Croatian also nodded.
"Ugh, what a failure!" Ramos smacked his forehead. "I just didn't think that guy was good enough for her."
The group burst out laughing.
They say 17 is prime time for teenage delusions. If so, Ramos was undoubtedly a severe case.
"What are we supposed to do for the next two weeks?" Ramos stretched again, looking weary.
"Play Pro Evolution Soccer at Leo's house?" Silva suggested.
"Sounds good."
"Let's go, then."
"Hurry, hurry! I'm picking Atlético this time—no one argue!"
"You picked them last time. It's someone else's turn!"
"That's right, we agreed to take turns. Don't be greedy."
"Fine! First one to Leo's house gets to pick!"
The group of teens raced off under the fading sunlight, laughter trailing behind them.
"Hi, Uncle!"
As soon as they entered Messi's home, they saw his father, Jorge, tending the garden.
The group often hung out there, playing soccer in the yard. They were all familiar with Jorge.
"Hello, boys," Jorge greeted them warmly. "Oh, Leo, I got a call from Tocalli earlier."
"What did he say?" Ramos interjected before Messi could respond, his excitement palpable.
Jorge chuckled at Ramos' eagerness. "He's inviting Leo to join Argentina's U17 national team camp."
But Ramos scoffed, "Only U17? I thought it was for the U20 World Youth Championship in December!"
"That's impossible! There's a three-year gap!" Messi protested. He was already thrilled about the U17 call-up.
After a pause, he added, "Besides, you're not even in Spain's U20s yet. How could I make it to ours?"
Ramos, clearly flattered, broke into laughter. "Good point, good point."
Jorge watched the group's antics with amusement. Ramos might seem over-the-top, but deep down, he was loyal and brave—a kid with a good heart.
Missed Opportunities and Promises
Hugo Tocalli, coach of Argentina's youth teams, oversaw both the U17s and U20s—a system designed to ensure long-term player development.
However, it wasn't without drawbacks. Earlier that summer, Tocalli had debated including Messi in the squad for the U17 World Cup in Finland. The team already had rising stars like Biglia and Garay, and adding Messi would mean dropping someone else, which Tocalli deemed unfair.
Both Jorge and Messi knew the truth: Tocalli simply wasn't convinced of Messi's potential.
That decision stung more after Finland, where Argentina lost 3–2 to Spain in the semifinals.
After the match, Ramos and Silva approached Tocalli.
"Sir, you should've brought Messi. If he were on your team today, you might have beaten us."
"All of us Atlético fans admire him, but you don't seem to value him at all."
"He's going to be a phenomenal player. It's just a shame he won't play for Spain."
Spain went on to beat Brazil in the final, with Ramos and Silva shining alongside Cesc Fàbregas.
For Tocalli, those words left an impression. It's likely the reason Messi was called up now.
"U20 isn't such a big deal," Ramos said, trying to encourage his friend. "Our first team already has players heading there—Iniesta, Gabi, Alves, and Mascherano. We'll get our turn soon enough."
Jorge nodded in agreement. "Keep working hard. You'll all get there."
The group beamed with confidence. For nations like Spain and Argentina, national team discussions always sparked excitement.
Except for Luka Modrić.
He'd already debuted for Croatia's U17s in 1999—at just 14 years old. Croatia's talent pool was painfully shallow, a grim legacy of years of civil war.
Still, in that small room, filled with laughter and dreams, Luka's quiet determination shone just as brightly.
Over the years, Croatia's youth national teams could only compete in lower-level friendlies. Compared to countries like Spain, Argentina, or Brazil, which regularly participated in Youth World Cups, Croatia lacked the financial resources and the talent pool to compete at that level.
Sergio Ramos noticed Luka Modrić's despondence and immediately put an arm around his shoulder.
"It's okay, Luka. Believe me, if you stay focused at Atlético, you'll succeed one day. Then, you can lead Croatia to the Euros and even the World Cup."
Messi, David Silva, and the others also noticed their friend's mood and quickly chimed in to offer words of encouragement.
Such was the reality of football in smaller nations.
"But Luka," Ramos suddenly said with a straight face, looking intently at Modrić.
Everyone around them paused, puzzled by his seriousness.
"When Croatia makes it to the World Cup, you guys can only aim for second place because the championship is mine."
Without waiting for a response, Ramos started fantasizing about his future triumph.
Messi and Silva laughed and playfully scolded him, while Modrić couldn't help but smile.
Jorge Messi, standing nearby, was also amused by Ramos' antics.
That boy might be a bit "dramatic," but what's youth without a touch of flair?
Ramos' personality had genuine leadership qualities—beneath his loud and carefree exterior, he was attentive and caring, especially toward his teammates.
Otherwise, with his penchant for occasionally being over the top, how would he have so many friends?
As an adult, Jorge always thought Ramos would go far in the future.
Looking at his son—thin, small, and reserved—he was grateful for the care Ramos and the others had shown Lionel over the past three years. Whether at school or on the training pitch, they made sure he was never bullied.
When their family first decided to move to Atlético, they had been filled with worry. Looking back now, they knew it had been the right choice.
In August, Yang Hao, representing the club, renegotiated Messi's contract. His salary was raised, and his release clause was increased to €150 million—the highest in the team.
At the time, Yang Hao had promised Jorge that Lionel would get opportunities to play for the first team this season.
The question was: when would that happen?
In the Messi household, Ramos and the rest were loudly playing Pro Evolution Soccer in the living room, bursts of cheering and laughter echoing throughout the house.
"Look at Adriano's thunderous shot!"
"Watch me block it—Lucio to the rescue!"
"Cech, the great Cech!"
"No way, my Van der Sar is as solid as ever!"
For these young players, the first-team stars were their idols. Training close by every day allowed them to observe and learn from their seniors. Even during video games, their admiration showed through.
The console was actually a gift from Yang Hao. He'd designated the Messi household as a hub for these kids to bond, knowing Lionel's reserved nature. He wanted them to spend time here so Messi could open up.
It worked. Messi became more cheerful over time, and Jorge enjoyed the lively atmosphere whenever the group visited.
Jorge often insisted on feeding the boys when they stayed late, knowing they lived away from their families. It became a routine.
Yang Hao found out and started quietly providing financial support to Jorge to cover the expenses.
The boys knew about this gesture and, while they never mentioned it, they all held a deep respect for their coach.
Sometimes, bonds are built not through grand gestures but through small, consistent acts of kindness.
When dinner was ready, Jorge had to call them several times.
The boys were engrossed in the game, promising to stop "just one more round" but kept playing.
It wasn't until Yang Hao showed up, coughing loudly from behind them, that they jumped up like startled birds and hurried to the table.
"Boss, have you eaten yet?" Messi asked mid-bite.
"Of course, he has!" Ramos interjected. "Coaches get special meals at the club."
"Not true," Silva chimed in. "I saw him eating the same food as us last time."
The group chatted noisily as they ate, nearly driving Yang Hao to the brink of collapse.
"Eat your food, less talk!" he scolded.
They quieted down briefly but soon started again.
"Boss, we haven't seen your girlfriend in ages. Did you two break up?" Ramos asked, ever the gossip.
The room fell silent as the boys turned to Yang Hao with curious faces.
"Where'd you hear that?" Yang Hao asked, amused.
"A reporter from Marca told me," Ramos replied honestly.
Yang Hao chuckled. "They publish breakup rumors about me every month. You'll get used to it."
"Why does everyone want you to break up?" Silva, the honest one, asked.
"Because I'm handsome," Yang Hao said with a smirk.
"Boo!" the boys jeered in unison.
Grinning, Yang Hao countered, "Do you guys not want to play in the Copa del Rey anymore?"
The room fell silent again.
Copa del Rey?
Could it be…?
"Boss, are you serious?"
"Are we really playing in the Copa del Rey?"
"Is it true?"
"Boss, I love you!"
Their excitement filled the room as Yang Hao couldn't help but laugh along with them.
He had watched these kids grow up little by little.
It was a truly special feeling.
"Finish dinner, play for a bit if you want, but rest early. Tomorrow, report to the first team."
"Long live the boss!"
"Boss, you're the best!"
Yang Hao ignored the flurry of flattery and turned to Di María, who seemed a little down.
At just 15, he knew it wasn't time for Di María to join yet, and neither did the player.
"Keep working hard. Next season, it'll be your turn," Yang Hao encouraged.
Di María nodded earnestly.
"By the way, how's Lionel doing lately?"
As the boys played their game, Yang Hao sat with Jorge outside.
He was most concerned about Messi's health, especially since the treatments had stopped a year ago.
From start to finish, the cost of Lionel Messi's growth hormone treatment wasn't as high as one might think. However, the real expense came afterward: a physical therapy regimen focused on improving his speed and stamina.
The goal was to build strength, increase muscle in his legs, and fortify his lower body, which is crucial for any professional footballer. Growth hormone injections can have side effects, especially on the bones and bodies of young athletes like Messi.
Since last year, Yang Hao had enlisted experts from Madrid University to design a custom rehabilitation program for Messi, helping him adjust to the physical demands of professional football while gradually increasing his training and match intensity. This was why Messi was already playing with Atlético's B team, even though it seemed early for someone his age.
Messi had outgrown the lower youth categories, dominating every game with multiple goals or hat tricks. It had become too easy, and this stunted the development of his peers. The only solution was for him to move up.
This past summer, Yang Hao tasked fitness coach Ortega and physiotherapist Roca with creating a strict training plan for Messi. Every detail was accounted for, from his midday naps to his diet.
Living close to the training facility made it easier for Messi to return home after each session.
"I've been monitoring him," Jorge Messi said. "He naps every day and sleeps well at night."
Proper rest is vital for recovery, especially after high-intensity training.
"Make sure his diet stays on track," Yang Hao reminded.
"It is," Jorge replied. "He's cut out beef and carbonated drinks. He doesn't even look at pizza or chocolate anymore. He's sticking to fresh fruit, fish, and whole grains, just like the nutritionist recommended."
Atlético's nutritionist had prepared a meal plan for Messi, and Jorge faithfully followed it.
Compared to the cost of his medical treatments, the effort and attention invested in Messi's physical and dietary regimen were far more significant. Jorge often reflected on this and realized that, without Yang Hao's support, he couldn't have managed it alone.
Messi's development was already outpacing where Yang Hao remembered him being at this stage in his previous life.
"He's really eager to make his first-team debut," Jorge said, almost pleading.
Yang Hao nodded. "I know. Tell him to be ready."
Jorge smiled in relief.
The Next Morning
The kids arrived at Majadahonda bright and early.
It wasn't their first time with the first team; they had trained together before. But today was different.
Sergio Ramos, ever the extrovert, took it upon himself to act as captain, rallying his friends since the real captain, Rubén Baraja, and vice-captain, Fernando Torres, were away on international duty.
Hearing this, assistant coach Paralés returned to the office, chuckling.
"You won't believe it," he told his colleagues. "Ramos is already acting like he's the captain."
The room erupted in laughter.
"That's Ramos for you—he's fearless. There's nothing he wouldn't do," someone said, and the others agreed.
Baraja was steady and reliable as captain, and Torres represented tradition. Ramos, on the other hand, embodied youthful passion and individuality.
With most of Atlético's players off on national team duty, only a few senior players remained.
Goalkeeper Cech was away, leaving Palop in charge of the net. In defense, only Pepe, Antonio López, and Dani Alves were available. Marcos Senna held down the midfield, while David Villa was the sole striker left.
This was the downside of success. As Atlético's reputation grew, more players were called up to their national teams, leaving the training ground deserted during international breaks.
It was a good problem to have, but not without challenges—like now, as Atlético prepared for their Copa del Rey opener with only the youth team to rely on.
Yang Hao watched as the players emerged from the locker room, feeling an inexplicable sense of pride.
If everything went according to plan, Atlético would line up in a 4-3-3 formation for the match:
Goalkeeper: Palop
Defenders: Antonio López, Pepe, Ramos, Dani Alves
Midfielders: Marcos Senna (holding), David Silva, Luka Modrić
Forwards: Franck Ribéry, David Villa, Lionel Messi
The lineup was surreal. Pepe and Ramos in defense? A midfield trio of Silva, Senna, and Modrić? The front three of Ribéry, Villa, and Messi?
Yang Hao couldn't help but marvel at how absurdly talented this lineup was.
What would fans in 2023 think if they looked back at this Copa del Rey match from October 2003?
By then, these players would have achieved so much. Where would Atlético be by that time?
If Sir Alex Ferguson's Class of '92 turned Manchester United into an elite club, what would Atlético's Class of '02 accomplish?
After everyone gathered, Yang Hao addressed the players before training.
"Let's make a deal. If you perform at your best, the Copa del Rey is yours. The first team will back you up when necessary."
The room buzzed with excitement. The players were ecstatic.
For them, this was more than just the Copa del Rey. It was a chance to step into professional football and face the best teams and players in Spain.
Yang Hao wasn't making empty promises. The first few rounds of the tournament were against lower-division teams, and the youth team had the ability to handle them. But from the Round of 16 onwards, they'd face tougher competition. That's when Yang Hao planned to mix in senior players as needed.
The Copa del Rey was an excellent opportunity for these young players to gain experience, but Yang Hao's priorities were clear: La Liga and the Champions League came first.
The Journey to Cuenca
Cuenca isn't just a Spanish surname; it's also a city. Nestled in the mountains 170 kilometers southeast of Madrid, it's known as the "Sky City on the Cliffs."
Surrounded on three sides by mountains, Cuenca is a picturesque place.
Yang Hao hadn't expected the first-team debuts of Atlético's youth stars to happen in such a beautiful setting.
The team traveled early, giving the players a chance to explore the city before their match.
The team first visited the Hanging Houses of Cuenca. From there, they could overlook the entire city and gaze out at the vast plains in the distance. The breathtaking view stirred feelings of grandeur and ambition.
Cuenca is a small city, and its main attractions—the Hanging Houses, Cuenca Cathedral, San Pablo Bridge, museums, Mangana Tower, and the Sacred Heart of Jesus monument—are all within a short one- to two-kilometer radius.
All expenses were covered by Atlético, and even the accompanying journalists enjoyed exploring the sights. Most of them had never been to this charming city before.
The local government took Atlético's visit very seriously, seeing it as a rare opportunity to showcase Cuenca's tourism potential. After all, it wasn't every day that a renowned European football team came to town.
Although many of Atlético's star players were absent, the presence of head coach Yang Hao added a significant draw.
The reception was warm, and the hospitality extended to the team was extraordinary.
Lunch and a quick rest took place at the Torre Mangana Hotel at the base of the mountains. From there, a short walk west through a park and across a river led to the La Fuensanta Stadium, the venue for Atlético's Copa del Rey match that afternoon.
Their opponents were a modest team from the Tercera División, Conquense.
The small stadium only had stands on its east and west sides, offering a mere 6,000 seats. However, the entire town of 21,000 residents seemed to show up. The stands were packed, and even the north and south ends were crowded with fans standing shoulder to shoulder.
Between the stadium and the park was a high school. In honor of the match, the local government had decided to cancel classes for the day.
Why?
"We haven't had a team of your caliber visit in ages. Everyone's thrilled!"
This was the first time Yang Hao had been called a member of a "top club" to his face, and it felt oddly satisfying.
Although Atlético wasn't yet considered a global powerhouse, to a team like Conquense, any La Liga team was a giant.
To the east of the stadium was the school, while to the west, beyond a road and some fencing, stood a hospital. Doctors and nurses in white coats could be seen watching the match.
The entire city had turned Atlético's visit into a festival.
As the players prepared to step onto the field, Yang Hao gave them a simple instruction:
"Play well and enjoy their cheers!"
But truthfully, Yang Hao didn't need to say anything. From the moment the match began, Atlético's young players dominated, toying with their opponents.
Though Conquense's players were mostly adults, many with proper football training, they were no match for Atlético's raw talent.
From the opening whistle, Atlético seized control of the ball and barely let go.
In the 13th minute, after a dizzying series of passes that left Conquense's players chasing shadows, the ball found Franck Ribéry. By then, he was unmarked, and even the goalkeeper was nowhere near the goal.
Where was the goalkeeper?
Oh, he'd rushed out too early and misjudged the play.
Ribéry calmly slotted the ball into the net.
The crowd erupted into deafening cheers.
Spanish fans have always had a deep appreciation for intricate passing football, and Atlético's rhythmic, elegant display of possession football left the spectators in awe.
Inspired by the crowd's enthusiasm, the Atlético players grew bolder.
Lionel Messi, initially reserved and cautious, began to find his footing after seeing Ribéry's fearless dribbling. Once Messi had the ball, he weaved through defenders as if they weren't there.
On the flanks, Ribéry and David Villa were fully unleashed, and Luka Modrić and David Silva couldn't help but join the fun.
Behind them, Marcos Senna waved them forward: "Go ahead, I've got your back!"
Even Antonio López and Dani Alves pushed up aggressively from the full-back positions.
And then there was Sergio Ramos.
The second goal of the match was his.
How?
Ramos channeled his inner Lucio, charging upfield from defense, passing the ball to a teammate, and continuing his run into the penalty area. Once there, he rose above everyone else to head the ball into the net.
David Villa, meanwhile, was living the dream.
Why?
Because he was being fed chance after chance.
In the 44th minute, Villa scored to make it 3–0, taking full advantage of the endless supply of passes coming his way.
Despite the clear physical disparity between the two sides—Conquense's players were adults, while Atlético's youngsters were still developing—if Atlético's players were just a year or two older, they could've racked up a double-digit score by halftime.
Even so, Atlético maintained control in the second half.
Ribéry scored again, and then Villa completed his hat-trick by the 69th minute.
From the sidelines, Yang Hao heard Ramos shouting, "Pass it to Leo! Let him score too!"
"Yeah, give it to Leo!" echoed the others.
Hearing this, Yang Hao couldn't help but think of a story from Messi's autobiography about how Ronaldinho had helped him score his first goal after joining Barcelona's first team.
But this was different. At Atlético, it wasn't just one player supporting Messi—it was the whole team.
Finally, in the 75th minute, Messi received a perfect assist from Modrić and slotted the ball into the net.
7–0.
Messi had scored his first official goal for Atlético in his debut match.
Overwhelmed with emotion, Messi sprinted off the pitch, shouting in celebration. He ran straight to Yang Hao on the sidelines and hugged him tightly, repeatedly yelling, "Thank you, boss! Thank you!"
His voice trembled, and tears welled up in his eyes.
No one who hadn't walked in Messi's shoes could truly understand how hard his journey had been.
Even now, a year after finishing his hormone treatments, his legs bore the scars of countless injections. The sight of a needle still sent shivers down his spine, a reminder of years spent battling despair and waiting for salvation.
Without Yang Hao's intervention, he would've remained a desperate, overlooked kid in Argentina.
The rest of the team swarmed Yang Hao, celebrating Messi's goal and surrounding their coach in a joyful mob.
The journalists on the sidelines captured the moment, fully aware of the story behind it.
One reporter muttered, "This must be Atlético's version of the Class of '92—or should I say, the Class of '02?"
"Yeah, Manchester United has their Class of '92, and now Atlético has its own Class of '02!"
"It fits. These kids are the real deal."
"With players like Iniesta, Kaká, Torres, and Robben already in the first team, and now this new generation coming through, Atlético is destined for unprecedented greatness."
"Exactly! These kids train and play together—they'll grow up as a unit. It's an incredible foundation."
"And every one of them has their own story."
Who could argue with that?
As media reporters, they knew well that compelling stories foster a connection and attract more attention. It's the same principle as talent shows: every contestant needs an inspiring narrative.
What set Atlético apart was that their players' stories were authentic.
"If this group of players reaches their potential, Yang Hao could become Atlético's Ferguson!"
"No, he'll surpass Ferguson!"
"Exactly. Yang Hao already has a Champions League title, two La Liga championships, and a UEFA Cup under his belt—far better than Ferguson's achievements at the same point in his career."
"And let's not forget, Yang Hao is leading a tactical revolution in European football. Ferguson never did anything like this during his early years."
"Right. If Atlético succeeds, Yang Hao will surpass him."
The reporters exchanged lively opinions while the match unfolded before an enraptured audience.
Tonight, Atlético's playing style bore striking similarities to Spain's tiki-taka, especially in their ball possession. While no statistics were available, Yang Hao estimated they held at least 75% possession—a staggering figure, albeit helped by the limited strength of their opponents.
Amid enthusiastic applause from the crowd, Atlético claimed a resounding victory in this Copa del Rey match.
Though held during the international break, Spain's top teams mostly emerged victorious in their respective fixtures.
Atlético's 7–0 rout was the most dazzling result, especially when paired with glowing media coverage of their young stars the following day. Reports highlighted not only this match but also Atlético's remarkable youth academy achievements in recent years.
The spotlight was firmly on the club's promising youngsters.
Sergio Ramos and David Silva, already familiar names due to their involvement with Spain's youth teams, continued to draw attention. Franck Ribéry, who scored a brace, also earned widespread praise.
When Ribéry first joined Atlético, he struggled to adapt due to cultural, linguistic, and lifestyle differences. However, such challenges proved no match for Ramos's outgoing nature.
Language barrier?
Not a problem. Ramos used hand gestures and sheer enthusiasm to bond with the Frenchman.
As Ribéry grew more comfortable, his teammates discovered that beneath his tough exterior lay an optimistic and hardworking personality. Thanks to Ramos's efforts, Ribéry gradually shed his guarded demeanor.
Although not fully integrated yet, Ribéry was training hard and improving rapidly. Yang Hao's encouragement played a role in motivating him further.
Ribéry was determined to prove himself and improve his financial situation. Earning just €500 a month, he and his wife lived frugally, counting every penny.
While training with the first team, Ribéry had formed a close bond with Didier Drogba. Both hailed from France and shared similar struggles, particularly financial hardships.
To everyone's surprise, Drogba, taking on a mentor role, echoed Yang Hao's guidance from earlier in his own career:
"Forget everything else. Focus entirely on training. Let's see where you are in a year."
Having heard Drogba's story, Ribéry followed his advice without hesitation.
The next round of the Copa del Rey would take place in mid-December, with Atlético traveling to northern Spain to face Cultural y Deportiva Leonesa, a Segunda División B team.
Yang Hao made his expectations clear:
"You'll play the next match, but I need to see your best performances in the reserves. Anyone who doesn't perform well in the second team won't play the next round."
The young players were energized by the challenge.
Was this just another Copa del Rey match?
Far from it. They saw it as a golden opportunity to secure more appearances with the first team and to impress Yang Hao, laying the foundation for future success.
After all, wasn't this how Andrés Iniesta rose through the ranks last season?
Iniesta seized his chances in the first team and delivered standout performances, proving himself as a key player in critical moments.
That was the dream for every reserve player.
Moreover, a good performance in the Copa del Rey could lead to encounters with La Liga teams from the Round of 16 onward—a level far beyond anything the Segunda División B could offer.
As a result, the young players trained with renewed intensity, pouring everything into their preparations.
Two weeks later, after the international break, the first-team players began returning to Atlético's training base.
However, the squad rotation was far from ideal, as most of their internationals had been called up for duty.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid secured a 2–0 away victory against Celta Vigo, with goals from Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos.
Celta Vigo's decline this season had been steep. Once vying for top-four positions, they now found themselves in the relegation zone. Such is the volatility of professional football.
Valencia, powered by a brace from Mista, demolished Espanyol 4–0 at home.
Barcelona, however, suffered a 2–0 defeat at home to Deportivo La Coruña, just as Catalan media had feared.
The loss was particularly embarrassing for the Barcelona press, who had recently mocked Deportivo for their 7–0 humiliation by Atlético, calling it an unthinkable disgrace.
Now?
Javier Irureta's Deportivo handed Barcelona a resounding slap in the face with their win at Camp Nou.
The goals came from Albert Luque and Sergio.
Rijkaard had managed to set a new record in Barcelona's 104-year history—its worst-ever home start to a season.
Unsurprisingly, Barcelona fans turned their ire toward the club's management and coaching staff, questioning their competence to lead the team.
Former president Joan Gaspart joined the fray, publicly criticizing Laporta and the new board. This provoked Laporta to threaten an investigation into Gaspart's tenure, even suggesting possible legal action.
Atlético's match that round was against Luis Aragonés's Mallorca.
Fernando Torres scored with a header in the 26th minute to give Atlético the lead.
However, in the 37th minute, Mallorca mounted a swift counterattack. Samuel Eto'o, the "Cameroonian Panther," eluded both Carlos Marchena and Ricardo Carvalho, broke into Atlético's penalty area, and calmly beat Petr Čech to equalize.
From then on, Atlético launched wave after wave of attacks, but Mallorca stood firm, defending resolutely and waiting for opportunities to counter.
The match was deadlocked.
After two weeks of international matches, Atlético's red-hot form from before the break had cooled noticeably. They struggled to break down Mallorca's staunch defense.
In the 65th minute, Yang Hao brought on Kaká to inject more attacking creativity.
Kaká stepped off the warm-up area and approached the home team's dugout, standing next to head coach Yang Hao.
"Tell Antonio that Olaizola is almost done. Push harder and break through on his side."
"You and Antonio—take him down!"
Kaká listened attentively, then took off his jacket and tossed it to Iniesta on the bench, who would keep it for him.
"Kaká, look at me."
The head coach stood in front of him.
Kaká took a deep breath, looking straight into the eyes of the man he respected most in his professional career. More than a coach, Yang Hao felt like an older brother.
"Okay. Believe in yourself and adapt to the situation," Yang Hao instructed solemnly.
Kaká nodded firmly.
He headed onto the pitch, replacing Deco. Tonight, Deco's performance had been lackluster.
It wasn't his fault—he was exhausted. Traveling long distances and playing two full matches for the Brazilian national team had taken its toll.
"It's up to you now, Kaká," Deco said.
"Got it," Kaká replied, embracing his teammate.
"I think you should try a long shot."
Kaká hesitated. "A long shot?"
"Their defensive midfielders are sitting deep and slow to close down. If you're quick, there might be a chance."
"Understood."
Kaká patted Deco on the shoulder and sprinted onto the field.
No one understood the weaknesses of the opposition better than a player on the pitch—especially someone as intelligent as Deco.
Yang Hao's strategy to target Olaizola made perfect sense. At 34 years old, the veteran defender struggled to cope with such an intense match.
At halftime, Luis Aragonés had made two substitutions for Mallorca.
Defensive midfielder Marcos Martín replaced forward Bruggink. This left Samuel Eto'o as the lone striker upfront.
Aragonés's intentions were clear: if he stuck to a 4-4-2 formation, they'd be overrun.
So, he went defensive.
"Fine," his strategy said, "I'll shamelessly park the bus. Atlético, do your best to break me down, or I'll take this point home!"
Taking a point from the Calderón, even at the cost of being called conservative, was acceptable to him.
The second substitution saw Jovan Stanković replace Nenê, a like-for-like swap on the left flank. Nenê had been overwhelmed by Joaquín and Maicon's relentless attacks, exhausted from constant sprints back and forth.
Now, Mallorca lined up in a 4-5-1 formation.
Yang Hao's decision to focus attacks on Olaizola's side was sound. If Torres couldn't capitalize, he'd bring on Drogba for a more direct approach.
As Deco had noted, the deeper positioning of Mallorca's midfielders, especially Martín, created a gap. Martín, accustomed to playing as a center-back, naturally dropped deeper. His partner, Gonzalo Colsa, was a typical Spanish defensive midfielder: tall (1.85m), slow, and not particularly agile.
When Kaká entered, he sprinted forward quickly.
As play resumed, his teammates passed him the ball.
The Brazilian advanced a few steps to the left before laying the ball off to an overlapping Évra.
This was a clear signal: Atlético was going to attack down the left.
"Kaká, push further up!"
On the sidelines, Yang Hao gestured energetically while shouting instructions.
Kaká turned back and signaled that he understood.
Atlético attempted their first attack down the left. With support from Kaká, Reyes broke down the flank and whipped in a cross.
Torres rose in the center but couldn't direct his header on target, the ball sailing narrowly over the bar.
On his way back, Torres gave Reyes a thumbs-up. The cross had been excellent; it was his positioning under pressure from the center-backs that had let him down.
Meanwhile, Aragonés shouted instructions from the sideline, urging his players to stay tight and deny Atlético's wingers space.
Time ticked away.
By the 70th minute, Yang Hao turned and motioned to Paralés to prepare Drogba for a substitution.
The Ivorian striker had been saved for the midweek clash against Monaco, as his experience in Ligue 1 was expected to be invaluable.
But now, Yang Hao needed him to make an impact off the bench.
Just then, Atlético regained possession as Mallorca's attack was intercepted by Marcos Senna near the halfway line.
Senna, though not the tallest player, was an exceptional ball-winner with tireless energy.
He passed quickly to Baraja, who relayed it to Kaká.
Kaká pushed the ball out to the left flank and jogged forward.
Reyes attempted another charge down Olaizola's side, but Mallorca had anticipated it this time.
Reyes paused, shielding the ball. Seeing Kaká approach, he passed it back.
Kaká took the ball with his right foot and shifted it sideways, advancing diagonally toward the edge of the penalty arc.
The young Brazilian carried the ball calmly, scanning for opportunities.
Mallorca's defensive midfielders, wary of leaving space for Torres, had dropped deeper than usual.
Kaká pointed to his left and called out to Torres, who immediately made a horizontal run.
The movement caused a ripple in Mallorca's defensive line.
Gonzalo Colsa, the closest defender to Kaká, momentarily glanced at Torres's run before turning back—only to find Kaká accelerating diagonally into the space he had vacated.
Colsa hesitated, then stepped forward to challenge, joined by Martín.
But Kaká was faster.
In a flash, he advanced to within 35 meters of goal.
With both defenders closing in, Kaká unleashed a thunderous shot.
The entire Calderón seemed to reverberate with the sound of the ball slicing through the air.
The shot was unstoppable.
It swerved past Mallorca's goalkeeper and smashed into the top corner of the net.
"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!!!"
"KAKÁ!!!"
"What a strike!"
"From over 30 meters out, Kaká delivers a thunderous goal!"
"The Calderón erupts as Atlético breaks the deadlock!"
Yang Hao jumped with joy on the sidelines, punching the air as the fans roared in celebration.
On the field, Kaká sprinted to the corner flag, arms wide open in triumph, before being mobbed by his ecstatic teammates.
The scoreboard now read: Atlético Madrid 2–1 Mallorca.
In a moment of brilliance, Kaká had seized the opportunity and turned the tide.
Kaká's Thunderous Strike Stuns the Calderón
Neither Gonzalo nor Martín could react in time.
The ball, like a bolt of lightning, cut through the Calderón sky with breathtaking speed, slamming into the left corner of the net with thunderous force.
Goalkeeper Miki dived, fully stretched, but it was far too late.
"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!!"
"KAKÁ!!! KAKÁ!!!"
"What a world-class goal!"
"A stunning thunderbolt from Kaká!"
"From 35 meters out, Kaká unleashes an unstoppable strike, a goal for the ages!"
"This is simply unbelievable!"
"Kaká has only been on the pitch for seven minutes, yet he has already made his mark with this brilliant long-range effort, breaking down Mallorca's defenses!"
"Even the Mallorca defenders didn't expect Kaká to shoot from that range. But that's exactly who Kaká is—fearless, brimming with confidence, and capable of producing decisive moments like this!"
On the pitch, Kaká sprinted toward the corner in celebration, arms raised in his signature pose.
Torres and the rest of the team quickly followed, swarming their teammate in celebration.
On the sidelines, Yang Hao leapt into the air, fists pumping, shouting with joy.
But his voice was drowned out by the thunderous roar of over 50,000 Atlético fans, all of whom were ecstatic, marveling at Kaká's audacious strike.
No one had expected him to take a shot from that distance, let alone with such precision and power.
Yet precisely because no one expected it, the goal came as a shocking and electrifying surprise.
Yang Hao turned to the bench, laughing as he high-fived assistant coach Juanma Lillo and the rest of the staff.
Spotting Drogba returning from his warm-up, Yang Hao walked over to embrace the Ivorian striker.
"Sorry, Didier, you'll have to keep resting for this one. We need you fresh for the Champions League next week!"
Drogba, who had just been celebrating Kaká's goal, grinned and nodded.
"It's all good, coach. I'll be ready."
Originally, Drogba was meant to be a backup option for this match, held in reserve unless absolutely necessary. Yang Hao had never intended to use him, though circumstances earlier had looked dire.
Now, thanks to Kaká's thunderous goal, Drogba could stay fresh for the upcoming match against Monaco.
"Kaká beat me, not you!"
After the match ended with Atlético defeating Mallorca 2–1 through goals from Torres and Kaká, Luis Aragonés couldn't help but "protest" to Yang Hao.
"Admit you lost to me—it's not so bad," Yang Hao teased, rubbing salt into the wound.
The two men chuckled, shook hands, and exchanged a brief hug.
"To be fair, that goal was truly exceptional," Aragonés admitted with a smile.
Both Torres' and Eto'o's goals had been impressive, too.
In football, every goal is a unique combination of skill, strategy, and a touch of luck—each one special in its own right.
But some goals stand out more than others.
Kaká's long-range strike was one of those moments.
"I just realized today—he's not only fast but has terrifying acceleration," Aragonés observed, shaking his head in disbelief.
It wasn't an amateur oversight; it was just hard to believe.
In professional football, many players possess speed. Many others have explosive acceleration. But players who combine both? Rare.
And those who marry that with flawless ball control at top speed? Those are the hallmarks of world-class players.
"Let me tell you a secret," Yang Hao said with a sly grin.
"Go on."
"You're absolutely right."
Yang Hao's teasing laughter left Aragonés speechless.
"Seriously though—Kaká is the player in our squad with the best acceleration."
Aragonés' eyes widened. "Better than Robben?"
Yang Hao nodded, smiling knowingly.
At first glance, Kaká's 1.86-meter frame didn't fit the profile of a player with blistering acceleration.
Typically, explosive players tend to be shorter, like Robben (1.81 meters) or Ronaldo Nazário (1.83 meters). It's extremely rare to see taller players possess such rapid bursts of speed.
Cristiano Ronaldo, for example, has extraordinary top speed, but his initial burst is slower than shorter players like Messi. This makes Messi more dangerous in short sprints, while Ronaldo excels over longer distances.
But Kaká?
At 1.86 meters, his speed was exceptional—and his acceleration just as stunning.
This unique combination allowed Kaká to blow past defenders with ease, often during the first touch or initial stride after receiving the ball.
Once past them, defenders could rarely catch him.
That's what made Kaká's skill set so dangerous—his first few steps were explosive, and his top speed could sustain for long runs, rivaling the likes of Ronaldo Nazário.
Even Kaká's dribbling at top speed was comparable to Ronaldo's.
His only shortcoming compared to Ronaldo lay in static or low-speed control, an area where the Brazilian legend had few peers.
"Honestly, where do you even find these players?" Aragonés asked, a genuine tone of regret in his voice.
It pained him to see so many talented players donning Atlético's red-and-white stripes instead of playing elsewhere.
Yang Hao smirked.
"I already told you one secret about Kaká. You think I'd spill another one?"
Aragonés groaned in frustration.
"Has anyone ever told you you're insufferable?"
"Has anyone ever told you you're at the Calderón?" Yang Hao replied with a playful smirk, raising his eyebrows.
Aragonés glanced around the stadium, sighed, and decided to leave.
"I'll be back!"
"Funny—so does the Big Bad Wolf."
Aragonés left without asking who the Big Bad Wolf was, his departure tinged with resignation.
Post-match Reflections
Kaká's goal had not only secured the win but left a lasting impression on everyone watching. It was a perfect reminder of his explosive talent—a player who could change the course of a game with a single moment of brilliance.
For Yang Hao and Atlético, the result reinforced their belief in their squad depth and the ability of their young talents to step up when it mattered most.
"It Was a Tough Match," Yang Hao summarized during the post-match press conference.
"We had many players coming back from international duty, most of whom played the full 90 minutes in their matches. This created significant challenges for us when arranging the lineup," Yang Hao explained.
"But at critical moments, our key players stepped up."
Yang Hao singled out Kaká for special praise:
"Kaká's goal was simply breathtaking. It's rare to witness such a brilliant strike, a 35-meter screamer. In my opinion, it's the most spectacular goal in La Liga this season so far."
"What's even more remarkable is that he scored it just seven minutes after coming on."
"Without a doubt, he's already become an indispensable part of this team."
Yang Hao's comments solidified Kaká's growing importance within the squad.
Outside the Atlético camp, the media also showered Kaká with praise for his stunning performance.
Marca highlighted his decisive contribution:
"Kaká needed only seven minutes to deliver a crucial goal. From 35 meters out, his shot left Mallorca's goalkeeper Miki completely stunned."
El País described it as:
"A thunderous strike—a bolt of lightning cutting through the night sky!"
ABC added:
"For Mallorca's goalkeeper, it was like a fleeting meteor streaking by—stunning and unstoppable."
Atlético players also applauded Kaká's brilliance.
Deco, speaking to reporters, complimented his compatriot:
"His long-range strike was exceptional. Scoring from that distance is no easy feat, and he's proven that he plays an increasingly vital role in this team."
Kaká, in his post-match interview, revealed that his shot was inspired by a suggestion from Deco.
In response, Deco smiled and said, "I just shared some thoughts with him. I've tried it before without success, but Kaká nailed it. He deserves all the credit."
Despite attempts by the media to create tension between the two Brazilian playmakers, both players skillfully sidestepped the trap. Kaká's gesture of attributing part of the credit to Deco had already laid the groundwork for mutual respect, and Deco's response returned the favor.
The reporters' bait went ignored.
Atlético's Strong Start in La Liga
After the 2–1 victory over Mallorca in La Liga's 7th round, Atlético extended their lead at the top of the table with 18 points from seven matches (6 wins, 1 loss).
Real Madrid and Valencia followed closely with 16 points each, while Deportivo La Coruña sat in fourth with 15 points.
Barcelona, meanwhile, struggled with only 8 points, languishing in 12th place.
Balancing La Liga and Champions League
When planning for the 7th round of La Liga and the 3rd round of the Champions League group stage—just three days apart—Yang Hao had to carefully coordinate player rotations.
For instance, he opted to start Torres against Mallorca while reserving Drogba for the upcoming clash with Monaco.
However, some surprises arose.
Yang Hao had initially planned to feature Kaká in the Champions League.
Monaco, under Didier Deschamps, employed a tactical style similar to the one he later used with the French national team: defensive solidity with rapid counterattacks. However, Monaco's current setup featured a higher pressing line, with forwards initiating pressure around the opponent's 30-meter zone.
Their defensive line gradually retreated to the edge of the penalty box, creating an aggressive midfield trap and a potent counterattack strategy.
The system relied heavily on wingers like Jérôme Rothen and Ludovic Giuly, as well as striker Fernando Morientes—a dynamic trio reminiscent of Deschamps' later trio of Giroud, Griezmann, and Mbappé.
Yang Hao believed that pairing Kaká with Drogba would be an ideal way to exploit Monaco's weaknesses.
But after the Mallorca game, Deco approached Yang Hao and requested to play in the Champions League.
"Trust me, boss—I'll be ready and at my best," Deco promised, clearly feeling the pressure from Kaká's recent performances.
A Delicate Balancing Act
Kaká's respectful remarks about Deco in his post-match interview demonstrated his maturity as a young player. Yet it was undeniable that Kaká's rising form posed a direct challenge to Deco's role.
While Rubén Baraja's pressing and running remained irreplaceable, Kaká's growing presence naturally increased the competition for Deco.
Yang Hao often used both Kaká and Deco in starting lineups, but against a team like Monaco, fielding both was impractical.
Deco's request to play wasn't about undermining Kaká but about redeeming himself after his underwhelming performance against Mallorca and maintaining his place in the pecking order.
Kaká's potential success in Monaco would only add to Deco's concerns.
On the flip side, this situation wasn't entirely negative for Kaká.
In La Liga's 8th round, Atlético faced Murcia, a relegation candidate. Yang Hao considered the match a straightforward win and planned to start Kaká there.
When Yang Hao discussed his decision with Kaká, he was surprised by the young Brazilian's response.
Kaká simply smiled.
"Boss, you don't need to consult me about these things. I trust your decisions!"
Yang Hao couldn't help but feel deeply moved by the young man's words.
"Deco has taught me so much, and I respect him immensely. We're also teammates on the national team. I still have a lot to learn and don't think I'm ready to fully replace him yet."
Kaká's honesty and humility shone through, easing Yang Hao's concerns.
This moment exemplified the harmony Yang Hao sought to maintain within the squad—balancing the ambition of younger players with the experience of seasoned veterans.
By assuring Deco of his importance and nurturing Kaká's growth, Yang Hao was building a team capable of competing on multiple fronts while avoiding internal discord.
Ultimately, it was a testament to the culture he had cultivated at Atlético: a team where every player, regardless of status, felt valued and motivated to contribute.
These were the speculations of outside media reporters.
They were capable of doing anything for the sake of sales.
For example, after Kaká's brilliant performance, they began fabricating stories about a supposed conflict between Kaká and Deco.
When no one fell for their trap?
No problem—they simply created their own narrative and acted as if it were true.
Sometimes, these kinds of rumors can still be damaging. Even if everyone knows they're false, the mere possibility of such tension can lead to awkwardness or even resentment between the parties involved. If left unaddressed over time, this can snowball into a real issue.
"Alright, it's decided. Keep performing well, and I trust you!" Yang Hao said with a nod.
Kaká smiled and nodded in response.
Yang Hao realized it was time to organize a team-building activity, to strengthen camaraderie among the players. Managing a dressing room of this caliber—balancing various interests and preventing conflicts—was no easy task. As the players in his squad gained more fame and stature, Yang Hao's role as a mediator and leader would become even more demanding.
If handling this Atlético squad—one he had personally built—was already this challenging, what about at Real Madrid or Barcelona?
Carlos Queiroz and Frank Rijkaard, managing star-studded squads, must be under even greater pressure. Especially Queiroz, whose dressing room was already plagued by conflicts this season.
From a manager's perspective, situations like the one between Kaká and Deco are, in essence, a good problem to have. Competition drives players to perform better.
The key is ensuring that the rivalry remains healthy and doesn't fracture the harmony within the team. That is the most important thing.
October 21st, Evening
Estadio Vicente Calderón, Madrid
UEFA Champions League, Group Stage – Matchday 3
Atlético Madrid vs. AS Monaco
As the Belgian referee Frank De Bleeckere blew the whistle to signal the start of the match, Atlético began by playing the ball into their own half. Monaco immediately pushed forward aggressively.
Both teams employed a 4-3-3 formation, but Monaco's version was distinct, featuring three holding midfielders. In attack, Morientes played as the central striker, with Rothen and Giuly supporting him on the flanks.
Strictly speaking, Monaco's setup was closer to a 4-3-2-1 formation, with Rothen and Giuly often dropping back to defend the wings and half-spaces.
Atlético started the game aiming to control possession and dictate the tempo, leveraging their technical superiority to stretch and dismantle Monaco's defensive structure through quick passing and movement.
Monaco, under Didier Deschamps, pressed high, attempting to win the ball back in Atlético's half.
Deschamps' aggressive tactics created early pressure for Atlético, with much of the action in the first minute confined to the area between the halfway line and Atlético's half.
Amid Monaco's pressing, Atlético made a few passing errors early on. However, by the second minute, they began to find their rhythm.
Atlético Establish Control
In the second minute, Atlético executed a smooth sequence of one-touch passes on the left flank. The play was promising but ultimately led to Evra, stationed near the halfway line, passing back to Lucio to reset.
Afterward, they switched the attack to the right flank but couldn't penetrate Monaco's defensive lines.
By the third minute, Atlético had largely taken control of possession and the game's tempo.
Yang Hao, observing from the sideline, nodded in satisfaction.
Deco, whose form had been questionable in the last game, was playing exceptionally well, quickly asserting dominance over the midfield.
Through patient ball circulation, Atlético's strategy began to strain Monaco's defensive setup.
Targeting Monaco's Weak Right Flank
Yang Hao's tactical blueprint was clear: attack Monaco's right side.
Monaco had only one recognized right-back—Argentine Hugo Ibarra—who had been loaned from Porto. Although Ibarra had recently returned from injury, his fitness was not ideal after playing consecutive games.
As a result, Deschamps started Gaël Givet at right-back.
Givet, a natural center-back and a left-footer, was playing out of position. Defending left-footed players like Reyes and Evra on Atlético's left flank was a daunting task for him.
Deschamps, aware of this vulnerability, deployed Czech midfielder Jaroslav Plašil deeper, providing additional cover for Givet on the right flank. Plašil occasionally dropped into the defensive line to allow Givet to tuck inside when necessary.
It was a pragmatic adjustment by Deschamps, but Yang Hao was determined to exploit this weakness fully.
Atlético's opening attacks focused relentlessly on Monaco's right side.
Early Pressure
In the 5th minute, Rubén Baraja switched the play with a diagonal ball from the right half-space to the left flank.
Evra controlled the pass, advanced a couple of steps, and played it to the retreating Reyes.
With his back to goal and Plašil closely marking him, Reyes couldn't turn. Instead, he dribbled horizontally toward the center, clearing the left flank for Evra to overlap.
As Reyes moved centrally, Joaquín also drifted inward, drawing defenders toward the middle. He passed to Xabi Alonso near the center circle, who quickly glanced upfield and opted to return the ball to Deco.
Deco, positioned closer to Monaco's 30-meter zone, surged forward with the ball. By this time, Monaco's two defensive lines had fallen back, with even Rothen and Giuly returning to support.
Deco threaded a vertical pass between the lines to Reyes, who quickly relayed it to the overlapping Evra on the left.
Evra attempted a through ball for Reyes, but Givet intercepted it with a header.
The ball fell back to Evra, who, reacting quickly, poked it toward Reyes again.
This time, Reyes received the ball on the edge of the penalty area, facing Givet one-on-one.
Reyes Breaks Through
Standing near the left edge of the penalty box, Reyes held the ball on his left foot, with Givet positioned directly in front of him.
Realizing his defensive stance left him vulnerable, Givet attempted to adjust by angling his body 45 degrees toward the byline.
But Reyes anticipated this adjustment perfectly. Without hesitation, he accelerated along the byline, darting past Givet before he could react.
Monaco's center-back, Sébastien Squillaci, rushed over to cover, but Reyes was quicker. He laid the ball off to Evra, who had trailed behind the play.
Evra, now double-teamed by Plašil and Édouard Cissé, quickly passed backward to Deco, who arrived unmarked at the top of the box.
Suddenly, Deco found himself in a golden opportunity. No Monaco defenders were near him.
The Brazilian midfielder trapped the ball with his right foot, swiftly dragged it sideways, and immediately followed up with a curling shot.
The ball arched gracefully through the air, soaring over the heads of everyone in the penalty area, and nestled into the top right corner of Monaco's goal—a spot that was virtually unreachable.
"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!!!"
"Deco!"
"Just five minutes into the match, Atlético dismantled Monaco's defense with fluid passing and brilliant individual skill."
"Deco strikes with a stunning curling shot to break through Monaco's goal."
"1–0!"
"What a fantastic start for Atlético!"
"In a crucial moment, Deco delivered a beautiful curling shot to put his team ahead!"
Yang Hao stood on the sidelines, clapping enthusiastically for Deco's brilliant effort.
This was the power of competition.
After Kaká's excellent performance in the previous match, Deco felt the pressure, and in this game, he raised his level even further.
Without Kaká providing this kind of push, Deco's form might not have bounced back so quickly.
Once play resumed, Atlético continued their assault on Monaco's right flank.
Monaco was aware of Atlético's strategy, but Deschamps chose not to make adjustments, instead instructing his team to maintain their midfield pressing. This decision led to a physical and chaotic battle, with players from both sides frequently clashing.
Atlético excelled at short passing combinations, but Monaco's three midfielders were equally adept at running and defending, creating a fierce back-and-forth struggle.
Although Monaco's possession percentage lagged behind Atlético's, their defensive structure held up reasonably well.
In the 9th minute, Atlético's left-flank attack failed to produce a threat.
After Reyes's unsuccessful dribble attempt, he passed back to Evra, who attempted a cross aimed at Drogba. However, Givet intercepted it with a header in the left side of the box, clearing it out of Drogba's range.
Still, Atlético continued to press, persisting with their attacks down the left flank.
Reyes and Evra were particularly lively, creating frequent threats with their aggressive movements.
Reyes, especially, was in top form.
16th Minute: Reyes's Brilliance
In the 16th minute, Deco delivered a precise ball into the left half-space.
Reyes received it and drifted inward, freeing up the flank for the overlapping Evra. With perfect timing, Reyes played a pass toward the byline.
Evra burst forward at full speed, charging toward the byline.
This time, Givet read the play more effectively, positioning himself to block Evra's advance. Evra, unable to cut through, was forced to pass backward.
Reyes, following up, took Evra's pass in stride, controlling it before Prášil could intervene, and whipped in a cross.
In the box, Drogba found himself sandwiched between Monaco's two center-backs, Squillaci and Rodríguez. Yet, the Ivorian forward positioned himself perfectly to meet Reyes's cross with a powerful header.
"It's in!!!!!!"
"Atlético score again!"
"A brilliant header from Drogba!"
"Once more, Atlético's left flank proves decisive, with Reyes providing an impeccable cross and Drogba showcasing outstanding positioning."
"From just inside the six-yard box, Drogba's header beat goalkeeper Roma, who could do nothing but watch the ball sail into the bottom-left corner."
"2–0!"
Deschamps's Stubbornness
Yang Hao couldn't quite understand Deschamps's approach.
Despite being two goals down, the French coach refused to retreat. Instead, Monaco continued pressing high, engaging Atlético in a relentless midfield battle.
It was a puzzling decision.
Logic dictated that Monaco should either weather the storm or focus on counterattacking opportunities, yet they persisted with their aggressive approach.
Did Deschamps genuinely believe his team could match Atlético blow for blow? Or was this unyielding style simply a reflection of his tactical philosophy?
Yang Hao suspected that Deschamps might lack the experience to adapt in such situations.
After all, this was only the third UEFA Champions League match of Deschamps's managerial career.
But Atlético showed no mercy.
Yang Hao urged his players to keep exploiting Monaco's vulnerable right side.
With such a glaring weakness on display, Yang Hao saw no reason not to capitalize.
He had a sneaking suspicion that Deschamps was still figuring out his tactical identity, especially on the European stage.
Deschamps's current 4-3-2-1 setup bore distinct traces of Italian pragmatism, likely influenced by his years playing in Serie A, particularly at Juventus.
However, brief stints in the English Premier League with Chelsea and in La Liga with Valencia—though just one season each—had likely left an impression on him, especially Valencia under Héctor Cúper.
During those years, Cúper's Valencia was one of the most tactically innovative teams in Europe, setting trends across the continent.
In Yang Hao's previous timeline, Deschamps's Monaco reached the Champions League final this season, only to lose 3–0 to Mourinho's Porto.
The primary reason for that loss? Deschamps wasn't cautious enough.
Yes, in that final, Monaco dominated possession and created more chances, especially before Giuly's injury. Yet, throughout the competition, Monaco had played attacking football against teams like Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Deportivo La Coruña, including the famous 8–3 win over Deportivo and the 3–1 comeback against Madrid.
It was clear that Deschamps was still relatively inexperienced.
However, inexperience had its perks.
At least he wasn't as risk-averse as he would become when managing the French national team. Despite having an absurdly talented squad, his overly cautious approach wasted their potential. That conservatism, Yang Hao suspected, stemmed from the scars of losing the 2004 Champions League final to Mourinho.
For now, though, none of this mattered to Yang Hao.
As long as Monaco didn't back down, Atlético would continue to attack.
28th Minute: Another Blow
In the 28th minute, Atlético launched another attack down Monaco's right flank.
Evra, Deco, and Reyes exchanged quick passes in tight spaces, destabilizing Monaco's defensive setup.
Eventually, Deco played a through ball into the left side of the penalty area, finding Drogba's feet.
With his back to goal, Drogba shielded the ball from Squillaci, turned sharply to his right, and unleashed a fierce shot with his right foot.
The ball flew at lightning speed, leaving goalkeeper Roma with no time to react as it smashed into the net.
"3–0!"
And it wasn't even half an hour into the match.
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