Chapter 42
Atlético Madrid secured a dominant 3–0 victory over Monaco at the Calderón Stadium.
After conceding three goals in the first half, Deschamps had no choice but to adjust his tactics. He had no alternative—unless he was a glutton for punishment and wanted to suffer a humiliating defeat, he had to opt for a more pragmatic approach.
The French newspaper L'Équipe reported on the match shortly afterward, expressing disappointment at Monaco's defeat. The publication highlighted the stark gap in quality between the two teams.
"Under Deschamps, Monaco's high-pressing tactics have been fearless and highly effective in Ligue 1.
"In the Champions League group stage, they impressed with a hard-fought draw at PSV and a resounding 4–0 victory over AEK Athens.
"These performances seemed to have misled Deschamps into thinking his team could challenge Atlético on equal footing.
"This illusion was shattered in a devastating defeat at the Calderón Stadium."
L'Équipe noted that had Monaco not shifted to a more defensive strategy after falling 3–0 behind, Atlético might have scored an even greater margin of victory.
Particularly striking was the imbalance in the early stages of the match.
"Reyes and Evra completely overwhelmed Monaco's right flank, and Deschamps had no effective response.
"Deco's orchestration in midfield and Drogba's dominance in the penalty area left Monaco defenseless."
The newspaper lamented, "The match was one-sided from the start, with Atlético firmly in control.
"Monaco, on the other hand, spent the entire game chasing the ball, running themselves ragged, and repeatedly returning to the center circle to restart after conceding."
Still, L'Équipe saw some potential positives in the defeat.
"With their current squad, Monaco had little chance against a team as versatile as Atlético, capable of both devastating counterattacks and intricate possession play.
"Deschamps, despite being younger than Yang Hao, received a masterclass in tactical awareness at the Calderón."
The report concluded, "Relentlessly pressing forward with courage and passion may look impressive in Ligue 1, but against stronger opposition, such tactics seem reckless.
"Football is not just a battle of courage, technique, and fitness—it is also a contest of intelligence."
French media broadly echoed this sentiment, attributing Monaco's loss to Deschamps's tactical errors. Attempting high-pressing football against Atlético at the Calderón, they argued, was a recipe for disaster.
However, Le Figaro focused on one player in particular: Didier Drogba, who scored twice in the match.
Over the past two seasons, Drogba had become a standout player at Atlético. His performance against Monaco, capped by a brace, further enhanced his reputation.
"Before 2001, this Ivorian striker was struggling for game time in Ligue 2 with Le Mans," Le Figaro noted. "But after joining Atlético and receiving meticulous coaching from Yang Hao, he has transformed into one of Europe's most formidable forwards."
The article highlighted Drogba's meteoric rise—from a forgotten player in the French lower leagues to a star performer on the European stage—all in just two years.
In a post-match interview, Drogba expressed heartfelt gratitude to Yang Hao and Atlético, emphasizing how much he had learned and grown in his two seasons with the club.
Critiquing French Youth Development
Le Figaro also explored how Drogba's journey reflected broader issues in French football, particularly its talent identification and development systems.
The paper interviewed several of Drogba's former teammates at Le Mans, many of whom admitted they never expected him to achieve such heights.
"They couldn't have imagined that the same player who couldn't break into Le Mans's starting lineup would go on to score twice against Monaco in the Champions League," the article remarked.
The report also spotlighted Franck Ribéry, another French player now making waves at Atlético. Ribéry, who had spent years toiling in France's third and fourth tiers, was now a rising star in Spain.
"He joined Atlético's reserves in the summer, but his performances in the Segunda División have been so impressive that he has already made appearances for the first team," the article stated.
Le Figaro interviewed various figures from Ribéry's past, including Michel, a director at Lille's youth academy, where Ribéry once trained. Michel described Ribéry as "undisciplined," listing various "missteps" during his time in Lille's youth setup.
Others offered different explanations for Ribéry's struggles in France. Guingamp president Noël Le Graët, who had invited Ribéry for a trial, said, "We thought he was too short to succeed."
Meanwhile, a coach from Caen, another lower-division club, dismissed Ribéry as "too slow."
In response, Le Figaro called these assessments absurd.
"Anyone who has watched Ribéry in the Segunda División knows he has excellent pace and explosive acceleration.
"Although not tall, his physicality is more than adequate, and his technical skill is undeniable."
The article concluded that both Drogba and Ribéry highlighted serious flaws in French football's scouting and youth development systems.
"When a player deemed unworthy of a place in Ligue 2 becomes a leading striker for a top La Liga team, and another overlooked talent thrives in Spain after being rejected by multiple French clubs, it's clear that something is deeply wrong."
The report ended with a call for self-reflection in French football:
"Is the issue with our talent identification process? Or have our football philosophies become outdated?
"Combined with Monaco's 3–0 loss to Atlético, these examples underscore the urgent need for introspection."
The Ripple Effect
Le Figaro's article caused a stir in France, sparking widespread discussion and even alarm among fans.
In recent years, France had been one of the world's most successful footballing nations, but concerns were growing about the aging of its golden generation, including stars like Zidane and Makélélé.
The disastrous 2002 World Cup had already shaken French football to its core, and now, Le Figaro's report only deepened the anxiety.
Initially unaware of the media frenzy, Yang Hao only realized the scale of it when Atlético's public relations team informed him of a surge in interview requests from French outlets.
"All this from beating Monaco?" Yang Hao asked, puzzled.
After learning the details, he couldn't help but laugh.
"What's there to reflect on? Just admit defeat and move on!"
To manage the situation, Yang Hao instructed the PR team to approve select interviews with Drogba while shielding Ribéry from media attention.
"We need to give Ribéry a calm environment to grow," Yang Hao explained. "He doesn't need the spotlight yet, especially given his current image. Let him make his mark on the pitch first."
Yang Hao even visited Atlético's reserve team to personally reassure Ribéry, sharing his strategy and encouraging the player to focus solely on his development.
Surprisingly, Ribéry, known for his fiery personality, agreed with Yang Hao's approach.
"I'll wait until I've earned my place in the first team," Ribéry said.
Yang Hao nodded, urging him to stay focused and keep improving.
Ribéry continued to develop steadily in the Segunda División this season. His performances demonstrated visible progress, and while he wasn't particularly young at 20, his raw talent was undeniable. Yang Hao believed that if Ribéry could maintain focus, dedicate himself entirely to training and matches, and avoid poor decisions like his past transfer to Turkey, his career trajectory would far surpass that of his previous life.
This philosophy was consistent with Yang Hao's broader approach to nurturing players. He didn't just promote them or guide them along their prior paths—he actively worked to refine their skills and habits.
For example, Robben's improvement with his weaker right foot was evident, and Yang Hao managed his workload more carefully compared to the player's previous injury-prone career. The emphasis on long-term development, coupled with the advanced sports science at Atlético's state-of-the-art lab, significantly reduced injuries within the squad. Major injuries were nearly non-existent, barring unavoidable in-game collisions or other unforeseen events.
Yang Hao believed that as long as Robben followed this trajectory, he wouldn't become the fragile "glass man" of the past. Similarly, Ribéry could thrive under this carefully crafted system.
La Liga, Round 8
Following their Champions League clash with Monaco, Atlético traveled to face Murcia in La Liga's eighth round.
It didn't take long for Atlético to impose their dominance. In the 13th minute, Fernando Torres opened the scoring. By the 37th minute, Kaká doubled the lead with a clinical strike.
While Murcia managed to pull one back in the 70th minute, Torres sealed the game in the 84th minute with his second goal of the night. Atlético left with a convincing 3–1 victory.
Elsewhere, Real Madrid secured a 3–1 win over Racing Santander. Deportivo La Coruña edged out Real Sociedad 2–1, thanks to goals from Valerón and Tristán. Barcelona, finally breaking out of their slump, claimed a 3–1 away victory over Mallorca.
At the conclusion of the round, Atlético remained at the top of the table with 21 points, followed closely by Real Madrid with 19.
Spanish media couldn't help but speculate: could this season mirror the last? Would Atlético and Real Madrid battle for supremacy until the Madrid derby in Round 14, or would one of them falter first?
Most outlets, including AS, predicted that Atlético was more likely to slip. Their reasoning? Despite losing Makélélé, Real Madrid's star-studded lineup was simply too powerful.
But the football gods had other plans.
La Liga, Round 9
Midweek action brought surprises.
Real Madrid traveled to Zaragoza, only to be held to a frustrating 0–0 draw. This match highlighted an ironic twist: Gabriel Milito, the Argentine defender whom Real had nearly signed but rejected due to alleged knee issues, delivered a stellar performance for Zaragoza.
Adding insult to injury, Madrid's defense featured the underwhelming pairing of Cannavaro and Pavón. Pavón's clumsy challenge in the second half earned him a second yellow card, reducing Madrid to 10 men. The foul? Committed against Savio, a former Real Madrid player now donning Zaragoza's colors.
The aftermath left Spanish media buzzing.
Milito and Savio—two players deemed expendable by Real Madrid—had played pivotal roles in derailing their former club. It wasn't the first instance of such a storyline. From Eto'o to Cambiasso to Munitis, former Madrid players thriving elsewhere had become a recurring theme, casting doubt on Florentino Pérez's "Galácticos" strategy.
Elsewhere, Deportivo La Coruña's woes continued as they fell 2–0 at home to Mallorca. Valencia could only manage a 2–2 draw with Celta Vigo. Barcelona, buoyed by their improving form, claimed a resounding 3–0 home victory over Murcia.
Atlético, however, maintained their scintillating run. With goals from Torres (twice), Kaká, and Baraja, they routed Real Sociedad 4–0.
With other top teams faltering, Atlético's form left the entire league in awe. After nine rounds, they stood atop the table with 24 points, four clear of second-placed Real Madrid (20 points). Deportivo and Valencia trailed with 18 and 17 points, respectively.
Even the usually Real Madrid-leaning Marca couldn't help but acknowledge Atlético's remarkable start, labeling them the team most likely to clinch the title this season.
La Liga, Round 10
Three days later, the league resumed with its tenth round of fixtures.
Deportivo's struggles persisted as they were held to a goalless draw away at Murcia. Their once-vaunted "Super Depor" looked a shadow of its former self, with coach Irureta unable to reverse their decline.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, relied on Ronaldo's brilliance to secure a 3–0 home win over Athletic Bilbao. The Brazilian scored twice to lead his team to victory.
Atlético faced a tricky away match against Real Betis. Things got off to a rocky start as Betis capitalized on a defensive error to take the lead in the 19th minute. For a moment, it seemed Atlético's perfect start might come to an end.
The commentators echoed this sentiment:
"With eight consecutive wins, a slip-up or draw wouldn't be surprising—it's only natural for form to fluctuate."
But Atlético's quality proved otherwise.
In the 42nd minute, Torres found the back of the net to level the score before halftime. Shortly after the restart, Kaká set up Torres for his second goal of the match, completing the turnaround.
Atlético held on to claim a hard-fought 2–1 victory.
At the post-match press conference, Yang Hao defended Pepe, whose error had led to Betis's goal. "He's a young player, and mistakes happen. It's a learning experience, not something to be criticized endlessly."
Yang Hao had opted to start Pepe due to a minor injury to Lucio during training. Given Betis's attacking options, Yang Hao chose Pepe over Marchena, trusting the young defender to rise to the occasion.
Meanwhile, Barcelona played out a thrilling 3–3 draw with Real Sociedad, and Valencia thrashed Mallorca 5–0 in a controversial match marred by an early red card for Mallorca's defender Nino. Furious with the officiating, Mallorca coach Aragonés declared, "The referee killed the game."
The Title Race Heats Up
With ten rounds complete, Atlético remained atop the standings with 27 points, their perfect record intact. Real Madrid followed with 23 points, with Valencia and Deportivo trailing further behind.
Atlético's relentless form, coupled with their consistent performances in both La Liga and the Champions League, left the Spanish football world in awe. As media outlets continued to debate whether they could sustain this pace, Yang Hao's side focused on their next challenge, determined to prove that this was no fluke.
Midweek: UEFA Champions League, Group Stage, Matchday 4
Atlético Madrid traveled to Monaco for their fourth group-stage match. Having already secured three consecutive wins in the group, and with Monaco, PSV Eindhoven, and AEK Athens embroiled in a battle for second place, Yang Hao opted for a rotated lineup to preserve his key players.
The match was fiercely contested. Didier Deschamps' side, desperate to qualify for the knockout stage, abandoned the 4-3-2-1 formation they had employed at the Calderón two weeks prior and switched to a 4-4-2, with Morientes and Pršo leading the attack.
Atlético's defensive duo of Ricardo Carvalho and Marchena struggled to contain Monaco's two imposing forwards. In the 34th minute, a defensive lapse during a corner allowed Morientes to head the ball into the net, giving Monaco the lead.
Despite trailing, Atlético maintained control of the match. With Kaká and Iniesta in midfield, supported by Marcos Senna, Atlético dominated possession and continually pressed Monaco's defense.
Monaco managed to hold their lead for an hour until the 84th minute, when Kaká broke free near the halfway line, dribbling past defenders and threading a precise pass to Robben on the left wing.
Monaco had started Hugo Ibarra on the bench, sticking with Givet on the right. Yang Hao suspected this decision was influenced by Ibarra being a loanee from Porto—"not their own child." However, Deschamps eventually brought Ibarra on in the 75th minute, shifting Givet to the left.
Nine minutes later, Robben seized the opportunity. With a swift move and a brilliant body-feint, he breezed past Ibarra down the left flank and delivered a pinpoint cross into the box. Didier Drogba, rushing into the six-yard area, connected with a powerful header to equalize.
1–1.
After conceding, Deschamps replaced Pršo with Emmanuel Adebayor, signaling his intent to push for a home win to bolster Monaco's chances of advancing. However, Monaco's aggressive push left them vulnerable at the back.
In the 90th minute, Atlético intercepted a Monaco attack near midfield. Iniesta's perfectly weighted lofted pass found Drogba, who cushioned the ball with his head into Kaká's path. The Brazilian surged past Monaco's defense with blistering speed and calmly slotted the ball past goalkeeper Roma to complete the turnaround.
2–1.
The scoreline remained unchanged until the final whistle.
With this victory, Atlético secured 12 points and confirmed their place at the top of Group E. Monaco and PSV Eindhoven both had 6 points, with Monaco holding second place on goal difference. AEK Athens, winless and goalless after four matches, languished at the bottom of the group.
By clinching the group with two matches to spare, Yang Hao announced during the post-match analysis that Atlético would field a fully rotated squad for the remaining games. This decision thrilled the club's young players and reserves, offering them the rare opportunity to experience the Champions League.
"It's the Champions League! How many professionals go their entire careers without playing even one match at this level?" Yang Hao reminded them. He also encouraged Atlético's B-team prospects to step up and prove themselves.
La Liga, Round 11: Atlético vs. Villarreal
Back in league action, Atlético faced a tough test against Villarreal. Known for their Latin American-influenced style—combining technical ability with high-intensity pressing—Villarreal posed a unique challenge.
Their midfield featured three defensive midfielders—Josico, Coloccini, and Pere Martí—shielding the backline, while Juan Román Riquelme orchestrated play behind forwards Sonny Anderson and Antonio Guayre.
This setup forced opponents to simultaneously contain Riquelme's creativity, guard against counterattacks, and find a way to penetrate Villarreal's robust midfield defense—a tall order.
Although Villarreal's form had been inconsistent, their quality was undeniable. They had drawn against Real Madrid, lost to Athletic Bilbao, and gone toe-to-toe with Sevilla. Despite being 12th in the standings, they were far from an easy opponent.
Atlético managed to secure a narrow 1–0 victory, courtesy of a 54th-minute goal from Reyes.
Yang Hao approached the match cautiously, fully aware of Riquelme's threat. After an aggressive opening half failed to yield a breakthrough, he instructed his team to switch to a possession-based approach, neutralizing Villarreal's counterattacks while looking for the decisive moment.
The strategy paid off.
Post-match, some media criticized Yang Hao for being overly conservative, but he defended his approach: "It's not conservatism—it's prudence."
For a stark contrast, one only needed to look at Real Madrid's misfortunes. Away at Sevilla, Madrid fell 0–1 due to a fifth-minute own goal by Iván Helguera. Despite a relentless 90-minute assault on Sevilla's defense, the Galácticos failed to find an equalizer, returning to Madrid empty-handed.
With Atlético extending their winning streak to ten matches, their lead at the top of the table grew to seven points.
La Liga standings after Round 11:
Atlético Madrid – 33 points
Real Madrid – 26 points
Deportivo La Coruña – 22 points
Valencia – 20 points
Barcelona – 18 points
La Liga, Round 12: Valladolid vs. Atlético
Following an international break, Atlético traveled to Valladolid.
The two-week hiatus had a noticeable impact on the team's form. Still, they managed an early breakthrough with a 14th-minute goal from Reyes. However, Valladolid equalized in the 65th minute after Lucio's uncharacteristic mistake. The Brazilian center-back lost possession near midfield, allowing David Sousa to lead a swift counterattack and score.
Despite relentless pressure in the closing stages, Atlético couldn't find a winner. The match ended 1–1, halting their 10-game winning streak.
Elsewhere:
Deportivo La Coruña drew 0–0 with Real Betis.
Barcelona suffered a 1–2 loss to Villarreal, with Riquelme delivering a masterful performance and earning Man of the Match honors.
Valencia drew 2–2 with Murcia.
Most top teams struggled in this round, as the international break took its toll on their squads. The exception was Real Madrid, who capitalized on their rivals' missteps.
Yang Hao's Atlético remained top of the table but faced mounting pressure to maintain their momentum. With the title race heating up, every point counted as the league approached its midway point.
The Galácticos' Narrow Escape
Real Madrid hosted Albacete at the Bernabéu, but their luck seemed to run out for most of the match. Despite overwhelming possession, the score remained 1–1 until the dying minutes, when Zidane finally broke the deadlock with a crucial goal to secure a 2–1 victory for Los Blancos.
After Matchday 12, Atlético Madrid led La Liga with 31 points, maintaining their position at the top. Real Madrid followed with 26 points, narrowing the gap. Deportivo La Coruña held 23 points, and Valencia trailed with 21 points. Barcelona, struggling with consistency, dropped to 8th place with just 18 points.
November 25: UEFA Champions League, Matchday 5 – Atlético Madrid vs. AEK Athens
True to his word, Yang Hao fielded a heavily rotated lineup for this fixture:
Goalkeeper: Palop
Defenders: Antonio López, Pepe, Marchena, Alves
Midfielders: Mascherano (holding), Iniesta, Gabi
Forwards: Robben, Drogba, Villa
Despite the changes, Atlético completely dominated proceedings. From the opening whistle, the home side controlled possession and dictated the tempo. AEK Athens were pinned back, barely able to string together meaningful attacks.
In the 22nd minute, Robben showcased his trademark dribbling down the left flank before delivering a pinpoint cross to the far post. Villa met the ball with a delicate touch to break the deadlock.
The rest of the first half saw Atlético continue their dominance. They bombarded AEK's defensive third, creating waves of attacks that left the Greek side scrambling.
In the second half, Atlético struck again. This time, Iniesta orchestrated the play, threading a perfect pass to Villa, who selflessly teed up Drogba for a simple finish in the 52nd minute. With the score at 2–0, Yang Hao began making substitutions to rest key players and give younger talents a taste of European football.
60th minute: Silva replaced Iniesta.
70th minute: Messi and Ramos entered the fray, replacing Villa and Marchena respectively.
The substitutions thrilled the crowd. Messi, Ramos, and Silva—though registered on the club's youth roster—were making their Champions League debuts. The match provided a valuable learning experience, as Yang Hao prioritized development opportunities in a low-stakes environment.
With victory all but secured, Atlético's younger lineup continued to dominate possession. However, AEK Athens tried to exploit their inexperience, ramping up their physicality.
Protecting Messi
In the 72nd minute, Messi received the ball on the right flank. Attempting to dribble past AEK's captain, Michalis Kapsis, he was taken down with a reckless sliding challenge that sent both player and ball tumbling.
Though far from the touchline, Yang Hao's protests were loud and immediate. The coach made it clear he wouldn't tolerate such dangerous play against his young star. The Calderón crowd erupted in jeers, furious at what they perceived as an unsportsmanlike foul.
Kapsis received a yellow card, but Ramos, who rushed to confront the AEK captain, also earned a booking for shoving him. Yang Hao could only shake his head and laugh wryly from the sidelines.
"First Champions League match, and he already gets a yellow? That's Ramos for you," he mused. Still, Yang Hao appreciated Ramos' fiery demeanor and his instinct to protect his teammates.
"It's the right call," he thought. "You have to protect your own players. Nobody else will."
After the incident, Ramos approached Messi. "He's on a yellow now," Ramos said with a smirk. "Keep going at him. Let's make his life hell."
Drogba also joined in, encouraging Messi to play freely. "Just do what you do best," the Ivorian said.
The Genius of Messi
The game resumed, with Messi determined to make his mark. In the 78th minute, Silva picked out Alves with a sharp pass to the right. Alves, surging forward, fed the ball to Messi.
The Argentine, already showing his flair, received the ball with his back to goal. With a quick turn, he accelerated past Kapsis, cutting inside with breathtaking speed and precision. Kapsis, already booked and wary of a second yellow, hesitated, giving Messi just enough room to advance.
Messi continued his solo run, weaving through two more defenders before reaching the edge of the penalty area. Spotting a gap, he unleashed a low shot toward the far corner.
The ball zipped past AEK's goalkeeper and nestled into the net.
3–0.
The Calderón erupted in applause. Fans chanted Messi's name as the 16-year-old sprinted toward the bench, celebrating with Yang Hao.
Post-Match Reflections
Atlético's dominant performance sealed a comfortable 3–0 victory, securing their fifth consecutive win in the group stage. Yang Hao's faith in his younger players paid off, as they stepped up and showcased their potential.
After the match, Yang Hao reflected on Messi's journey so far. "With talents like him, you must protect them. These players are treasures, and it's our responsibility to ensure they have long, successful careers."
The media heaped praise on Messi's performance, with many dubbing him the "future of football." Meanwhile, Ramos and Drogba's show of solidarity further demonstrated Atlético's close-knit team culture, a hallmark of Yang Hao's management style.
With their unbeaten record intact and top spot in the group secured, Atlético's focus now shifted back to maintaining their dominance in La Liga.
The next challenge awaited, but Yang Hao's Atlético continued to soar, balancing youth development and top-tier performance like few teams could.
Even at just 16 years old, Messi was nearly untouchable when he had the ball. No matter how hard Michalis Kapsis and AEK Athens' midfielders tried, they could barely contain him, even resorting to fouls near the edge of the box on the right flank to halt his progress.
The Calderón erupted in deafening jeers as the referee brandished another yellow card for the foul.
"Atlético's young prodigy, Lionel Messi, holds dual citizenship for Argentina and Spain. At only 16 years old, he's been one of the standout players for Atlético's reserve team in the Segunda División this season. What an incredible talent!"
"Just look at his dribbling since coming on—AEK can only stop him with fouls."
The ensuing free kick was taken by Drogba, a player Yang Hao wasn't surprised to see step up. Drogba's free kicks were decent, though Yang wasn't sure if his proficiency came from this life or the last. This time, however, the Ivorian blasted his effort high over the bar.
"Hey, Leo!" Ramos shouted from the backline as AEK prepared to restart play. "Be bolder! Take the ball more often and drive into the box!" Ramos encouraged, his voice booming across the pitch.
Having spent three years alongside Messi, Ramos understood his teammate's abilities better than most. He knew Messi's timid nature and caution were his greatest hurdles. Only when Messi grew comfortable with his surroundings would he truly unleash his potential—and then, no one could stop him.
Messi was already a dribbling magician with deadly precision in front of goal.
"Stay sharp, guys! The ball's coming back soon!" Ramos clapped his hands loudly, rallying the defense and energizing his teammates.
Pepe, standing nearby, couldn't help but glance over at Ramos in disbelief. Seriously? A 17-year-old, playing his first Champions League match, is already barking orders at everyone? What is wrong with Atlético's youth system?
Though perplexed, Pepe followed Ramos' lead. To the rest of the team, this was nothing unusual—everyone knew what Ramos was like.
But Ramos wasn't all talk. When the ball came near, he charged forward aggressively, leaping to challenge AEK's towering 1.88-meter striker, Nalitzis. Though Ramos couldn't win the header, his pressure disrupted the play enough that Nalitzis couldn't control the ball cleanly.
Despite being knocked to the ground, Ramos immediately scrambled back to his feet and threw himself into the next challenge.
Watching this unfold, Pepe hesitated to step forward, choosing instead to provide cover from behind. Now I understand, Pepe thought. This guy earns the right to direct traffic because he's fearless.
Ramos wasn't the type to stand back and shout from a distance. His leadership came through his relentless effort and willingness to sacrifice himself for the team. If you wanted to tell others what to do on the pitch, you had to lead by example—and Ramos embodied that principle.
Even when outmatched physically, Ramos' sheer determination made him an invaluable presence on the pitch.
AEK's attack was ultimately snuffed out when Mascherano intercepted a pass near the edge of the box, quickly distributing the ball to David Silva, who passed it on to Robben. Atlético launched a blistering counterattack down the left flank.
Robben surged forward, outpacing his marker before sending a cross into the box toward Drogba. Although the AEK defense cleared the ball, Gabi recovered possession and shifted play to the right wing, finding Messi.
Messi controlled the ball calmly, facing Kapsis head-on. With a subtle feint, Messi cut inside, leaving Kapsis scrambling.
In Kapsis' mind, he cursed inwardly. I knew this kid would cut inside—I was ready!
But knowing wasn't enough. Messi's quickness and precision made his moves nearly impossible to anticipate, let alone counter.
As Kapsis and a teammate moved in to close him down, Messi pulled off a stunning backheel pass, sending the ball to Alves on the overlap.
Charging down the right wing, Alves delivered a cross into the box. The pass was slightly low, forcing Drogba to adjust. With a defender on his back, Drogba used his chest to control the ball, cleverly laying it off for the onrushing Messi.
The Argentine teenager collected the ball with his right foot, nudging it into space on his left. A quick shift of direction and a sudden burst of speed created a sliver of daylight inside the box.
With two defenders hesitant to dive in, Messi seized the moment, unleashing a low shot with his left foot.
The ball rocketed past the AEK goalkeeper, grazing the inside of the left post before nestling into the net.
3–0!
The Calderón exploded with noise as thousands of fans leaped to their feet, cheering wildly.
Messi, overwhelmed with emotion, turned and sprinted toward his teammates in celebration.
"Over here!" Drogba called, motioning for the youngster. Without hesitation, Messi jumped onto Drogba's back, the Ivorian carrying him on a triumphant lap of the field.
On the Sidelines
Yang Hao couldn't contain his excitement, punching the air as the stadium roared around him.
Watching Messi shine like this brought a sense of déjà vu, reminding Yang Hao of his previous life.
Some things never change, Yang thought with a smile. Messi will always be Messi. The only difference is, this time, it's Drogba carrying him instead of someone else.
The game ended 3–0, another resounding victory for Atlético Madrid, solidifying their dominance in the Champions League group stage. For Messi, Ramos, and the rest of the team's rising stars, it was a night they would never forget.
"Well done, Arjen!"
As the match ended, Yang Hao stood at the sidelines, greeting Robben with a handshake and a hug as the Dutchman walked off the pitch.
"Thanks, boss," Robben replied, nodding appreciatively before heading down the tunnel.
Atlético's 3–0 victory over AEK Athens had given Yang Hao a pleasant surprise. While he hadn't been overly concerned about the outcome of the game, winning was always better than losing, wasn't it?
"Didier, fantastic job tonight!" Yang Hao gave Drogba a thumbs-up as the striker approached.
"Thank you, boss." Drogba returned the gesture, slapping hands with Yang Hao before embracing him briefly and making his way off the field.
"David, you were a bit cautious tonight. Next time, loosen up a bit—don't worry, Javier's got your back," Yang Hao joked as he hugged David Silva, pointing toward the nearby Mascherano.
David Silva's performance had been solid overall, but his youth showed; he held back at times, hesitant to fully express himself.
His personality played a role in this. Unlike someone like Ramos, who was on the verge of starting a brawl during his Champions League debut, Silva had a more reserved demeanor.
During the match, Yang Hao had been genuinely concerned that Ramos might earn a straight red card. Has anyone ever managed to get sent off in their Champions League debut? That would be unprecedented.
"Sorry, boss. I'll be better next time," Silva said, a bit dejected.
"Don't be so hard on yourself, David," Yang Hao reassured him. "You played well tonight. I just think you're capable of even more. Keep it up."
Then, as if struck by a sudden thought, Yang Hao leaned in and whispered, "Get ready for the next Champions League match—I'm starting you again."
David Silva's eyes widened with delight, looking at Yang Hao in disbelief. Yang nodded emphatically, placing a finger to his lips to indicate secrecy.
"This is our little secret, okay? I'm counting on you to shine."
"Thank you, boss!" Silva said, grinning from ear to ear as he hurried off.
"Javier, you were outstanding tonight. Great work!" Yang Hao greeted Mascherano with an appreciative hug.
"Thanks, boss," Mascherano replied modestly.
Many people misunderstood Mascherano's early career. He wasn't just a defensive workhorse; he was a well-rounded midfielder capable of excellent passing and playmaking.
Of course, his technical skills weren't as refined as those of Gago, Banega, or Pirlo, but his game was much more complete before he transitioned into a primarily defensive role later in his career—especially during his time at Liverpool.
Back in the early 2000s, when information about European football was far less accessible in many parts of the world, much of this evolution went unnoticed. It was only later, as Yang Hao dove into tactical literature and player biographies, that he pieced together these details.
For example, many believed Mourinho's success began with his Champions League triumph at Porto. In reality, he had already gained significant recognition before that, which was why he quickly ascended to manage top clubs like Benfica and became a serious contender for the Real Madrid job this past summer.
Mourinho had even competed with Carlos Queiroz for the position, both in Yang Hao's previous life and in this one.
Why were they considered?
The answer lay in their mastery of training management systems.
Queiroz's impact at Manchester United was undeniable, while Mourinho's innovative training methods at Porto had already made waves across Europe. For elite clubs, having a cutting-edge training framework was often more critical than pure tactical acumen.
This was Mourinho's ace in the hole.
Real Madrid's interest in him wasn't solely about his tactical prowess—it was about how his methods could elevate the performances of their star-studded squad.
From a tactical perspective, Mourinho had a sharp mind and a keen sense of trends in football. His time as Van Gaal's assistant had profoundly influenced him, helping him build a tactical framework that resembled a winning formula.
His approach emphasized player movement, pace in the attacking third, and the presence of a strong center forward. Within this structure, every role had specific responsibilities, and players were recruited to fulfill those exact needs.
This "puzzle-piece" coaching philosophy wasn't unique to Mourinho. Figures like Rafa Benítez operated in a similar manner, emphasizing tactical discipline and meticulous role allocation.
Benítez, for instance, famously quipped, "Give me 11 robots, and I'll win every match."
But therein lay the challenge. Players aren't robots. They have individual tendencies, emotions, and egos.
As a result, both Mourinho and Benítez struggled with certain types of players—particularly uncontrollable geniuses.
Why?
Because such players didn't fit neatly into their systems. Their unpredictability introduced risks that these methodical coaches were loath to take.
However, these very same coaches also recognized that an overemphasis on efficiency and stability capped their teams' ceilings. When their strategies became too predictable, opponents could neutralize them.
That's why, paradoxically, they also sought out geniuses—albeit manageable ones.
For Mourinho at Porto, it was Deco. At Inter, it was Sneijder. However, during his tenure at Chelsea, he lacked such a player and failed to win the Champions League. At Real Madrid, he had many stars but couldn't fully harness someone like Modrić.
Benítez followed a similar trajectory. Valencia had Aimar; Liverpool relied on Xabi Alonso.
When Xabi Alonso left Liverpool for Real Madrid, Benítez's meticulously constructed system at Liverpool crumbled.
The message was clear: while geniuses could elevate these structured systems to new heights, their absence exposed the rigidity of the frameworks.
Returning to the earlier question: why does Yang Hao believe that Mascherano's career took a dramatic turn after joining Liverpool, transitioning from a creative midfielder to a defensive workhorse?
The reason lies with Benítez's coaching philosophy. In his system, there could only be one Xabi Alonso—there was no room for a second player with similar traits. As a result, Mascherano was pushed to develop as a defensive midfielder. Over time, his ability to organize the game not only stagnated but began to deteriorate.
Are there other examples of such players? Absolutely.
Take Lucas Leiva under Benítez at Liverpool or John Obi Mikel under Mourinho at Chelsea. Mourinho even attempted to convert Luka Modrić into a holding midfielder during his tenure at Real Madrid.
This isn't about right or wrong; it's a reflection of different coaching philosophies.
Pep Guardiola, for instance, shares some similarities with Mourinho and Benítez in this regard. However, Guardiola blends their structural rigor with Barcelona's possession-based ideals, creating his unique tactical framework.
Guardiola's approach seems less focused on defense compared to Mourinho or Benítez, but it emphasizes control of the ball—possession itself becomes a form of defense.
In Yang Hao's past life, a common question lingered: why didn't Guardiola win another Champions League after leaving Barcelona?
From Bayern Munich to Manchester City, despite his star-studded squads, he couldn't replicate the success he had with Messi and Iniesta at Barcelona.
Over time, teams worldwide proved through practice that possession and passing alone couldn't break opponents. For any team to succeed, they needed a game-changing player—someone with the individual talent to destroy defenses.
That explosive edge doesn't come from a coach's tactics; it comes from a player's innate creativity and genius.
Unlike Mourinho, Benítez, or Guardiola, Yang Hao didn't possess their keen tactical intuition or a signature system. Instead, he charted a different course.
Yang Hao modeled his approach after "mortal" coaches like Ancelotti, Ferguson, Aragonés, and Heynckes. He relied on observation, learning, and the tactical knowledge from his previous life to adapt his strategies to the players at his disposal.
He could deploy a 4-2-3-1, 4-3-2-1, or 4-3-3. If three-center-back formations came back in vogue and suited his squad, he'd embrace them without hesitation. Yang Hao was flexible—he evaluated his opponents and his team's needs and adjusted accordingly.
This was another way to build a team: trust the players.
Yang Hao had no intention of molding Mascherano into a purely defensive midfielder.
Reality isn't a video game like Football Manager, where young players have fixed potential or an invisible ceiling. Otherwise, someone like Adriano, who excelled with just his left foot in his previous life, would have become unstoppable once he developed his right foot.
Mascherano's case was no different.
Yang Hao encouraged him to continue growing as a player, honing both his defensive and offensive skills, fostering his development as a well-rounded midfielder. This not only maximized Mascherano's potential but also aligned with Atlético's tactical needs.
In some ways, if you gave Yang Hao a player like Michael Essien right now, he might struggle to use him effectively. It's the same reason Mourinho couldn't fully utilize Modrić.
Messi's Historic Night Shakes European Football
Atlético's 3–0 victory over AEK Athens sparked widespread discussion across Europe.
The focus? Lionel Messi.
While Messi wasn't the youngest player to feature in a Champions League match—Chelsea's Celestine Babayaro still held that record, having debuted for Anderlecht at just 16 years and 86 days—Messi had entered the competition at 16 years and 154 days, making him the second-youngest player in Champions League history.
Of course, the youngest debut record didn't carry much significance. If Yang Hao wanted to, he could have fielded Ángel Di María for a few minutes to claim the record. But what was the point?
In professional football, integrity matters.
What truly drew attention was Messi's achievement in becoming the youngest goalscorer in Champions League history.
Before Messi's historic strike, the record belonged to Ghanaian forward Peter Ofori-Quaye, who scored for Olympiacos against Rosenborg in 1997 at 17 years and 195 days. Despite the record-breaking goal, Olympiacos lost that match 5–1.
Ofori-Quaye's feat initially brought him widespread attention, with his market value soaring to €3 million—an astronomical figure for a 17-year-old at the time. However, he struggled to handle the pressure of early fame, and his career faltered. This summer, he was released by Olympiacos and returned to play in Ghana's domestic league.
Six years later, Lionel Messi shattered Ofori-Quaye's record by more than a year, scoring at 16 years and 154 days.
This milestone immediately sent shockwaves through the footballing world.
Messi's origins added to the story's appeal. Not only was he Argentine, hailing from the country that produced Diego Maradona, but he was also thriving at Atlético Madrid, one of Europe's top clubs.
Just recently, Messi had scored on his debut in the Copa del Rey, making his rise even more remarkable.
Fans and media alike marveled at his composure and skill, particularly his dribbling and ball control, which had left AEK Athens defenders no choice but to foul him.
If this wasn't a once-in-a-generation talent, what was?
The recognition extended beyond Spain and Europe. FIFA's official website congratulated Messi, acknowledging him as the youngest player to score in Champions League history.
Their statement was measured, urging Messi to stay grounded and continue his development while expressing optimism about his future.
The endorsement from FIFA only fueled the global media frenzy.
In Argentina, the excitement was palpable. Newspapers like Olé wasted no time dubbing Messi the "Second Coming of Maradona."
What? Another "Maradona II"?
The hype was inevitable. A 16-year-old breaking records in the Champions League while playing for a powerhouse club was a recipe for worldwide adoration.
Too many "Maradona II" players?
No problem—cast a wide net, and one might become the next king of football!
The level of attention Argentine fans and media gave Messi was staggering.
Not only did they flood Atlético's press office with phone calls, but many reporters camped outside the gates of Majadahonda, determined to get an interview with Messi.
Faced with such pressure, Yang Hao was forced to compromise. However, Messi himself did not appear for interviews; instead, his father and agent, Jorge Messi, took the spotlight.
At a press conference in Majadahonda, Jorge and Yang Hao answered questions from reporters. Jorge shared stories about Messi's upbringing and his journey to Atlético, though sensitive details about rule-bending agreements were carefully avoided.
This was no small matter. According to FIFA regulations, players under the age of 18 cannot transfer internationally. In reality, Messi's rights technically belonged to Yang Hao, not Atlético, with Yang personally paying Messi's salary. A deeper investigation by the media could expose this arrangement.
Both Messi and his family understood the truth of the situation and remained deeply grateful to Yang Hao.
It was Yang Hao who had believed in Messi from the start, paying out of pocket to bring him to Spain and covering his medical treatments. Over the years, Yang poured tremendous time, effort, and money into Messi's development. Jorge Messi knew this well and appreciated it deeply.
During the press conference, Jorge spoke briefly about their challenges in Argentina and how Atlético and Yang Hao's intervention became a footballing fairy tale.
Yang Hao, on the other hand, appealed to reporters to respect Messi's space.
"I know everyone cares about Messi and hopes to see him continue to grow and improve steadily. But here, I ask for your cooperation: please allow him a peaceful environment to develop."
"He's only 16. While I have no doubt he will one day be the best player in the world, that's still years away. Along the way, he'll face many challenges, and I hope everyone can work with us to support him. Thank you!"
Yang's heartfelt plea resonated with the reporters.
As part of the compromise, Yang allowed media coverage during Atlético B's Segunda División matches, though interviews with Messi remained off-limits.
The result? That weekend's Atlético B match saw over 200 reporters swarming the sidelines—absolute madness!
Even crazier were Atlético's own fans.
They were even more desperate than the journalists to see their academy prodigy. Questions buzzed through the crowd: What does Messi look like? How does he play? What's his style? Is he good-looking?
The Segunda División match turned into a sold-out spectacle.
Carlos Leo, a close confidant of Yang Hao, secretly informed him that both Miguel Gil and Enrique Cerezo were beginning to regret the terms of their buyout agreement with Yang Hao.
The agreement tied Atlético shares to the future market values of Messi and Ángel Di María. At the time of signing, both men had felt they were getting the better end of the deal.
Now, with Messi's meteoric rise, anxiety began to creep in.
"If Messi is this valuable," Miguel Gil reportedly joked, "what happens when Di María breaks out too? If I lose all my shares, Yang Hao, please leave me a little—at least let me keep my name on the club!"
Though said in jest, it underscored a deeper truth: Messi's success was a point of pride for everyone at Atlético.
Atlético's Dominance Continues
While Messi's performance for Atlético B dominated the headlines, the first team prepared for their La Liga match at home against Málaga.
The game began with an early spark.
In the 5th minute, Rubén Baraja unleashed a long-range shot, putting Atlético ahead. Later, José Antonio Reyes doubled the lead.
The 2–0 victory over Málaga solidified Atlético's position at the top of the table.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid faced Osasuna in a challenging away match. Osasuna's Bakayoko scored first, taking advantage of Madrid's shaky form due to their dual commitments in domestic and European competitions.
It wasn't until the 73rd minute that David Beckham assisted Ronaldo, salvaging a 1–1 draw.
After 13 rounds, Atlético extended their lead at the top with 34 points, pulling seven points clear of Real Madrid, who sat in second with 27 points.
Valencia climbed to third with 24 points after defeating Zaragoza, while Deportivo La Coruña slipped after a 0–1 loss to Villarreal, whose maestro Riquelme continued to dazzle.
Barcelona's struggles persisted, with a goalless draw at home against Valladolid leaving them languishing in 9th place.
Madrid's Quiet Despair
With no matches scheduled at the Santiago Bernabéu that weekend, the usual matchday buzz was absent.
Instead, Real Madrid fans flocked to bars and private clubs across the city.
Among the most exclusive venues was the Attack Supporters Club, a haven for the club's wealthiest and most influential fans. Known for its connections to Florentino Pérez's administration, the club had become a meeting ground for Madrid's elite.
During away matches, these affluent fans gathered in the club's luxurious viewing suites to watch games together, often joined by Real Madrid executives.
On this particular night, Pérez himself was present in a private box, watching as his Galácticos stumbled to a disappointing draw.
Unlike ordinary fans, the high society patrons of the Attack Supporters Club rarely voiced their frustrations, even when the team performed poorly. For them, football was as much about social prestige as it was about the game itself.
Still, behind closed doors, the disappointment was palpable.
"Atlético is just too strong this season," one attendee murmured, breaking the silence.
The room fell quiet, the unspoken acknowledgment hanging in the air.
Atlético's dominance was no longer an anomaly—it was a reality.
"Who says otherwise? It's already been 13 rounds, with Atlético only drawing one match and losing another, while winning 11 games.
"That record is starting to rival our own from last season."
"Honestly, Atlético's performance this season is eerily similar to ours from last year—steady and consistent."
"Yang Hao is truly a phenomenal coach. The squad he's built for Atlético, capable of competing on three fronts, is rock-solid."
"And then there's that Messi kid everyone's talking about. How did Yang Hao even find him?"
"Isn't Valdano an Argentine? How did he not discover Messi first?"
"I heard Messi's father reached out to us, made phone calls, and even sent faxes, but we didn't pay attention."
"And somehow Yang Hao was the one to stumble upon this gem?"
"This season's Atlético squad is genuinely strong, and their players are at a great age—perfect for making a splash."
"More than anything, it's Yang Hao's tactics. They're playing such attractive football this season and scoring a ton of goals."
"To be honest, even though I'm a Real Madrid fan, I have to admit that Atlético's style of play is better than ours this season."
"When will we finally have our own Messi?"
The private box erupted with chatter as attendees expressed their admiration and envy for Atlético's success and its emerging young stars.
Fans, after all, are drawn to youthful prodigies.
Florentino Pérez coughed deliberately, commanding the room's attention. Once the voices quieted, he began to speak.
"We Don't Need Messi"
"We don't need to find a Messi," Pérez declared confidently. "We've already had our own Messis before."
With this, Pérez appeared to close the matter.
"Talent in youth academies comes in waves. Behind every wave of emerging talent lies a common denominator: money."
"Why is Atlético focusing so heavily on youth development right now? Because they need the financial backing. They're desperate to fund their training base and new stadium, so they're forced to nurture and capitalize on youth talent."
"We had our own period like this—the mid-80s through the 90s. During those years, we won five consecutive La Liga titles and developed the 'La Quinta del Buitre.' And why? Because under Mendoza's presidency, Real Madrid was drowning in debt. We had no choice but to take the hard road: selling off stars and turning to our youth academy. That's how we survived those difficult times until the turn of the millennium."
"In contrast, during the 90s, Barcelona enjoyed the financial backing of Catalonian business interests. Núñez built his team around superstars—from Romário to Ronaldo, Figo to Rivaldo, and Kluivert. Barça was basking in its golden era then."
The years after 2000, however, were common knowledge.
For the past three years under Pérez's leadership, Real Madrid operated differently from any prior president. The squad became an ensemble of superstars, with virtually every position filled by a global icon.
More importantly, Real Madrid had finally broken free from financial constraints, with revenues soaring year after year.
With the current financial state of the club, Pérez suggested, signing another marquee player next summer would not be a problem.
"Let's be clear—our youth academy isn't failing. Look at how many of our youth players are scattered across La Liga. That alone proves that our academy is producing talent. But for Real Madrid, the standards are much higher. These players might be good enough for other teams, but not for us."
Pérez let his gaze sweep across the room before delivering his clincher:
"Even someone like Messi wouldn't get much playing time at Real Madrid. The same goes for players like Torres or Villa."
A stunned silence followed as many attendees slowly nodded in agreement.
However, a few chose to stay silent, including Emilio Butragueño, one of the famed members of the "La Quinta del Buitre."
As a former player, Butragueño knew Pérez's argument was flawed. He couldn't tell if the president was intentionally twisting the facts or genuinely didn't understand.
The issue lay in comparing youth players to the club's global superstars.
Real Madrid's current problem was an obsession with chasing only the very best. From the boardroom to the fans, everyone judged players by impossibly high standards.
Why?
Because Real Madrid had the world's greatest players as reference points.
Standing next to Cannavaro, Pavón and Helguera looked like amateurs.
Beside Vieira and Zidane, even the likes of Borja or Miñambres—or sometimes even Guti—seemed subpar.
How could they possibly measure up to such legends?
But therein lay the rub.
Real Madrid's academy, no matter how good it was, only drew talent from across Spain. Compare that to the global pool of elite players that Zidane, Vieira, and Cannavaro came from. Those superstars weren't merely developed; they were the cream that rose to the top through a process of survival of the fittest.
Moreover, talents like Ronaldo—the kind born once in fifty years—were in a league of their own. How could anyone hope to compete?
What made it worse was that Real Madrid couldn't possibly monopolize every top Spanish prospect.
Under these conditions, was it fair to hold the club's young players to such impossible standards?
Butragueño wrestled with these thoughts but kept them to himself.
Some truths are best left unsaid.
Poaching from Atlético
"Florentino," First Vice President Fernández interjected with a smile, "what are the chances of us poaching some of Atlético's players?"
The room came alive with laughter and enthusiasm.
Stealing talent from their cross-town rivals? A dream scenario for any Madridista—weakening the opposition while strengthening their own ranks.
"Who?" Pérez asked with a sly grin. "Deco?"
Before anyone could answer, he shook his head.
"We have Zidane."
"What about Torres?" someone suggested.
The young Spanish forward had been touted as the national team's next big star, with some claiming he might even surpass Raúl.
"We have Ronaldo and Raúl," Pérez countered.
"Joaquín might be worth considering—to replace Figo."
"I've looked into that," Pérez said. "Atlético won't sell, and Joaquín doesn't want to join Real Madrid."
The room fell silent once more, frustration creeping in at the realization that luring away Atlético's top talents was easier said than done.
Real Madrid's Boardroom Analysis: "Atlético Doesn't Have What We Need"
When the room mulled it over, they realized something: Atlético's squad didn't seem to have any players Real Madrid truly needed.
Either the players lacked the requisite skill or star power—like Maicon, Evra, or Carvalho, who weren't yet elite enough for Real Madrid—or there were other factors at play. For instance, Lucio might have the talent, but his looks were deemed "too ugly."
Initially, someone floated the idea of Xabi Alonso, but after Beckham's arrival, who needed Xabi Alonso?
The room collectively reached the same conclusion: Atlético, despite their current success, were still "the same old Atlético"—a scrappy underdog compared to Real Madrid's might.
Florentino's Perspective on Derby Strategy
"I consulted Valdano and Queiroz," Florentino Pérez interjected, pulling the room back on track. "They both believe the team's current performance is perfectly normal. We had a managerial change over the summer, plus we sold Makélélé and brought in Beckham—these things take time to adjust."
"Queiroz is confident," he continued. "He believes the team is finding its rhythm. In fact, they've said this season's Atlético reminds them of us last season, while our current struggles echo what Atlético went through. The upcoming Madrid Derbies will be decisive."
Pérez paused, then smiled. "If we win these two derbies, a 7-point gap is nothing. And besides, a team like Atlético, juggling three competitions, is bound to crack under pressure. The closer they get to critical moments, the more likely they are to falter."
This statement drew knowing nods. After all, hadn't Real Madrid's own collapse at the end of the previous season cost them three trophies in a matter of weeks?
Atlético, Pérez implied, would face a similar fate.
"Honestly, if we can deliver a decisive blow in the derby—a big win that crushes their morale—we might just shift the momentum entirely."
"Exactly. Atlético isn't as invincible as they seem. One solid victory in the derby, and we're back in contention."
"Florentino, you should call Ronaldo and Zidane. Tell them to step it up and take down Atlético!"
"Yes, the stars need to shine, especially at the Bernabéu. Beating Atlético would both excite the fans and bolster team confidence—it's a win-win."
"The truth is, some of the stars aren't playing with the urgency they should."
"Give them a little push, Florentino. A pep talk might do wonders."
The Madrid Derby Hype
As the conversation shifted back to the derby, the anticipation in the room became palpable. The upcoming Madrid Derby at the Santiago Bernabéu, just three days away, was Real Madrid's first derby of the season.
Following that, Real Madrid would face Barcelona in El Clásico during Round 15—only three days later—at the Camp Nou.
The pressure was mounting.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid's recent 1-1 draw with Osasuna was attributed to Queiroz's squad rotation in preparation for these crucial matches. The draw was dismissed as inconsequential. What truly mattered was securing victories in the derbies.
The Global Spotlight on the Derby
As La Liga entered Round 14, the Madrid Derby loomed large on the horizon. Not just in Madrid, but across Spain and the globe, all eyes were fixed on this high-stakes clash.
With Atlético's rise and Barcelona's decline, the Madrid Derby had become the most valuable and tactically sophisticated fixture in La Liga—drawing immense media and fan attention worldwide.
Over the past two seasons, the derby had grown increasingly heated, and this year's iteration was set to be the most explosive yet.
Real Madrid trailed Atlético by 7 points, while Atlético themselves had been on fire, boasting stellar performances from players like Kaká, Torres, and Xabi Alonso. Add to that their charismatic coach Yang Hao, one of the most celebrated figures in world football today.
The hype was unprecedented.
La Liga itself recognized the significance of this showdown, partnering with outlets like AS, Marca, and Spain's national broadcaster to produce extensive promotional content. From the end of Round 13, a relentless campaign of advertising and programming swept the media landscape.
Yang Hao vs. Queiroz: The Pre-Derby Duel
One of the highlights of the derby build-up was a live television special featuring both managers—Yang Hao and Carlos Queiroz—broadcast by Spain's national television network.
The program, hosted by AS editor Alfredo Relaño and Cadena SER's renowned presenter José Ramón de la Morena, provided a platform for the two coaches to discuss the derby head-to-head.
The broadcast went beyond Spain, streaming online for a global audience.
Topics ranged from "Who's Spain's best forward: Torres or Raúl?" to debates about squad-building philosophies and the role of superstars.
And, naturally, the program couldn't resist revisiting Florentino Pérez's infamous comment mocking Yang Hao—a remark that had become a global talking point.
"Superstar Real Madrid Can't Beat Team-Oriented Atlético"
When prompted, Yang Hao doubled down on his earlier claim:
"Superstar Real Madrid can't beat team-oriented Atlético," he declared, prompting a lively debate.
For the sake of entertainment, both managers leaned into the rivalry. With Relaño and de la Morena egging them on, Yang Hao and Queiroz traded verbal barbs and bold predictions.
"If I lose this match," Yang Hao quipped, "I'll crawl out of the Bernabéu on my hands and knees!"
Not to be outdone, Queiroz countered, "If I lose, I'll hand in my resignation."
Though much of the tension was manufactured for the cameras, there was no denying that both men were taking this match seriously. This was a derby, after all, and neither could afford to lose.
Shocking News: Barcelona's Collapse
Just as Yang Hao and Queiroz wrapped up their fiery debate, La Liga's Round 14 action kicked off.
The results were shocking: Barcelona suffered a humiliating 1-5 defeat to Málaga.
The Blaugrana conceded five goals before salvaging a sliver of dignity with a late own goal by Málaga.
In truth, all six goals were scored by Málaga.
This catastrophic loss marked yet another low point for a Barcelona side spiraling into chaos.
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