Chapter 75
Goalkeepers: Čech, Palop
Defenders: Evra, Antonio López, Dani Alves, Zabaleta, Lucio, Ramos, Pepe, Thiago Silva, Godín
Midfielders: Baraja, Xabi Alonso, Kaká, Iniesta, Mascherano, David Silva, Modrić
Forwards: Drogba, Torres, Villa, Robben, Messi, Di María, Suárez
This was Yang Hao's 25-man roster for the preseason training camp in the United States.
After opening camp in Madrid with two days of recovery and adjustment, which were also open to media and fans, the team departed for Los Angeles on an Emirates Airlines charter flight.
Once again, Atlético Madrid chose UCLA's campus near Sunset Boulevard as their training base. Their previous experience there had been excellent: Drake Stadium offered first-rate facilities, the picturesque views of Sunset Boulevard provided a serene backdrop, and the hotel accommodations were superb. It was no surprise Atlético returned for their preseason preparations.
Real Madrid, taking a cue from Atlético, also opted for the United States but set up camp on the East Coast.
This season, the Madrid derby rivals were brimming with star power.
Atlético's roster spoke for itself. On the other hand, Real Madrid boasted Beckham, Raúl, Casillas, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ibrahimović, Joaquín, Ballack, Ashley Cole, Essien, Vieira, and Cannavaro—a who's who of global football giants.
Although Real Madrid had parted ways with Zidane, Ronaldo Nazário, and Roberto Carlos over the summer, the club's galaxy of stars remained dazzling. It perfectly embodied the saying: "A mighty club, but ever-changing stars."
Both La Liga and its American partners placed immense importance on this season's Spanish Super Cup.
The two legs of the Super Cup were scheduled at the Rose Bowl in Los Angeles and the Cotton Bowl in Dallas.
Yang Hao couldn't help but notice how Americans loved naming their stadiums after bowls. For instance, Orlando had the Citrus Bowl.
Both the Rose Bowl and the Cotton Bowl shared a common trait: their capacity hovered around 93,000.
Far from excessive, the seats sold out instantly.
Once the venues and teams for the Spanish Super Cup were confirmed, fans in the United States went wild. The 180,000 tickets for the two matches were gone in no time, with scalpers selling them at inflated prices.
Similarly, the teams' other preseason friendlies in the U.S. were also hot commodities, making it nearly impossible to secure a ticket.
Years of effort by La Liga to establish a foothold in the American market were finally paying off.
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Building Bridges with Colo-Colo
In addition to the Spanish Super Cup and three La Liga preseason tournament games, Atlético also scheduled four friendly matches in the United States. One of these was against Chilean club Colo-Colo, specifically requested by Atlético.
As a storied club in Chilean football, Colo-Colo held significant influence domestically. Atlético aimed to leverage this opportunity to strengthen ties with Colo-Colo, tapping into the club's network to scout promising Chilean talent for the future.
For Atlético, it was just another preseason match. For Colo-Colo, however, it was a lifeline: the club earned a $1 million appearance fee, a financial boon during tough times. The gesture earned Atlético immense gratitude from the Chilean side.
But this sparked an unintended ripple effect.
Several other South American clubs with good relations with Atlético began calling, all essentially saying the same thing:
"Big brother, next time there's a gig like this, count us in!"
"Time, place, your call. We'll show up however you want—just help us make money!"
Even European clubs were intrigued. Watching La Liga teams expand aggressively in Asia and North America left them envious.
Everyone knew the untapped potential of American sports.
Yang Hao suddenly recalled the International Champions Cup (ICC), a tournament that had emerged in his previous life. Initially held in the U.S. as an invitational, it later expanded to Asia, Oceania, and Europe, showcasing its immense market potential.
The key detail? The ICC was run by Americans.
But now, with La Liga thriving in both Asia and North America for several years, why should they hand over this golden opportunity to others?
Determined not to let history repeat itself, Yang Hao convened a meeting with Enrique Cerezo, Miguel Gil, Carlos Leo, and other department heads to discuss formalizing and upgrading La Liga's preseason tournament into a fixed, professional event.
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A Vision for the Future
"You've all seen this year's European transfer market. Aside from Chelsea and Inter, which are propped up by wealthy owners, even clubs like Manchester United are struggling financially. Every team is desperate for money but has no idea how to get it," Yang Hao remarked.
This sentiment accurately reflected the current state of European football.
Most clubs were in dire straits.
By comparison, La Liga clubs were faring relatively well.
The explanation was simple: many had already grown accustomed to operating on tight budgets. Their wage bills weren't excessive, and transfer fees were manageable. The influx of roughly €10 million in additional annual revenue had significantly improved their situation.
The collective benefits were clear to all, earning widespread support for La Liga's new centralized revenue-sharing model.
Well, almost all.
Real Madrid and Barcelona still clung to their frustrations.
The new arrangement had merely brought their revenue back to pre-centralization levels, falling short of the windfalls they once enjoyed when negotiating broadcast rights independently.
But without reigning in these two behemoths, the rest of La Liga's clubs would never have risen.
And with Atlético's dominance, what did the league have to fear?
If Real Madrid and Barcelona wanted to play alone, they were welcome to. Atlético ensured La Liga's survival and success.
Unsurprisingly, Atlético had become the de facto leader of the league.
La Liga's overseas preseason tournaments had begun as a promotional tool, but after three years of steady growth in North America and Asia, the initiative had hit a plateau. Organizing, hosting, and promoting the events had outgrown La Liga's resources.
Professionalization was now imperative.
Yang Hao proposed transforming the tournament into a regular, professionally managed event with experienced partners, allowing it to expand into untapped markets.
The benefits were multifaceted: increased revenue, a broader fan base, and the opportunity to forge valuable partnerships.
Crucially, this shift had widespread support.
Everyone understood the financial realities of La Liga. Without overseas revenue streams, the league would collapse.
From UEFA to the Spanish FA, La Liga to its fans, the consensus was clear: preseason tours abroad were essential.
Some Spanish broadcasters even purchased rights to these preseason matches for domestic airing.
Yang Hao concluded with his trademark confidence:
"Instead of letting Americans swoop in and capitalize, let's secure this ourselves."
"I believe this is an event with significant market potential. After all, every team has to play preseason friendlies, and with transportation so convenient nowadays, it doesn't matter where those games take place."
"North American and Asian markets are eager to see high-level European football. With the foundation we've built, why not take full advantage of it?"
"I think it's worth pursuing," said Carlos Leo, who frequently interacts with sponsors and commercial partners. His sharp business acumen immediately sensed the opportunity.
"Our current preseason matches are relatively basic, and the marketing is underdeveloped. From an organizer's perspective, the games already sell well—broadcast rights are marketable, and fans are willing to buy tickets. If we establish it as an independent event, we can attract exclusive sponsorships and further unlock its potential."
Currently, the preseason games are tied to La Liga, but with independent sponsorship deals, the league could secure naming rights and expand broadcasting agreements globally.
In Yang Hao's previous life, the International Champions Cup grew into a massive event, with participating clubs earning millions of euros per summer—some even exceeding €10 million. The earnings depended on factors like broadcast rights, ticket sales, and sponsorship deals.
Interestingly, the ICC didn't just feature powerhouse clubs but also included teams like Benfica, Fiorentina, and Guadalajara. Yet this didn't diminish the event's promotional or commercial value.
It proved that tournaments held during this period held great business potential.
Since teams need preseason games anyway, why not centralize these opportunities for revenue? Hosting matches in North America, Asia, or other parts of the world allows for competitive warm-ups, market expansion, and revenue generation—a win-win-win scenario.
More importantly, with La Liga's preseason games already thriving in North America and Asia, failing to capitalize further would be a wasted opportunity.
"I think we should pursue this. We could start discussions with IMG Group," suggested Andrew Balasco.
IMG Group, the world's largest sports marketing and management firm, had long collaborated with La Liga on overseas preseason events, including organizing the Spanish Super Cup abroad. If IMG Group saw the potential, this idea could be hugely successful.
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Aligning the Stars
After Atlético's internal discussions, Enrique Cerezo and Miguel Gil flew from California to New York to meet with Real Madrid's Florentino Pérez, José Sánchez, and others. The two sides quickly reached a consensus.
By the time Antonio Pont, La Liga's representative, arrived in the U.S., he was joined by officials from Barcelona and other top-tier La Liga clubs. Together, they convened to discuss the proposal.
Everyone understood the current situation.
Europe's transfer market was lackluster this summer—a clear sign of financial strain. Continuing on this path would only lead to collapse.
In Yang Hao's previous life, if not for the influx of foreign capital, European football might have faced complete financial ruin.
La Liga was not immune to such risks.
After several years of global expansion, clubs now recognized the benefits of international exposure.
The "Big Three" of La Liga—Atlético Madrid, Real Madrid, and Barcelona—offered their full support, as did La Liga itself. Even the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) approved, eager to see broadcast revenues grow.
For the RFEF, more lucrative deals meant increased funding for grassroots development, coaching and referee training, and infrastructure upgrades.
RFEF President Ángel María Villar even pledged to liaise with UEFA and FIFA on the league's behalf. Many at the meeting noted Villar's rising influence following the fallout of the Calciopoli scandal, which had elevated him to a prominent position within UEFA.
Once a consensus was reached, La Liga and IMG Group began negotiations.
The partnership was a natural fit. La Liga would serve as the event's principal organizer, while IMG Group handled event services and marketing.
The finer details would require further discussions, but the initial plan was to launch the revamped preseason tournament in summer 2007, complete with title sponsorships and partnerships from major brands.
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Training Camp Wrap-Up
While La Liga finalized plans, Atlético Madrid was wrapping up its preseason camp in Los Angeles.
The team traveled to Denver, Colorado, to face MLS side Colorado Rapids at the high-altitude Empower Field at Mile High.
The match drew a capacity crowd of 76,000, but Atlético cruised to a 3–0 victory in a one-sided affair.
Yang Hao continued using a two-half lineup strategy, fielding different players in each half. Fans loved it, but Yang Hao was less satisfied with the quality of competition.
One glaring issue was the relatively low standard of MLS.
At this time, MLS had only 12 teams split between two conferences, with just six in the Western Conference. The gap between MLS clubs and European powerhouses like Atlético was stark.
After the Colorado Rapids, Atlético faced Houston Dynamo at NRG Stadium. With 71,800 fans in attendance, the Spanish giants delivered a 4–0 drubbing against what was billed as the strongest team in MLS.
The tour concluded in Kansas City at Arrowhead Stadium, where Atlético defeated Sporting Kansas City 3–1 before 76,400 fans.
Every game sold out, thrilling American fans, but for Atlético, the matches offered limited preparation value.
This highlighted Yang Hao's desire to professionalize preseason tournaments, ensuring high-quality opposition while reaping financial rewards.
The final friendly was against Chilean side Colo-Colo, held at State Farm Stadium in Phoenix, Arizona.
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Building Bridges
Before the match, Yang Hao met with Alexis Sánchez and Arturo Vidal, both on loan at Colo-Colo.
Chile's league operated on an autumn-to-spring schedule, so Colo-Colo was in midseason form. Both Sánchez and Vidal had secured starting roles, impressing in domestic competition.
Yang Hao encouraged them, saying, "Our scouts are closely following your progress in Chile. Keep working hard and striving to improve."
With a smile, he added, "I'll be watching from Madrid."
He had no doubts about the potential of Alexis Sánchez and Arturo Vidal, but to say he followed them closely would be a stretch. Where would he find the time? Scouts would periodically submit player reports and match footage to Yang Hao, allowing him to evaluate their performances. Long-term, hands-on monitoring, however, was impossible.
Still, given Yang Hao's stature, Sánchez and Vidal believed every word he said and were ecstatic. To be noticed by a European giant like Atlético Madrid was an incredible honor for them.
The match ended 4–1, with Sánchez scoring for Colo-Colo. Atlético breezed through all four friendlies, facing relatively weak opposition.
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During Atlético's training camp in the U.S., the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) sent representatives to meet with Yang Hao twice.
Atlético's management fully supported the idea of Yang Hao doubling as Spain's national team coach. With RFEF President Ángel María Villar personally involved and Luis Aragonés recommending him before stepping down, Yang Hao's impressive track record with Atlético made him the clear favorite.
The Spanish national team, built on a foundation of Atlético players, seemed destined to thrive under Yang Hao's leadership, and many were optimistic about the prospect. At the very least, they believed Yang Hao was a far better candidate than other domestic coaches, who had underwhelmed in the past, such as José Antonio Camacho.
At the time, there were few Spanish coaches both willing and qualified to take on the role.
Yang Hao also had another advantage: proximity.
Since 2003, the RFEF had been developing the Ciudad del Fútbol training center in Las Rozas, just northwest of Madrid. It served as the national training hub for players of all age groups. Las Rozas was a mere 11 kilometers from Atlético's training base in Majadahonda—a quick drive on the highway.
Given these factors, Yang Hao was the ideal candidate for the role.
Moreover, with La Liga flourishing, the RFEF faced mounting pressure to align the national team's performance with the league's success. With Atlético, Real Madrid, and Barcelona excelling, the Spanish national team's struggles felt increasingly unacceptable.
However, Yang Hao politely declined the offer, insisting he needed to focus on his role at Atlético and couldn't split his attention.
Meanwhile, Luis Aragonés had already taken over as head coach of Real Mallorca, leaving the national team in a precarious situation. Without a coach, the RFEF was forced to cancel a planned friendly in August.
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While in the U.S., Atlético played three more preseason matches as part of the La Liga Summer Tour against Real Mallorca, Nàstic, and Athletic Bilbao, winning all three.
After the Mallorca match, Luis Aragonés again urged Yang Hao to consider taking charge of Spain, but Yang Hao once again declined.
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August 18, Dallas Cotton Bowl Stadium
In the first leg of the Spanish Super Cup, Atlético Madrid faced Real Madrid.
This marked the first official Madrid derby held abroad, with a trophy on the line. Both teams took the match seriously and fielded strong lineups.
Fans in the U.S. responded enthusiastically, packing the stadium with 92,000 spectators.
Between the Super Cup and other preseason matches, both Atlético and Real Madrid earned over €10 million from their U.S. campaigns. Though appearance fees were lower than in Asia, the American market offered immense growth potential. Sponsors were wealthy, fans were willing to spend, and merchandise sales surged—especially for Atlético.
During the tour, Nike heavily promoted Atlético's products, generating significant revenue. A portion of these profits went directly to the club, explaining why top European teams continued flocking to the U.S. despite modest appearance fees.
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Lineups
Real Madrid (4–3–3):
Goalkeeper: Iker Casillas Defenders: Ashley Cole, Fabio Cannavaro, Walter Samuel, Cicinho Midfielders: Michael Essien, Patrick Vieira, David Beckham Forwards: Raúl, Zlatan Ibrahimović, Cristiano Ronaldo
Yang Hao was surprised by Arsène Wenger's first Real Madrid lineup, especially seeing Raúl in the starting XI. But upon reflection, it made sense—Wenger wouldn't want to alienate Raúl so early in his tenure.
Given the match's importance and the fact it was held abroad, both teams likely agreed to prioritize star players for fan appeal.
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Atlético Madrid (4–3–3):
Goalkeeper: Petr Čech Defenders: Patrice Evra, Thiago Silva, Lúcio, Dani Alves Midfielders: Xabi Alonso (holding), Andrés Iniesta, Kaká Forwards: David Villa, Fernando Torres, Lionel Messi
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Match Highlights
The two teams knew each other well, and the match began with an intense, back-and-forth rhythm. Fans in the stands created a lively atmosphere, and the game's fast pace made for thrilling viewing.
Despite the star-studded lineups, the first goal came from an unlikely source: Dani Alves. In the 31st minute, he latched onto a Messi assist and burst into the box to give Atlético a 1–0 lead.
In the second half, Real Madrid pressed hard, and Zlatan Ibrahimović scored to equalize.
The match heated up further, and Fernando Torres quickly restored Atlético's lead.
In the 72nd minute, Lionel Messi added another goal, making it 3–1.
Both teams began making substitutions, and Cristiano Ronaldo pulled one back for Real Madrid in the 81st minute, narrowing the score to 3–2.
However, just one minute later, Kaká struck to extend Atlético's lead to 4–2.
Real Madrid wasn't done yet. In the 84th minute, substitute Michael Ballack unleashed a powerful long-range shot to make it 4–3.
The second half delivered exhilarating football, with both teams playing aggressive, attacking styles. Fans were treated to end-to-end action.
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Looking Ahead
After the Dallas match, the teams traveled to Los Angeles for the second leg at the Rose Bowl, where the Super Cup would be decided.
The upcoming match promised to be the true climax of this season's Spanish Super Cup.
"I heard you're considering taking the Spain national team job?"
The two teams were staying at nearby hotels, and after the match, Wenger invited Yang Hao out for drinks.
"Heard? From whom?" Yang Hao smiled, his tone noncommittal.
"People are talking," Wenger replied, genuinely intrigued.
Over the past few years, Yang Hao's coaching record in European football had been nothing short of spectacular. Yet, his reputation was paradoxical.
On one hand, his teams were undeniably strong, and his tactics cutting-edge—constantly at the forefront of European football's tactical evolution. Wenger had attended numerous coaching forums and seminars where praise for Yang Hao was nearly unanimous.
On the other hand, Yang Hao was highly controversial.
For instance, his personal life, particularly his relationships with women, was a constant source of gossip. During Wenger's time in England, he had frequently heard journalists discuss how women seeking fame would actively track Yang Hao's whereabouts, hoping to run into him.
Some, it was said, were willing to settle for a fleeting one-night encounter.
Wenger recalled a particularly bizarre story he'd read recently: a Ukrainian model, confident in her beauty, had spent $2,000 on a flight from Kyiv to Paris upon hearing that Yang Hao would be at a nightclub there after the Champions League final.
When she arrived, she found the club teeming with women from all over the world.
The punchline? Yang Hao never even showed up.
Realizing they'd been duped, the crowd of women reported the incident to the police, turning it into a minor news story.
In the world of coaching, Yang Hao was truly one of a kind. His managerial skills were widely respected, but his personal life made him seem reckless and immature.
Ultimately, it was Ferguson who summed him up best:
"He earns his keep through coaching, not through his personal life. As long as his teams win and his tactics remain sharp, no one cares what he does off the pitch."
Such was the nature of competitive sports.
"If I were to coach Spain, you probably wouldn't dare to sit here and drink with me now. We'd have no chance to drink together again," Yang Hao said, smiling at Wenger.
Wenger paused, then caught the meaning behind Yang Hao's words.
He'd heard rumors about the situation with Luis Aragonés, and cases like this weren't uncommon in football.
It wasn't just national teams—clubs were rife with similar situations. Wenger himself had faced such issues when he first took charge of Arsenal, particularly with the club's legendary backline.
Professional football was both a sport and a business.
Fans might clamor for modernized club management and disdain outdated practices, but the same fans would turn around and decry a club as heartless for being too harsh with loyal veterans.
You can't have it both ways.
Emotion and logic rarely coexist comfortably in football.
Wenger, having been caught between the two for years, understood this better than most.
In some ways, Wenger and Yang Hao shared a sense of solidarity in their challenges.
For instance, Wenger had started Raúl in the Super Cup match. It wasn't until the second half, when Joaquín replaced Raúl and Cristiano Ronaldo shifted to the left, that Real Madrid's attack showed improvement.
Yet, it was clear that Raúl would continue to feature prominently early in the season. Even Florentino Pérez wouldn't dare sideline Raúl unless he made a major mistake.
Raúl's positional flexibility had seen him shuffled between striker, left wing, attacking midfield, and right wing, with his goal tally steadily declining over the years.
But his influence among fans—both Real Madrid and Spanish supporters—remained unparalleled. His reputation as a leader was equally unshakable, even among Atlético and Barcelona players.
Yang Hao didn't mind taking risks, and he believed he could handle the challenge. Spain's current generation of young players was exceptionally strong and could remain competitive until 2014.
However, Yang Hao also vividly remembered how José Mourinho's tenure at Real Madrid later affected the Spanish national team.
As a former Real Madrid fan, Yang Hao had watched Mourinho's actions during his time at the club and their ripple effects on Spain's golden era.
It wasn't a matter of blame—Mourinho was simply doing his job to the best of his ability. However, his orchestration of the intense rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona had ultimately pulled the Spanish national team down from its pinnacle.
Yang Hao recalled a report from 2013 detailing how Spain's loss in the Confederations Cup had exposed internal conflicts within the squad. The issue arose when Vicente del Bosque's assistant, Toni Grande, suggested in an interview that Barcelona players were unwilling to cooperate with their Real Madrid counterparts.
This comment sparked outrage among Barça players, including Xavi, and led to clashes within the squad.
Everyone knew that Del Bosque and Toni Grande were former Real Madrid staff members, highlighting the deep divisions within the national team.
As the saying goes, "A house divided cannot stand."
Yang Hao disagreed with many of Mourinho's decisions at Real Madrid, such as ostracizing Iker Casillas.
It wasn't about tactics or ability—it was about a single phone call and Casillas' girlfriend's profession.
Even Florentino Pérez later admitted that the club had no concrete evidence linking Casillas to any leaks.
Leaks had always been a common issue at Real Madrid; the Spanish press, especially AS, always seemed to know more than anyone else.
The real "crime" was that Casillas' girlfriend was a journalist.
Was she supposed to abstain from doing her job because of her relationship with Casillas? Wouldn't that compromise her professional integrity?
If such a standard were applied, no footballer would ever be able to marry, or they'd have to lock their spouses at home.
The lack of evidence to prove Casillas was guilty made Mourinho's treatment of him all the more problematic.
Casillas was ostracized and vilified by local and global Real Madrid fans alike, all for making a private phone call to Xavi and Puyol to ease tensions.
But one key point to note: Casillas was the captain of the Spanish national team at the time.
With Real Madrid and Barcelona at each other's throats, to the point of being irreconcilable, how could the Spanish national team function? Mourinho even poked Barcelona assistant coach Tito Vilanova in the eye!
At such a juncture, anyone with even the slightest sense of the bigger picture would know that unless something drastic was done, Spain's golden era in football was doomed.
Real Madrid has always prided itself on being the standard-bearer of Spanish football. Naturally, their captain was often also the captain of the Spanish national team.
In such a situation, shouldn't Real Madrid's management have taken the initiative to act responsibly?
Instead, they stood by as Mourinho relegated Casillas to the bench. How do you think the Barcelona players viewed this?
One side saw Casillas reaching out to reconcile, only for him to be sidelined and insulted. It couldn't help but feel like Real Madrid had made a deliberate decision to escalate tensions with Barcelona.
How could the national team expect to cooperate under these circumstances?
From start to finish, many of these incidents should never have occurred.
As Ferguson once famously quipped: "Give me two bullets, and I'll take down Wenger."
Yet behind the scenes, Ferguson's relationship with Wenger wasn't all that hostile. The two old rivals might even exchange the occasional phone call.
Football matters were to be settled on the pitch. Once the whistle blew, life went on.
But Mourinho's handling of Real Madrid's internal dynamics often escalated matters unnecessarily, turning the game into an unwinnable war.
The result? Spain's golden era was effectively torn apart.
Yang Hao had always believed that without Mourinho's interference, Spain's dominance could have extended until 2014.
Now, he found himself presented with a golden opportunity to take over.
But he was still waiting for the right moment.
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August 21, Los Angeles Rose Bowl.
The second leg of the Spanish Super Cup between Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid.
With two matches in three days, both sides made adjustments to their lineups.
Wenger's changes were particularly intriguing. He benched Raúl, opting instead for a front three of Cristiano Ronaldo, Zlatan Ibrahimović, and Joaquín.
His midfield consisted of Michael Ballack, Patrick Vieira, and Michael Essien.
This shift significantly boosted Real Madrid's offensive capabilities.
Cristiano Ronaldo, just beginning his transformation into the superstar we now know, had predominantly played on the right at Manchester United. Wenger, however, moved him to the left and handed the right flank to Joaquín, aiming to further unleash Ronaldo's attacking potential.
The first goal of the match showcased this strategy perfectly. Ibrahimović dropped deep to receive the ball, allowing Ronaldo to make a diagonal run behind Dani Alves and Lúcio. Ibrahimović's precise pass sent Ronaldo clean through on goal, and he coolly slotted it home to give Real Madrid the lead.
Yang Hao observed from the sidelines, noting how Wenger's use of Ronaldo mirrored Ferguson's approach.
The two veteran managers truly seemed to be on the same wavelength.
Ronaldo's technical skills were outstanding, but it was his speed, explosiveness, and sharp off-the-ball movement that set him apart. His ability to exploit space with precision made him a nightmare for defenders.
However, Wenger's methods differed from Ferguson's in subtle ways.
While Ronaldo had ample opportunities to dribble and take on opponents down the left, his role still emphasized positional flexibility and interplay with teammates.
In Yang Hao's previous life, 2006 had been a pivotal year for Ronaldo. Ferguson's decision to build the team's tactics around him was both a vote of confidence and a challenge. Ronaldo was tasked with proving his worth not just to Ferguson but also to his teammates, including Wayne Rooney.
This burning desire to prove himself drove Ronaldo to train obsessively and elevate his game.
Now at Real Madrid, Ronaldo faced competition from the likes of Ibrahimović and Joaquín. But under Wenger's guidance, his environment seemed more favorable than it had been at Manchester United.
Wenger placed a greater emphasis on technical skill and intricate passing sequences, which suited Ronaldo's development.
Yang Hao was genuinely curious to see what level Real Madrid could reach under Wenger's stewardship.
As for the Spanish Super Cup, it retained the feel of a preseason competition, particularly with its overseas venue.
The match ended in a 2-2 draw.
With an aggregate score of 6-5, Atlético Madrid emerged as the winners of the Spanish Super Cup.
Kaká scored twice and was the standout performer for Atlético.
The Rose Bowl was packed to its 93,000-seat capacity, further underscoring the event's success.
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While Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid captivated North America, clubs like Barcelona, Villarreal, and Valencia were making waves in Asia. The dual-pronged approach of promoting La Liga globally was creating a fervent "La Liga fever" around the world.
Fans witnessed firsthand how La Liga was growing in stature year after year, its influence steadily expanding.
Broadcast partners who had secured La Liga rights during its early global push were reaping massive rewards, practically printing money.
In fact, Marca described them as sitting atop a gold mine, effortlessly raking in profits.
This success fueled intense interest in the upcoming 2008 broadcast rights auction, especially with the addition of international licensing. It was clear that La Liga's golden era was just beginning.
The collective overseas tours of La Liga clubs garnered far more attention than the scattered exhibitions typically organized by individual European giants.
After the second leg of the Spanish Super Cup, Yang Hao and his team returned to Madrid to prepare for the UEFA Super Cup on August 25.
Their opponents would be Sevilla, another La Liga side.
The Champions League group stage draw and annual awards ceremony would take place before the Super Cup, so Atlético wouldn't stay in Madrid for long. After a brief adjustment period, they were set to depart again.
The day after Atlético's return to Spain, Spanish FA President Ángel María Villar, accompanied by several vice presidents, visited the club's training base in Majadahonda with Miguel Gil and Enrique Cerezo.
Yang Hao knew his moment had arrived.
"This is a statement issued by the La Liga Alliance, signed by representatives of all La Liga and Segunda División teams."
In the office of Atlético Madrid's head coach in Majadahonda, Spanish FA president Ángel María Villar handed a document to Yang Hao.
Yang Hao opened it and skimmed through. The last page bore the dense signatures of club owners, including Enrique Cerezo.
Closing the file, Yang Hao glanced sideways at Enrique Cerezo, who gave a nearly imperceptible nod.
Previously, Yang Hao had voiced concerns about taking on the dual role of Atlético Madrid coach and Spanish national team manager, citing potential conflicts of interest. Villar's move was intended to allay those concerns.
"If there are any other issues, feel free to raise them," Villar declared decisively.
Yang Hao smiled. With things at this stage, what more could he say?
"Then I'll speak candidly," he said.
"Please do."
"I have a few conditions."
"Go ahead."
Villar gestured for his assistant to take notes, who immediately produced a notebook and a recording device.
"First, I must have full authority over the selection of players for the national team. No interference from anyone or any organization. This must be explicitly written into the contract."
"Agreed."
"Second, I require an expansion of the coaching staff."
Pausing, Yang Hao explained, "I've reviewed the current coaching setup for the national team, and I'm not satisfied. I will bring over some of my team from Atlético and hire additional coaches externally. I will decide on the specific personnel."
Yang Hao was known for having a large and well-organized team of assistants at Atlético.
"Understood."
"Third, the medical staff must be reinforced. At Atlético, we have a team of nearly 20 medical professionals dedicated to supporting our players. From what I understand, the national team is severely understaffed in this area."
Insufficient medical resources had long been a major factor behind injuries to players during national team duty, something Yang Hao had consistently criticized.
One of Villar's officials tentatively suggested, "We're not a club, and our schedule isn't as demanding. Hiring too many medical staff might not be necessary. Historically, we've collaborated with club doctors."
"I understand. Many of Atlético's doctors have worked with the national team."
This was indeed standard practice. Atlético's medical staff often assisted the national team, but they frequently complained to Yang Hao about the unprofessional conditions and lack of resources.
"Could we use Atlético's facilities and staff when needed?" Villar asked, turning to Enrique Cerezo and Miguel Gil.
"Of course, that's no problem," Cerezo replied, signaling trust and cooperation.
"Anything else?" Villar asked.
Yang Hao smiled. "One more thing. I want Fernando Hierro to serve as the team director."
"Why?" Villar asked, surprised.
Hierro held immense respect in Spanish football, commanding authority across all clubs, especially among Real Madrid players. Casillas, for instance, had been mentored by him.
Yang Hao smiled but didn't elaborate.
Villar understood immediately. Aragonés had mentioned this before. It was clear now—what Aragonés hadn't dared to do, Yang Hao was prepared to take on.
A storm was coming.
For Spanish football, this would be nothing short of an earthquake.
"What's your goal?" Villar asked.
"To win the 2008 European Championship."
"Win the championship?"
"Yes, we have the strength to achieve it," Yang Hao replied confidently.
Without Atlético's track record as proof, such a bold statement might have been met with ridicule. But Yang Hao's stellar achievements silenced any doubters.
"Our qualification draw wasn't particularly favorable. We're in a group with Sweden, Denmark, Northern Ireland…"
Yang Hao raised a hand to stop the FA official from continuing.
"I'm aware, but it doesn't matter who the opponents are. We will qualify, progress, and win the European Championship in 2008."
His confidence stemmed from his intimate knowledge of this team—many of its players had been nurtured by him.
With naturalized players like Marcos Senna and Pepe now integrated, what was there to fear?
"Understood. I'll call Hierro immediately," Villar said decisively. "Regarding your salary…"
"That's up to you, but let me be clear—the coaching and medical staff must be adequately equipped."
Yang Hao wasn't concerned about the salary offered by the Spanish FA.
Why?
Because the pay for coaching national teams was notoriously low.
Sometimes he suspected that Aragonés had taken the Mallorca job simply to earn more money.
________________________________________
After Villar departed, a signing date was set.
Yang Hao quickly summoned his coaching staff to outline the plan.
"It'll be the usual setup. Ortega and Roca, you'll handle fitness. Roca, you'll also oversee player monitoring. You'll each have assistants in the national team. Any issues?"
Both raised their hands, signaling their agreement.
"Pedro, you'll be the goalkeeping coach."
"Got it!" Pedro Jaro, now one of the most renowned goalkeeper coaches in Spain, raised his hand in acknowledgment.
He had trained top goalkeepers like Van der Sar and Cech, and even veteran Palop had performed admirably under his guidance.
More importantly, Atlético's innovative playing style had greatly benefited Jaro, who had blended Dutch and Italian goalkeeping philosophies into a unique methodology.
Over the years, he had become a sought-after lecturer in Spain, training the next generation of goalkeeping coaches.
Technical coach Ángel Valles, another long-time collaborator, was also on board.
"Scouting is crucial. César, you'll join me as an assistant coach," Yang Hao said, turning to César Mendoido.
Mendoido, who had led Atlético's scouting department, would play a key role in gathering intelligence and monitoring national team players.
"Juanma, you're coming too. I can't imagine doing this without you," Yang Hao said with a laugh.
Everyone burst into laughter.
The whole world knew that Juanma Lillo was responsible for training, while Yang Hao handled overall strategy. The two had been working together for years with remarkable chemistry.
"And you, José, you're in charge of the medical team. You're coming too," Yang Hao said, pointing at José Paláres.
"This time, I plan to have three assistant coaches."
"Three?" Lillo counted and came up with two.
"The third hasn't been called yet."
________________________________________
When Pep Guardiola rushed to Madrid from Barcelona, he was met at the station by his old friend Juanma Lillo.
"What's going on?" Guardiola asked, scratching his head.
He'd been relaxing with his wife in Barcelona when Yang Hao suddenly called, saying there was something extremely important to discuss, urging him to come immediately.
Thinking it was a major issue, Guardiola had dropped everything and rushed over.
"You'll know when you get there," Lillo teased, deliberately withholding details.
Since leaving Serie A, Guardiola had gone to the Middle East for a brief stint, retiring this summer.
In Yang Hao's previous life, Guardiola would have gone to Mexico to work under Lillo. But now, with Lillo coaching at Atlético, Pep couldn't join him there. So, he stayed at home.
Driving from the city center to Atlético's training base in Majadahonda, they encountered several familiar faces, especially Spanish players.
"What's going on?" Guardiola was completely in the dark.
Walking into Yang Hao's office, they found several people seated inside, including none other than former Real Madrid captain Fernando Hierro.
"Here he is! My third pick just arrived," Yang Hao said with a smile, standing up to shake Guardiola's hand before pulling him into a warm hug.
This display of enthusiasm made Guardiola deeply suspicious.
He couldn't help but feel that Yang Hao's unusually warm demeanor spelled trouble, as if he were up to no good.
"Wait, Yang. First, tell me—what's going on?"
At this, everyone in the room burst out laughing again.
The more they laughed, the more confused Guardiola felt.
"Have you heard the news?"
"About you?"
"Yes."
"Just a bit. I heard you're taking over the national team."
"Decided yesterday, but the contract isn't signed yet."
"And?"
"Well, you're my longtime friend, and here's your chance to serve the country."
Guardiola froze before bursting into laughter. "What the hell? I've retired! Are you asking me to come out of retirement?"
"Besides, isn't Xabi Alonso doing a great job?"
Another wave of laughter rippled through the room.
This guy could be adorably clueless at times.
"Let's be real, Pep. My fitness requirements for players include running at least 10 kilometers per game. Can you even manage that?" Yang Hao teased.
Guardiola looked around awkwardly. "I can still run, but I definitely can't handle physical duels."
"There you go. With your fitness, I wouldn't even consider you," Yang Hao joked.
"Then why did you call me here…?"
"Don't think I don't know—you've secretly earned your coaching license."
"How did you find out?" Guardiola asked, genuinely surprised.
He had quietly studied and taken the exams in May while Atlético was busy preparing for the Champions League and La Liga. In July, he returned to pick up his certification.
"Come on, the moment you got your certificate, I knew," Yang Hao said smugly.
In the current football world—especially around Madrid—any development eventually made its way to Yang Hao.
"Come be my assistant coach."
"Me?" Guardiola was stunned.
"Yes, assistant coach for the Spanish national team."
Caught off guard, Guardiola didn't know how to respond to Yang Hao's unexpected invitation.
"It's fine. Take your time to think it over, but let's continue with our discussion," Yang Hao said.
________________________________________
Fernando Hierro had already accepted the FA's invitation to become the national team's manager.
The manager's role was akin to that of a chief steward, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the national team. It also involved extensive coordination and communication.
Since Yang Hao wasn't Spanish and served as Atlético's coach, having Hierro handle certain matters—especially those involving Real Madrid—would be more appropriate.
This meeting was primarily to finalize the 23-player squad for Spain's September training camp, as they were skipping August's friendlies to head straight into the European Championship qualifiers.
With every match being critical for qualification, careful selection was essential.
Goalkeepers:
This was the easiest decision. Real Madrid's Casillas and Villarreal's Reina were the top-performing keepers, with Barcelona's Valdés usually filling the third spot.
Defenders:
Planning to use a back four, Yang Hao needed eight defenders. Ramos, Antonio López, Pepe, and Puyol were the core.
Michel Salgado, now 31, had been included under Aragonés but was left out by Yang Hao.
"Marchena gets a spot," Yang Hao decided.
The room exchanged surprised glances.
No one expected Yang Hao to call up Marchena, given their falling out when he left Atlético.
Noticing the reaction, Yang Hao smiled and explained, "Club disputes are one thing, but from a national team perspective, Marchena's ability justifies his inclusion."
"Capdevila performed well last season, and Arbeloa on the right also showed promise at Deportivo," Lillo suggested.
Deportivo's flanks had indeed shone in the latter half of the previous season.
The three major clubs often relied on Brazilian full-backs due to their offensive prowess, leaving gaps for others in the national setup.
"The final center-back will be Juanito from Real Betis," Yang Hao concluded.
This choice wasn't surprising.
The national team's talent pool was often limited, and immediate readiness was a priority.
Because the national team operates on a call-up system with players expected to deliver immediately, there's virtually no time to train new talent. Younger players aren't out of the question, but they're typically reserved for friendlies.
With Spain's schedule packed with two official matches in September, Yang Hao couldn't afford to take risks.
Spain's midfield was undoubtedly its most talent-rich position. Atlético's Xabi Alonso, Andrés Iniesta, and David Silva; Manchester United's Marcos Senna; Arsenal's Cesc Fàbregas; Barcelona's Xavi; and Valencia's David Albelda. These choices left no room for debate.
The issue lay with the forward line.
Atlético's Fernando Torres and David Villa, Real Madrid's Joaquín, Chelsea's Reyes, and Liverpool's Luis García made the cut.
"Wait," Hierro interrupted, noticing something crucial.
The former Real Madrid captain was a sharp thinker. Suddenly, everything clicked into place—why Yang Hao had handpicked him as the national team's manager.
Because Raúl wasn't on the list.
"Yang, didn't you forget someone?" Hierro clung to a sliver of hope.
Raúl was like a younger brother to him, someone he had watched grow into a star. Hierro hoped it was simply an oversight on Yang Hao's part.
But deep down, he knew the chances were slim.
Who would accidentally forget the national team captain?
"No, I didn't forget anyone. 23 players, just right," Yang Hao replied with a calm smile.
Even Pep Guardiola, sitting quietly nearby, began to sense the gravity of the situation.
Raúl's absence from the Spanish national team was a glaring omission, one bound to cause an uproar.
"Yang, I mean no disrespect or interference, but I must remind you—Spain cannot do without Raúl. At least, not right now," Hierro said earnestly.
Yang Hao smiled faintly and nodded. "I respect Raúl greatly. You know, we've always had a good relationship."
Hierro was aware of this. Before Yang Hao took over Atlético, he and Raúl had already been acquainted.
"But some decisions must be made. I can't call Raúl up only to bench him. What do you think?" Yang Hao asked in return.
Hierro fell silent.
Calling Raúl but not using him—or not calling him at all—either option was problematic.
Raúl's role had been a contentious issue during Aragonés' tenure. The system often didn't suit Raúl's style, and sometimes, he even disrupted the team's attacking flow.
Whether to select him, and if selected, where to play him, had been long-standing debates.
Many believed Aragonés had resigned partly to escape this controversy.
"Have you considered the consequences?" Hierro asked.
Yang Hao nodded. "That's why I need your help."
The message was clear: Hierro would have to be the one to speak with Real Madrid and Raúl, explaining that this was purely a competitive decision, nothing personal.
"Take another look at the list," Hierro urged.
"Of the 23 players, eight are from Atlético, and five have previously played for Atlético. That's 13 in total, including a young talent like David Silva. You'd rather pick him than Raúl…"
Hierro didn't need to spell it out. The implication was clear.
When the list went public, it would ignite fierce controversy. Spanish fans, especially those who disliked Atlético, would accuse Yang Hao of favoritism, claiming he was stacking the roster with his own players.
Choosing a young prospect over a seasoned captain like Raúl would only fuel the outrage.
"I'm ready," Yang Hao replied, spreading his hands in a gesture of resignation.
Hierro knew Yang Hao had made up his mind but still tried to salvage the situation.
"Perhaps I could tell Raúl the list is temporary—"
"No, don't give him false hope. That would be even crueler."
The room fell silent.
Despite being somewhat prepared, everyone felt the weight of Yang Hao's decision.
This wasn't just a bold move; it was a declaration of war against an entire nation's expectations.
He wasn't just defying Spain—he was challenging the global community of Spanish football fans.
The moment the news broke, Yang Hao would face unrelenting criticism and accusations from media and supporters alike.
In the past, Aragonés had been vilified as Spain's public enemy. But Yang Hao, with his higher profile and sensitive affiliations as Atlético's coach, would endure even more intense backlash.
________________________________________
Yang Hao's signing with the Spanish Football Federation was a subdued affair.
A simple press release announced to the world that he had officially taken the reins as Spain's national team coach.
There was no press conference—at Yang Hao's request.
He preferred to avoid the media spotlight for now.
In the meantime, he visited Las Rozas, Spain's football training headquarters, with his assistants to suggest facility upgrades. However, with the team's training camp imminent, most changes would have to wait.
Before the team departed for Monaco, Yang Hao received two pieces of good news.
First, Pep Guardiola agreed to become his assistant coach, though he needed to return to Barcelona to handle personal matters.
"I feel like you really need me right now," Guardiola said, explaining his decision to help.
Second, public response to Yang Hao's appointment was overwhelmingly positive. Many media outlets and fans praised his credentials, though some expressed concerns about his ability to manage both the national team and Atlético simultaneously.
Overall, the sentiment was optimistic.
Atlético quickly issued a statement congratulating Yang Hao and pledging their full support.
Yang Hao even sent a text message to Raúl, apologizing for not selecting him for the squad.
Raúl didn't reply.
This silence was noticed by the media and fans, particularly since Raúl, as captain, did not publicly congratulate Yang Hao.
Meanwhile, Yang Hao's national team coaching staff featured top talents from various clubs, solidifying its reputation as an elite group.
For both players and coaches, serving the national team was a great honor.
Technically, Yang Hao was Spain's first foreign-born head coach, though dual-nationality managers like José Santamaría had held the position in the past.
As the defensive leader of Real Madrid's five consecutive European Cup wins, José Santamaría, born in Uruguay, played 20 matches for the Uruguayan national team before switching to Spain, where he earned 16 caps. At the time, such changes in national allegiance were permitted.
After retiring, Santamaría coached the Spanish national team, the youth teams, and Espanyol. Figures like Santamaría and Kubala, both dual nationals who played for Spain, were notable in their era.
But Yang Hao was different. He had never played for Spain and wasn't a dual national, making him the first true foreign coach in the history of the Spanish national team.
Thanks to his stunning achievements with Atlético Madrid, however, many media outlets and fans held high expectations for his tenure. Whether this enthusiasm would hold once the squad list was announced, Yang Hao could not predict.
________________________________________
After finalizing the roster, Yang Hao handed it over to Hierro.
He then returned to Atlético Madrid to prepare for the team's trip to Monaco.
The annual UEFA draw and awards ceremony were held at the Grimaldi Forum.
Although Yang Hao traveled to Monaco, he chose not to attend the event.
Atlético's draw was moderate. They avoided the strongest second-pot teams like Chelsea and Bayern Munich but were grouped with Porto, CSKA Moscow, and Hamburg.
While Atlético held a clear edge in terms of overall strength, the cold weather expected in Moscow in October posed a challenge. CSKA Moscow was also a formidable team.
During the ceremony, which alternated between the draw and award presentations, Atlético emerged as the biggest winners.
Best Goalkeeper: Petr Čech
The Czech keeper had been a rock in Atlético's goal, earning widespread recognition.
Best Defender: Lúcio
This was an uncontested choice, given Lúcio's exceptional performances and steady leadership, especially in mentoring Pepe and Sergio Ramos over the past two years.
Best Forward: Didier Drogba
Drogba's contributions in the Champions League were pivotal. Yang Hao often alternated his strikers, with Torres focusing on the league and Drogba starring in cup competitions. UEFA prioritized Champions League performances, leading to Drogba's win.
Best Midfielder & Player: Kaká
These accolades were richly deserved. Kaká's triumph in these categories strongly indicated he would retain the Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year titles.
Should Kaká achieve this, it would mark another historic milestone for Atlético Madrid.
The media and fans celebrated Atlético's sweep, with some dubbing the UEFA awards as "Atlético's private gala."
This dominance prompted some media outlets to call on Europe's other powerhouses to step up and dethrone the Rojiblancos. Nevertheless, Atlético remained the favorite to win the Champions League this season.
"If Atlético defends their title, they will become the first team to do so since the Champions League's inception," noted several pundits.
At the press conference before the UEFA Super Cup, Yang Hao dismissed such predictions.
"In European football, many teams are capable of winning the Champions League each year. The competition is fierce," he remarked.
He attributed Atlético's success to the team's maturity and experience, which he considered their greatest strengths.
"But history shows us there are no easy matches in the Champions League. We must approach every game with caution."
Regarding Sevilla, Yang Hao expressed respect and acknowledged the challenge.
"There are no weak teams in La Liga, and Sevilla is particularly difficult to play against."
Yang Hao praised Sevilla's strength and emphasized that even Atlético couldn't underestimate them.
Before the match, Sevilla president José María del Nido likened the clash to David versus Goliath, casting Atlético as the giant and Sevilla as the underdog.
Yang Hao disagreed with the characterization.
"Atlético may be favorites, but not overwhelming ones," he said.
"I've always emphasized that until the final whistle blows, no one should relax for even a moment."
He urged his players to remain confident yet humble.
________________________________________
Under Juande Ramos, Sevilla became a unique team in Spain.
What set them apart was their Italian-style defense—a rarity for a Spanish coach who had never played or coached in Italy.
Yet Sevilla's attack didn't exhibit the conservative tendencies often associated with Italian football. Instead, their offensive play retained a distinctly Spanish flair.
If Yang Hao had to summarize Juande Ramos's Sevilla in one word, it would be "pragmatic."
That summer, building on their UEFA Cup victory, Sevilla sold young defender Vincent Kompany but reinvested €9 million to acquire Chevantón from Monaco, as well as German international Andreas Hinkel and Poulsen. All were high-caliber players.
As Ramos put it, "We now have two equally capable players for every position."
This reflected Sevilla's ambition to challenge the dominance of La Liga's "Big Three" (Atlético Madrid, Real Madrid, and Barcelona).
While such a feat was challenging, they hoped to test the waters in the UEFA Super Cup.
From the outset, Sevilla adopted a defensive strategy, ceding possession to Atlético and focusing on counterattacks.
Deploying a 4-4-2 formation, Sevilla's midfield featured Renato and Poulsen as a double pivot, with Adriano and Jesús Navas on the wings. Up front were Fabiano and Kanouté, the latter being a particularly dangerous target man.
In the first 30 minutes, Sevilla's possession was a mere 29%, highlighting their defensive commitment. They also employed frequent fouling to disrupt Atlético's attacking rhythm.
Atlético's first threatening chance came in the 32nd minute. Ángel Di María, starting on the left wing, broke past Hinkel and delivered a through ball. Drogba's left-footed shot inside the box forced a save from the goalkeeper, narrowly missing the opener.
The stalemate continued until the 45th minute when Robben, cutting inside from the right, drew a foul from Renato just outside the penalty area.
This set up a free kick opportunity.
Direct free kicks had long been a weakness for Atlético, lacking a consistent specialist. But this time, Drogba stepped up confidently. Robben served as a decoy.
The public didn't know the full story, but Yang Hao was well aware.
Within Atlético Madrid, many players had been practicing free kicks tirelessly. Messi, Drogba, Robben, and Di María were among those dedicated to improving this skill.
As Robben sprinted forward and faked a shot, stepping over the stationary ball, Drogba charged up with even more speed. Using the momentum of his run, he unleashed a thunderous right-footed strike, pouring all his strength into the shot.
In the blink of an eye, Drogba's direct free kick rocketed into Sevilla's goal.
"GOAL!"
"Drogba!"
"A thunderous, earth-shattering free kick!"
"Oh my God! Drogba's strike breaks the deadlock for Atlético!"
"1–0!"
"The Ivorian shows off a stunning ability with that strike! The ball was so fast!"
"Drogba's free-kick style is reminiscent of Roberto Carlos, relying on sheer power to achieve miracles. The speed of the ball left the keeper no time to react before it hit the net."
Yang Hao admitted that he hadn't even seen the trajectory of the ball clearly. Drogba took the shot, and it was already in the goal.
1–0. Atlético broke the stalemate.
________________________________________
In the second half, Sevilla shifted from their defensive approach and adopted a more aggressive strategy.
Juande Ramos clearly recognized that being a goal down required a more proactive game plan. When their initial offensive pushes proved ineffective, Ramos doubled down, making substitutions to bolster their attack.
Capel and Chevantón were brought on, creating more difficulties for Atlético in controlling possession.
But just as Sevilla's counterattack began to gain momentum, Atlético struck again. In the 67th minute, the midfield intercepted the ball and launched a quick counter. Captain Rubén Baraja carried the ball forward and passed diagonally to the right, finding Robben. The captain then continued his forward run.
Robben controlled the ball, shrugged off Castedo, cut inside, and delivered a left-footed cross to the far post.
Drogba, tightly marked by Navarro, rose to meet the ball and headed it back toward the penalty spot.
Baraja, charging in, struck it directly with a powerful volley, hammering the ball into Sevilla's net.
2–0.
This second goal dealt a heavy blow to Sevilla.
The game ended without further goals. Atlético secured a 2–0 victory over Sevilla, with Drogba contributing a goal and an assist to help his team claim the UEFA Super Cup title.
________________________________________
Post-Match Remarks:
After the win, Yang Hao spoke highly of Juande Ramos's Sevilla in his interview with the media.
"Sevilla is just a mid-table La Liga team?"
"No, no, no—I must remind everyone that many teams in La Liga are incredibly tough to play against."
"Many times, the league standings can be quite misleading."
When asked to name specific teams, Yang Hao pointed out:
"Sevilla, Deportivo La Coruña, Osasuna, Zaragoza, and Villarreal. These teams can all cause serious headaches and are fully capable of shaking up La Liga."
Yang Hao emphasized that winning the La Liga title was becoming increasingly challenging, especially as these mid-to-upper-table teams were consistently improving.
"For instance, Sevilla, as we saw in the Super Cup, played remarkably well. Their defense is reminiscent of Italian teams, while their offense carries a distinctly Spanish flair. This combination creates a very frustrating style to contend with."
"Fortunately, we maintained possession and secured the victory."
________________________________________
La Liga's New Season Opens:
While Atlético celebrated their 2–0 Super Cup victory over Sevilla in Monaco, La Liga's new season kicked off in Spain.
The very first match produced a surprising result.
Arsène Wenger's La Liga debut with Real Madrid, in front of tens of thousands of fans at the Santiago Bernabéu, ended in a 0–0 draw against Villarreal.
The attacking trio of Raúl, Ibrahimović, and Cristiano Ronaldo underperformed, unable to find the back of the net. Villarreal, managed by Pellegrini, even edged out Madrid in terms of possession.
Looking at threatening offensive opportunities, the Yellow Submarine seemed the unluckier of the two teams.
Wenger was left stunned. To have his debut, and at home no less, end in such a disappointing fashion was beyond his expectations.
At the post-match press conference, Wenger admitted with a wry smile:
"Before today, I thought I understood the difficulty of La Liga. Clearly, I underestimated it."
"Please don't talk to me about Atlético or Barcelona just yet. Even teams like Villarreal can give us tremendous trouble at home."
"I need to reevaluate my understanding of La Liga!"
No one doubted Wenger's coaching ability, nor Real Madrid's overall quality. What was clear was that the team would need time to adjust.
________________________________________
Spain's National Team Controversy:
On the same day as Atlético's Super Cup triumph, the Spanish Football Federation officially released the 23-man squad for the September national team training camp.
Anticipation for Yang Hao's first stint as Spain's head coach was sky-high. Fans and media alike dreamed of him bringing a more dynamic, attacking style to the national team.
However, when the squad list was announced, it shocked not just Spain but the entirety of European football.
Conspicuously absent from the list was Raúl, the Spanish national team captain and spiritual leader.
At the same time, Raúl had played a full 90 minutes in Real Madrid's season opener against Villarreal, showing no signs of injury and appearing in decent form.
How could the Spanish national team leave out Raúl?
The news caused an uproar.
Previous reports had hinted at the internal struggles that led to Luis Aragonés's resignation. Now, Yang Hao's exclusion of Raúl seemed to validate the rumors.
The decision sparked intense debate across Spain, especially among Real Madrid fans. Their outrage grew further when they saw the number of Atlético Madrid players and former Atlético players included in the squad.
The frustration boiled over, as many accused Yang Hao of favoritism toward Atlético and disrespect toward Real Madrid's captain.
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