Chapter 83
After the Champions League quarterfinals concluded, football fans across Europe and the world were engrossed in heated debates over La Liga's dominance and the question of which league truly held the title of "world's best."
Despite La Liga's recent success on the pitch, the Premier League remained the financial powerhouse. Fan preferences varied significantly across regions.
In Northern and Central Europe, the Premier League still maintained the upper hand. In Asia, despite La Liga's impressive strides in recent years, the Premier League's long-established foothold continued to give it an edge.
However, La Liga had made adjustments, such as modifying kickoff times to cater to Asian audiences. This move had caused significant backlash in Spain, with local fans and clubs complaining about the impracticality of watching matches in the scorching midday heat.
Nevertheless, these adjustments were effective in expanding La Liga's reach in Asia.
________________________________________
La Liga's Growing Global Presence
In North America, La Liga had begun to surpass the Premier League in popularity. Spearheaded by Atlético Madrid, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, Spanish clubs aggressively targeted the market. Sponsorships from brands like Nike, a partner of Atlético and Barcelona, further boosted La Liga's visibility.
A recent market survey revealed that La Liga had gained a slight lead over the Premier League in North America.
Overall, La Liga's globalization strategy was bearing fruit, but significant challenges remained as the Premier League started deploying countermeasures.
This competition between the two leagues was not entirely a zero-sum game, as it also helped promote European football as a whole on a global scale.
________________________________________
Comparing Strengths
The Premier League benefited from its English-language appeal, its ties to the Commonwealth, and the financial ecosystem of London as a global capital.
Meanwhile, La Liga enjoyed its own set of advantages. Spanish, often considered the primary language of football, gave La Liga a firm grip on South America and much of North America. Additionally, Spain's climate and culture made it an attractive destination for South American and African players, as well as European stars.
________________________________________
La Liga's Strategic Moves
In February, La Liga hosted a three-day summit in Madrid, inviting club executives and global football industry experts to brainstorm ideas for advancing La Liga's globalization efforts.
Antonio Ponte, the president of La Liga, emphasized the need to unite global expertise and make La Liga the most competitive league in the world. Representatives from ESPN, NBC, YouTube, and other major companies contributed ideas to help the league expand its international presence.
This event demonstrated La Liga's commitment to sustaining its momentum and adapting to changing global trends.
________________________________________
The Cotonou Agreement: A Game-Changer for African Players
A significant development for La Liga was the Cotonou Agreement, signed in 2000 and implemented in Spain in 2006. This agreement allowed players from African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries to be treated as domestic players in EU countries, including Spain.
Starting from the 2006/07 season, African players were no longer considered foreign signings in La Liga.
Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid spearheaded this movement, as they both had high-profile African players—Didier Drogba at Atlético and Michael Essien at Real. While this change initially garnered little attention, its impact was expected to reshape the league's recruitment strategy, particularly by tapping into talent-rich regions like Africa.
________________________________________
Yang Hao's Approach
While the football world buzzed with discussions, Yang Hao distanced himself from interviews and debates. After the Champions League quarterfinals, he organized a team bonding session—a recurring theme for Atlético under his leadership.
At just over 30 years old, Yang Hao was still young enough to connect easily with his players. With the help of his assistant Paláres, he arranged activities that perfectly balanced relaxation and camaraderie.
Before each team event, Yang Hao delivered a short speech. This time, he made a bold declaration:
"This season, we're going for the treble!"
The players, initially stunned, erupted into cheers.
For Atlético Madrid, such ambitions were hardly surprising.
________________________________________
The Treble Dream
Atlético Madrid had come tantalizingly close to winning the treble last season, falling just short by missing the Copa del Rey.
If they could achieve the treble this season, it would be their second in four years, following their historic triumph in the 2003/04 season.
With their current form and roster, such a feat seemed entirely within reach.
If Only They Had Won the Copa del Rey Last Season
The players unanimously expressed their full support for Yang Hao's ambitious decision.
After his motivational speech, Yang Hao allowed the players some free time but took the opportunity to have individual conversations with key players like Kaká, Messi, Drogba, Torres, Villa, and Robben.
Yang Hao had high hopes for these stars.
He urged Kaká to maintain his current form:
"Trust me, this year you still have a great chance," he said encouragingly, hinting at yet another Ballon d'Or.
For Messi, Yang Hao reminded him that patience was key.
At just 19 years old, Messi was still developing physically, and Yang Hao believed it wasn't yet time to overburden him. Drawing from Ronaldo Nazário's injury-ridden career, Yang Hao said,
"The world will be yours sooner or later."
He took a similar approach with the others, focusing on encouragement and making it clear that success across all competitions required contributions from the entire squad.
Yang Hao also had one-on-one discussions with Luis Suárez and Ángel Di María, who had been pivotal in Atlético's Copa del Rey campaign so far.
Looking ahead to the semifinals against Sevilla, Yang Hao asked both of them bluntly,
"I want to win the Copa del Rey. Can you handle starting as key players?"
Sevilla was a formidable opponent, as were Deportivo and Barcelona in the other semifinal. All three were teams with the strength to challenge Atlético in single-leg or two-leg encounters.
Suárez and Di María, unfazed, gave firm and confident answers:
"I can!"
Yang Hao smiled. "Prove it to me."
________________________________________
April 14 – La Liga Round 30 Results
Real Madrid: A hard-fought 2–1 victory against Racing Santander. Atlético Madrid: Narrowly beat Levante 1–0 at home with a decisive goal from Torres. Barcelona: Edged past Mallorca 1–0 at Camp Nou. Valencia: Beat Sevilla 2–0 at home, solidifying their chances of finishing in the top four.
Sevilla faced mounting pressure. Not a traditional powerhouse, they lacked the depth and resources to sustain three-front campaigns in La Liga, Europa League, and Copa del Rey.
Manager Juande Ramos had to make tough decisions, balancing the league, domestic cup, and European commitments. Rotation in league games sometimes came at the cost of Champions League qualification.
Yang Hao, observing this, quipped,
"If it's so tough, maybe we should help ease their burden—by knocking them out."
________________________________________
Copa del Rey Semifinal, First Leg: Atlético Madrid vs. Sevilla
The clash at the Calderón began as an exciting end-to-end battle.
Sevilla, under Juande Ramos, was an atypical La Liga side—combining Spanish attacking flair with Italian-style defensive discipline.
Atlético struck first in the 13th minute.
Di María attempted a dribble on the left flank but, failing to get through, deftly backheeled the ball to the overlapping Antonio López. The Spanish left-back drove into the box and sent a low cross into the center.
Drogba failed to connect, but Suárez followed up with a composed finish, slotting the ball past Sevilla's goalkeeper, Andrés Palop.
1–0!
The Calderón erupted in cheers, but the match's most bizarre moment came in the 24th minute.
Sevilla launched a counterattack, sending a cross toward Frédéric Kanouté. Sergio Ramos, tracking back to defend, leapt to head the ball clear—but misjudged it entirely.
The ball ricocheted off Ramos's head and sailed into Atlético's own net.
Own Goal! 1–1.
Palop stood frozen, bewildered. Ramos collapsed onto the grass, feigning lifelessness to escape the embarrassment.
The home crowd, instead of booing or jeering, applauded Ramos.
Yes, applauded.
Such an absurd scenario seemed almost fitting for Ramos, whose chaotic yet charismatic personality often endeared him to fans despite his blunders.
"Have you noticed," Yang Hao joked on the sideline, "this guy has a strange charm. He makes even the most ridiculous mistakes feel oddly acceptable—as long as you already like him."
Yang Hao, surprisingly, wasn't too upset about the own goal.
________________________________________
Understanding Ramos's Blunder
Yang Hao recognized the difficulty of the situation.
Ramos, a player known for his aggressive style, was merely trying to prevent Kanouté from scoring. Mistakes like these were part of football, and Ramos's overall commitment and skill outweighed the occasional lapse in judgment.
But Yang Hao couldn't resist poking fun at the situation.
Turning to his assistants, he teased,
"Ramos plays for Atlético, right? Then why does he seem so eager to help Sevilla? Is it just because they share the same last name?"
Despite the laughter, Yang Hao had full confidence in Ramos.
"Everyone makes mistakes," he told the player after the match. "It's how you bounce back that matters."
________________________________________
Atlético's Determination
The team's mindset was clear: this season was about winning everything.
The Copa del Rey, so narrowly missed last season, was now within reach. Suárez and Di María were proving themselves as key contributors, and the squad's unity remained its greatest strength.
Yang Hao's final message to his team was simple:
"Let's finish this season with no regrets."
Kanouté, standing at 1.92 meters, had a clear physical advantage over Ramos, who was 1.84 meters tall. With such a disparity in height and strength, Ramos could only compensate through timing and positioning. He had to jump earlier and press his opponent to limit their effectiveness.
However, this required precise judgment, and Ramos, in this instance, was a bit too eager. Misjudging the play, he leaped for the ball but ended up heading it into his own net.
"You might need to call out to him a few times, or he might just check out mentally," joked Juanma Lillo with a smile.
With only 24 minutes gone, a conceded goal wasn't the end of the world. Yang Hao walked to the touchline, shouting Ramos's name loudly.
"Get your head in the game! Don't think scoring an own goal means you get to slack off! I'll pull you off the pitch!"
Ramos raised his hand apologetically, then quickly got back into the action, seemingly revitalized.
Atlético's fans and players weren't particularly concerned because they trusted the team's overall strength. There was still plenty of time, and everyone believed more goals would come.
They weren't wrong.
In the 39th minute, David Silva combined with Baraja in midfield and drove toward the edge of the penalty area before threading a perfect through ball. Di María, making a diagonal run into the box, attempted to push the ball past French defender Escudé but was fouled.
The referee immediately pointed to the penalty spot.
All eyes turned to Ramos.
Ramos, seeming to have entirely forgotten about the earlier own goal, confidently stepped up to take the penalty. He calmly placed the ball, took a deep breath, ran up, and buried it into the net.
2–1!
Ramos celebrated exuberantly, running to the stands to interact with the fans. Some Atlético supporters humorously chanted "Brace!" causing Yang Hao to nearly burst out laughing.
"Come on now, that doesn't count as a brace!" he muttered.
________________________________________
Second Half: A Resilient Sevilla Meets Atlético's Attack
At halftime, Juande Ramos adjusted Sevilla's tactics, aiming to press Atlético harder in midfield. This, however, left the flanks vulnerable.
In the 70th minute, Zabaleta delivered a pinpoint cross, and Drogba rose high to head the ball into the net.
3–1!
Although Sevilla pushed forward in search of goals, neither side could find the back of the net again.
Final Score: Atlético Madrid 3–1 Sevilla.
All four goals were scored by Atlético players, including Ramos's own goal.
________________________________________
Post-Match Reactions
At the post-match press conference, Juande Ramos expressed his disappointment:
"We tried to apply more pressure, but their movement and ball control were outstanding. Our plan didn't work as intended."
He likened the experience to punching mud:
"It didn't hurt the opponent, and worse, it left us stuck."
The Spanish media echoed his sentiments, acknowledging Atlético's superior tactical execution.
Yang Hao, meanwhile, defended Ramos's own goal, though he soon realized he didn't need to. The Spanish media and fans seemed remarkably forgiving of Ramos. Some even praised him for maintaining composure after his mistake and confidently converting the penalty.
Yang Hao mused,
"Now I truly understand what it means for parents to love their kids no matter what."
Even Cadena SER's José Ramón de la Morena, a well-known commentator, expressed admiration for Ramos on his program:
"He scored an own goal? So what? Ramos was so committed that he overdid it. How can we fault a player for trying so hard?"
He even dissected the own goal from multiple angles to prove Ramos's intent wasn't careless.
"The kid was just too focused. We can't criticize effort like that!"
This sentiment seemed to reflect the general consensus among Atlético fans and Spanish media.
________________________________________
April 15 – La Liga Round 31
With one eye on the midweek Champions League semifinal, Atlético rotated their squad for the away game against Real Sociedad.
Sociedad, sitting 19th and fighting to avoid relegation, played aggressively. The game ended in a scrappy 1–1 draw, with Sociedad committing seven yellow-card offenses. Villa scored Atlético's only goal.
Elsewhere in La Liga:
Real Madrid: Edged Valencia 2–1 at home, with goals from Ibrahimović and Chiellini. Morientes scored Valencia's consolation, assisted by Nani. Barcelona: Lost 0–2 to Villarreal. Cani provided two assists, with Pirès and Agüero sealing the win for the Yellow Submarine. Sevilla: Bounced back with a dominant 5–1 victory over Athletic Bilbao. Deportivo: Narrowly defeated Osasuna 1–0 at home.
________________________________________
La Liga Title Race and the Battle for the Top Four
The La Liga title seemed all but decided.
Despite Real Madrid's persistent claims of a title chase, few believed they could surpass Atlético, who continued to rotate players for three-front campaigns.
Meanwhile, the real intrigue lay in the fight for Champions League qualification.
Valencia's loss to Real Madrid created a gap between them and Sevilla and Barcelona. This shift hinted that Valencia had the upper hand in the battle for fourth place.
________________________________________
Carlo Ancelotti's Milan: A Struggling Giant
Yang Hao had often heard people say, "A football match's outcome is decided the moment the players step onto the pitch."
While overly simplistic, the sentiment rang true for AC Milan under Carlo Ancelotti.
The summer departure of Shevchenko and the January sale of Pirlo had left Ancelotti scrambling for solutions.
On paper, Milan still boasted stars like Ronaldo, Gila, Gattuso, Seedorf, and Inzaghi. Yet, many were past their prime.
Gilardino, the supposed successor to Shevchenko, had yet to reach double digits in league goals. Meanwhile, young talent Yoann Gourcuff struggled to meet expectations.
Desperate for a solution, Ancelotti attempted to mold Gourcuff into a deep-lying playmaker akin to Pirlo. Though the Frenchman's physique (1.85 meters) was an asset, he lacked the vision and composure of his predecessor.
Ancelotti alternated between a 4-3-1-2 system, pairing Gilardino and Ronaldo up front with Seedorf in the hole, and a 4-3-2-1 Christmas tree formation, featuring Seedorf and Gourcuff behind a lone striker.
Neither system produced consistent results.
As Milan prepared to face Atlético in the Champions League semifinals, Ancelotti knew his side faced a monumental challenge.
However, this strategy significantly weakened Milan's attacking threat.
One must admit that as an Italian tactical maestro, Ancelotti had a unique knack for adapting his approach to his players. It was remarkable that with such a depleted squad, AC Milan had managed to reach the Champions League semifinals.
But compared to Yang Hao's Atlético Madrid, this Milan side lacked Nesta, Kaká, and Pirlo—key players from their prime. Reaching the semifinals was already a feat of endurance for the Rossoneri.
Starting Lineups
AC Milan:
Goalkeeper: Dida Defense: Jankulovski, Maldini, Bonera, Oddo Midfield: Ambrosini, Brocchi, Gattuso Attack: Seedorf, Gourcuff, Ronaldo
Atlético Madrid:
Goalkeeper: Čech Defense: Evra, Thiago Silva, Lucio, Alves Midfield: Xabi Alonso, Iniesta, Kaká Attack: Robben, Drogba, Messi
Yang Hao's Plan: Kill the Tie in Madrid
Confident in his team's strength, Yang Hao had no intention of leaving the outcome to the second leg in Milan. He wanted to secure the win at home.
Though he maintained a calm and understated demeanor in the press, within the team, Yang Hao emphasized attacking football relentlessly. From pre-match preparations to his speech in the dressing room, his focus was singular: attack.
The tactics were so meticulously detailed that Yang Hao's plan even specified how to approach the opening minutes: who would pass, where the ball would go, and who would take the shot.
Early Domination: Kaká Strikes First
Just 3 minutes and 42 seconds into the match, Xabi Alonso delivered a precise pass from midfield. Evra surged forward down the left flank, with Robben pulling Oddo wide.
Taking advantage of the space, Evra exchanged a one-two with Iniesta, breaking into the left edge of the penalty area. Milan's defenders, including Gattuso and Brocchi, swarmed toward him, leaving a gap at the top of the box.
Spotting this, Evra chipped the ball to the unguarded area. This was supposed to be Brocchi's responsibility, but Ambrosini failed to cover in time. Kaká darted into the gap, using his body to shield the ball from Ambrosini. With a chest trap and a quick volley before Maldini could close him down, Kaká unleashed a shot just inside the penalty area.
Dida dived for it but was powerless to stop the ball.
Goal! 1–0!
The stadium erupted as the crowd roared in delight. Fans jumped and cheered while Kaká performed his iconic celebration, pointing to the heavens in gratitude.
Yang Hao remained composed on the touchline, as though he had anticipated this outcome. This goal was the product of a pre-planned attack sequence, meticulously rehearsed in training.
Theoretically, Drogba holding off Bonera and laying the ball off to Kaká was another potential route, but Yang Hao knew Kaká's long-range shooting was deadly.
Whether in matches or training, Kaká's precision from the edge of the box was extraordinary. Both feet were equally capable, making him nearly impossible to defend.
Opponents now dreaded Kaká's long-range strikes. Once he entered the 30-meter zone, defenses had to scramble. But Kaká's relentless movement made it impossible to mark him continuously without compromising the defensive structure.
This was the result of two years of dedicated training. His shot power, speed, and accuracy had all improved, making him a lethal weapon. Long-range goals, often spectacular, had become his signature.
For opposing teams, this was a nightmare. Kaká, Messi's dribbling, Robben's speed, Iniesta's control—each threat compounded the difficulty of containing Atlético. It's no wonder pundits claimed that when Atlético's squad was fit and in form, they were nearly unstoppable.
________________________________________
Atlético's Relentless Pressure: Drogba Doubles the Lead
With the lead secured early, Atlético didn't let up. Yang Hao instructed his players to press on and decide the tie in this leg.
In the 17th minute, Messi carried the ball down the right wing. Confronted by Jankulovski, he executed a sharp stop-and-go to beat him before cutting inside. As Messi entered the penalty area, Maldini stepped in to challenge.
Quick as a flash, Messi adjusted, stopping and shifting laterally to evade Maldini. But the Milan captain had no choice but to commit a foul.
The referee awarded a free kick just outside the penalty area on the right. No card was issued, showing some leniency.
Xabi Alonso stepped up to take the set piece. With Atlético's aerial threats—Drogba, Lucio, Thiago Silva—ready in the box, Milan's defenders braced themselves.
Alonso's perfectly weighted delivery arced toward the near post. Drogba broke free, rising above everyone to glance the ball toward the far post.
Dida reacted quickly but couldn't reach the ball in time.
Goal! 2–0!
"Drogba scores! Atlético Madrid double their lead in the 17th minute!"
"AC Milan's defense is in shambles tonight at the Calderón!"
"Two goals conceded in less than 20 minutes—this is disastrous for the Rossoneri!"
________________________________________
Milan's Struggles, Atlético's Dominance
With a two-goal lead, Atlético had complete control of the match. Milan struggled to regain composure as the Spanish side continued to press.
Ancelotti's tactical setup—designed to absorb pressure and counterattack—was rendered ineffective. Milan's midfield trio of Ambrosini, Brocchi, and Gattuso couldn't contain Atlético's dynamic movement and precision passing.
Yang Hao's side continued to create chances, keeping Milan pinned back and their confidence eroding.
________________________________________
By halftime, the writing was on the wall: Atlético Madrid had asserted their dominance, leaving AC Milan and Ancelotti grasping for answers.
Even after taking a two-goal lead, Atlético Madrid showed no signs of slowing down. It became clear to everyone that when Atlético decided to attack with full force, their offensive pressure was overwhelming.
Against Manchester United, Yang Hao had relied on ball movement and positional play to stretch and disrupt the opposition. However, against AC Milan, he pushed his team to attack directly and aggressively.
Yang Hao made it clear: no finesse or intricate play—just a head-on assault.
AC Milan had no answer to this.
Barely five minutes after Drogba's goal, Atlético launched another attack. Evra advanced down the left flank and passed to Iniesta. Iniesta threaded a precise through ball to Drogba near the penalty spot.
The Ivorian used his strength to hold off Bonera and laid the ball off to Messi, who was positioned at the edge of the box. Drawing Ambrosini and Brocchi toward him, Messi delivered a quick lateral pass.
Kaká, sprinting past his teammates and Milan's defensive midfielders, latched onto Messi's pass. Cutting diagonally into the left side of the penalty arc, he unleashed a powerful low strike with his left foot.
The ball shot into the bottom left corner of Milan's net before Dida could react.
Goal! 3–0!
The stadium erupted once again as Atlético Madrid extended their lead. It had taken just 22 minutes for the Spanish side to score three goals.
________________________________________
Ancelotti, Shell-Shocked
Ancelotti stood on the sideline, frozen in disbelief as he watched Kaká celebrate his second goal. The Brazilian had become a hero to the Atlético faithful, and the Calderón roared his name in unison.
AC Milan's players were visibly shaken. The gap in quality was glaringly obvious.
When Atlético unleashed their full potential, Milan had no way to respond. Ancelotti had anticipated difficulties but not a complete collapse.
He had hoped for a chance to fight back, however slim. But the disparity in ability and intensity was far greater than he had feared.
What made things worse was Atlético's tactical shift. Unlike their possession-heavy approach against Manchester United, they adopted a quicker, direct style against Milan.
Every time Atlético regained possession, they transitioned swiftly, not allowing Milan time to reset their defensive lines.
Milan, accustomed to the slower pace of Serie A, simply couldn't keep up.
Even with Pirlo and Shevchenko still in the squad, Ancelotti realized, Milan would not have been able to overcome Atlético. At most, they might have managed a goal or created a few more chances, but the fundamental gap in quality would have remained insurmountable.
Shaking his head in frustration, Ancelotti returned to the bench.
________________________________________
The Decline of Serie A
Milan's struggles were not an isolated issue but a reflection of a broader problem plaguing Serie A. Reports suggested that Héctor Cúper was stepping down as Inter Milan's coach at the end of the season and might return to La Liga. Rumors even linked him to Valencia, which had recently been acquired by the Abu Dhabi group.
Serie A was losing its relevance. Clubs were too conservative, clinging to outdated tactics that no longer resonated with fans or players.
For years, Italian football had been known for its tactical sophistication. A 0–0 draw could be celebrated for its defensive excellence. But times had changed.
Fans, especially younger ones, craved open, attacking football with fast-paced action. The defensive, slow-paced style of Serie A no longer captivated audiences.
Television networks openly criticized the league, urging teams to emulate the attacking football of La Liga, the Premier League, or even the Bundesliga.
________________________________________
The Financial and Talent Crisis
Italian clubs were trapped in a vicious cycle. Most didn't own their stadiums, which limited matchday revenue. The commercial and fan engagement environment in Italy was far weaker than in Spain or England.
With less money, clubs couldn't attract top players. Without quality players, they couldn't produce exciting football. Without exciting football, they couldn't attract fans or sponsorships.
Inter Milan, despite heavy spending, had failed to match the performances of teams like Valencia in European competitions. Reports suggested that owner Massimo Moratti was growing disheartened.
The root of the problem was clear: Italy's youth development system was failing. A lack of homegrown talent forced clubs to rely on foreign players. But competing with the Premier League, La Liga, and even the Bundesliga for top talent required money—something Serie A clubs lacked.
Ancelotti, standing on the sidelines at the Calderón, watched Atlético's youthful and energetic players dominate the game. Their quick, attacking football was a stark contrast to the aging and conservative approach of Milan.
He couldn't help but feel envious.
________________________________________
A Dream Unrealized
Every coach dreams of building their own team—a squad that embodies their vision and takes on the best in the world.
For Ancelotti, that dream felt increasingly unattainable in Serie A. The league's systemic issues made it nearly impossible to create a competitive and exciting team.
He sighed deeply, weighed down by the realization that Italian football was unlikely to recover anytime soon.
Perhaps, he thought, it was time to consider other options.
"How much do you know about the Abu Dhabi Group's acquisition of Valencia?"
After the first leg of the Champions League semifinals, Yang Hao invited Ancelotti for a drink. In European football, it was a common courtesy for the home team's coach to host the visiting coach, though it had become rarer in recent years. Nowadays, it only happened when both parties respected each other and had a decent relationship.
"What's this? Are you transitioning into journalism now?" Yang Hao joked knowingly.
Ancelotti glanced up at him without a word. His team had just been trounced, and he wasn't in the mood for jokes.
"I've spoken with Mubarak, the Abu Dhabi Group's representative and the future president of Valencia, as well as Sheikh Mansour—the younger brother of the Emir of Abu Dhabi and President of the UAE," Yang Hao said.
"My impression? These Middle Eastern tycoons aren't as naïve or reckless as people think."
Across Europe, the football world viewed the Abu Dhabi Group's acquisition of Valencia with skepticism, dismissing the Middle Eastern billionaires as rich fools playing around with football for fun. Some even believed they'd splash some cash, enjoy their stint, and leave.
"They've been in talks with Javier Subirats for quite some time, even before the acquisition," Yang Hao continued.
Subirats was highly respected in Valencia and the wider football community, having built Valencia's golden era, from signing Héctor Cúper to bringing in Ranieri and Benítez.
"I've heard he's going to be Valencia's technical director," Ancelotti added. He had been in discussions with Subirats himself.
"That's likely," Yang Hao confirmed.
Subirats was skilled in football operations but lacked the business acumen needed for modern football. In that regard, Valencia was far behind Spain's "Big Three"—Atlético Madrid, Real Madrid, and Barcelona.
Atlético had Miguel Gil as its charismatic figurehead, but behind the scenes, Carlos Lao's expertise in commercial operations was crucial. He was considered on par with José Ángel Sánchez, Real Madrid's commercial mastermind.
Barcelona, meanwhile, had their own ace: Vice President Marc Ingla, who had elevated the club's commercial income to new heights. Ingla's most innovative move was the UNICEF logo on Barça's jerseys—a strategic step to prepare the fanbase for future sponsorships.
"From what I've observed, the Abu Dhabi Group is neither impulsive nor reckless. They're deliberate and have a clear strategy. I believe they're in it for the long haul," Yang Hao said.
He elaborated: "The Middle East has been seeking economic diversification for years, trying to reduce reliance on oil. Dubai is investing in tourism and aviation, while Abu Dhabi, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait are doing the same in other sectors."
Yang Hao explained that people everywhere were fundamentally the same—there were smart people and average ones in every nation. The Middle Eastern rulers employed capable individuals and planned for the future, just like anywhere else.
Buying football clubs was part of their strategy. Though football wasn't traditionally a lucrative business, its global reach made it an unparalleled marketing tool. The acquisition of Valencia had instantly put Abu Dhabi on the world map, introducing millions to the region and its leaders.
For these billionaires, football offered unparalleled visibility and influence at a relatively low cost. The sport also held inherent value as a stable, long-term investment, especially in turbulent economic times.
________________________________________
"Héctor Cúper to Return to La Liga?"
Ancelotti chuckled bitterly at Yang Hao's musings about the Abu Dhabi Group.
Yang Hao leaned in with a knowing grin. "I've heard rumors about Héctor Cúper returning to Valencia, but honestly, his conservative coaching style doesn't fit their vision. They may have talked, but..."
Valencia had deep respect for Cúper, who had led them to two Champions League finals. However, his excessively defensive approach was at odds with the dynamic football fans now craved.
Seeing Ancelotti's weary expression, Yang Hao decided to offer some advice: "Carlo, leave Serie A."
Though he refrained from saying it outright, Yang Hao believed Serie A had little future. The league's systemic issues made a return to its "Little World Cup" glory days unlikely. Even if Juventus or the Milan clubs regained prominence, the league as a whole would struggle to compete with La Liga or the Premier League.
"If I do accept Subirats' invitation to coach Valencia," Ancelotti quipped with a grin, "the first thing I'll do is raid your team."
Yang Hao laughed. "Go ahead. Bring lots of cash!"
After a pause, Yang Hao added with a sly smile: "For years, people have been poaching our players and saying Atlético would decline. But look where we are now. Have we declined?"
Ancelotti couldn't help but acknowledge the truth.
Despite regularly selling players, Atlético continued to thrive, replacing outgoing stars with homegrown talents. Their youth academy had become a treasure trove, with many clubs eyeing it for talent.
Take Ángel Di María and Luis Suárez, for instance—two rising stars from Atlético's B team who were already making waves in Spain's second division. Several clubs had tried to lure them away, but neither player wanted to leave.
________________________________________
Atlético's Resilience
Yang Hao's faith in Atlético's system was well-founded. Even when other clubs tried to raid their academy, the best talents stayed, drawn by the promise of a bright future with the first team.
For Ancelotti, sitting across from Yang Hao, this was both impressive and daunting. The gap between Atlético and AC Milan was glaring, not just in terms of current results but also in how the clubs were positioned for the future.
As the two coaches raised their glasses, the unspoken truth hung in the air: Atlético represented the future, while Milan seemed stuck in the past.
Atlético Youth Captain Gabi Shines Elsewhere
Atlético Madrid's youth team captain, Gabi, had transferred to Zaragoza, where he was performing exceptionally well. However, his departure came after a prolonged struggle to find opportunities in Atlético's senior team, where the likes of Iniesta and Kaká had firmly claimed the midfield spots. Despite his move, Gabi consistently expressed his hope of one day returning to Atlético.
Many media outlets, unable to find better descriptors, attributed this sentiment to Atlético's unique locker room culture—a deeply rooted sense of belonging fostered within the club. Additionally, they credited the enigmatic leadership of their coach, Yang Hao, as a crucial factor.
"Come to La Liga; it's a good choice!" Yang Hao said with a laugh, subtly suggesting the idea to Carlo Ancelotti.
Yang Hao wasn't afraid of competition. On the contrary, he welcomed Ancelotti's potential arrival, knowing it would elevate the quality and intensity of the league. For him, La Liga's attractiveness lay in its capital influx, the presence of renowned managers, and its roster of global superstars. While it might make Atlético's journey tougher, it would also cement La Liga's place as the most exciting and competitive league in the world.
As a visionary manager, Yang Hao relished the prospect of being part of such an era.
________________________________________
Atlético Maintains Dominance in La Liga
Following the first leg of their Champions League semifinal against AC Milan, Atlético faced Real Betis at home in La Liga's 32nd round. Goals from Torres and Villa secured a comfortable 2–0 victory at the Calderón.
Elsewhere, Barcelona edged Levante 1–0 at Camp Nou, while Real Madrid thrashed Athletic Bilbao 4–1 away. Despite juggling multiple competitions, Madrid's Andrea Pirlo delivered a stellar performance, contributing two assists and scoring a free kick, taking full advantage of his inability to feature in the Champions League.
________________________________________
A Decisive Second Leg at San Siro
After Atlético's commanding 3–0 win in the first leg, it was clear that AC Milan's hopes of a comeback at San Siro were slim to none. Yang Hao's strategy for the second leg reflected this reality. With a three-goal cushion, he instructed his players to approach the game cautiously, focusing on controlling possession and managing the tempo.
For the opening 20 minutes, Atlético demonstrated their signature patience, dominating possession and carefully building their attacks without urgency. Even the commentators speculated whether the team's relaxed approach hinted at overconfidence.
Lionel Messi, however, stood out on the right flank. The young Argentine relentlessly probed AC Milan's defense, seeking opportunities to break through. Despite his best efforts, Milan's disciplined defense denied him any significant openings.
Meanwhile, AC Milan struggled to create meaningful chances. Their most threatening moment came when Ronaldo broke into the box, only to be dispossessed by Thiago Silva, who used his positioning and strength to neutralize the danger. Silva's standout performance earned him applause from Yang Hao on the sidelines.
The first half ended goalless, with neither side managing to break the deadlock.
________________________________________
Yang Hao Fires Up Atlético at Halftime
Unhappy with his team's lack of urgency, Yang Hao delivered a fiery speech during the halftime break. The effect was immediate.
Just two minutes into the second half, Atlético scored a stunning goal that showcased their trademark fluidity.
Dani Alves advanced down the right and passed to Kaká, who relayed the ball to Drogba at the edge of the box. Drogba, with his back to goal, shielded the ball before laying it off to Iniesta on the left.
Iniesta darted into the box but, under pressure from Milan's defenders, paused, cut back, and passed back to Drogba. The Ivorian striker instinctively played a diagonal ball into Iniesta's path as the Spaniard continued his run. Iniesta delivered a pinpoint cross into the six-yard box, where Kaká arrived to stab it home with a clinical finish.
The seamless combination of short and medium-range passes had dismantled Milan's defense, leaving San Siro stunned.
"Atlético's intricate passing is a joy to watch," said the commentator. "Even a player like Drogba, often labeled a brute-force striker, integrates perfectly into their fluid system alongside technicians like Iniesta and Kaká. This goal epitomizes their training, creativity, and teamwork."
The goal effectively sealed the tie, extinguishing any remaining hope AC Milan had of mounting a comeback.
________________________________________
Messi's Moment of Brilliance
In the 74th minute, Atlético struck again with a devastating counterattack.
Deep in Atlético's half, Kaká carried the ball forward, gliding past Milan's midfield. Spotting Messi's run, he threaded a perfectly timed through ball into the path of the young forward.
Messi, timing his run to perfection, evaded Milan's defensive line and surged into the box. Facing goalkeeper Dida, Messi executed a deft feint, causing the keeper to dive prematurely. With composure beyond his years, Messi shifted the ball to his left foot, creating space, and slotted it calmly into the net.
2–0.
San Siro fell silent, save for the jubilant Atlético fans. The hosts, utterly deflated, could only watch as Messi celebrated his goal with his teammates.
________________________________________
A Display of Atlético's Supremacy
The match ended with a 5–0 aggregate victory for Atlético Madrid, underlining their dominance on Europe's grandest stage. The contrast between the two teams was stark: while Atlético dazzled with pace, precision, and cohesion, AC Milan looked like a shadow of their former selves, unable to cope with the Spaniards' intensity.
For Yang Hao, the victory was another step closer to his dream of a treble. For Ancelotti, it was a sobering reminder of Serie A's growing gulf with Europe's elite.
As the final whistle blew, the two managers exchanged a handshake, symbolizing respect amid vastly different trajectories.
If Atlético's first goal against AC Milan in the second leg showcased the beauty of teamwork, the second was a testament to individual brilliance. Kaká's surging run and Messi's deft fake that sent Dida sprawling left fans awestruck, highlighting the effortless mastery of Atlético's stars.
As Kaká and Messi celebrated on the sidelines, Milan fans couldn't help but envy Atlético's abundance of talent. Yet, such players were a distant dream for them.
Atlético's 2–0 victory at San Siro sealed a 5–0 aggregate triumph, extending their remarkable form in the knockout stages. Having dismantled Roma, Manchester United, and now AC Milan, Atlético displayed unparalleled dominance.
In this match, Atlético controlled 66.8% of possession, leaving Milan helpless. The Italian side managed only one shot on target throughout the game, while Atlético's goals were as stunning as their composure in dictating play.
This dominance made Atlético the clear favorite for the Champions League title.
________________________________________
Real Madrid Advances Past Barcelona
In the other semifinal, Real Madrid eliminated Barcelona with a 3–2 aggregate victory. A 2–1 win at the Bernabéu was followed by a 1–1 draw at Camp Nou.
Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard faced sharp criticism for not starting Lilian Thuram in either leg. Instead, he paired Marquez with Puyol in central defense. While the duo performed decently, they couldn't contain Zlatan Ibrahimović, whose link-up play enabled Cristiano Ronaldo to score all three goals for Real Madrid, including two directly assisted by Ibrahimović.
Rijkaard defended his decisions, pointing out that starting Thuram might have led to a different set of complaints. His frustration boiled over during the post-match press conference, where he openly suggested he was considering stepping down.
The Catalan media and fans responded with enthusiasm, urging Rijkaard to make good on his word. The backlash prompted club management to intervene. President Joan Laporta expressed confidence in Rijkaard, and club legend Johan Cruyff publicly supported the coach. Rijkaard eventually walked back his resignation hints, claiming he was merely reflecting on the team's future.
This chaotic episode was met with amusement in Madrid, where Yang Hao and even Barça legend Pep Guardiola couldn't help but find the situation awkward.
Yang Hao had previously suggested Guardiola consider managing Valencia, believing in the budding coach's potential. However, Guardiola declined, patiently waiting for an opportunity that aligned with his ambitions.
________________________________________
La Liga Round 33: The Drama Continues
Fresh off their European exploits, Atlético defeated Espanyol 2–1 away, with Torres and Villa scoring the goals.
Barcelona also claimed a 2–0 victory against Real Sociedad, while Real Madrid secured a thrilling 3–2 home win over Sevilla. Valencia faltered, losing 2–1 to Deportivo La Coruña.
With teams like Deportivo and Sevilla improving, La Liga's competitive landscape has transformed. Every round now features high-stakes matches, much to the delight of broadcasters.
Broadcasting Boom in La Liga
Broadcasters who invested in La Liga's rights are reaping massive rewards. Catalonia-based MDP, which acquired La Liga's domestic rights three years ago, has seen its investment pay off handsomely. Their partnerships with regional Spanish networks have strengthened, boosting subscription growth and profitability.
In contrast, traditional giant AVS has struggled after losing the La Liga rights. Forced to repurchase them at steep prices from Telefónica and MDP, AVS has undergone major internal restructuring and vowed to reclaim the rights in 2008.
Meanwhile, Telefónica, which initially faced skepticism over its hefty investment in La Liga rights, has leveraged them to achieve unprecedented success. Expansion in markets like South America, Central America, and Mexico has been particularly lucrative.
Looking ahead, La Liga plans to reclaim international rights and sell them regionally. Interest from major networks like ESPN and NBC in North America bodes well for further revenue growth, as La Liga's global influence continues to rise.
With its growing dominance on and off the field, La Liga has firmly positioned itself as a global football powerhouse.
Midweek Copa del Rey Semifinals: Atlético Crushes Sevilla
In the second leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals, Atlético visited Sevilla, taking a confident 3–1 lead from the first leg. Before the game, Yang Hao made a clear statement of trust by once again starting Sergio Ramos, despite the defender's own goal in the first leg.
"Don't feel any pressure—just play your game," Yang Hao encouraged Ramos, who was deeply moved by the show of faith. "Boss, I swear I won't mess around tonight!" Ramos promised earnestly before dashing off to join his teammates.
Yang Hao, left behind with a bemused look, muttered to his assistant Juanma Lillo, "Won't mess around tonight? So, what, he'll go back to messing around after this game?"
Lillo burst into laughter, shaking his head at Ramos' unintentional humor.
But Ramos proved his worth just minutes into the match. He cleared a dangerous cross from Navas intended for Kanouté and handled several defensive situations masterfully. In the 14th minute, Ramos cut off a pass to Kanouté, intercepting it with a perfectly timed slide tackle and feeding Mascherano to start a counterattack.
Atlético capitalized immediately. Alves surged forward on the right flank, beating two defenders before delivering a cross into the box. Drogba rose to meet it, powering a header past the Sevilla goalkeeper to open the scoring: 1–0!
Sevilla struggled to create meaningful chances, managing their first shot in the 25th minute when Kanouté's attempt went wide under pressure from Ramos.
Atlético doubled their lead 14 minutes later. Di María broke through on the left wing, sending a pinpoint cross to the far post, where Suárez calmly slotted the ball home: 2–0!
In the second half, Sevilla tried to mount a comeback but left themselves exposed at the back. Atlético exploited the gaps repeatedly, though neither side added to the score until injury time.
In the 93rd minute, Alves orchestrated a dazzling sequence. Combining with Drogba in a quick one-two near the right flank, Alves cut into the box and fired a low shot into the far corner, sealing a 3–0 victory on the night and a 6–1 aggregate triumph.
Alves was named the best player of the match, his performance exemplifying Atlético's dominance as they booked their place in the Copa del Rey final.
This year's final is set to take place at the Santiago Bernabéu.
________________________________________
Drama in Camp Nou: Deportivo Stuns Barcelona
The other semifinal featured Barcelona hosting Deportivo at the Camp Nou after a goalless first leg at the Riazor. Despite relentless attacks, Barcelona struggled to break down Deportivo's disciplined defense. Deschamps' side, with De Jong and Felipe Melo shielding the backline and Capdevila, Juan, Coloccini, and Arbeloa forming a formidable defensive wall, frustrated Barça's attacking efforts.
From the stands, Yang Hao, Guardiola, and Lillo watched as Rijkaard's team dominated possession but lacked a clinical edge. "Barça better be careful," Lillo remarked ominously.
His prediction came true in the 73rd minute. Deportivo launched a counterattack through Capdevila on the left, who fed Diego. The Brazilian midfielder turned past Xavi and passed to Pienaar. With Van Nistelrooy acting as a physical pivot, Pienaar lobbed a perfectly weighted pass into the box. Van Nistelrooy's deft header set up Diego, who surged into the penalty area and calmly slotted the ball past Valdés. 1–0!
The goal silenced the Camp Nou, except for the deafening boos directed at Deportivo's celebrations. Barcelona, needing two goals to advance, pressed forward desperately but couldn't penetrate Deportivo's resolute defense.
Yang Hao couldn't help but reflect on Diego's and Felipe Melo's careers. The two players were immensely talented, but their subsequent moves to Juventus would turn into career missteps, derailing their potential. Diego's time at Juventus, marred by poor team management and misalignment with the league's style, exemplified how crucial the right choices are in football.
________________________________________
Atlético in Copa del Rey Final, La Liga Push Continues
With Atlético heading to the Copa del Rey final, attention turned back to La Liga.
In Round 33, Atlético earned a hard-fought 2–1 away victory against Espanyol, with Torres and Villa providing the goals.
Barcelona beat Real Sociedad 2–0 on the road, while Real Madrid edged Sevilla 3–2 at the Bernabéu. Despite Sevilla's best efforts, Pirlo delivered a masterclass for Real Madrid, contributing two assists and a direct free-kick goal.
________________________________________
Rising Competition in La Liga
La Liga continues to offer high-stakes clashes, with teams like Deportivo and Sevilla emerging as formidable challengers. The increasing quality of mid-table teams has made the league more competitive, delighting broadcasters.
MDP, the Catalonia-based company that acquired domestic La Liga rights three years ago, has seen tremendous returns on its investment. Their partnerships with regional networks have driven subscription growth, while rivals like AVS, who lost the rights, have been forced to buy back sublicenses at steep prices.
Looking ahead, La Liga plans to reclaim international broadcasting rights for regional sales. Networks like ESPN and NBC have expressed interest in North American rights, reflecting La Liga's growing global appeal.
With its dominant performances, global stars, and fierce competition, La Liga is cementing its reputation as the premier league in world football.
Even Diego Couldn't Escape Failure—Felipe Melo Either
Two talented Brazilian midfielders, Diego and Felipe Melo, had their careers stumble at Juventus, a reminder of how critical the right environment and timing are for a player's development. Their struggles left many sighing over lost potential.
Now at Deportivo under Deschamps, both players have found a system that brings out their best. Melo and De Jong form a combative midfield duo with a tough, aggressive style, while Diego shines as an attacking midfielder in Deschamps' 4-2-3-1 system.
Deschamps, despite his reputation for cautious tactics, has proven adept at deploying his players effectively. This tactical approach has allowed not only Melo and De Jong but also Meireles to thrive, while Diego is in the form of his life.
Diego's value has skyrocketed to €20 million, and Deschamps' team is unwilling to let him go for less than €30 million. Backed by Spain's richest man, Deportivo dreams of a return to the Champions League and the glory of the "Super Depor" era.
Currently, Deportivo is fighting for a top-four finish in La Liga and has reached the UEFA Cup final, where they'll face Sevilla. The matchup promises to be a fierce battle.
Deportivo also looks poised to reach the Copa del Rey final, making them one of Spain's most compelling stories this season.
________________________________________
Deportivo Stuns Barcelona
After Diego's goal put Deportivo ahead in the Copa del Rey second leg, Deschamps quickly shifted to full defensive mode. His entire team dropped deep, and while Barcelona threw everything forward, they couldn't break through Deportivo's ironclad defense.
As Yang Hao and his staff expected, Barcelona, who had struggled to score in over 150 minutes across the two legs, wasn't suddenly going to find a solution in the final minutes.
"Deschamps has done a remarkable job this season," Yang Hao noted. "Even if Deportivo doesn't make the top four this year, they'll be in contention next season."
Deportivo's strength lies in its roster, but their rivals are even stronger. The "big three" of La Liga—Atlético Madrid, Real Madrid, and Barcelona—dominate the league, and while Barcelona faltered in the Copa del Rey, their overall consistency in the league remains.
Injuries have been a significant problem for Barcelona this season. Thierry Henry, for instance, never fully recovered after being rushed back too soon and ended up sidelined for the rest of the season. Rijkaard faced criticism for overusing the striker, but Barcelona's thin squad and financial caution were equally to blame.
With Deportivo holding firm, Barcelona couldn't break through. At the Camp Nou, they lost 1–0, with Deportivo advancing 1–0 on aggregate. Deportivo will now face Atlético Madrid in the Copa del Rey final.
________________________________________
The Final Insight: Strike First Against Deportivo
Watching the match, Yang Hao concluded, "The key to beating Deportivo will be scoring first."
Deschamps' defensive tactics would ensure that Deportivo would never proactively attack unless forced to. Yang Hao expected Deportivo to stick to their counter-attacking approach in the final.
________________________________________
Rijkaard Under Fire Again
After being eliminated from the Copa del Rey, Barcelona's season was destined for failure. Fans and media criticized Rijkaard heavily, with some extreme voices calling for his resignation.
Rijkaard, wiser from past experiences, firmly stated, "I will not resign—doing so would be cowardly."
He expressed confidence in his ability to lead the team out of their current slump next season. Backed by Mundo Deportivo and Sport, Barcelona's management acknowledged the challenges of injuries and a thin squad, offering Rijkaard their support.
Johan Cruyff, the club's spiritual leader, also stood by Rijkaard, arguing that there wasn't a better candidate to lead the team. While José Mourinho's future at Chelsea was uncertain, his style of management and tactics clashed with Barcelona's philosophy, a point Cruyff made emphatically.
Barcelona management now faced a dilemma—pursue immediate results or remain true to the club's values.
________________________________________
Yang Hao's Focus Remains Unchanged
With Barcelona in disarray, the competition for La Liga's top four spots grew more intense. Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid led the pack, but behind them, a fierce battle raged among Barcelona, Sevilla, Valencia, Deportivo, and Villarreal. Five teams were fighting for two Champions League spots, ensuring a dramatic finish to the season.
For Yang Hao, however, this wasn't a primary concern. His attention was on the remaining matches of the season: five La Liga games to secure the title and two finals—the Copa del Rey and Champions League.
His goal was clear: complete the treble this season. There was no room for complacency or error.
Friends, if you enjoyed the novel, you can subscribe to my Patreon channel.
Read 16 Chapters In Advance: patreon.com/Canserbero10