Chapter 52
Yang Hao had not anticipated that his reflections and analyses, derived from his experiences in his previous life, would have such a profound impact on Atlético's coaching staff. His initial brainstorming session quickly evolved into a deep exploration of the "Yang-style Football Philosophy."
Upon reflection, however, Yang Hao wasn't surprised.
FIFA employs numerous scholars dedicated to football theory. While these individuals may not coach or play, their theoretical insights often serve as the basis for future footballing innovations. Yet, the transition from theory to practice is always a gradual process.
For instance, the offside rule revision was first proposed in 2003, officially implemented in 2005, but it wasn't until 2009—under Guardiola's Barcelona Dream Team—that its full potential was realized.
At that time, the world marveled at Barcelona's intricate passing and possession play.
But what lay behind this approach?
The revolution wasn't just about tiki-taka. It was the rise of technical midfielders like Xavi, Iniesta, and Busquets—players who thrived under the new offside rule.
Without this rule change, would Barcelona's midfield have stood a chance against the relentless pressing of teams like Irureta's Super Depor or Mourinho's Porto, both of which sought to suffocate midfield creativity?
Yang Hao used Atlético as an example: their current midfield anchor, Baraja, provided a stronghold against such tactics. However, Yang Hao's long-term plan was to phase out Baraja's reliance while nurturing players like Iniesta, Modrić, and David Silva to take his place.
This transition would not happen overnight. It required careful planning and execution over a transitional period, coinciding with Baraja's natural decline due to age.
When the transformation was complete, Atlético's midfield would embody technical excellence. Coupled with the development of Messi, Ramos, Pepe, Silva, and Modrić, Atlético would become an unstoppable force in European football.
By then, their new stadium would also be completed, marking the dawn of a new era for the Colchoneros.
Yang Hao's ultimate vision was to elevate Atlético to a global superclub, rivaling and surpassing even the mightiest teams. No longer would Real Madrid poach Atlético's stars—it would be Atlético cherry-picking talent from Madrid and Barcelona instead.
Of course, that depended on whether those teams had "players worth looking at," Yang Hao quipped internally.
July Begins: The Real Madrid Election Drama
The month began with Real Madrid's presidential election. Former president Lorenzo Sanz challenged Florentino Pérez, but an amusing subplot emerged before the vote:
Sanz petitioned the Madrid courts to abolish the mail-in voting system for the election.
This immediately reminded Yang Hao of a certain country's infamous presidential elections, proving once again that mail-in ballots always find their way into controversy.
Sanz's legal challenge was born out of desperation—his chances of winning were slim.
Despite Real Madrid's poor on-pitch performance, Pérez's signings of stars like Samuel, Woodgate, Owen, and, most notably, Atlético's Joaquín, had sent his popularity soaring.
Stealing stars from rivals? A guaranteed recipe for fan adoration.
Yang Hao had little interest in the election itself. What caught his attention was an interview Pérez gave to Expansión, a leading Spanish financial newspaper.
Since many influential Real Madrid socios were prominent figures in politics and business, Pérez's campaign included interviews with financial outlets.
In the interview, Pérez revealed that Real Madrid's market revenue for 2004 was projected to reach €150 million, second only to Manchester United in Europe. This revelation shocked Yang Hao.
After four years of painstaking efforts, Atlético's commercial revenue was projected at only €80 million—just over half of Real Madrid's.
In contrast, Real Madrid's "galácticos" strategy had brought astronomical commercial success in a fraction of the time.
The Power of the Galácticos Strategy
Pérez explained that before he took office, Real Madrid's total revenue had been less than €150 million. Now, their commercial revenue alone matched that figure.
Key highlights from Pérez's revelations:
Preseason Friendlies
Real Madrid's two summer friendlies generated €15 million in revenue.
For comparison, Barcelona's friendlies in Japan netted just €2.5 million.Giant Leap in Commercial Revenue
Real Madrid's shift from performance-focused operations to star-driven commercial strategies transformed the club into a global brand.Market Threats and Partnerships
Pérez acknowledged that Atlético Madrid posed a growing threat, especially given their rapid commercial growth and effective global outreach. He emphasized, however, that Atlético was also a valuable partner in expanding La Liga's global market.
Referring to the Joaquín transfer, Pérez remarked:
"We should thank Atlético for developing stars like Joaquín for us."
Pérez also cited a branding consultancy report ranking Europe's top clubs by market value:
Manchester United was first.Real Madrid ranked second.Inter Milan came third.Atlético Madrid, buoyed by recent success, surged to fourth place.
Pérez's interview highlighted how Manchester United's dominance in Asia stemmed from over a decade of targeted development. To replicate this, Pérez argued, Real Madrid and La Liga must unite to conquer global markets, particularly in Asia.
Pérez concluded with his ultimate vision:
"Real Madrid was the best club of the 20th century. I am confident we will also be the best club of the 21st century."
The Harsh Reality for Atlético
Yang Hao admitted that Pérez's ambitions weren't delusional—Real Madrid had the potential to dominate globally.
However, achieving such dominance was a monumental challenge. Despite some campaign embellishments, Pérez's figures were credible, given the financial outlet's scrutiny.
Compared to Real Madrid's commercial success, Atlético's efforts felt like jogging versus cycling.
Real Madrid's "galácticos" strategy was a game-breaking hack that Atlético simply couldn't emulate.
Why?
Atlético never had the same allure as Real Madrid to attract marquee players.Even if they tried, such a strategy would demand a complete overhaul of their financial model, wage structure, and squad composition—an unfeasible gamble for Atlético.
Instead, Yang Hao focused on sustainable growth, leveraging youth development, tactical innovation, and meticulous management.
While Real Madrid sought quick success through star power, Yang Hao aimed to build a dynasty for the ages.
Atlético Madrid continued to follow its own steady pace, unaffected by the high-profile transfer market frenzy.
No superstars?
Then create your own superstars.
This year, La Liga clubs faced significant challenges.
Valencia and Deportivo La Coruña were burdened with heavy debts, with Valencia's exceeding €100 million and Deportivo reportedly in even worse shape.
After their meteoric rise in recent seasons, both teams were now showing signs of decline. Last season, rumors circulated that Deportivo considered selling players like Pandiani and Valerón. However, after securing a Champions League spot at Real Madrid's expense, the rumors subsided, and Valerón renewed his contract.
Barcelona, on the other hand, appeared ambitious.
Their strong comeback in the latter half of the previous season emboldened Laporta, who aggressively spent in the transfer market, even attempting to outbid Chelsea for Deco.
Failing to sign Deco, Barcelona turned to Baptista, acquiring him from Sevilla for €35 million.
Yang Hao noticed that Barcelona's trajectory was diverging from the one he remembered in his previous life. Baptista didn't seem like a natural fit for Barcelona's style.
Yet, the Catalan media and fans were ecstatic.
Last season, Baptista scored 20 goals in La Liga and demonstrated exceptional ball control, physical strength, and late runs from midfield.
Moreover, as a Brazilian, he was expected to complement Ronaldinho perfectly.
To them, Baptista seemed tailor-made for Barcelona's midfield.
In addition to Baptista, Barcelona made shrewd acquisitions:
Giuly from Monaco.Larsson from Celtic.Van Bronckhorst from Arsenal, both on free transfers.Edmílson from Lyon.
The real highlight, however, was the signing of Samuel Eto'o from Mallorca.
The transfer, involving Real Madrid due to their part-ownership, concluded with Barcelona paying €30 million—a bit more than Yang Hao remembered but still reasonable.
Interestingly, Rijkaard had revealed that Eto'o was not his top choice for reinforcement. Nevertheless, Barcelona's management overruled him and completed the deal.
While Real Madrid and Barcelona went on a spending spree, Atlético Madrid, fresh off a treble-winning season, took the opposite approach.
Despite earning substantial revenue from player sales, Atlético didn't spend a cent in the transfer market.
Yang Hao reassured fans, expressing confidence in the current squad and plans for internal development.
Faithful Atlético fans trusted Yang Hao's judgment. If he believed new signings weren't necessary, they took his word for it.
However, the media had a different interpretation:
Atlético, constrained by the financial demands of building a new stadium, had no choice but to rely on its youth academy.
Yang Hao offered no rebuttal, letting speculation run its course.
This left Atlético as one of only two La Liga teams without any new signings—the other being Athletic Bilbao, whose commitment to Basque-only players and reliance on their youth system made them a unique entity in European football.
As treble winners, Atlético's preseason training camp attracted unprecedented attention.
Spanish and European media flooded the Mahounda Training Base for exclusive interviews and footage.
The first day of training was declared an open day, allowing fans and media to explore the newly inaugurated, five-star-rated facility.
Both journalists and fans marveled at the state-of-the-art equipment and modern amenities. The first-team training zone featured not only advanced equipment but also spacious locker rooms, lounges, and entertainment areas offering various activities.
From table tennis to gaming consoles, the facilities were designed to cater to every player's needs.
Ramos, in particular, was thrilled and immediately proposed hosting an Atlético FIFA video game tournament, envisioning himself outmaneuvering Messi, Torres, and Drogba in the digital arena.
Squad Announcements
Atlético began preseason training earlier than most clubs, and even players involved in the European Championship, such as Čech, reported on time without any excuses.
On the first day, the spotlight was on the four promoted youngsters:
Sergio RamosDavid SilvaLionel MessiLuka Modrić
Their inclusion in the 25-man squad traveling to the U.S. for training was highly anticipated:
Goalkeepers: Čech, Palop
Defenders: Lucio, Evra, Maicon, Antonio López, Marchena, Alves, Pepe, Ramos
Midfielders: Baraja, Xabi Alonso, Kaká, Iniesta, Gabi, Marcos Senna, Mascherano, Silva, Modrić
Forwards: Drogba, Torres, Villa, Robben, Ribéry, Messi
Among the youngsters, Messi drew the most attention. Reports suggested that Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Barcelona, and Real Madrid had all approached Messi and his agent-father, Jorge, to lure him away.
Each attempt was met with a firm rejection from Messi and Jorge. Atlético, in turn, filed complaints with UEFA and FIFA, citing improper contact with a contracted player.
These incidents underscored Messi's potential, amplifying the excitement surrounding his future.
Preseason Begins
The squad assembled at 8:30 AM and underwent physical assessments before training. Given the players' varied offseason schedules—some competed in the Euros, others in the Copa América—the coaching staff prioritized individualized training plans.
Mascherano, notably, was set to represent Argentina at the Olympics in Greece. He was the only Atlético player involved, as Spain and Brazil failed to qualify for the tournament.
For the coaching team, assessing each player's fitness was routine, but the media and fans found the process fascinating.
Key Fixtures of the New Season
With the release of the La Liga schedule, fans quickly identified marquee matchups:
Atlético vs. Barcelona: A blockbuster clash in Round 3 at Atlético's home ground.Madrid Derby: Set for Round 18, pitting Atlético against Real Madrid.El Clásico: Scheduled for Round 12, with the first leg at Camp Nou.
For Atlético and Real Madrid, however, an even earlier showdown awaited in the Spanish Super Cup, where the treble winners would face Copa del Rey runners-up Real Madrid.
The two-legged tie would take place on August 21 and August 24, with games at the Bernabéu and the Calderón, respectively.
There had been proposals to host the Super Cup abroad, but logistical challenges prevented the move this year—a missed opportunity that drew some regret.
The European Super Cup and an Intense Start to the Season
The European Super Cup was scheduled for August 27, with Atlético Madrid facing Valencia.
Due to their involvement in the Super Cup, Atlético's La Liga opener was postponed to August 30, instead of the league's official start date of August 28.
This meant that between August 21 and August 30, Atlético would play four matches, almost all against strong opponents. The tight schedule posed significant challenges for the team, especially considering that they had transferred out four key players, leaving many questioning whether their overall strength had been compromised.
Ahead of preseason training, Yang Hao had already set clear expectations for his coaching staff. He emphasized the importance of avoiding a repeat of last season's opening-round loss, which stemmed from the strains of multi-competition commitments.
Preseason Training in Madrid
The team spent two days in Madrid before heading to the U.S., focusing on light recovery training. During this period, the coaching staff collected a wealth of data to tailor training regimens and assess the players' physical states.
Notably, Yang Hao mandated advanced internal organ screening to prevent health emergencies, inspired by the tragic death of Marc-Vivien Foé years earlier.
The relaxed sessions fostered a cheerful atmosphere among the players, who were mostly familiar with one another, leading to laughter and camaraderie. However, they wouldn't laugh for long...
Arrival in Los Angeles
On July 7, the team departed Madrid and flew to Los Angeles via Emirates Airlines.
Atlético stayed at the luxurious Dorchester Hotel in Beverly Hills, one of the most opulent accommodations in the city. Despite the lavish amenities, the club secured the stay at a surprisingly favorable rate through negotiations.
The team also rented facilities at the Drake Stadium on the UCLA campus, about five kilometers from their hotel. The stadium offered a 12,000-seat grandstand, convenient locker rooms, and essential facilities like swimming pools and gyms—providing an ideal setup for training.
Sunset Boulevard Jogging Gains Popularity
One highlight for fans and reporters was the team's daily 5-kilometer runs along Sunset Boulevard, from the hotel to the training base. Atlético's official blog and website frequently updated fans with behind-the-scenes glimpses of this routine.
Remarkably, this simple activity sparked enthusiasm among local fans in Los Angeles, with many joining the runs to keep up with their favorite players. This level of fan engagement earned widespread media coverage, becoming a celebrated "chasing the stars" story in the U.S.
Intense Training and Media Frenzy
Building on the experience from last year's U.S. tour, Atlético's logistical preparations were seamless. The coaching staff adhered to a rigorous training regimen, focusing on physical conditioning through two daily sessions. Players were pushed to their limits, often leaving them exhausted, only to see them bounce back for nighttime escapades around the city.
Recognizing the need for balance, the staff occasionally organized group outings for relaxation. With Los Angeles and Hollywood as their backdrop—and the club basking in the glory of a treble-winning season—Atlético's activities drew massive attention both domestically and internationally.
Adding to the buzz, Yang Hao's relationship with Jessica Alba made headlines in the U.S. entertainment press. Alba, now a rising star in Hollywood, often visited the team's hotel or training sessions, further heightening the paparazzi's interest.
Atlético capitalized on the media spotlight, promoting players like Torres, Kaká, and Xabi Alonso as suave icons while showcasing the physical prowess of Drogba and Lúcio. These efforts, combined with sponsorship campaigns from Nike and other partners, fueled a surge of interest in Atlético's preseason matches.
Preseason Matches in the U.S.
Match 1: Atlético Madrid vs. LA Galaxy
Venue: Dignity Health Sports Park, CarsonAttendance: Sold out (27,000 seats)Result: Atlético Madrid 6–0 LA Galaxy
Despite coming off two weeks of grueling fitness drills, Atlético displayed their dominance in a resounding victory.
Match 2: Atlético Madrid vs. U.S. National Team
Venue: Rose Bowl, Los AngelesAttendance: 93,000Result: Atlético Madrid 3–1 U.S. National Team
The record-breaking crowd underscored the growing excitement around Atlético's U.S. tour.
Match 3: Atlético Madrid vs. Getafe
Venue: State Farm Stadium, Phoenix, ArizonaAttendance: 63,400Result: Atlético Madrid 2–0 Getafe
Getafe's coach, Quique Sánchez Flores, was stunned by the turnout:
"Isn't the U.S. supposed to be a football desert? I expected maybe 10,000 fans, but this? It's unreal."
Yang Hao chuckled, replying:
"This is a goldmine, and we're only just beginning to unearth its potential."
Match 4: Atlético Madrid vs. Málaga
Venue: Cotton Bowl, Dallas, TexasAttendance: 92,000Result: Atlético Madrid 2–1 Málaga
This game marked Atlético's breakout into mainstream American sports coverage, with outlets nationwide reporting on their tour's unprecedented success.
Match 5: Atlético Madrid vs. Villarreal
Venue: NRG Stadium, Houston, TexasAttendance: 71,790Result: Atlético Madrid 3–0 Villarreal
Match 6: Atlético Madrid vs. Sevilla
Venue: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas CityAttendance: 76,400Result: Atlético Madrid 4–2 Sevilla
A Resounding Success
With six sold-out matches, Atlético Madrid shattered expectations and captured the hearts of U.S. soccer fans. Analysts attributed this unprecedented success to the club's treble-winning season, clever marketing strategies, and the star power of players and staff alike.
From the Sunset Boulevard jogs to Jessica Alba's cameos and exhilarating match performances, Atlético's tour left an indelible mark on the burgeoning U.S. soccer scene.
Every Game Sold Out: Atlético Sparks a Football Storm in the U.S.
Six games, six sold-out stadiums. Atlético Madrid's tour of the United States created an unexpected football frenzy.
Major American media outlets scrambled to cover the phenomenon, marveling at the unprecedented turnout in a country long considered a "football desert." On the West Coast and central regions of the U.S., Atlético's popularity reached fever pitch. In contrast, Real Madrid's four matches on the East Coast saw relatively modest attendance, with their best game drawing just over 60,000 fans.
Analysts suggested that Real Madrid's declining performance over the past two seasons played a role. Despite their star-studded roster, they failed to capture the imagination of American fans. Meanwhile, Atlético's consistent success in recent years, including their historic treble last season, earned them the admiration of U.S. supporters. Furthermore, Atlético's promotional strategies were notably more effective.
Several outlets highlighted that Atlético's squad was brimming with charisma, from the handsome players to their superstar coach Yang Hao, who had become a fan favorite in the U.S. In comparison, Real Madrid, apart from David Beckham, lacked similar appeal.
One reporter quipped:
"What about Cannavaro? Sure, he's good-looking—but he's too short!"
As Marca's correspondent put it:
"This is an era where appearances matter. Watching fans cheer for Yang Hao and Atlético players, it felt less like we were in the U.S., but back in Madrid at their home stadium!"
A Multi-Front Global Push by La Liga
This summer, La Liga clubs launched an aggressive global campaign, grabbing the spotlight in the European football scene.
Atlético Madrid captivated the U.S. West Coast.Real Madrid toured the East Coast, albeit with less fanfare.Barcelona ventured to Japan and South Korea.Valencia and Deportivo La Coruña joined forces to explore Southeast Asia and Oceania.
With four simultaneous campaigns, La Liga's ambition to conquer the global market was clear.
European rivals took notice.
The Times in the U.K. urged the Premier League to react:
"La Liga is spearheading a bold globalization drive. In this regard, we are lagging behind."Gazzetta dello Sport in Italy speculated that La Liga's international outreach could soon surpass Serie A, making it the world's most influential football league.
A Historic Television Deal for La Liga
As La Liga clubs returned to Spain to prepare for the new season, attention turned to the domestic broadcasting rights auction for 2005-2008. This marked the first time in La Liga history that all 20 teams were bundled together for broadcast rights sales.
After extensive planning, La Liga introduced a streamlined system. Four broadcast packages were put up for bidding, each catering to different audience needs. Revenue would be centrally distributed among the clubs based on predetermined criteria, including league standings and match appearances.
The results shocked everyone. The domestic broadcasting rights sold for an unprecedented €1.6 billion over three years.
Even giants like Real Madrid and Barcelona, who had previously earned €72 million annually from individual deals, were taken aback by the record-breaking figure.
The four packages were awarded as follows:
Premium Package 1: Exclusive rights to broadcast one marquee match per week featuring Real Madrid, Barcelona, or Atlético Madrid.Winning Bid: €400 millionWinner: TelefónicaTelefónica planned to leverage this package to expand its global footprint, particularly in North and South America, Europe, and Asia.Premium Package 2: Rights to broadcast another top match from Real Madrid, Barcelona, or Atlético each week (excluding games from Package 1).Winning Bid: €200 millionWinner: TelefónicaCore Package: Rights to the remaining seven matches per round, as well as Copa del Rey games (excluding semifinals and the final).Winning Bid: €900 millionWinner: MDPPublic Viewing Rights: For bars, cafes, and other public venues.Winning Bid: €100 millionWinner: Vodafone
While MDP's €900 million bid appeared steep, their ability to sublicense matches to regional broadcasters (e.g., selling Athletic Bilbao games to Basque TV) made it a lucrative investment.
The sale far exceeded expectations, leaving Spain in celebration. Marca declared:
"This historic €1.6 billion deal proves that La Liga's broadcasting rights hold untapped potential."
A New Era for La Liga
La Liga president Antonio Pont hailed the auction as a breakthrough. In an interview, he expressed optimism:
"Our broadcasting rights remain vastly undervalued. As more partners recognize their potential, La Liga will continue to grow."
The deal injected much-needed optimism into struggling clubs like Deportivo La Coruña and Valencia, burdened by heavy debt. For La Liga, it signaled the dawn of a new era, with clubs now better positioned to compete on the global stage.
Yang Hao's Perspective
Upon returning to Madrid, Yang Hao received news of the auction results. He viewed it as a promising development for La Liga's long-term growth. With increased competition among broadcasters, efforts to expand La Liga's global reach were bound to intensify, benefiting all clubs.
However, Yang Hao quickly shifted his focus back to the pitch. Up next? The first leg of the Spanish Super Cup against Real Madrid.
August 21st, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid.
The first leg of the Spanish Super Cup saw Atlético Madrid take on Real Madrid away from home.
In just the third minute, Atlético launched a fast attack, pushing toward the edge of Real Madrid's penalty area. Baraja attempted a through pass to Torres in the central box but was intercepted by Cannavaro.
At the top left edge of the penalty arc, Kaká beat Beckham to the ball, skillfully bringing it down before distributing it to the left wing.
Robben, positioned inside the box, controlled Kaká's pass with his left foot. Spotting Salgado charging toward him, Robben performed a sharp drag-back with his left foot, creating space to cut inside and confuse Real Madrid's right-back.
After this smooth move, Robben unleashed a powerful right-footed shot. It was a high-quality attempt that forced Casillas into a full-stretch save, clutching the ball firmly to his chest.
The Bernabéu crowd collectively gasped in response.
"Robben is extremely lively on the left wing at the start of this match."
"Following Reyes' transfer to Chelsea, Yang Hao has promoted Robben to the starting left-wing role. Meanwhile, Villa has replaced Joaquín, who moved to Real Madrid, on the right flank."
"Atlético is maintaining their fast-paced attacking style, catching Real Madrid off guard early on."
Just two minutes later, Atlético attacked again down the left. Evra delivered a direct pass to Robben, who took on both Salgado and Beckham.
Due to Joaquín's recent transfer, Figo was playing as Real Madrid's right-winger for this match. However, his lack of defensive work rate forced Beckham to frequently cover the right flank.
Near the corner of the penalty area, Robben initially feigned an inside cut, seemingly preparing to link up with Kaká. But with lightning-quick footwork, he abruptly changed direction, leaving both Beckham and Salgado in his wake. With a quick flick, Robben created a pocket of space and delivered a high cross to the far post.
Villa made a diagonal run into the box, aiming for a close-range header, but collided with Cannavaro. Atlético players immediately protested, calling for a penalty, but the referee waved play on.
"Atlético's early pressure is relentless, though Real Madrid's defensive organization has held firm so far."
"Since taking over, Camacho has enforced strict rules in the dressing room, treating every player equally. This has notably improved the team's discipline and morale."
"With the dressing room under control, Real Madrid's potential is still considerable."
"Now let's see their counterattack."
Beckham received the ball and quickly passed it to Zidane, but Atlético's midfield closed in aggressively. Maicon pressed Zidane directly, while Xabi Alonso, Baraja, and Kaká hovered nearby, creating a four-on-one situation.
Under heavy pressure, Zidane lost possession. Maicon intercepted, and Baraja collected the loose ball before passing to Kaká.
"Kaká takes control—here comes Atlético's quick counterattack!"
"The Brazilian bursts forward at full speed, charging into Real Madrid's final third."
At this moment, if time were frozen, an interesting scenario could be observed:
Real Madrid's entire backline and two defensive midfielders were in position. In total, six players were defending.
However, Villa, still recovering from his earlier collision with Cannavaro, was leisurely walking out of the penalty area, catching the attention of Real Madrid's defenders.
Kaká advanced the ball, forcing Real Madrid's defensive midfielders to drop deep and almost merge with the backline. Suddenly, Kaká veered left and delivered a precise through ball behind Salgado.
Simultaneously, Robben surged forward at full speed, exploiting the gap.
If time were slowed, it would become evident that, at the moment of Kaká's pass, both Robben and Torres were level with Real Madrid's backline, while Villa was clearly offside. However, Villa cleverly kept his movement minimal, staying just outside the defensive line and closely observing Salgado's position.
As Robben's run beat Salgado's turn, Torres held back, disrupting Real Madrid's defensive judgment. Villa, now onside, began his forward sprint just as Robben successfully received the pass.
Reaching the ball near the left side of the box, Robben delivered a precise low cross into the center. Villa calmly tapped the ball in with his right foot, sending it past Casillas and into the net.
At this moment, the entire Real Madrid backline raised their hands, signaling for offside.
Villa had clearly been offside just moments earlier!
Real Madrid's players surrounded the referee, with captain Raúl sprinting back from the front to passionately protest.
"How could that not be offside?"
The referee, however, gestured for calm, dismissing the protests. He then explained to Raúl why the goal stood.
Under the new offside rule, Atlético's goal was valid.
The reasoning was simple: when Robben received the ball, Villa was not interfering with play or affecting Real Madrid's defense. By the time Villa became active in the play, he was no longer in an offside position.
"It's clear that Atlético has a better understanding of the new rules."
"Villa likely slowed his run intentionally to confuse Real Madrid's defenders and disrupt their organization."
"The updated offside rule is indeed challenging to interpret. A player may not interfere one moment but become active in the next."
"Regardless, Atlético's goal stands—it's 1-0!"
"We Did It!"
On the sidelines, Yang Hao clapped his hands vigorously, grinning with excitement.
Behind him, assistant coach Juanma Lillo and the rest of the coaching staff couldn't help but laugh. They hadn't expected the season's first goal to come from such a "clever" play.
"This is why it's important to read, especially comprehension!" Yang Hao quipped to his staff, humorously referencing the rulebook.
Lillo and the others were both amused and exasperated. "What does this have to do with reading comprehension?" they thought.
In truth, it all boiled down to a deep understanding of the new offside rule.
When FIFA implemented the updated rule, UEFA sent detailed documentation to every club and arranged for referees to conduct workshops. However, understanding and applying the rule in the heat of a match were entirely different challenges.
Moments like Villa's offside-to-onside transition posed a dilemma for defenders. Should they mark him and risk breaking their defensive line, or ignore him and risk him re-entering the play?
Yang Hao chuckled, returning his focus to the match. For Atlético, this new rule wasn't just an adjustment—it was a tactical opportunity.
If Real Madrid wanted to prevent such plays, they needed to track Robben the moment he successfully beat the offside trap and also keep up with Villa's unpredictable positioning—a task far easier said than done.
"This situation is exactly what I've discussed with you all before," Yang Hao explained on the sidelines, taking the opportunity to educate his assistants on the evolving tactics. "Our old high-pressing strategies no longer work as they once did. When the defensive line pushes too high, scenarios like the one we just witnessed can become very costly."
Yang Hao wasn't just lecturing for the sake of it; the insights were meant to guide his staff in designing drills that would familiarize players with the new offside rules. Without such preparation, they risked ending up like Real Madrid moments ago—completely disoriented and unsure of how to respond.
The result? Confusion and hesitation.
"This updated rule significantly hampers the effectiveness of high-pressing," Yang Hao continued, "but theoretically, it's still viable if the midfield can maintain sufficient pressure. However, the approach must change. More effort will be required, especially in terms of player movement and defensive speed."
Juanma Lillo quickly caught on to Yang Hao's train of thought. "This will demand localized teamwork on a whole new level. Players will need to run more, and their passing and movement must be tighter and more precise. In short, stamina will be even more critical."
Yang Hao nodded in agreement. Fitness had always been a cornerstone of Atlético Madrid's philosophy under his leadership. Over the years, the club had invested heavily in fitness research and training, even establishing dedicated laboratories. The new state-of-the-art training facility had introduced advanced technology and brought in specialists to refine these efforts further.
However, such advancements were not immediate. Progress depended on the current state of sports science, and while Atlético was consistently ahead of the curve, Yang Hao knew that time and persistence were crucial.
One example that validated Yang Hao's perspective was Deportivo La Coruña. Under Irureta, their 4-2-3-1 formation had dominated European football for years, culminating in their legendary 4-0 comeback against AC Milan.
But if Yang Hao's memory served him right, Deportivo's decline began this very season. From finishing third in the league the previous year, they plummeted to mid-table mediocrity, leading to Irureta's eventual dismissal. The club's downturn extended over the years, culminating in relegation.
While financial issues contributed to their downfall, Irureta's tactical rigidity also played a role. His approach failed to adapt to the rapidly evolving game, and his decline was even swifter than that of Benítez, who at least found refuge in England.
Yang Hao likened this evolution to playing Football Manager: every iteration required adapting to a new meta. Surviving and thriving in Europe's hyper-competitive landscape required constant learning and humility.
Measured Aggression
Despite their tactical sophistication, Atlético didn't adopt an overly aggressive approach for this game. Their defensive focus remained in the central zones, particularly between the halfway line and their defensive third.
Once Real Madrid ventured into this zone, Atlético's press kicked in.
Yang Hao was cautious, knowing that his defenders were still adapting to the updated offside rules. Instead of gambling, the team played with calculated intensity.
The key difference lay in how Atlético's front three relentlessly harassed Real Madrid's backline near the halfway line. This constant pressure proved decisive in the 18th minute.
Roberto Carlos, receiving the ball near midfield, found Villa sprinting toward him. Simultaneously, Baraja closed in from the same side. Under pressure, Carlos attempted a sideways pass but failed to find Cannavaro or Samuel, sending the ball into an empty zone instead.
Carlos's error stemmed from his failure to monitor his teammates' positioning. Moments earlier, Torres had advanced aggressively, forcing Cannavaro and Samuel to retreat slightly. This retreat created the gap that Carlos inadvertently exploited.
Seizing the opportunity, Torres darted forward, intercepting the loose ball and driving straight toward goal.
Simultaneously, Robben and Villa advanced down the flanks, while Kaká surged through the middle.
Upon entering the penalty area, Torres tried to outpace Samuel, but the Argentine center-back held his ground and denied Torres a clear shooting angle.
Seeing no path to goal, Torres abruptly halted, his quick stop leaving both Samuel and Cannavaro scrambling to adjust.
With options on the flanks heavily marked—Carlos was tracking Villa on the right, and Salgado was shadowing Robben on the left—Torres scanned for an alternative.
At the edge of his vision, a familiar figure appeared. Without hesitation, Torres passed the ball back.
Kaká, charging into the right side of the penalty area, received Torres's pass, skipped past Cannavaro, and fired a right-footed shot across goal. The ball flew into the bottom-left corner of the net, leaving Casillas helpless on the right side.
"GOOOOOAAAAALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!"
"2-0!!!"
"Atlético have scored their second goal within the first 18 minutes of the match!"
"This is Atlético at their best!"
"It's hard to believe that after selling four key players in the summer, the Mattress Makers are still starting the season so strongly."
"If the first goal was the product of clever rule exploitation, the second came directly from a defensive mistake—particularly Roberto Carlos's."
"You can almost hear Real Madrid fans screaming, 'Did you even look at your teammates before passing?!'"
Real Madrid Responds
Conceding two quick goals, Real Madrid threw caution to the wind and began exploiting gaps in Atlético's defense. With their star-studded lineup, the Galácticos created several dangerous opportunities.
In the 28th minute, Ronaldo received the ball near Atlético's penalty area. After sidestepping Xabi Alonso, he dribbled past two more defenders before releasing a pass into the left side of the box.
Roberto Carlos, arriving late, unleashed a thunderous strike, forcing Čech into a spectacular diving save.
Zidane followed up with a rebound attempt, but Lucio flung himself into the shot, blocking it heroically.
Yang Hao's meticulous planning and Atlético's relentless execution were on full display. Despite Real Madrid's star power, Atlético's adaptability to the new rules and their tactical precision ensured they remained in control of the match.
After Ricardo Carvalho's transfer, Yang Hao experimented with a central defensive pairing of Lucio and Marchena, but he couldn't help but feel uneasy.
In jest, he told Lucio that people had nicknamed them the "Unreliable Duo." Yet Yang Hao expressed his confidence in Lucio, urging him to shoulder the defensive burden.
Against Real Madrid's star-studded lineup tonight, Lucio delivered a stable performance—until the 34th minute, when Roberto Carlos launched a long pass from the left flank into the middle. Ronaldo surged forward, beating Marchena to the ball with a sliding shot. Čech parried the shot but failed to hold onto the ball.
Raúl, following up from the left, capitalized on the rebound to slot it home for Real Madrid.
1-2!
On the sidelines, Yang Hao shouted instructions to his players, urging them to push forward and avoid being pinned in their half by Real Madrid.
Since Atlético's two-goal lead, the match had become increasingly tense. Real Madrid's attacks left Atlético scrambling during a ten-minute stretch. With the goal, the game regained equilibrium, turning into an exhilarating back-and-forth contest.
Both sides played without reservation, keeping the tempo high. While Atlético edged possession and controlled the flow of the game, Real Madrid's individual brilliance occasionally created dangerous opportunities. However, both teams consistently fell short at the decisive moment.
Moments Before Halftime
In the dying moments of the first half, Kaká found himself surrounded just outside Real Madrid's penalty area on the left side. Receiving a pass from Evra, he faced three defenders—Beckham, Vieira, and Raúl—while Robben pinned Salgado near the left corner of the box.
Using his superior ball control and physicality, Kaká shielded the ball from Raúl and maneuvered through the tight space between his markers to thread a pass.
Torres sprinted toward the ball, only for Samuel to lunge in with a decisive tackle, sending the ball skidding toward the left corner of the penalty area.
Both Robben and Salgado raced for the loose ball, but the Dutchman's explosive speed allowed him to reach it first.
Tonight's match showcased Robben's development at Atlético, especially his improved right foot. Earlier, he had already attempted a right-footed shot after cutting inside from the left. Now, with Salgado closing in, Robben used his right foot to flick the ball toward Real Madrid's penalty area, leaving Salgado in his wake.
As Robben burst into the box, facing Casillas one-on-one, the Dutchman feinted repeatedly to draw the goalkeeper off balance. Casillas committed to a dive, and Robben calmly slotted the ball into the net with his left foot.
3-1!
Second Half: Real Madrid Strikes Back
The second half began with Atlético pushing aggressively, looking to deliver the final blow.
However, in the 51st minute, a midfield error gave Real Madrid an opening. Vieira intercepted a sloppy pass and quickly found Beckham, who unleashed a pinpoint long ball to the front line.
Ronaldo controlled Beckham's aerial delivery with a sublime first touch, stopping abruptly before accelerating again to shake off Marchena's close marking. The Brazilian forward charged into the penalty area and finished clinically, sending the ball past Čech.
2-3!
The match became even more electrifying.
Despite being the visiting team, Atlético continued to attack with vigor, maintaining an active and assertive style. Real Madrid, surprisingly, adopted a counterattacking approach at home. The Galácticos' typically fluid passing game seemed absent.
Atlético, meanwhile, dazzled with intricate passing sequences.
In the 65th minute, Atlético launched a counterattack after winning the ball in their half. Kaká and Robben combined on the left flank with a quick one-two, slicing through Real Madrid's defense. Kaká then delivered a diagonal long pass to the right, finding Villa unmarked.
Without waiting for Cannavaro to close him down, Villa darted toward the byline and sent a low cross into the box.
Torres, shaking off Samuel's marking, arrived just in time to tap the ball into the net.
4-2!
Joaquín's Debut in a Bitter Context
After conceding the fourth goal, Camacho made a substitution, bringing Joaquín on for Figo.
It was Joaquín's first official appearance for Real Madrid, and he received a thunderous ovation from the home crowd.
The situation was ironic, as the opponent was none other than Atlético.
Yang Hao couldn't help but suspect Real Madrid deliberately arranged for Joaquín to debut in this game.
Once on the field, Joaquín's presence shifted Real Madrid's focus to the right flank, where they sought to exploit his individual brilliance to break down Atlético's defense.
Standing on the sidelines, Yang Hao observed the match closely. He had to admit that Joaquín appeared to play with more freedom at Real Madrid, a result of the distinct tactical philosophies of the two teams.
Royal Circus
As a lifelong Real Madrid supporter, Yang Hao had often heard the club mockingly referred to as the "Royal Circus." While the nickname was meant as an insult, it wasn't entirely baseless.
Real Madrid's tactical structure leaned heavily on letting their superstars shine, giving them the freedom to "perform."
This approach resulted in a relatively loose tactical framework. Were it not for their stars' extraordinary individual skills, such a disjointed strategy would have collapsed against stronger opponents.
In matches like this, Real Madrid's reliance on star power became apparent. For instance, Ronaldo singlehandedly dribbled past three Atlético defenders to create a chance, yet none of his teammates moved into nearby spaces to assist or combine with him.
Perhaps this was Real Madrid's "tactic"—no rigid system, only freedom for their stars to express themselves.
This approach, however, grew increasingly problematic. The aging Galácticos were slowing down, becoming less mobile and less effective.
The most baffling part? Real Madrid's refusal to adopt a conservative strategy.
When AC Milan's aging stars began to struggle, they adapted by playing compact, defensive football, a strategy that allowed them to remain competitive. Alternatively, Real Madrid could have tightened their structure to encourage teamwork and cohesion.
But no—Real Madrid insisted on giving their stars maximum freedom to perform.
For Joaquín, this freedom was liberating. Unlike his time at Atlético, he no longer needed to constantly track back, monitor his teammates' positioning, or adhere to strict tactical responsibilities.
At Real Madrid, Joaquín could simply receive the ball and attack.
For him, it was liberating. For Yang Hao, it was predictable chaos.
On the touchline in front of the home bench, Camacho was shouting furiously, his face red with frustration. It was clear he was unhappy with his players' performance.
Perhaps subbing on Joaquín was a tactical attempt to inject pace and create some width, but the move had little impact.
Since Atlético's fourth goal, nearly half an hour had passed without either side capitalizing on further opportunities.
For Atlético, the lead at 4–2 was comfortable enough for Yang Hao to avoid leaving too much space behind for Ronaldo to exploit with his off-the-ball runs.
When Camacho replaced Raúl with Owen in the 70th minute, forming a Ronaldo-Owen striking duo, the threat of Real Madrid's counterattacks became palpable.
Yang Hao wasn't going to give Real Madrid such opportunities. He had his team adjust accordingly.
The match ended 4–2, with Atlético taking the first leg of the Spanish Super Cup.
August 24th, Calderón Stadium – Second Leg
Three days later, Atlético hosted Real Madrid for the second leg at the Vicente Calderón Stadium.
Just five minutes into the match, Lucio launched a long pass toward the top of the penalty arc, aiming for Drogba's towering presence.
Against Drogba and Torres, neither Cannavaro nor Samuel could gain an advantage in aerial duels.
Real Madrid's two center-backs must have been mentally drained. Three days ago, they struggled to cope with Torres' relentless energy, and now they were up against the physically imposing Drogba—a nightmare scenario.
Positioning himself expertly at the arc of the penalty area, Drogba shielded the ball from Samuel and leaped to head it down to Kaká.
The Brazilian controlled the ball brilliantly, feinting past Beckham. With Vieira closing in, Kaká refrained from taking a rushed shot. Instead, he steadied himself and made a lofted pass to the right flank.
Maicon picked up the ball and drove diagonally toward the penalty area. Vieira had drifted too central while covering for Beckham, leaving Real Madrid's right flank exposed.
Maicon delivered a low, driven pass across the box, skimming the grass and slicing through the penalty area toward the six-yard line.
Having just completed his header, Drogba turned and charged forward. Using his immense physical strength, he shrugged off Samuel in a tussle and lunged for the ball, sliding in with his right foot to poke it into the bottom-right corner of the net.
Casillas had anticipated a shot toward the middle or left and couldn't react in time.
The ball hit the back of the net.
1–0!
The Calderón erupted in sheer ecstasy.
Just five minutes in, Atlético had broken through Real Madrid's defense with an aggressive surge, extending their aggregate lead to 5–2.
Relentless Pressure from Atlético
After taking the lead, Atlético kept pressing.
First, Villa unleashed a dangerous left-footed strike that forced a save from Casillas. Then, Baraja tested the Real Madrid goalkeeper with two long-range efforts that left him scrambling.
Ribéry, too, was a constant menace on the left wing.
In a one-on-one duel with Salgado, the French winger unleashed a flurry of feints, nearly causing the Real Madrid defender to lose his footing. Ribéry cut inside and delivered a diagonal cross to the far post, where Villa's low shot was parried by Casillas.
From the touchline, Yang Hao couldn't help but notice Real Madrid's lethargy. The visitors seemed devoid of fighting spirit, lacking confidence and energy.
This wasn't the behavior of a team with normal morale.
Real Madrid's first real attempt came in the 21st minute, when Joaquín tried his luck from distance. However, his shot sailed over the crossbar.
A chorus of boos erupted from Atlético's fans, targeting Joaquín. Despite his €80 million transfer fee, the fact that he had joined their fiercest rivals made him a traitor in their eyes—a sin that no amount of money could absolve.
Joaquín worked hard to create chances, particularly down the right flank, but Evra's tight marking and support from his teammates left the winger struggling.
His chemistry with Real Madrid's other players was visibly lacking.
Drogba's Second Goal
In the 34th minute, Villa received the ball near the right corner and delivered a diagonal cross.
Positioned near the penalty spot on the right, Drogba used his body to shield Cannavaro from the ball. Chesting it down, he pivoted and unleashed a thunderous strike.
From such close range, with such power, Casillas had no chance.
2–0!
"A brace for Drogba!"
"The Ivorian striker celebrates with a sliding knee in the corner, marking his two-goal debut for the season!"
"Atlético have once again showcased their offensive prowess across both legs of this Super Cup."
"Tonight, at the Calderón, it's clear that Atlético outshine their city rivals in both hunger for victory and fighting spirit."
Real Madrid's performance lacked energy and determination. The first-leg loss at the Bernabéu, 2–4, seemed to have sapped their morale.
Reports suggested that Camacho had harshly criticized several of Real Madrid's stars after the first match. This might have caused friction, further dampening the team's spirit.
Yang Hao's Perspective
On the touchline, Yang Hao clapped vigorously to applaud Drogba's goal. The striker jogged over to the bench, exchanging an enthusiastic high-five with his coach before returning to his position.
Meanwhile, Camacho, visibly furious, paced in front of the visitors' bench, shouting instructions to his players in frustration.
Yang Hao couldn't help but sympathize. This is just the beginning, he thought.
As a lifelong Real Madrid supporter in his previous life, Yang Hao knew all too well that Camacho's troubles were far from over.
In the past timeline, Camacho resigned after a humiliating 0–3 loss to Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League group stage, followed by a 0–1 defeat to Espanyol. His tenure ended abruptly, making him one of Real Madrid's shortest-serving coaches—twice.
However, things were different now.
This season, Real Madrid weren't even in the Champions League, relegated to the UEFA Cup. With a relatively easy schedule ahead, Camacho might hold on for a while longer—assuming the team could maintain basic competence.
As for the underperforming superstars? Completely unacceptable.
Yang Hao chuckled, recalling a question he once encountered in his previous life: Why don't Europe's top four leagues adopt a system like the NBA in the U.S.?
Among the online comments Yang Hao read, one stood out, and he found himself in complete agreement.
The commenter argued that while the NBA's model fits the context of American sports culture, it is fundamentally unsuitable for football and, in many ways, is a flawed system.
Why?
Because the NBA lacks promotion and relegation and even incentivizes teams to lose intentionally.
This aspect is utterly absurd. Teams can justify this behavior with various reasons, such as "rebuilding" for draft picks, but when such actions become acceptable, it reveals a fundamental failure in the design of the competition.
In competitive sports, the ultimate goal is always to push boundaries and strive for excellence.
Does European football have instances of teams deliberately losing or strategically abandoning certain competitions? Yes. But no team would dare to openly admit it, let alone embrace it as part of their strategy.
Every match, no matter how difficult, requires teams to give their all. Even in defeat, fans are more likely to forgive a team that fought hard. Furthermore, league systems impose tangible consequences—relegation or elimination—for poor performance.
This relentless pursuit of excellence is what makes football the world's most popular sport.
Yang Hao, as a devoted football fan in his previous life, had always focused on football. He didn't follow basketball closely, nor did he write basketball-themed novels, but he felt the online comment nailed the essence of why the NBA model would never work for football.
In European football, no team can guarantee victory in every match. There will always be fluctuations in form or financial downturns. However, a lack of effort or intentional underperformance is utterly unacceptable.
Ironically, Yang Hao saw glimpses of this troubling trend during the first iteration of the Galácticos.
And tonight, Real Madrid exhibited a similar issue.
Yang Hao could already foresee the criticism that would rain down on the club after tonight's debacle.
The Consequences of Complacency
Real Madrid's lethargy on the pitch once again led to their punishment.
Just before the end of the first half, Atlético launched an attack down the left flank. Evra and Ribéry combined beautifully in a one-two exchange, with Evra delivering a diagonal cross to the edge of the penalty area.
Drogba was perfectly positioned and rose above Samuel and Cannavaro to meet the ball. His header redirected it toward the right side of the six-yard box, where Villa charged in and executed a stunning first-time volley.
The ball rocketed into the back of the net.
3–0!
The entire Calderón Stadium erupted in jubilation.
Over 50,000 Atlético fans were in a frenzy, celebrating with unbridled enthusiasm.
For those who thought Real Madrid's 2–4 loss in the first leg was humiliating enough, this second-leg thrashing was like rubbing salt in the wound.
As one notable figure from the future might say: "They've thrown their dignity out the window!"
If someone told Yang Hao that there were no issues in Real Madrid's dressing room, he wouldn't believe it for a second.
Looking at Camacho on the touchline, the coach's earlier fiery demeanor had been replaced with quiet resignation.
During the first two goals, he was animated—shouting instructions and berating his players.
But after the third goal, he simply sat back on the bench, utterly deflated.
Perhaps he finally understood what was really going on.
Second Half: A Token Effort
The second half began with Atlético still firmly in control. Real Madrid showed no signs of improvement.
During the break, Camacho made one substitution, replacing Ronaldo with Owen.
No one knew what had transpired in the dressing room, but it made no difference on the pitch.
In the 52nd minute, Baraja capitalized on a failed clearance from Real Madrid's defense. Positioned outside the penalty area, he unleashed a thunderous long-range strike that flew past Casillas into the net.
4–0!
It was an absolute demolition.
The Calderón Stadium felt like it was hosting a festival.
Who could have predicted that, after selling four key players in the summer, Atlético would still possess such incredible firepower?
Some Atlético fans even taunted Joaquín from the stands, asking if he regretted joining the "losers' club."
In the 55th minute, Camacho made his final two substitutions: Solari replaced Zidane, and Celades came on for Joaquín, pushing Beckham to the right wing.
Having exhausted his substitutions early, Camacho seemed to have thrown in the towel, resigned to his fate.
With an 8–2 aggregate score, any hopes of a comeback were futile.
Could such a lopsided defeat in the Spanish Super Cup have ever occurred before?
Camacho's only remaining goal seemed to be preserving a shred of dignity by scoring at least one consolation goal.
But even that proved impossible.
Despite an improved performance in the final 30 minutes, Real Madrid failed to breach Atlético's defense.
The match ended 4–0, with Atlético clinching an emphatic 8–2 aggregate victory to secure their fourth trophy under Yang Hao's leadership.
Post-Match Fallout
As Atlético fans reveled in their triumph at the Calderón, Camacho faced the media with a dejected expression.
"I take full responsibility for this defeat as the head coach," he said solemnly.
"It's my failure to clearly communicate my tactical intentions to the players that led to our disorganized performance. This is on me."
Camacho tried to highlight some positives, particularly the team's improved performance in the last 30 minutes.
"This final stretch proves we have the ability to compete with Atlético. But for that to happen, every player must give their best."
He also defended Real Madrid's struggling stars, suggesting they were still finding their rhythm.
"With the league starting next week, I believe we'll put on a much better display."
Following the match, Real Madrid's players echoed Camacho's sentiments, taking collective responsibility for the loss.
Raúl admitted the team hadn't taken the Spanish Super Cup seriously enough, saying, "We let everyone down by not treating this competition with the respect it deserved."
"Fortunately, the league hasn't started yet. We still have time to improve."
Casillas shared a similar perspective, expressing his support for Camacho's leadership.
Beckham added, "The difference in our performances during the first half and the final 30 minutes of the match shows that the coach isn't solely to blame."
Camacho's Sudden Exit
The post-match narrative followed a predictable script. The media criticized Camacho heavily, but not to the point of calling for his resignation.
After all, the Spanish Super Cup wasn't considered a major trophy.
However, the very next day, Real Madrid shocked everyone by announcing that Camacho had resigned, citing an irreparable rift between himself and the club.
Camacho was out.
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