Chapter 63
As the Confederations Cup concluded, the players who delivered outstanding performances in this highly anticipated international tournament became the focus of intense global attention.
Among the teams in this year's Confederations Cup, none drew more admiration than Brazil. Within the Brazilian squad, the most notable stars were Adriano and Kaká—two players cultivated by Atlético Madrid.
These two shone brightly throughout the tournament, forming a central axis of Brazil's attack alongside Deco and Lúcio.
Brazil's O Estado de S. Paulo remarked that Atlético Madrid had essentially supplied half of Brazil's starting lineup. This included right-back Maicon, another Atlético player.
In the tournament's final best XI announced by FIFA, Atlético Madrid dominated, contributing six of the eleven players:
Goalkeeper: DidaDefenders: Fábio Aurélio, Lúcio, Osorio, MaiconMidfielders: Cambiasso, Ballack, Ronaldinho, Riquelme, KakáForward: Adriano
The presence of six Atlético players in the best XI sparked widespread debate. Many wondered how a single team could produce such an astonishing array of world-class talent.
Meanwhile, the U-20 World Cup in the Netherlands turned into what felt like an Atlético civil war. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, faced Spain, powered by David Silva and Sergio Ramos.
Argentina's Olé ran a humorous headline after their team lost the Confederations Cup final 4–1 to Brazil. The article listed three main reasons for the defeat, all indirectly blaming Atlético:
Not enough Atlético players: The current Argentine squad featured only one Atlético player, Cambiasso, who was their best performer and earned a spot in the tournament's best XI.No Yang Hao: The article claimed coach José Pékerman's tactical failures cost Argentina the midfield and left the attack unsupported. "Our coach wasn't Yang Hao," the headline quipped.Insufficient conditioning: Argentina's squad visibly tired during the final, leading to the joke, "Our players didn't benefit from Atlético's high-tech training system."
The Olé concluded with tongue-in-cheek blame: "Argentina lost the Confederations Cup because of Atlético Madrid!"
This sentiment sparked lively discussions in Argentina, with many pointing out that the Argentine U-20 team—featuring several Atlético players—had just won the U-20 World Cup, led by Messi's brilliance.
In Brazil, O Globo published a detailed review of the Confederations Cup, rating the performances of Brazilian players. Kaká and Adriano both earned a stellar 9.5/10, tied for the highest score. Ronaldinho received 8/10, a strong showing but not quite at their level.
A public poll conducted by O Globo reflected similar opinions. Adriano narrowly trailed Kaká in popularity, with both leaving Ronaldinho (5%) far behind. Deco even outpolled Ronaldinho with 7%.
Ronaldinho attributed his lower performance to fatigue, while Ronaldo, who skipped the tournament, congratulated his teammates and shifted his focus to preparing for the 2006 World Cup. However, it was clear that Ronaldo was no longer indispensable to Brazil's squad, given the rise of Adriano, Kaká, and Ronaldinho.
Following the Confederations Cup, Kaká's reputation soared to new heights.
Yang Hao called Kaká immediately after the final, congratulating him on the victory and reminding him, "You're only six months away from realizing your dream!"
Kaká responded with determination: "I've hired a personal coach and won't let up. Boss, just wait and see in the new season!"
For Yang Hao, this marked a turning point. The once-gentle, neighborly Kaká was now a driven man, ready to conquer the football world.
Transfer Frenzy
As the Confederations Cup ended, the European transfer market exploded into action.
Real Madrid, already active with signings like Essien and Cassano, made more waves by acquiring Brazilian stars Robinho and Cicinho.
However, the biggest bombshell came in late June, when The Sun revealed that Real Madrid was negotiating to sign Arsenal left-back Ashley Cole.
This revelation caused a media frenzy, as Cole had long been linked to Chelsea. Real Madrid's initial target, Internazionale's Fábio Aurélio, was no longer available after Inter owner Massimo Moratti halted the deal. Additionally, Aurélio reportedly refused to join Madrid, citing his loyalty to Atlético Madrid.
With the Aurélio transfer off the table, Real Madrid shifted their focus to Ashley Cole, who agreed to the move after Beckham's persuasion. Arsenal received €30 million, and Cole became a Madrid player, shocking the football world.
Earlier that year, Cole had faced controversy over clandestine meetings with Chelsea, only to end up joining Madrid instead. According to The Sun, Chelsea had tried to outbid Madrid with a €35 million offer, but Arsenal refused to sell to their league rivals.
Cole's arrival signaled the end of Roberto Carlos's untouchable status at Real Madrid.
Soon after, The Sun revealed Madrid's next targets: Thierry Henry, Ruud van Nistelrooy, and Michael Ballack.
Atlético and Global Reach
Atlético Madrid had an intense preseason ahead. The club signed a lucrative deal to play three friendlies in Japan, earning €6.5 million per match. Combined with preseason games in South Korea and Australia arranged by La Liga, Atlético's six warm-up games would generate nearly €20 million.
Afterward, the team would head to the U.S. for the Spanish Super Cup, with matches scheduled in New York and Chicago.
Despite the packed schedule, Yang Hao refused all transfer inquiries for Atlético's young stars. Players like Messi, David Silva, and Luka Modrić were untouchable, as Yang Hao was unwilling to risk their development under other clubs' management.
The Champions League Final
Yang Hao skipped a personal invitation from Mourinho to attend the Champions League final in Istanbul, opting instead to watch it at Atlético's Calderón stadium.
The final between Liverpool and Chelsea turned into a cautious, tactical battle, with both managers prioritizing defense. Liverpool scored in the 4th minute through Luis García and then dug in to defend, while Chelsea struggled to respond effectively.
In the end, Liverpool held on for a 1–0 victory, claiming the Champions League title.
Yang Hao messaged Kaká after the match, encouraging him: "Keep pushing. Your chance is coming!"
With the Confederations Cup and U-20 World Cup complete, Kaká and Messi had emerged as two of the brightest stars in football. The future was looking brighter than ever for Atlético Madrid.
Among the targets, Real Madrid aimed to choose between Thierry Henry and Ruud van Nistelrooy, while Michael Ballack became another priority.
"Heading into the 2006 World Cup, as Germany's leading star, Ballack's standout performance in the Confederations Cup has naturally drawn significant attention from Real Madrid," reported one outlet.
"More importantly, Ballack's contract with Bayern Munich has just one year remaining. Despite the club's repeated attempts to extend it, Ballack has expressed disappointment with both Bayern's performance and the sincerity of their renewal offer. He is now actively considering other options."
"If Madrid can convince Bayern, signing Ballack is highly probable. Should that happen, Real Madrid's midfield—with Vieira, Ballack, Beckham, and Essien—would be more formidable than ever!"
"And if they also manage to secure Henry or van Nistelrooy for the forward line, the Galácticos would reach unprecedented levels of luxury!"
When Yang Hao first heard this news, his reaction was one of stunned disbelief.
"It seems over the top," he thought, "but upon closer reflection, it makes sense."
Signing Ballack before the 2006 World Cup would allow Madrid to capitalize on the tournament's marketing boom. At 28 years old, Ballack—alongside the 29-year-old Vieira—could remain at the top of their game for another three to four years. Pairing them with Essien and Beckham would only amplify their dominance.
"The competition in La Liga next season is getting fiercer!"
Despite the challenges ahead, Yang Hao felt a surprising sense of excitement.
Perhaps it was his dual role as Atlético Madrid's coach and shareholder. From a league-wide perspective, the growth of La Liga would ultimately benefit both his club and himself.
While Real Madrid's resurgence might pose difficulties on the pitch, Yang Hao's outlook remained optimistic. "Even if we lose one match, we'll win the next. A league filled with stars is thrilling to imagine."
Bayern's Ultimatum
Real Madrid's involvement accelerated the Ballack situation. Shortly after the Confederations Cup in late June, Bayern Munich issued an ultimatum to Ballack.
In an interview with Munich Evening News, Uli Hoeness demanded that Ballack decide within four weeks whether to renew his contract.
Bayern's offer reportedly included a four-year deal worth €36 million before taxes. However, Bild soon revealed that Real Madrid had matched the offer with its own four-year, €36 million pre-tax contract.
The difference? Spain's Beckham Law.
In La Liga, Ballack would pay just 24% in personal income taxes compared to Germany's 47%. This meant that while Bayern's offer would net him €4.77 million annually, Madrid's deal would leave him with €6.84 million—a staggering €2 million more per year.
German media expressed frustration, urging their government to adopt market-friendly policies similar to Spain's. Without reforms, they argued, the Bundesliga risked falling further behind in Europe's competitive landscape.
By early July, days after Bayern's ultimatum, Ballack formally announced he would not renew his contract.
Bayern swiftly accepted Real Madrid's €25 million offer, transferring Ballack to the Spanish giants. The move, despite Ballack's €35 million valuation, caused a global sensation.
For many, it was hard to believe that Madrid had signed so many stars in a single summer. From Essien and Ashley Cole to Cassano, and now Ballack—with persistent rumors of Henry to follow—their spending spree seemed unstoppable.
La Liga on the Rise
The Guardian issued a rallying cry, urging Premier League clubs to hold firm and refuse to sell stars to La Liga.
"With more top players converging in Spain, La Liga's global ambitions will receive a massive boost," the Guardian warned. "Remember, in the race for international dominance, La Liga is our only rival!"
But not everyone agreed.
In a counterpoint, The Sun highlighted Arsenal's precarious finances. "Facing near bankruptcy due to their new stadium, the Gunners are in a tough spot. Without player sales, how can they survive this crisis?"
The paper also dismissed the idea of selling Henry to Chelsea. "Arsenal refusing to sell Ashley Cole to the Blues was a clear statement: they won't strengthen their London rivals. Realistically, only Madrid or Barcelona can afford Henry now."
Elsewhere in Europe, the transfer market remained sluggish. In Serie A, AC Milan's €24 million purchase of Gilardino from Parma was the sole transaction above €10 million. Most Italian clubs were cutting costs.
In the Bundesliga, Bayern Munich's €8 million acquisition of Valérien Ismaël from Werder Bremen was the priciest deal. However, outgoing transfers, such as Dimitar Berbatov's €12 million move to Valencia, generated notable income.
The contrasts were stark. While Serie A and the Bundesliga tightened their belts, La Liga clubs targeted these leagues for signings.
For instance, Espanyol spent €12 million on young talent, signing players like Costa from Marseille, Riera from Bordeaux, and Pablo Zabaleta from San Lorenzo—all aged between 20 and 23. With Maxi Rodríguez staying put, Espanyol now boasted a youthful and talented squad.
Similarly, Sevilla revamped their roster, offloading older players while pursuing emerging talents from Italy, Germany, and France. Rumors even linked them to Vincent Kompany, one of Europe's most promising defenders.
Elsewhere, Mallorca ventured into the Asian market, signing Japanese forward Yoshito Ōkubo and scheduling preseason matches in the region to expand their global presence.
Henry Becomes the Transfer King
Amid this activity, Barcelona dropped a bombshell, announcing the €60 million signing of Thierry Henry from Arsenal.
The world was stunned—not merely by the transfer but by the astronomical fee, making Henry the undisputed transfer king of the summer.
Reaction across the footballing world ranged from awe to disbelief. "This changes everything," declared one Spanish media outlet.
With Henry's arrival, La Liga cemented its reputation as the league to watch, ushering in a new era of star-studded competition.
According to the Sun, Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Chelsea were fiercely competing to sign Thierry Henry, with bids escalating in an open and behind-the-scenes battle. Ultimately, Barcelona emerged victorious but at a staggering cost of €60 million.
After losing out on Henry, Real Madrid shifted their attention to Manchester United, submitting a bid for Ruud van Nistelrooy. Chelsea, meanwhile, pursued Andriy Shevchenko.
Roman Abramovich had long admired Shevchenko, his compatriot, and sought to bring him to Chelsea. However, AC Milan firmly rejected Chelsea's bid.
Amid this frenzy, Yang Hao received a sudden phone call from Sir Alex Ferguson. The conversation lasted over an hour, and the next day, Yang Hao cut his vacation in the United States short and returned to Madrid.
Ferguson's Frustration
"Is Yang Hao out of his mind with this daylight robbery?"
In his office at Manchester United's Carrington training complex, Ferguson slammed down the phone and turned to his assistant, Carlos Queiroz, visibly agitated.
It was clear that Ferguson was deeply frustrated.
This summer, two of United's top midfield targets had been snatched away. The most infuriating part? Both had been taken by the same club—Real Madrid.
"That damned circus!" Ferguson growled, sinking into his chair.
With the reckless spending of Spain's two giants, the entire transfer market had spiraled into chaos.
Real Madrid's acquisition of Michael Essien and Michael Ballack had dried up the pool of quality midfielders, particularly those capable of both organizing play and providing defensive solidity—exactly what Ferguson was looking for.
Inter's Esteban Cambiasso was an option, but prying players away from Inter was nearly impossible. Tottenham's Michael Carrick was another candidate, though Ferguson felt the England international wasn't yet consistent enough and needed more observation.
United found themselves in a precarious position. With Chelsea winning the league and Liverpool lifting the Champions League, last season's third-place finish in the Premier League was far from acceptable. Ferguson urgently needed reinforcements.
But when Yang Hao named his price for Marcos Senna, Ferguson balked.
"How much does he want?" asked Queiroz.
"€40 million."
Queiroz did the math—about £25 million.
"That's steep. Even Ballack went for €25 million, and Essien for €45 million. Marcos Senna is nearly 29 years old, isn't he?"
Ferguson nodded. "Exactly. That's what I told him. Guess what he said?"
Queiroz looked at his boss, intrigued.
"He told me, 'Then go buy Ballack or Essien!'" Ferguson snapped.
He couldn't help but curse. If he could have bought Ballack or Essien, why would he even consider Marcos Senna?
"He's clearly inflating the price."
"No doubt," Queiroz agreed. This was what infuriated Ferguson the most.
In truth, Ferguson understood the situation. Ballack's lower price tag was due to his expiring contract and Madrid's strategic desire to capitalize on the 2006 World Cup in Germany. A slight premium was acceptable. Ballack's strong showing in the Confederations Cup only added to his value.
But Marcos Senna?
"He claims Senna will provide three to five years of stability," Ferguson grumbled.
"If that's true, it might be worth it," Queiroz suggested.
Ferguson paused, considering this perspective. It wasn't entirely unreasonable.
"But how can he guarantee that?" Queiroz chuckled.
No transfer came with a warranty. How could Yang Hao promise such longevity? Was Atlético willing to sell now and collect payment later?
Ferguson thought back to Edwin van der Sar. Yang Hao had made similar assurances when United signed the goalkeeper. At the time, Ferguson hadn't believed him, but Van der Sar had since proven his worth. The veteran was still going strong and likely had years left at the top.
"In fairness, Yang Hao has built a solid reputation for this sort of thing," Ferguson admitted reluctantly.
Queiroz was surprised to hear Ferguson speak so highly of Yang Hao, sensing an underlying respect and trust between the two managers.
At present, however, United faced numerous internal challenges.
Van Nistelrooy had clashed with Cristiano Ronaldo, and the situation had escalated to the point of near-physical altercations. The unrest had created tension within the squad.
Up front, United had options in Alan Smith, Louis Saha, and Wayne Rooney, leaving Van Nistelrooy's future uncertain. The Dutchman struggled to adapt to Queiroz's tactical reforms, which made him less integral to Ferguson's plans.
Real Madrid's interest in Van Nistelrooy was tempting for the striker. He felt underappreciated at United and believed Madrid's wingers—Beckham and Joaquín—would complement his style perfectly. Whether paired with Ronaldo or Raúl, he could thrive.
However, Madrid's offer of €25 million was too low for Ferguson. He valued Van Nistelrooy at €35 million, leaving a €10 million gap.
"We'll wait them out. Let's see who blinks first," Ferguson resolved.
Atlético's Decision
"Are you really considering selling Marcos Senna?"
Yang Hao had just returned to Madrid and headed straight to the Calderón Stadium. Enrique Cerezo and Miguel Gil were quick to bring up the rumors about Ferguson's call.
Senna, now a Spanish international, was a trusted player for national team coach Luis Aragonés.
"He turns 29 on July 17," Yang Hao explained. "Within our squad, Xabi Alonso is guaranteed a starting spot. Meanwhile, Mascherano needs more opportunities. The young Argentine has already approached me several times, expressing frustration about his limited playing time. He missed out on the Confederations Cup because of it, and it's becoming an issue."
The alternatives were clear: sell Mascherano for a modest fee—likely no more than €15 million—or capitalize on the market scarcity and sell Marcos Senna for a premium.
"If we keep Senna, we'll need to renew his contract and likely offer him a salary increase, essentially committing to him for the remainder of his career," Yang Hao pointed out.
"Do you think Mascherano is ready to step up?" asked Miguel Gil.
Yang Hao nodded. "He has the ability. No question about it."
Mascherano and Marcos Senna share similar characteristics: both are balanced players who excel in both attack and defense and possess strong ball control and organization skills. However, Mascherano's youth gives him a significant edge.
The main factor is that holding midfielders of their caliber are exceedingly rare in European football at the moment.
Players like Michael Carrick at Tottenham are still too raw, with a style deeply rooted in English football. Mikel Arteta, unlike in Yang Hao's previous timeline, has stayed with Real Sociedad. His relationship with his girlfriend, the 1999 Miss Spain, is strong, and Yang Hao has never considered him as an option. Real Sociedad, now financially stable, chose to keep Arteta to enhance their competitiveness rather than sell him to Everton.
So where in the current transfer market can you find top-tier holding midfielders?
Lyon's Mahamadou Diarra is a decent option, but while he has defensive abilities, he lacks technical and organizational skills.
Yang Hao's confidence in demanding such a high price from Manchester United stems from the current market landscape.
In his past timeline, Lyon's Jean-Michel Aulas demanded over €55 million from Chelsea for Essien—this is where Yang Hao draws his boldness.
United can refuse, but then they'll have to figure out how to solve their midfield issues next season.
"Tell Andrew to leak a rumor that Chelsea is also interested in Marcos Senna and has inquired about him," Yang Hao suddenly suggested. It might not only drive Ferguson crazy but also apply additional pressure.
Rest assured, Atlético's selling policy has always been fair: one price for everyone!
The Chelsea Rumor
When Marca reported that Chelsea was interested in Marcos Senna, it immediately caught the attention of football fans worldwide.
Atlético players have always been highly sought after in the transfer market, and with Yang Hao's declaration earlier in the summer that there would be no new signings, this sparked even more intrigue. Following reports of United's interest, the news about Chelsea ignited a media frenzy.
More importantly, Chelsea did indeed show interest in Marcos Senna—or rather, he was among several midfielders the club had been monitoring.
After a season of adjustments, Mourinho was dissatisfied with Chelsea's current midfield setup, one of the main reasons he had aggressively pursued Essien.
When Essien signed with Real Madrid, Chelsea responded by signing 20-year-old Lassana Diarra from Le Havre. Lass, later known for wearing the No. 10 jersey at Real Madrid and stepping into Makélélé's shoes, was seen as a future prospect.
Simultaneously, Chelsea offloaded several midfielders, including Tiago, Scott Parker, and Juan Sebastián Verón. Mourinho was clearly in the process of reshaping Chelsea's midfield.
Having missed out on Essien and Ballack, Mourinho shifted his attention to Lyon's Mahamadou Diarra. However, seeing the trends in the transfer market—especially after cashing in on Essien—Lyon's president Aulas raised his asking price for Diarra to a staggering €50 million.
Who could stomach such a price?
Thus, Chelsea hesitated, and Mourinho, when asked by the media, openly admitted that Marcos Senna was indeed on Chelsea's radar.
This revelation threw Ferguson into a panic.
Essien and Ballack had already slipped away, and now the specter of Chelsea loomed over the Senna negotiations.
British media reported that Ferguson urgently met with the Glazers. Shortly after, United's CEO David Gill led a delegation to Madrid to negotiate with both Real Madrid and Atlético.
On one front, United and Real Madrid engaged in prolonged talks over Van Nistelrooy. On the other, Atlético remained firm in their stance on Marcos Senna, exuding confidence and refusing to budge—making any attempts at bargaining nearly impossible.
In the end, United and Real Madrid agreed on a deal for Van Nistelrooy, with the Dutch striker moving to Madrid for €30 million.
However, negotiations over Marcos Senna remained at a standstill.
As Atlético prepared for their preseason trip to Japan, further discussions became even more challenging. Adding to the pressure, Chelsea appeared to be making moves for Senna, with Mourinho eager to bolster Chelsea's midfield defense and control.
Facing mounting urgency, United were forced to act swiftly. Allowing Chelsea to formally enter the fray would make things far more complicated.
In the end, United reluctantly agreed to Atlético's €40 million asking price, making Marcos Senna the Premier League's most expensive transfer of the summer—breaking the record set by Chelsea's €34 million acquisition of Shaun Wright-Phillips from Manchester City.
Marcos Senna became the Premier League's marquee signing of the summer.
Real Madrid's Spending Spree
Meanwhile, after signing Van Nistelrooy, Real Madrid loaned Javier Portillo to Club Brugge in Belgium and sold Michael Owen to Newcastle for €25 million.
Real Madrid's summer spending totaled an astronomical €140 million, with the sale of Owen providing only €25 million in return. This left a net expenditure of €115 million—a staggering figure.
Barcelona wasn't far behind. Signing Thierry Henry, Tomáš Rosický, Rafael van der Vaart, and Gabriel Milito cost them €95 million in transfer fees. Even after recouping some funds by selling players like Riquelme, their net spending still reached €90 million.
The massive investments by the two Spanish giants sent shockwaves through Europe's transfer market.
The West's Buying Power
In addition to the headline-grabbing moves of Real Madrid and Barcelona, other Spanish clubs were also flexing their newfound financial muscle.
Sevilla focused on signing young talent.Valencia targeted experienced players ready to make an impact.Villarreal concentrated on South American talent.
Spanish clubs, long hampered by financial constraints, were now capitalizing on improved conditions and the relative stagnation of other European leagues.
Teams like Sevilla and Valencia were determined to strengthen their squads for European competition, while old giants like Deportivo La Coruña struggled under the weight of past debts, forced to scale back operations.
The extravagant spending by Real Madrid and Barcelona, combined with Atlético's already star-studded roster, made La Liga shine brighter than ever.
A New Global Vision
This surge in spending delighted La Liga's organizing body and media partners like Telefónica, which had secured broadcasting rights.
Telefónica, buoyed by the summer hype, announced plans to promote La Liga worldwide—not just in its strongholds in the Americas but also in Asia, Oceania, the Middle East, and even across Europe.
La Liga was no longer content with its local market. It was ready to take on the world and "grab money" wherever it could.
As the new season approached, Yang Hao found his workload increasing.
Atlético had developed a robust summer training program over the past few years, with extensive experience in overseas tours. Each challenge encountered previously had been addressed and refined for future success.
Marcos Senna was quite satisfied with his move to Manchester United. It wasn't necessarily because United was better than Atlético Madrid, but rather due to the higher salary and Ferguson's promise of a starting position. To accommodate Senna, Ferguson immediately sold Brazilian midfielder Kleberson and Phil Neville, clearing the way for his new signing.
Although Atlético had significantly improved its salary structure, it still couldn't compete with the likes of United, Real Madrid, Barcelona, or teams backed by wealthy owners like Chelsea and Inter Milan.
Before Senna departed, Yang Hao had a private meeting with him, assuring him that he could reach out for support if he encountered difficulties in the future. This was part of how Yang Hao and Atlético maintained relationships with their players.
For example, Vicente, who was sold to Valencia, would often return to Atlético to seek treatment for injuries. This was done with Valencia's approval and reflected the reality that many Spanish clubs lacked robust medical infrastructure.
As Yang Hao often said, the poor medical setups at Spanish clubs would inevitably cause problems in the future. Even now, when most clubs had some money to spend, they weren't investing in essential infrastructure but were instead pouring resources into player transfers.
In contrast, Atlético had developed a comprehensive collaboration network involving their medical team, laboratory, Madrid University Medical School, and its affiliated hospitals. This system ensured that Atlético's players received timely and accurate diagnoses and treatment.
For complex cases, the club invited global experts or sent players abroad for specialized care, with all costs covered by Atlético. The club even sponsored research at the medical school in areas like sports medicine and rehabilitation.
Yang Hao was proud to claim that Atlético's medical and rehabilitation services were now among the best in Europe, if not the world. The club's steady five-year investment in this area had put them far ahead of their competitors.
These efforts, which Yang Hao referred to as the club's "internal development," were invisible to fans and media, who often overlooked their importance. But football is a team sport, and Atlético's success wasn't just built on the players on the field.
A New Addition: Thiago Silva
Although Atlético didn't sign any new players in the summer, they gained one more key squad member: Thiago Silva.
Yang Hao was pleasantly surprised to discover that Thiago Silva had not returned to Brazil during the summer break. Instead, he stayed in Madrid and trained at the club's facilities in Majadahonda daily.
On Yang Hao's first day back at work, he called Thiago Silva to his office. The player's transformation was striking.
When Thiago Silva first joined, he had been relatively lean—typical of many Brazilian players. His physicality was decent but not exceptional, and he was very agile. However, after being diagnosed with tuberculosis and undergoing treatment, he had gained some weight during his recovery.
Now, though, Thiago Silva had grown into a visibly stronger, more muscular athlete—a remarkable physical change.
"I've been rigorously following the training plan that Oscar gave me," Thiago Silva said earnestly.
While typically reserved and not particularly expressive, there was a visible spark in his eyes as he spoke.
This young man was ready to compete for a starting spot.
Yang Hao couldn't help but laugh. "Good! It's simple—between you, Pepe, and Ramos, whoever is in the best form will play!"
"Understood! Thank you, boss!" Thiago Silva responded with clear excitement.
He had been training with the team during the second half of the previous season and knew how strong Pepe and Ramos were. But his desire to prove himself and play matches had grown stronger. After all that Yang Hao and Atlético had done for him, he wanted to repay them with his performance.
Planning for the New Season
After Thiago Silva left, Yang Hao made a mental note of his progress and shifted his focus to preparations for the upcoming season. While he worked, César Mendiondo, the head of scouting, knocked and entered the office.
Atlético's operations had grown significantly, with an increasing number of employees and more specialized departments. This required Yang Hao to delegate many responsibilities to trusted individuals.
That summer, the club brought in former Atlético legend José Caminero to serve as the director of youth development, working closely with Juanma Lillo. While Lillo oversaw the youth academy's overall operations, Caminero managed day-to-day activities, allowing Lillo to step back from some of the more time-consuming tasks.
For instance, the annual youth trials had grown increasingly demanding. With Atlético's rising reputation, the trials now attracted aspiring players from all over the world—some invited by the club, others recommended by scouts or agents.
Organizing this event alone had become a monumental task.
When Caminero volunteered for the role, Yang Hao, aware of his talent and background—he was destined to be a great sporting director—didn't hesitate to bring him on board.
Now, Caminero entered Yang Hao's office with Mendiondo, presenting their findings from the youth trials and outlining plans for the youth teams in the new season, including their schedules and competitions.
Atlético had developed a mature system for youth development, with everything recorded and accessible via the club's digital database. Yang Hao listened attentively and reviewed the updates with them before they left.
An Unexpected Discovery
After Mendiondo and Caminero left, Yang Hao logged into the club's system to review the profiles of the trialists. He watched videos of their training sessions and matches, carefully evaluating their potential.
Atlético's recruitment strategy remained focused on technical ability, and Yang Hao believed this was the right approach.
As he browsed through the profiles, one young player caught his attention—someone entirely unexpected.
After taking charge of Atlético Madrid, Yang Hao finally gained firsthand exposure to the core of European football. In his previous life, most fans in his home country only saw the glamorous side of the top four leagues and their star-studded teams. However, few realized that behind this shine lay the foundation that upheld all of European football: youth development.
Europe's grassroots football system is vast, with teams scattered across nearly every village and region. These teams maintain collaborative relationships with clubs, forming an intricate and astonishingly dense network.
In addition to this network, competition plays a crucial role. For example, since joining Atlético, Lionel Messi has played in youth league matches, youth-level Copa del Rey tournaments, UEFA-organized events, and various invitational matches held by clubs or national associations.
Youth team matches may not be as intense as senior-level games, but they are abundant. Young players often participate in three or four tournaments each summer.
This high volume of matches provides clear developmental benefits. It's through this consistent exposure to competition that players master technical skills until they become instinctive. Practice truly makes perfect.
This environment ensures that any standout player at any club quickly becomes as noticeable as a thorn piercing through a bag—impossible to ignore.
Before the Bosman ruling, clubs relied heavily on their own youth academies to develop competitive teams. After the ruling, however, player mobility surged dramatically, with talent increasingly concentrated in top leagues and elite clubs.
Around the turn of the century, player transfer fees were relatively moderate. A balance was maintained across leagues and clubs through cooperation. However, this balance has been disrupted in recent years.
One clear signal of this shift was Manchester United's signing of Wayne Rooney.
At first glance, it may seem like a routine move. Rooney, hailed as the future star of English football, cost €37 million—hardly exorbitant. However, this transfer marked the beginning of an intense scramble for young talent among European clubs.
When clubs exhausted the market for mature players, they began competing for prospects who had not yet fully developed.
This trend became even more evident in Yang Hao's previous life. Even Real Madrid started targeting players as young as 16, paying tens of millions of euros for them.
Why? Because top-tier talent had become increasingly scarce.
This shortage explains why players like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Endrick were signed by Real Madrid as soon as they showed promise. Some succeeded, some didn't—such is the nature of football.
This trend will only intensify in the coming years, Yang Hao thought. Thankfully, he and Atlético had already begun preparing.
Over the past five years, consistent investment had transformed Atlético's scouting network into a well-oiled machine, with a robust youth academy system and extensive experience in player development. The club had regularly produced talent, including players Yang Hao had scouted early on—Messi, Ramos, David Silva, and Modrić—as well as homegrown players like Gabi and Antonio López.
Each year, Atlético's academy also released players who weren't quite ready for the first team but went on to thrive in lower-tier La Liga or Segunda División teams.
Moreover, through frequent participation in international tournaments and invitational matches, Atlético exposed its youth players to various styles while scouting talent from other countries.
One such talent, discovered by Atlético's scouting team during a youth invitational tournament, was a 14-year-old Belgian named Eden Hazard.
Yang Hao carefully reviewed Hazard's file and immediately called César Mendiondo and José Caminero.
Within three minutes, the two were in his office.
"He's 14. How do you plan to proceed?" Yang Hao asked.
Under current FIFA regulations, international transfers for players of this age were prohibited, so some creative solutions would be required.
"We've already spoken with his family," Mendiondo explained. "They're willing to relocate near Madrid, but they'll need financial support. The terms they've proposed are reasonable."
"There's one other condition," Caminero added. "They want Hazard's three younger siblings to join our academy as well."
"That's easy," Yang Hao said, immediately signing the necessary paperwork.
"I've watched his footage in the system. The kid is impressive. Where are you placing him? U14?"
"No, U15," Caminero replied with a smile.
At this age, even a one-year gap can be significant, particularly in physical development.
"Our U15 squad already includes players like Isco, Koke, and De Gea."
"Alright, handle it as you see fit. I like this kid—keep an eye on him," Yang Hao added.
Caminero and Mendiondo exchanged knowing glances. Yang Hao clearly had a type—technical players like Messi, Iniesta, Silva, and Modrić.
As Yang Hao pondered Hazard's potential, he couldn't help but think, So, Hazard has landed in my hands. How should I mold him?
In his previous life, Yang Hao had admired Hazard but was puzzled by his decline. Was it his laid-back attitude, injuries, or Real Madrid's medical team? Who could say?
Whatever the reason, this laid-back attitude wouldn't fly at Atlético. Here, players had to work hard, compete fiercely, and embrace the grind.
Each year, Atlético signed only a few dozen youth players, all personally vetted by Yang Hao and further reviewed by the club's administrative team.
Current FIFA regulations on international transfers weren't overly strict, but they would become more stringent in the coming years.
"César, contact our scouts in South America. I need these three players brought over for trials."
Yang Hao handed Mendiondo a list with three names:
Luis Suárez (18), forward, Nacional (Uruguay).Diego Godín (19), center-back, Cerro (Uruguay).Marcelo (17), left-back, Fluminense (Brazil).
Mendiondo, trusting Yang Hao's eye for talent, nodded. While Suárez and Godín were straightforward cases, Marcelo posed a challenge due to Brazil's strict rules on underage transfers.
"Evaluate them. If they're good enough, sign them. They can join when they're of age," Yang Hao instructed.
Marcelo's talent was undeniable. He was destined to be one of the greatest left-backs in history, with a unique style reminiscent of Dani Alves—a technically gifted, dynamic full-back.
Yang Hao was already envisioning a partnership between Alves and Messi on the right flank. Adding Marcelo on the left would give Atlético devastating strength on both wings.
As the meeting ended, Yang Hao smiled to himself. With these additions, Atlético's future looked even brighter.
Following Tradition: Atlético's First Training Session of the Season
As per custom, the first day of Atlético Madrid's pre-season training camp was open to the media and fans. Over a hundred journalists from across the globe, along with pre-registered fans, gathered at the Majadahonda training facility to catch a glimpse of the team's stars returning to action.
All the players arrived in style, driving their Audi cars, the club's sponsor. Notably, even players like Kaká and Maicon, who had just participated in the Confederations Cup final, showed up on time for the first day of training.
As usual, the day began with medical checkups. These tests revealed who had maintained discipline during the break and who had let their fitness slide. Atlético's innovative (and often amusing) punishments for players who slacked off had become a point of interest for the media and fans alike. Even marquee players like Fernando Torres and Didier Drogba were not spared from these penalties, ensuring a lighthearted yet disciplined atmosphere.
The training session exuded energy, and the camaraderie within the squad was palpable. Atlético's in-house media team captured these moments for their YouTube channel, where they frequently posted content to engage with fans worldwide. Their channel had become one of the platform's most popular football-related destinations, a must-follow for any fan.
Recently, videos of Torres in a quirky Nike ad and Kaká in a playful Adidas commercial had gone viral, sparking widespread discussion and tens of thousands of shares. With the team heading to the U.S. for the Spanish Super Cup later in the summer, the club was ramping up its online presence to build anticipation.
A Briefing from Yang Hao
Before the session, Yang Hao addressed the team briefly. The focus of the first two days in Madrid would be medical assessments and light adjustments. Serious pre-season training would commence in Tokyo, Japan.
In response to player feedback from previous years, the club had arranged for family visits and sightseeing opportunities during their time in Japan and later in the United States. This adjustment came at the recommendation of the club's psychologists, who believed that prolonged separation from family during training camps could affect players negatively.
The players were visibly pleased with the arrangement, with many already planning to bring their families for vacations in Asia. The "Atlético Travel Club" was unofficially in motion.
Landing in Japan
When the team arrived at Narita Airport, they were greeted by a wave of enthusiastic fans. Decked out in Armani suits custom-designed for the squad, the Atlético players resembled a polished group of male models.
Leading the pack was Yang Hao, followed closely by stalwarts like Baraja, Kaká, Torres, and Xabi Alonso. The sight of the dashing team caused an uproar among the fans, especially the women, whose screams left Yang Hao reminiscing about certain "teachers" from his previous life.
Regrettably, despite visiting Japan multiple times, Yang Hao had never found the opportunity to "visit the teachers." He mused about one retired icon, now overshadowed by her successor, before brushing the thought aside, recognizing the restrictions of his current celebrity status.
A Grand Welcome
Atlético's trip to Japan was spearheaded by Fuji TV and supported by several renowned Japanese brands. Matches and training sessions were extensively covered and broadcast live. However, the media's access to training required Yang Hao's prior approval.
Accompanying the team were over a dozen journalists, as well as Atlético's internal media, PR, and marketing departments. The traveling party was enormous, prompting Japanese media to marvel at the unprecedented scale of the visit.
"This is the largest European football team to ever visit Japan!" one outlet proclaimed.
"They're practically relocating their entire Madrid base to Tokyo!"
While exaggerated, such remarks resonated well with the Japanese fans, who fervently followed the team wherever they went.
Atlético's Training Regimen
Despite the fanfare, Atlético remained focused on training. Based in Yokohama, the team's preparations were overseen by fitness coaches Ortega and Roca, who intensified the players' physical conditioning. Over the years, Atlético had built a reputation as one of the most physically demanding teams in Europe, with unmatched stamina and work ethic.
However, this relentless approach necessitated squad rotation, as Yang Hao well understood.
The example of Arsenal served as a cautionary tale. While fans often joked about the "cursed" club, Arsène Wenger's team was renowned for its aesthetically pleasing passing game. Unfortunately, this beauty came at a cost: frequent late-season collapses.
The reason? Insufficient stamina.
Arsenal's high-running style exhausted their starters, and when rotations became inevitable, the drop in quality between their first-choice players and substitutes often led to defeats.
Yang Hao saw parallels between Arsenal's struggles and the early shortcomings of Real Madrid. Both teams demanded extensive running, the foundation of their playing style. Similarly, his Atlético and Pep Guardiola's Barcelona relied on comparable philosophies centered on possession, movement, and precise passing.
Three Teams, Three Styles
Wenger's Arsenal rarely employed a high press. After losing the ball in the final third, they would retreat to maintain defensive shape. This necessitated traditional defensive midfielders like Gilberto Silva or Vieira to protect the backline. Once possession was regained, Arsenal relied on swift counterattacks, often through Fabregas' trademark lofted passes.
Barcelona, on the other hand, prioritized possession. Their philosophy centered on the idea that dominating the ball rendered the opponent powerless. When losing possession, they pressed high to regain it quickly. Their matches were defined by relentless pressure, compact positioning, and suffocating opponents in their own half.
Atlético's style lay somewhere in between. Yang Hao had experimented with high pressing but found it unsuitable for his squad. Instead, they alternated between immediate counter-pressing and retreating into a mid-block depending on the opposition. Their defensive structure extended from the opposition's final third to the midfield, luring opponents into committing players forward.
For this system to work, Atlético's midfielders needed to be mobile, versatile, and technically proficient. Players like Xabi Alonso, Marcos Senna, and Mascherano embodied these qualities.
On offense, Atlético incorporated more lateral switches and long diagonal passes to stretch defenses. Kaká's development had also added new dimensions to their counterattacks, making Atlético arguably the most lethal team on the break.
If Atlético weren't the best counterattacking team in the world, Yang Hao believed, then no team could claim the top spot.
The Real Challenge: Breaking Down Defensive Blocks
The true difficulty Atlético Madrid faced last season, especially during the two-legged semifinal against Chelsea, was breaking down compact defensive blocks.
"We pressed too high on several occasions," Yang Hao explained. "We should have allowed them a bit more space, particularly between the 30-meter line and the edge of the penalty area. That's where we need to focus on more lateral switches."
The goal of this approach was to stretch the opposition's defensive line, forcing them into movement. No backline of four defenders can realistically cover the entire width of the pitch. By utilizing long switches of play, Atlético could create one-on-one situations on the wings, where their players' individual skills would shine.
While this strategy was familiar to the players—Yang Hao had emphasized such principles before—executing it against Chelsea's deep defensive structure had proven challenging.
Yang Hao proposed a refined solution: emulate Barcelona's lateral ball movement in front of a defensive block. This didn't mean long cross-field passes but rather short horizontal passes or dribbles into the middle to disrupt the defensive line's cohesion. The aim was to create gaps that could be exploited, even if only momentarily.
However, this approach required exceptional precision and composure, as opportunities would only arise in fleeting moments. Players would need to persistently probe and attempt this during matches.
Chelsea: The Toughest Nut to Crack
When it came to Chelsea, managed by José Mourinho, Yang Hao noted the difficulty of relying on conventional methods to break their defensive setup.
Tall Strikers: Chelsea's backline, featuring Terry, Gallas, and Carvalho, neutralized aerial threats.Set Pieces: Chelsea rarely conceded fouls in dangerous areas, and their defensive discipline made such opportunities scarce.Corners: Earning corners against a deep block required reaching the byline, which often depended on individual brilliance or wide-area switches.Long Shots: Against a packed defense, long-range efforts were unlikely to succeed.
Yang Hao highlighted the infamous 2009/10 UEFA Champions League semifinal between Mourinho's Inter Milan and Barcelona. In the first leg, Barcelona managed an early goal, exploiting Inter's uncoordinated defense. However, Inter responded with three goals and shut Barça down for the rest of the match.
In the second leg, after Thiago Motta was sent off in the 27th minute, Inter held firm for over an hour with ten men. Barcelona only scored in the 84th minute after piling their entire team forward, and even then, Gerard Piqué's goal appeared to be offside.
The lesson? Breaking down a well-organized block like Mourinho's Chelsea or Inter was nearly impossible, save for sustained lateral passing and constant probing.
Adjustments and Training in Japan
During Atlético's pre-season camp in Japan, Yang Hao worked on refining the team's tactics based on lessons from last season. Alongside the rigorous fitness regimen crafted by Ortega and Roca, the players trained in tactical adjustments to improve their ability to break down compact defenses.
Yang Hao also granted the players two days off during their two-week camp. One day was reserved for a team outing to Mount Fuji, decided through a squad vote. The second was a family visit day, allowing players to spend time with loved ones.
Friendly Matches in Japan
Atlético kicked off their Asian tour with a friendly against Yokohama F. Marinos at the Yokohama International Stadium, drawing over 70,000 fans. Atlético secured a convincing 3–1 victory.
In subsequent matches, they faced Urawa Red Diamonds and Kashima Antlers, winning 2–0 and 3–0, respectively. While the Urawa match drew a crowd of 63,700, Kashima's smaller stadium capped attendance at 40,000.
Despite the victories, Japanese fans marveled at the gulf in quality between the European giants and J-League teams. It was clear that if Atlético played at full intensity, the Japanese sides would struggle to compete.
Yang Hao adhered to his usual friendly match strategy, fielding entirely different lineups in each half to give every player equal game time.
Expanding the Atlético Brand
After concluding their Japanese matches, Atlético flew to Seoul, South Korea, for their next fixture against fellow La Liga club Real Mallorca. This match, attended by 70,000 fans, ended in a narrow 1–0 win for Atlético.
Mallorca, which had recently signed a Japanese player to tap into the Japanese market, planned to follow Atlético's footsteps with additional pre-season games in Japan.
The tour's impact extended beyond the pitch, with La Liga reporting heightened demand for broadcast rights across Asia. The combined efforts of Spanish clubs to promote La Liga globally were clearly bearing fruit.
Rounding Off the Tour
Atlético continued their journey with matches in Indonesia (a 2–0 victory against Getafe) and Australia (a 2–0 win against Espanyol in Sydney and a 1–1 draw against Real Zaragoza in Melbourne).
The team's grueling schedule culminated in a direct flight to New York, where they transitioned to the next phase of their pre-season campaign.
The West-East Divide
This year, La Liga's three powerhouses divided their global promotion efforts:
Real Madrid: Western United States.Barcelona: Eastern United States.Atlético Madrid: Asia and Oceania.
After wrapping up their matches in Asia and Oceania, Atlético arrived in New York just as Barcelona and Real Madrid concluded their respective tours. Barcelona had just finished their matches in Mexico, while Real Madrid was heading back to Europe from Canada.
As representatives of La Liga's global brand, the "Big Three" embraced their shared responsibility to expand the league's reach.
Commercial Success
Once in New York, Atlético participated in a Nike promotional event to commemorate the start of their new seven-year sponsorship deal worth €150 million.
Combined with a fresh shirt sponsorship deal with Emirates Airlines, Atlético was poised for a significant boost in commercial revenue. Together, these agreements alone would generate nearly €50 million annually.
While this figure was modest compared to European giants like Real Madrid or Manchester United, it marked a significant leap for Atlético.
The club's revenue had been growing rapidly in recent years, driven by improved commercial operations and success in European competitions. Projections for the 2004/05 season estimated total revenue to surpass €200 million, securing Atlético a place among Europe's top five or six richest clubs.
As financial guru Fernando Basque noted, the only uncertainty was how Chelsea might manipulate their accounts to retain their spot on the leaderboard.
Atlético Madrid Shines in the Spanish Super Cup, Dominating the North American Spotlight
Chelsea's Financial Ambiguity
Recent reports have highlighted the opaque nature of Chelsea's commercial sponsorship deals. Determining which revenues are legitimate versus inflated remains a mystery.
Leaving Chelsea aside, Atlético Madrid's projected revenue places them at fifth among European clubs, behind Real Madrid, Manchester United, AC Milan, and Juventus. Barcelona, meanwhile, is rumored to exceed €200 million in revenue this year, demonstrating how quickly elite clubs can increase their financial capacity.
The contrast is stark: Camp Nou's matchday revenue alone could make Atlético envious. Real Madrid, with the Bernabéu's larger seating capacity, more VIP suites, and their commercial hub generating immense rental income, further emphasizes this disparity.
However, projections for the 2005/06 season suggest that Atlético's revenue could take another leap, especially with new sponsorship contracts coming into effect. While catching Real Madrid or Manchester United may take time, surpassing top Serie A clubs and narrowing the gap with Europe's giants seems achievable—especially once their new stadium is completed.
Real Madrid's Commercial Genius
Real Madrid is on the brink of €300 million in revenue, thanks to Florentino Pérez's commercial strategy, which capitalizes on stars like Beckham to conquer global markets, including Europe, North America, and Asia. They are set to become the first football club in history to break the €300 million barrier—a testament to Pérez's vision.
Manchester United, on the other hand, has felt a significant commercial impact after losing Beckham, highlighting just how pivotal star power is to a club's financial success.
Atlético's Global Push
Atlético Madrid is also expanding its commercial footprint, leveraging stars like Torres, Kaká, and Xabi Alonso, who are becoming iconic figures. Their recent arrival in the United States to participate in Nike-sponsored activities drew a massive turnout, with fans flocking to see Yang Hao and the team's stars.
The partnership with Nike requires such promotional events, which not only boost the club's visibility but also drive merchandise sales. While sales occur through Nike's network, Atlético receives a share of the profits, making these campaigns essential.
A Historic Spanish Super Cup in North America
The Spanish Super Cup's first leg was held at New York's MetLife Stadium, where Atlético faced Real Betis. Despite Real Betis not being a marquee opponent like Real Madrid or Barcelona, the match drew over 80,000 fans, showcasing Atlético's growing appeal.
As reigning domestic double winners, Atlético faced Real Betis, the Copa del Rey runners-up, in a two-legged showdown. Recognizing the event's importance as both a competition and a showcase for Spanish football abroad, Yang Hao fielded a strong starting XI in a 4-3-3 formation:
Goalkeeper: Petr ČechDefense: Evra, Thiago Silva, Lúcio, MaiconMidfield: Xabi Alonso (holding), Iniesta, KakáAttack: Villa, Torres, Robben
The Return of Thiago Silva
Thiago Silva's inclusion in the starting lineup was twofold: his impressive preseason performances and the global attention his recovery from tuberculosis had garnered. Carlos Leao persuaded Yang Hao to capitalize on the defender's inspiring comeback story to boost Atlético's profile in the U.S., and the decision paid off.
Match Highlights: First Leg
1st Half:
In just 15 seconds, Kaká unleashed a long-range effort that tested Real Betis' goalkeeper. Atlético's relentless attacking soon followed. In the 6th minute, Kaká's central drive set up Robben on the right, whose curling shot was parried away.
Despite early dominance, Atlético found it difficult to break through until the 31st minute, when Kaká's through ball released Torres behind the defense. The forward's clinical finish made it 1-0, electrifying the crowd of 80,000.
2nd Half:
The second half began with Atlético doubling their lead in the 46th minute. Robben cut inside from the right and delivered a pinpoint pass to Villa, who calmly slotted it home for 2-0.
In the 58th minute, Kaká produced the moment of the match. Picking up the ball on the right, he dribbled past four defenders with breathtaking speed and precision before rifling the ball into the net for 3-0. The crowd erupted, giving Kaká a standing ovation.
Late substitutions, including Messi and David Silva, brought fresh energy. In one exchange, Messi nearly scored after intricate interplay with Silva and Torres, thrilling the audience.
The match ended 3-0, with Thiago Silva and Lúcio keeping Real Betis' attack at bay.
Second Leg: Chicago's Soldier Field
Three days later, the second leg at Chicago's Soldier Field attracted 63,500 fans, once again packing the stadium to capacity.
1st Half:
Early on, Didier Drogba intercepted a defensive error, embarking on a solo run to score within minutes, putting Atlético ahead 1-0.
Real Betis responded by exploiting defensive lapses from Atlético's rotated backline (Pepe and Sergio Ramos), equalizing before halftime.
2nd Half:
After halftime, Messi's incisive run down the right set up Drogba for his second goal of the night, restoring Atlético's lead at 2-1.
Luka Modrić later delivered a pinpoint assist to Ribéry, who finished clinically to make it 3-1.
With a commanding 6-1 aggregate victory, Atlético Madrid lifted the Spanish Super Cup, adding another trophy to their collection and cementing their dominance in Spain and abroad.
A Triumph Beyond the Pitch
The sight of Atlético players hoisting the Super Cup trophy dominated headlines across the U.S., with coverage in major newspapers highlighting the team's technical brilliance and global appeal.
The Super Cup victory not only underscored Atlético's footballing pedigree but also solidified their growing reputation in North America. This triumph was a major milestone in their ongoing mission to become a global football powerhouse.
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