Chapter 55
The first half ended with Atlético leading Barcelona 3–0.
This scoreline was practically a death sentence for Barcelona, while simultaneously proving to everyone that despite Barcelona's significant improvement and Atlético selling four key players in the summer, Yang Hao's team remained the strongest in La Liga!
When the second half resumed, Barcelona attempted an aggressive push, but Atlético maintained their composure.
Especially Marcos Senna.
The Brazilian midfielder's tireless running and defensive coverage in the middle of the park posed a substantial threat to every Barcelona attack. What made him even more impressive was his passing and playmaking ability, a rare combination.
A top-tier defensive midfielder doesn't just win the ball—what's crucial is being able to retain possession afterward. Marcos Senna not only retained possession but also orchestrated the play, significantly boosting his value.
In the stands, Spain's national team coach Luis Aragonés nodded repeatedly as he observed Senna's performance, muttering, "Yang Hao is pretty reliable."
Xavi, limited by Barcelona's overall performance, didn't have an ideal game. However, Aragonés didn't need to evaluate him further—his abilities were unquestionable.
On the other hand, Atlético's young Andrés Iniesta had several moments of brilliance with the ball that caught everyone's attention.
For instance, in the 54th minute, Iniesta executed a one-two combination with Kaka, driving directly at Edmílson. With a clever "La Croqueta" (double touch), he weaved past the Brazilian, slipping in a defense-splitting through ball to Villa.
Villa sprinted onto the pass and unleashed a shot, but it struck the crossbar and deflected out for a goal kick.
The collective sigh of disappointment from Atlético fans echoed around the stadium, but the applause quickly returned, recognizing Iniesta's brilliant creativity.
"This kid is impressive," Aragonés chuckled, turning to his assistant coach, José Ufarte.
"I think he's worth considering," Ufarte nodded in agreement.
Aragonés was tempted.
As Yang Hao had pointed out, Spain's current problem lay in the lack of midfield control and creativity. Talented youngsters like Iniesta were exactly what the national team needed.
Aragonés had come to the Calderón tonight hoping to scout promising players. Villa, Marcos Senna, and Iniesta were all catching his eye.
Sergio Ramos's style also intrigued Aragonés, but he was still too young.
The senior national team wasn't the ideal place for a teenager to develop, especially someone of Ramos's age. He needed more time to grow and mature.
"Yang Hao's got guts," Ufarte praised.
Indeed, fielding someone as young as Ramos in such a high-stakes match—one that could shape the league standings—was an audacious move.
"Maybe he had no choice," Aragonés sighed. "Marchena has the ability, but his temperament is an issue."
Marchena wasn't the only one with such flaws. Joaquín's attitude had recently become a problem as well.
It was clear that after Joaquín's €80 million transfer to Real Madrid, he had started acting like he was indispensable.
Aragonés wouldn't stoop to arguing with young players. He just found it a pity that so many of them were losing focus, unable to recognize their positions or their true potential.
Professional football was a carnival of fame and fortune, offering countless temptations.
In the 63rd minute, Ronaldinho collected the ball on the left flank, skillfully shook off Marcos Senna, and cut inside toward the center. He unleashed a curling long shot, threading it past Lucio and toward the bottom right corner of the goal.
At the crucial moment, Petr Čech dove heroically, stretching out a hand to parry the ball away.
Before anyone could react, Samuel Eto'o pounced on the rebound, stabbing the ball into the back of Atlético's net.
1–3!
The "African Cheetah" celebrated wildly after his goal, his energy electrifying the Barcelona supporters.
On the sidelines, Yang Hao couldn't help but applaud Ronaldinho's brilliance.
Sometimes, that's the difference a superstar can make.
Yang Hao recalled an interview with Zidane, one of the greatest players in football history. Zidane had once said that certain players possessed a rare ability to "see" what was going to happen on the pitch before anyone else.
This wasn't some supernatural power.
It meant these players knew exactly what they wanted to do when they got the ball—and they could execute it.
This required extraordinary individual ability, an almost indescribable natural talent, and an unmatched level of confidence.
Yang Hao remembered a passage from Messi's autobiography that left a deep impression on him. Ronaldinho once told Messi to wait in a specific spot on the pitch, then proceeded to deliver the ball perfectly to his feet for a goal.
Missed the first shot? No problem, Ronaldinho would set up another.
Superstars like Ronaldinho could control the game as they pleased.
Most players were merely cogs in the team's machine, playing wherever the system dictated.
Ordinary fans could only marvel at these superstars' performances, asking in awe, "How did they do that?"
"Wow, that's how it's done!"
"My God, was that defender blind? How did he leave such a gap?"
Even if you gave another player the same opportunity, or tried to recreate the play yourself, chances were it wouldn't result in the same outcome.
Football's classics are irreplicable. Each iconic moment is unique in the sport's history.
Just like Ronaldinho's run and shot moments ago.
Had it gone in, it would've been another classic goal.
But Čech's save turned it into a classic save instead.
Perhaps inspired by Ronaldinho's moment of magic, Kaka also began playing with renewed intensity.
The relationship between the two Brazilians had always been complex.
While their personal rapport was great, their roles on the pitch often clashed.
With Adriano firmly established as Brazil's main forward, both Ronaldinho and Kaka were vying to prove themselves as the country's premier midfielder.
Their styles were quite different.
Ronaldinho embodied the free-spirited essence of samba football, akin to an unrestrained artist. Kaka, on the other hand, represented modern football—efficient, streamlined, and breathtakingly fast.
The sight of Kaka surging forward with electrifying speed never failed to leave fans on the edge of their seats.
Using Atlético as a platform, Kaka had clearly stepped up his game. After seeing Ronaldinho create a goal for Barcelona with his individual brilliance, Kaka seemed unable to hold back, becoming increasingly active.
In the 69th minute, Kaka received the ball near the center circle. Dribbling directly toward Edmílson, he feinted a move to close the distance. Forced back a step, Edmílson attempted to block him, but Kaka spun away to his left.
Edmílson reacted quickly, cutting off his route forward, so Kaka shifted direction, dribbling diagonally. Xavi moved in to challenge but lost balance and fell after a shoulder bump from Kaka.
Reaching the left flank, Kaka unleashed his signature speed, blowing past Belletti. Using sheer pace, he surged ahead, leaving Belletti trailing behind.
The entire stadium, filled with Atlético fans, was stunned by Kaka's sudden, heroic solo run.
It wasn't often they saw Kaka rely on individual brilliance like this. But tonight, he seemed intent on breaking through on his own.
When he reached the left corner of Barcelona's penalty area, he faced Oleguer. At full speed, Kaka executed a "split dribble", bypassing Oleguer as if weaving past a training dummy. Chasing down his own pass into the box, Kaka took one touch with his left foot and delivered a precise shot.
Victor Valdés, halfway off his line, dove desperately, but it was too late. The ball was already in the back of the net.
"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!"
"WOWWWW!!! My God! My God, come out and look at Kaka!!"
"This is absolutely incredible!"
"Kaka carried the ball from the center circle, tearing through Barcelona's defense like a storm, leaving their entire backline in shambles, and finished with a stunning solo goal in the box!"
"His form tonight is simply spectacular."
"I don't even know how to describe what I'm feeling right now."
"Just moments ago, we saw Ronaldinho's magical footwork that left us in awe. And now, Kaka, like a hurricane, has swept through Barcelona's half!"
"This is what makes a superstar!"
"This is genius!"
"I've run out of words to express my emotions at this moment."
"Tonight's match is undoubtedly a clash of brilliance between two extraordinary talents."
After scoring, Kaka erupted in a jubilant roar. As always, he raised his hands above his head in prayerful celebration.
But before he could linger, his Atlético teammates swarmed around him.
Fernando Torres was the first to reach him, wrapping Kaka in a bear hug while jokingly shouting, "I was waiting for your pass!"
Though it sounded like a complaint, Torres was grinning widely, thrilled for Kaka's success.
The two had been playing together since their time in Atlético's reserves. After four years of battling side by side, their friendship was unshakable. Seeing Kaka's performance tonight, Torres couldn't be happier for his teammate.
On the sidelines, Yang Hao also celebrated Kaka's goal with a triumphant roar, raising both fists in the air.
Atlético's coaching staff, including Juanma Lillo, erupted in unrestrained joy. Lillo even grabbed Yang Hao in his excitement, shouting, "This is what a genius looks like!"
Geniuses like Kaka have the unique ability to surprise, shining with stunning brilliance in the most unexpected moments.
"He'll win the Ballon d'Or! He's destined to win the Ballon d'Or!" Lillo's voice quavered with emotion, on the verge of tears.
For everyone at Atlético—executives, coaches, players, and fans—there was one lingering regret.
Adriano had secured the Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player awards not while playing for Atlético but after his move to Inter Milan.
This season's Ballon d'Or race had been widely anticipated as a three-way battle between Brazilian stars: Deco, Adriano, and Ronaldinho. Deco was considered the frontrunner, with Adriano close behind. Surprisingly, Ronaldinho's support had been comparatively muted.
Deco's nomination was based on his stellar performances for Atlético before transferring to Chelsea.
For Atlético, the ultimate dream was to one day have a player win both the Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year awards while wearing the red-and-white stripes.
Now, all eyes were on Kaka.
Over the years, Atlético fans had grown accustomed to seeing their stars leave. Yang Hao's first two seasons were dedicated to clearing the club's debts, followed by funding a new training ground, and now building a new stadium.
This constant flow of player sales had become a way of life for the club. But as long as Yang Hao remained, Atlético fans knew their team would stay strong.
Somehow, Yang Hao always found a way to sell a star and develop another just as quickly.
Adriano left? Then came Drogba and Torres.
Deco left? Enter Kaka and Iniesta.
Carvalho left? Well, they were still working on that. But Sergio Ramos had shown promise in his recent matches.
Yang Hao was, without question, Atlético's most vital and irreplaceable figure.
Still, fans couldn't help but wonder: Can we stop selling players for once?
"We need our own Ballon d'Or winner!"
As Kaka turned to face the crowd, over 50,000 Atlético fans roared his name in unison: "Kaka! Kaka!"
Their thunderous applause and cheers showered Kaka with the highest honor, making it clear to management that Kaka had won their hearts and loyalty.
The match ended with a 4–1 victory for Atlético.
Yang Hao walked to the visiting team's bench at the final whistle, extending his hand toward Frank Rijkaard.
"Congratulations! That was a fantastic match!"
"Thank you! Your team was outstanding," Rijkaard replied with genuine sportsmanship.
Yang Hao exchanged a few words with Rijkaard, steering away from discussing the match itself, before turning to leave.
As he headed back, Barcelona players began filing off the pitch.
Xavi, spotting Yang Hao, approached him courteously to shake hands.
"Thank you," Xavi said politely.
Yang Hao paused, slightly puzzled, before quickly understanding. He smiled and replied, "It's nothing. I was just being honest. To me, you're one of the best midfielders in the world."
Xavi was genuinely surprised by Yang Hao's high praise.
Just two days earlier, Luis Aragonés had met with Xavi in Barcelona and informed him that he would be called up to the Spanish national team next month. Aragonés also mentioned that it was Yang Hao's strong recommendation that influenced his decision.
"Thank you, Yang, but your team has players far better than me," Xavi said modestly.
"No, no, no. You're all outstanding," Yang Hao replied candidly.
After chatting briefly, Yang Hao left. His players were waiting for him.
Xavi watched Yang Hao's back as he walked away, his heart filled with mixed emotions. For a fleeting moment, he envied Iniesta. But the thought quickly passed. He was a Barça player, and for him, playing for Barcelona was a lifelong honor.
Yang Hao walked back to the Atlético dugout with a broad smile.
Atlético's players had already left the pitch, but they were all waiting near the dugout. They hadn't seen Yang Hao at the sideline, where he usually greeted them after every game. It was a ritual they had grown used to—if their coach wasn't there, they'd wait a moment.
"Hey, guys, excellent work!"
As Yang Hao approached, he showered his players with praise.
The players gathered around to greet and embrace their coach.
"Kaka, did you hear the crowd chanting your name?" Yang Hao asked with a smile as he hugged him.
"Yes, boss! I'll keep working hard!" Kaka replied earnestly.
"Good. I'm counting on you!" Yang Hao responded with a grin.
"Sergio, why the long face?"
The group turned to see Sergio Ramos looking a bit downcast after leaving the pitch.
Lucio laughed, "He says the goal we conceded was partly his fault."
Everyone chuckled.
So that's what it was about.
But football is a game where goals are inevitable, just like defenders are bound to make mistakes. As the saying goes, a defender who hasn't been made into a highlight reel by a forward isn't truly seasoned yet. It's part of the job.
"No worries, Sergio. You played brilliantly," Yang Hao reassured him.
For Yang Hao, this wasn't a bad thing. If conceding a goal upset Ramos, it meant he would push himself even harder.
However, Yang Hao wasn't worried about Ramos feeling guilt or self-doubt—those emotions simply didn't stick to him.
But seeing Ramos and then looking at Pepe, Yang Hao made up his mind.
He had already instructed Mendiola to make the necessary arrangements.
This time, Yang Hao intended to turn up the heat on the defense.
"Although Barcelona managed to score a stunning goal at the Calderón, their tame defense cost them dearly!"
This was the opening line of a post-match analysis from Marca, which pointed out that Barça's loss stemmed from their defensive issues.
In the post-match press conference, Rijkaard was visibly upset, stating that Barça had performed decently in the first 20 minutes but that their disastrous defending led to a humiliating defeat.
Marca believed that while Rijkaard didn't name anyone specifically, he effectively outlined the main reason for Barça's loss. Defense was now Barça's biggest issue.
Thiago Motta's injury had forced Edmílson into a midfield role, where he initially did well. But in high-stakes matches, his weaknesses and limitations were glaring.
Originally a center-back, Edmílson struggled to adapt as a defensive midfielder, leaving Barça vulnerable. Meanwhile, the center-back pairing of Oleguer and Puyol also failed to inspire confidence.
Marca highlighted Johan Cruyff's notion of "balance" in football and contrasted it with the imbalance Rijkaard's Barça displayed.
Yet they also credited Yang Hao's tactical decisions for exploiting Barça's vulnerabilities.
"This match showed how masterful Yang Hao is at making bold, decisive adjustments."
"For instance, deploying Robben on the right was a stroke of genius."
"Van Bronckhorst's tendency to overlap forward, a cornerstone of Rijkaard's tactics, left Barça's left flank exposed. Exploiting Barça's left side on the counter is no secret—it's about how you go about it."
"Atlético's first goal came from Robben operating on the left flank. Surrounded by Puyol and Van Bronckhorst, he suddenly stopped, cut inside, and took a shot that forced Valdés into an error, leading to Torres's opportunistic strike."
"That goal was a turning point."
"This prompted Rijkaard to adjust his tactics, having Puyol drift wide to cover Robben and assigning Edmílson to drop back into central defense."
"But then came Atlético's second goal. With Puyol pulled wide, Edmílson was disrupted by Kaka's presence in midfield. Neither Baptista nor Xavi managed to fall back in time to support, allowing Kaka to deliver an elegant lob pass to Villa, who finished with composure."
"While the two goals might seem isolated, they're interconnected."
"This perfectly illustrates Yang Hao's sharp in-game tactical adjustments, which are levels ahead of Rijkaard's approach."
Marca concluded that Barça's core issue in the match was midfield control.
Defensively, they were weak. In possession, they were shaky. Offensively, they lacked rhythm.
"Baptista provides Barça with physicality and intensity in midfield, and his forward runs are dangerous. But Barça doesn't lack firepower—they lack control in midfield."
"For a team like Barça, when the midfield can't control possession, it spells disaster, or even collapse."
Other publications, such as El País, shared similar sentiments. They suggested Barça needed a shift in philosophy.
"Rijkaard has repeatedly emphasized that defense isn't Barça's style of football."
"That's fine—elite teams should adopt positive, attacking tactics, just like Atlético does."
"But Barça needs to consider whether their current squad is suited for attacking football."
El País also criticized Barça's media outlets, such as Mundo Deportivo and Sport, for hyping up their offensive potential while ignoring their defensive frailties.
"What happened during the match?"
"When Yang Hao realized his team couldn't dominate possession, he swiftly changed course and adopted a pragmatic approach. Did Atlético play unattractive football?"
"On the contrary, in this high-stakes clash, Atlético outperformed Barça in terms of attacking moves, effectiveness, and dangerous opportunities, even though they conceded 56% of possession."
"Barça had possession, but nothing else."
The National Newspaper even suggested that this match could be a defining moment in this season's La Liga.
"Why? Because Yang Hao's tactics will give other La Liga teams a clear direction."
"To beat Barça, all you need is a long ball and a fast striker to exploit Van Bronckhorst. Targeting this weakness will surely hurt Barça and leave them vulnerable."
"To disrupt Barça's attack, aside from neutralizing Ronaldinho, you must tightly mark Xavi. This will create significant problems for Barça."
The National Newspaper stated that Atlético's 4-1 victory served as the perfect tactical demonstration for La Liga and even other European teams.
While Madrid-based media mostly praised Yang Hao and his Atlético, Sport and Mundo Deportivo in Catalonia lamented Barça's lack of luck, with many focusing on Thiago Motta's injury.
If Edmílson's underwhelming performance was the main reason for this humiliating loss, then Motta's injury was what forced Edmílson to start in the first place.
Mundo Deportivo claimed that Atlético's dominant victory at home was primarily due to two players:
First, midfield maestro Kaka.
Catalan media marveled at Atlético's ability to develop players. "But more crucially, it's Yang Hao's control over the team's lineup."
After Deco's departure, Kaka quickly stepped up, thanks to the meticulous nurturing he received from Yang Hao over the past few years. Now, Kaka is not only among Europe's top players but is also evolving into a true superstar.
"His ball control is angelic, his vision remarkable, and he always seems to make unexpected yet perfect decisions."
The second standout was Marcos Senna.
The Brazilian defensive midfielder displayed exceptional form in this match.
"Over the past few years, Senna has been a low-profile player at Atlético, to the point of near invisibility. However, recent media coverage has brought him into the spotlight."
"It was revealed that Spanish national team coach Luis Aragonés is considering inviting Senna to join the Spanish national team—a highly attractive offer for a player who has never been called up to the Brazilian squad."
Reports also noted that Senna was recommended to Aragonés by none other than Yang Hao.
Yang Hao had also recommended Barça's Xavi.
As a result, Catalan media now view Yang Hao as a coach with the aura of a true master.
But how to counter Yang Hao's Atlético? That remains a massive challenge not just for Barça but for all La Liga teams.
Caxias do Sul, Brazil.
At Juventude's training ground on the city's northern outskirts, players excitedly gathered in the locker room ahead of practice.
Everyone was talking about last night's exhilarating La Liga match.
"Kaka's speed is incredible—it set me on fire! I'm going to try copying that move in our game today. It'll be my secret weapon!" declared Paulinho, an 18-year-old Juventude academy forward.
"Give it a rest, Paulinho. You're not as fast as Kaka. I prefer his chipped pass—it was pure artistry!" replied 24-year-old Marcelo Costa, an attacking midfielder.
"I think Ronaldinho was the best. His footwork is pure magic!" said 24-year-old midfielder Rafael Rêdesma, clearly loyal to his idol.
"But Ronaldinho was shut down by Marcos Senna. He only had a few moments of brilliance. I think Atlético is really strong right now. Maybe they'll win another treble this season!"
"No way! Their defensive weaknesses are still obvious."
The room buzzed with discussion and debate, much like football fans around the world.
Everyone was captivated by the blockbuster clash.
With Real Madrid showing signs of decline, many believed this season's La Liga would be a battle between Atlético and Barça.
Atlético, as defending champions, faced Barça, the challengers.
Though Brazilians are known for their love of attacking football, Juventude this season stood out as an exception.
Their goal tally wasn't particularly high, but defensively, they excelled.
Currently sitting 6th in the standings, Juventude lagged behind clubs like Santos, São Paulo, and Atlético Mineiro but outperformed traditional powerhouses like Fluminense, Cruzeiro, and Flamengo.
Far below them, in the relegation zone, was Grêmio.
The transformation was credited to coach Ivo Wortmann, who had revamped the team's defensive structure.
Last season, Juventude narrowly avoided relegation, finishing 22nd. After Wortmann took over in March, he focused heavily on shoring up the defense.
With no standout offense, defense became their saving grace, propelling Juventude to unexpected success this season.
Their two central defenders played a key role.
One was Naldo, a towering 1.98-meter defender whose height alone made him formidable.
The other was Thiago Silva.
Unlike the 22-year-old Naldo, who had always played as a center-back, Thiago Silva, just 20, joined Juventude earlier this year as a versatile forward who could also play on the wing, midfield, and even fullback.
In the season's early matches, Thiago Silva wasn't a starter, and the team struggled defensively, suffering consecutive defeats that nearly led to a collapse.
Wortmann made a bold adjustment: pairing Thiago Silva with Naldo as center-backs. This move turned Juventude's fortunes around.
Since the 14th round, Juventude had only lost two of their last 17 league matches over two months, thanks to this complementary defensive duo.
Thiago Silva had quickly become one of Brazil's most impressive center-backs, earning widespread acclaim.
"Honestly, Thiago, you should think about pitching yourself to Atlético. Pairing with Lucio would make a great combination," someone joked in the locker room, sparking laughter and chatter.
Lucio, hailing from nearby Porto Alegre's Internacional, was a role model for local players. Many, including Naldo, idolized Lucio and aspired to emulate his career.
Lucio's rise from obscurity to superstardom—being discovered by a scout, skyrocketing to international fame, and winning titles like the World Cup—was the ultimate dream for Brazilian youngsters.
Naldo had some similarities to Lucio, but Thiago Silva seemed more hesitant.
"Come on, don't joke around. I'm not at that level yet," Thiago Silva said modestly, though the glimmer in his eyes betrayed his aspirations.
It wasn't just his dream; it was the dream of countless young players in Brazil.
Knowing Thiago's humble nature, his teammates teased him even more, some suggesting he reach out to Lucio's agent.
The team's veterans, however, simply shook their heads, smiling wryly.
"Getting to Europe isn't as easy as it sounds."
There are countless young footballers playing in Brazil, but only a few make it to the top leagues every year. To dream of joining an elite club like Atlético Madrid? That's pure fantasy!
These young men are unrealistic, always dreaming!
As the locker room buzzed with speculation, the team's coach, Rodrigo Poletto, appeared at the door. Oblivious to the chatter, he smiled, knowing the playful nature of his players.
"What's all the excitement about?" Rodrigo Poletto asked as he walked in, grinning.
The rowdy youngsters immediately quieted down, their expressions sheepish.
"Alright, get ready for training," Poletto instructed before turning to Thiago Silva. "Thiago, Ivo wants to see you in his office."
"Oh, okay," Thiago Silva replied, quickly standing up and tidying his locker.
As Poletto and Thiago left, the locker room came alive again with speculation.
"Could it be about that offer from Portugal?"
"Most likely. Ivo has good connections over there."
"I heard he knows that agent Mendes."
"Jorge Mendes? Isn't he the biggest agent in Portugal now?"
"Yeah, if it's him, then Thiago must be heading to Portugal."
"Lucky guy. Going abroad to make money. That's the dream."
Thiago Silva walked to Ivo Wortmann's office, his heart racing with anticipation. Not long ago, Ivo had mentioned plans to recommend him to Jorge Mendes, Portugal's top football agent, to help secure a move to the Primeira Liga.
For Thiago, playing in Portugal and earning enough to support his family was the ultimate dream. Juventude was a small club with limited resources, so everything depended on Ivo's personal connections.
As he stood at the door to the office, Thiago took a deep breath and knocked.
"Come in," came the reply.
Entering, Thiago found Ivo Wortmann welcoming him warmly.
"Thiago, come in, sit down!" the coach said cheerfully.
At 55 years old, Ivo Wortmann had seen his share of ups and downs in football. His coaching career had taken him all over the world. In the 1980s, he coached Al-Ahli in Qatar, later managing Saudi Arabia's U17 national team. After a 10-year hiatus, he returned to coaching in 1998, leading Miami Fusion in Major League Soccer.
In 2002, Wortmann returned to Brazil to coach in the lower divisions, achieving respectable results before being entrusted with rescuing Juventude from their disastrous form earlier this year.
Years of globetrotting had helped Wortmann build a vast network of connections, especially during his time in the Middle East, where he formed relationships with several influential agents. He often recommended Brazilian players to clubs in the region.
"Did you watch last night's La Liga match?" Wortmann asked with a knowing smile.
"Yes, I did," Thiago nodded.
"This morning, I got a call from a well-known scout here in Brazil," Wortmann began, his tone more serious now. "We talked about you."
"Me?" Thiago asked, startled.
"Yes, you. He's Atlético Madrid's official scout in Brazil. He said he received word from Madrid—they've watched some of your games and are interested. They want to know if you'd be open to a trial in Spain."
Thiago Silva froze, his mind struggling to process what he'd just heard.
Wortmann chuckled at the stunned expression, having anticipated such a reaction.
Frankly, he found it surprising too. After all, Thiago had only transitioned from winger to center-back six months ago. That Atlético was already showing interest was almost unbelievable.
But more than surprise, Wortmann felt pride. If Thiago Silva made it big, his own reputation as a talent-spotting coach would soar.
"Can I really… go to Atlético?" Thiago stammered, his voice tinged with disbelief.
Was this still a dream from last night, born from watching the match?
"Yes, but it's just a trial," Wortmann cautioned, his tone serious. "You know how demanding a club like Atlético is. Breaking in won't be easy."
Then, unable to suppress his excitement, Wortmann grinned. "But I heard from the scout that Yang Hao personally took an interest in you—that's why they invited you."
Hearing Yang Hao's name, Thiago's breath quickened.
Yang Hao!
A figure of almost mythical status in football!
"I don't understand," Thiago admitted, struggling to make sense of the situation. Was this some elaborate prank?
"There's nothing to understand, Thiago. If you're willing to attend the trial, someone will come tomorrow to discuss the details. After that, you'll prepare your travel documents and head to Spain. The club has already approved it."
Juventude, despite currently sitting 6th in the league with Thiago as a key player, didn't hesitate to greenlight the move.
The reason was simple: Thiago Silva's transfer could bring in one to two million euros—a sum that could buy several "Thiago Silvas" in the Brazilian league.
After confirming the offer, Thiago finally began to believe what he'd heard.
"But what about the offer in Portugal?"
"Don't worry, I'll handle it," Wortmann reassured him with a smile.
Thiago's mind was still reeling, unable to think straight.
But one thing was crystal clear.
"I want to go!"
Why Thiago Silva? I'll explain that in due time. I truly believe he's the perfect fit for La Liga. Though there are already many Brazilian players, his style and potential make him stand out.
Three days after the match against Barcelona, Atlético Madrid faced Levante away in the 4th round of La Liga. Currently, Levante was managed by Bernd Schuster, a former Real Madrid legend and future Real Madrid coach. Levante had started the season relatively well, with one win, one draw, and one loss, including a home victory over Racing Santander (3-1). However, in their previous round, they suffered a 0-3 away defeat to Sevilla. Facing Atlético, Levante lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Yang Hao made significant rotations, especially in the defense, where Sergio Ramos and Pepe paired as the central defenders.
After a hard-fought 50 minutes, Atlético finally broke the deadlock in the 51st minute when Didier Drogba assisted Baraja for the opening goal. In the 71st minute, Dani Alves joined the attack, combining with Robben on the right before storming into the box and unleashing a powerful strike to make it 2-0. Atlético secured another 3 points.
La Liga Round 5: Atlético vs. Villarreal
Over the weekend, Atlético hosted Villarreal in the 5th round. This marked Chilean coach Manuel Pellegrini's first season in European football after leaving South America. Villarreal, however, had a shaky start to their campaign, with three draws and one loss in their first four matches. Their sole defeat was a 1-2 away loss to Valencia in the opening round, followed by three consecutive draws.
Despite their struggles, Villarreal under Pellegrini showed glimpses of a distinctive style. The Chilean's Latin approach meshed well with Villarreal's South American players, hinting at a promising future.
For now, though, the game was straightforward. Pellegrini was still adapting to Spanish football, and La Liga didn't offer the luxury of time. Despite Villarreal's potential, Atlético managed a narrow 1-0 victory at home. Considering the significant squad rotation, Yang Hao was satisfied with the result.
Post-Match: A Meeting of Minds
After the game, Yang Hao invited Pellegrini to his temporary office at the Calderón Stadium for drinks. Yang Hao greatly respected Pellegrini's coaching ability. The Chilean had delivered impressive performances, whether at Real Madrid or Manchester City in the future, and his work at Villarreal was particularly remarkable.
Leading Villarreal to a Champions League semifinal and consistently competing in La Liga's top tier was no small feat. For Yang Hao, Pellegrini's coaching prowess wasn't the issue—it was his ability to manage elite teams and handle non-football challenges that set him apart from the very best coaches.
As Pep Guardiola once said, managing a top club often involves more administrative tasks and personality management than tactical work.
Yang Hao was particularly intrigued by Pellegrini's understanding of football.
In the conversation, Pellegrini explained how "Latin football" had become an increasingly ambiguous term due to the diverse styles emerging within it. For instance, Brazil had split into two extremes: coaches like Luiz Felipe Scolari, who emphasized defense and team structure, and others who clung to traditional samba football.
Meanwhile, Argentina had developed a more Europeanized version of Latin football, which was why Argentine coaches and players often adapted better to European leagues than their Brazilian counterparts.
"European football is far more pragmatic," Pellegrini said. "It prioritizes results and efficiency, emphasizing teamwork, passing, and minimizing individual mistakes. In South America, players grow up in an environment that nurtures their confidence on the ball. You'll notice that whether it's in Brazil or Argentina, players exhibit remarkable self-assurance when they have possession."
This cultural emphasis on ball control led to South American players being instinctively talented. However, Pellegrini acknowledged the downside: it often resulted in excessive dribbling or ball-holding, which could waste opportunities.
"Spain's youth system strikes a good balance between Latin creativity and European pragmatism," Pellegrini continued. "And then you have coaches like Marcelo Bielsa, who have introduced European ideas to South America. Bielsa's style emphasizes speed, efficiency, and off-the-ball movement. His tactical discipline is transforming what used to be a more relaxed, free-flowing Latin approach."
Pellegrini didn't see himself as a traditional Latin coach. Although Spanish media often labeled him as such, he prioritized tactical organization, off-the-ball movement, and team discipline. That said, he wasn't rigid in his methods and adjusted his tactics based on his players' strengths.
"It's a fine balance," Pellegrini said. "For a player like Riquelme—a genius with the ball—you have to build the entire team around him. It's an immense luxury but also a sacrifice for the rest of the squad. On the other hand, with someone like Kaka, who is more European in style, I'd focus on increasing the tempo and attacking depth, just like you're doing now."
"Kaka accelerates the game, whether it's with a single pass or a surging run. He's devastating in the final 30 meters, where he rarely loses possession—that's terrifying."
Yang Hao chuckled, noticing how much Pellegrini admired Kaka. Perhaps coaching Riquelme had made Kaka's style seem even more appealing in contrast.
Pellegrini's remarks also explained why he would later clash with Riquelme. Currently, Villarreal was sacrificing everything for Riquelme, but this strategy was unsustainable in the long term. Coupled with Riquelme's strong personality, conflicts were inevitable.
Looking Ahead
Pellegrini's insights further reinforced Yang Hao's belief in striking a balance between individual brilliance and team structure. For Atlético, he had built a team capable of adapting to different challenges without over-relying on any one star.
With Villarreal defeated and two more wins under their belt, Atlético's momentum was undeniable. Yang Hao, however, remained focused on the bigger picture: maintaining dominance in La Liga and ensuring his team was ready for the challenges ahead.
After the conversation with Pellegrini, Yang Hao gained a clearer understanding of certain trends in football. Spain and Portugal, as European countries deeply influenced by Latin football, have similar traits. The Netherlands is another country profoundly affected by Latin football, which is why many Brazilian stars like Ronaldo and Romário chose to start their European careers in the Dutch league.
Spain, the Netherlands, and Portugal are known for producing exceptional wingers, which sets them apart from most European nations.
Thinking further, Yang Hao pondered the effects of Germany's youth football reforms. Have they produced daring ball carriers, players confident enough to dribble and break defenses? Not really.
This made Yang Hao recall an era when, after Aragonés abandoned a traditional winger-based system and players like Vicente, Joaquín, Reyes, and Navas began to fade, Spain started lacking such dynamic attacking players.
Even in South America, players—whether practical tactically or not—showed a willingness to carry the ball forward and take risks. Yang Hao thought of a player once mocked by Manchester United fans for his excessive spinning but still noted his boldness in possession.
Yang Hao found it hard to determine whether this trend was ultimately good or bad. In the era of big-money football, minimizing risk had become the priority. Even clubs like Guardiola's Manchester City had to think about mitigating risks. This mindset meant players daring enough to take risks, dribble, and carry the ball were becoming rarer.
If football devolved into endless passing, pulling defenders out of position, and waiting for an opening to score, wouldn't it eventually become dull?
Yang Hao recalled a question he saw back in 2023: "Is football in decline?"
In a world of TikTok, Twitter, and fast-paced lifestyles, do young people still have the patience to sit through 90 minutes of football, especially when matches could end with no goals? When strong teams become so consistent, and matches are so predictable, might they think, "I'll just watch the highlights tomorrow morning"?
Yang Hao didn't know the answer. He hadn't attended live matches abroad in his previous life, nor did he delve deeply into global football culture. He could only speculate whether this phenomenon was exclusive to his home country or a global issue.
September 28th, Calderón Stadium
Champions League Group Stage, Matchday 2: Atlético Madrid vs. Roma
Roma was in turmoil this season. Their opening Champions League match had been marred by fans attacking the referee, resulting in a 0-3 forfeit loss, a home stadium ban, and a suspension for their key defender Mexès. On top of this, they were suffering from management upheaval.
Before the season began, manager Cesare Prandelli resigned after his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer. His sudden departure derailed Roma's preparations, and Rudi Völler was hastily appointed. However, under Völler, Roma suffered a string of poor results in their first five matches: one win, one draw, and three losses. Apart from a 1-0 home victory over Fiorentina in Serie A, their performances were subpar.
This culminated in a humiliating 1-3 away defeat to Bologna, prompting Völler's dismissal. For this match against Atlético, assistant coach Ezio Sella took temporary charge.
With Mexès absent and a caretaker manager at the helm, Roma was clearly struggling. Yang Hao devised a clear strategy to exploit their vulnerabilities.
His plan was straightforward:
Start aggressively and leverage home advantage to score early.Regardless of whether they scored, shift to a controlled possession game to frustrate Roma and maintain dominance.
"Roma is desperate," Yang Hao told his team during the tactical meeting.
Analyzing their last three matches, Roma had conceded nine goals, five of which came in the second half. This might not seem excessive, but their recent 1-3 loss to Bologna was telling. Roma conceded within five minutes, panicked by the 30th minute, and let in two more goals in the 34th and 38th minutes.
"They're mentally fragile," Yang Hao emphasized. "If we stay patient, Roma will get impatient first. When that happens, all we need to do is…" Yang Hao made a snapping gesture. "Break them."
Match Start
From the first whistle, Roma came out aggressively. Within the first minute, Mancini sent a through ball to Totti, whose shot from the edge of the box was confidently saved by Čech. It was the match's first shot on target.
However, Atlético struck back almost immediately. In the third minute, Maicon surged forward on the right, passing to Robben, who cut inside and drew defenders before returning the ball to Maicon. Sprinting down the wing, Maicon whipped in a cross from the right side.
Drogba rose to head the ball across the goal, and Villa, arriving at the far post, volleyed it into the net from 9 yards out.
1-0!
The Calderón erupted. In just over three minutes, Atlético had taken the lead.
The early goal rattled Roma, who launched a counteroffensive. Totti received the ball in the attacking third and threaded a pass to Cassano, but Čech once again denied the Italians with a crucial save.
Breaking Roma's Resistance
Yang Hao's plan worked to perfection. Atlético maintained control, frustrating Roma and forcing them into mistakes. In the 25th minute, Robben and Kaka combined brilliantly in midfield, creating space for a long-range effort that grazed the crossbar.
By the 33rd minute, Roma's frustration boiled over. Their defensive errors compounded, and their midfield became disorganized.
Atlético capitalized in the 38th minute. After a quick series of passes, Kaka delivered a sublime through ball to Villa, who calmly slotted it past the goalkeeper for his second goal of the night.
2-0.
The match was effectively over, but Atlético showed no mercy.
Dominance and Precision
In the second half, Roma's desperation led to more gaps in their defense. In the 56th minute, Robben exploited space on the left flank, cutting inside and firing a low shot that ricocheted off the post. Drogba was on hand to tap in the rebound.
3-0.
Roma's players looked defeated, their heads hanging low as Atlético continued to press.
By the 70th minute, the home fans were chanting every player's name, reveling in the team's dominance. Kaka, pulling the strings from midfield, delivered another inch-perfect pass to Torres, who rounded the keeper and slotted home the fourth goal.
4-0.
A Statement Victory
The match ended with a resounding 4-0 victory for Atlético. The Calderón roared with approval, the fans knowing they had witnessed a masterclass in strategy and execution.
After the final whistle, Yang Hao gathered his players and reminded them of the importance of staying humble. "This is just one match," he said. "We're here to win it all."
The angle for this shot wasn't particularly favorable, and it wasn't exceptionally challenging to save. Most importantly, Čech remained composed and steady.
Roma continued pressing forward with their attacks, but as Yang Hao had predicted before the match, the team seemed mentally unstable.
This match mirrored their game against Bologna just three days earlier. It felt like the entire team was in chaos, with no one maintaining a clear head. They rushed forward recklessly, trying to pin Atlético down, which created the illusion of dominance. However, they produced very few genuinely threatening chances.
In the 17th minute, Atlético launched another swift counterattack. Baraja played a diagonal pass to Robben on the right. The Dutchman pushed forward with the ball, reaching the edge of Roma's penalty area on the right flank. He suddenly turned, evading Roma left-back Candela, cut inside, bypassed De Rossi, and delivered a left-footed cross.
The ball reached the edge of the box. Kaka arrived at full speed, controlled Robben's pass with his left foot, took a wide sidestep toward the left edge of the box, and created an angle to shoot past Dacourt. With his left foot, he unleashed a powerful strike.
"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!"
"Kaka! A screamer!"
"The 17th minute, and Kaka scores again!"
"What an absolutely stunning goal!"
"2–0!"
"Roma's approach tonight looks desperate, as if they've hit rock bottom and are gambling everything against Atlético."
"But the problem is, going all-in from the start—couldn't that be too hasty?"
"Did they even prepare a specific strategy to counter Atlético's lineup and tactics?"
"Clearly, they didn't!"
With two goals already secured, Atlético firmly took control of the match. They slowed the game down, calmly waiting for Roma to make mistakes.
Just two minutes after Kaka's spectacular strike, Atlético came close again. A long ball to Drogba saw him head the ball back to Baraja, who struck a long-range shot that narrowly missed the target.
Atlético had completely seized control of possession and the tempo.
Roma, desperate to claw their way back, pushed hard in midfield to win the ball and attacked down the flanks with crosses into the box. However, Atlético's center-back pairing of Lucio and Ramos managed Totti and Cassano's aerial threats with precision. Roma's insistence on exploiting the flanks became predictable.
In the 30th minute, another long pass to Drogba led to a header toward Robben. The Dutchman attempted to dribble past Candela but was forced to pass back to Baraja, who reorganized the attack.
Roma's defense quickly regrouped, seemingly stifling this offensive push.
However, Kaka received the ball, launched forward at blistering speed, and completely disrupted Roma's setup. He first bypassed Dacourt, then nutmegged Cufré at the edge of the box. Entering from the left side, Kaka coolly slotted the ball into the bottom right corner of the net.
3–0!
In just 30 minutes, Atlético had netted three goals, with Kaka scoring twice.
This match felt eerily similar to Roma's collapse against Bologna, but Atlético's attacks were far more ruthless and efficient.
If Roma were a calm and composed team, being down 0–3 at halftime would lead them to analyze their mistakes during the break, make tactical adjustments, or even bring on substitutes to salvage the game.
However, Roma made no such changes. As the second half began, they resumed their reckless attacks against Atlético.
Standing on the sidelines, Yang Hao couldn't decide whether to admire their fighting spirit or criticize their recklessness.
One thing was clear: this team had completely lost control.
A glaring example came in the 48th minute. Xabi Alonso attempted a diagonal pass to find Villa on the left, but Panucci intercepted it with a header.
The ball, however, landed in Kaka's area.
With Mancini and Dacourt nearby, neither stepped up to pressure Kaka immediately. The Brazilian star quickly controlled the ball and delivered a perfectly weighted through ball.
Villa outpaced Panucci, cutting in ahead of Cufré, and latched onto Kaka's pass. With a quick touch, Villa sent a diagonal ball behind the defense.
Drogba used his speed to burst past Dellas, entered the penalty area, and blasted a powerful shot into the net.
4–0!
In the 60th minute, Drogba received a long ball from the back, controlled it with his chest, and passed it to Kaka. The Brazilian surged forward, shrugging off Cufré as he stormed into the penalty area. His left-footed shot was blocked by goalkeeper Pelizzoli, but Villa was there for the rebound.
Villa's shot struck Cufré, only to be cleared by De Rossi's desperate sliding tackle. However, the clearance didn't go far.
Baraja intercepted the ball outside the penalty area, pushed forward, and passed it to Robben on the left side of the box.
Robben trapped the ball, cut inside past Candela, and accelerated to beat Dacourt. With his left foot, he curled a stunning shot into the top left corner of the net.
Pelizzoli, barely recovering from his previous save attempt, could only watch as the ball sailed past him.
5–0!
The avalanche was complete.
The Calderón roared with cheers as Atlético fans celebrated one of the most dominant displays of attacking football they had ever witnessed.
In the second half, Atlético maintained total control, turning the game into a one-sided exhibition as Roma were reduced to spectators in their own defeat.
Unnoticed by most, sitting in the Calderón's VIP section was Atlético's head scout, César Mendióroz. Accompanying him was a young Brazilian player.
Few had heard of this player, and fewer still had seen him play. Even Mendióroz had only learned about him from scouting reports highlighting a promising young center-back named Thiago Silva, who had been making waves in the Brazilian league.
It wasn't until Yang Hao requested the club invite the player for a trial that Mendióroz took a closer look.
After weeks of preparation, Thiago Silva had finally landed in Spain, ready to begin his journey.
Upon arriving in Madrid, Thiago Silva expressed his desire to watch the match at the Calderón Stadium in person. César Mendióroz happily obliged, arranging for the young Brazilian to experience the atmosphere firsthand.
As the match unfolded, Thiago Silva watched the Atlético stars with wide-eyed astonishment.
"Is this really the Champions League?" he wondered.
If he hadn't recognized Mancini, he might never have believed that this was the same competition revered worldwide as the pinnacle of club football.
Even more unbelievable was the way Atlético dominated Roma—a renowned Italian giant—making them look like an amateur side.
"They're incredibly strong!" Thiago Silva exclaimed, visibly shocked.
This match brought him one revelation after another:
He never imagined how fast Atlético's passing game was until he saw it live.
He had heard about Kaka's unstoppable sprints but seeing them in person was entirely different.
Drogba, dubbed LaLiga defenders' worst nightmare, was even more powerful than he could have imagined.
Then his gaze shifted to Atlético's technical area, landing on Yang Hao.
"So this is Yang Hao," he thought, noticing how youthful and charismatic the coach appeared. It was no wonder people referred to him as the Beckham of coaching.
But a creeping sense of doubt began to weigh on Thiago Silva.
"Can I truly play alongside these outstanding players?" he muttered to himself.
The thought left him dry-mouthed and short of breath. He coughed nervously, drawing Mendióroz's attention.
"Are you okay?" Mendióroz asked.
"Yes, just a little nervous," Thiago Silva admitted with a sheepish smile.
Mendióroz chuckled knowingly. "Happens to a lot of young players. Don't worry, you'll get used to it."
Thiago Silva didn't dwell on it. Though he'd occasionally cough, he had been checked out by the medical staff at Juventude, who found no issues. Reassured, he brushed it off.
Mendióroz laid out the plan:
"For now, the head coach will be busy, so I'll have you train with the reserve team to get acclimated. Once Yang Hao has time to meet you, he'll decide what's next."
Thiago Silva nodded. "Understood."
"Your trial period is set for two months," Mendióroz added. "The club will cover all your accommodations and meals. If you encounter any issues, contact me or the club's support staff."
"Got it."
With the hotel being close to the Majadahonda training center, Thiago Silva felt content with the arrangements. His only concern now was whether he could secure a spot on this extraordinary team.
In the match itself, Roma managed to earn a penalty in the 5–0 rout. Cassano went down in the box after pressure from Lucio and Maicon.
Despite the situation, with Roma trailing heavily, the referee didn't hesitate to point to the spot. Atlético made no serious protests—it wasn't worth it at 5–0.
Totti converted the penalty confidently, pulling one back for Roma. 5–1.
But just minutes later, Drogba responded. Receiving a low cross from Villa on the left, he muscled past Cufré and slotted a clinical finish past Pelizzoli for his second goal of the night. 6–1.
Yang Hao seized the opportunity to make changes, substituting both Drogba and Kaka. In their places came Messi and David Silva.
Robben switched back to the left wing, Messi took up the right, and David Silva replaced Kaka in midfield alongside Baraja.
Yang Hao's instructions were clear: focus on maintaining possession and controlling the game.
For the next ten minutes, Atlético dominated possession, leaving Roma chasing shadows.
Then in the 80th minute, Messi lit up the right flank with a burst of brilliance. After skipping past Candela and De Rossi, he outmaneuvered Dacourt and delivered a perfect pass to David Silva.
Robben drew Panucci wide, while Evra made a darting diagonal run into the box. Silva threaded a precise through ball to the Frenchman, who unleashed a powerful left-footed strike to make it 7–1.
Evra celebrated by racing toward the crowd, waving his arms to incite cheers from the Atlético faithful. The fans responded with raucous applause.
For Evra, the ovation carried a touch of humor. Every time he scored, the fans would chant, "Forward Evra! Forward Evra!"
It was a running joke among Atlético supporters, stemming from the infamous spat between Evra and assistant coach Juanma Lillo, allegedly instigated by Yang Hao himself. Yang had often lamented, "I'm not expecting gratitude, but don't go throwing me under the bus!"
From the sidelines, Yang Hao smirked as Evra soaked up the moment.
"Seven goals in 800 years, and he's acting like he's the top scorer," Yang muttered.
Atlético's 7–1 demolition of Roma sent shockwaves through European football.
With both Drogba and Kaka netting braces, the performance sparked widespread praise from media and fans alike.
The Spanish outlet Marca declared, "This match showcased Atlético's title-defending credentials with an exclamation mark!"
Despite the resounding victory, Yang Hao struck a cautious tone during the post-match press conference. He emphasized that the six-goal margin did not reflect the actual difference in quality between the two teams, attributing much of the result to disparities in their performance on the day.
"We need to forget this game and focus on the next challenge," Yang urged his players.
Elsewhere in Group D, Werder Bremen defeated PSG 2–1 at home. This left Atlético atop the group with two wins from two matches, while Werder Bremen followed in second due to an inferior goal difference. PSG sat in third, and Roma, having conceded ten goals across two matches, languished at the bottom.
With only two rounds played, the group was beginning to take shape. Atlético and Werder Bremen were well-positioned to advance, leaving only the battle for first place to be decided.
Over the weekend, Atlético faced Real Sociedad in La Liga.
Real Sociedad had yet to win a match in their first five games, with two draws and three losses leaving them rooted to the bottom of the table.
Despite the away setting, Yang Hao was confident of victory. With recent fixtures demanding a grueling schedule, and upcoming international matches looming, he rotated his lineup. Lucio, Ramos, and Pepe all rested, while Marchena returned to the starting XI.
The Spanish international would also rejoin the national team for their October training camp, and Yang Hao hoped to get him back in form.
Aragones even made a point of calling Yang Hao to inquire about Marchena's condition. In turn, Yang Hao had two conversations with Marchena before the match, and the player seemed to respond positively.
But what Yang Hao could never have anticipated happened just 43 seconds into the game. In Real Sociedad's first attack, forward Kovacevic received a pass from teammate Recarte, broke into the box, and attempted to dribble past Marchena.
The Spanish international tripped Kovacevic inside the area.
The referee immediately awarded a penalty and showed Marchena a yellow card.
Standing in the visitors' technical area, Yang Hao spread his arms wide in disbelief.
"What just happened?"
"Probably rusty after missing a few matches," Juanma Lillo offered in defense of the player.
Yang Hao had no choice but to keep his faith.
Kovacevic stepped up and calmly converted the penalty, putting Real Sociedad ahead 1–0.
Falling behind early, Atlético quickly organized a counteroffensive, but Real Sociedad, playing at home, retreated into a compact defensive block.
The early penalty disrupted Atlético's rhythm, and Real Sociedad's deep defense stifled their offensive organization.
In the first half, Atlético created two threatening chances. In the 22nd minute, Torres's shot lacked power. Later, Baraja's long-range effort struck the post.
Other than the opening blunder, Marchena performed decently overall in the first half. Yang Hao chalked up the early mistake to match rustiness after several games without action. Mistakes happen, after all.
At halftime, Yang Hao avoided mentioning the penalty. Instead, he focused on encouraging his players.
"Stay calm and focused. I believe in your ability to equalize and turn this around!"
In the second half, Atlético launched wave after wave of attacks, pinning Real Sociedad deep in their own half.
But in the 57th minute, a counterattack saw Marchena once again clash with Kovacevic.
The two players got into an argument, and Kovacevic called for a yellow card. Frustrated, Marchena began shouting at the referee, insisting he hadn't committed a foul.
Baraja and other teammates rushed over to defuse the situation, while Lucio physically dragged Marchena away, sensing that his temper was boiling over.
"You know he's trying to bait you—why take the bait?"
The incident seemed to pass, and Yang Hao hesitated, weighing whether to substitute Marchena.
Before he could act, disaster struck.
In the 59th minute, as Kovacevic received the ball with his back to goal, Marchena slid in recklessly from behind, taking down both player and ball.
Yang Hao and his coaching staff were stunned.
"What the hell was that?!"
The referee wasted no time, showing Marchena a second yellow card and then a red, sending him off.
Fuming, Marchena stormed off, muttering under his breath. He didn't even bother to speak to Yang Hao and headed straight into the tunnel.
Yang Hao was livid.
With the game in the balance, Marchena's reckless challenge had left his team in a difficult position. How was Yang Hao supposed to adjust now?
He suppressed his anger and made tactical substitutions, but the red card had already disrupted the team's focus. Despite their efforts, Atlético couldn't find an equalizer.
The match ended in a 1–0 loss for Atlético, handing Real Sociedad their first win of the season and Atlético their first defeat.
"I'm disappointed by the result, even though we remain at the top of the La Liga table," Yang Hao stated during the post-match press conference.
After six matches, Atlético led the standings with 15 points, narrowly ahead of Barcelona on goal difference.
But Yang Hao made no effort to hide his frustration with the loss.
"Nearly everyone on the team worked hard to deliver their best. Unfortunately, two critical moments completely derailed us due to factors beyond my control."
"I expect my team to follow the path I've laid out, but tonight, several uncontrollable elements forced us to pay the price."
Yang Hao paused, exhaling deeply as the tension in the room mounted.
His anger was evident, and the weight of his words hinted at serious discontent. Without naming names, he addressed the issue head-on.
"For tonight's match, I am extremely, extremely, extremely dissatisfied with certain behavior—particularly the attitude displayed toward the game."
He emphasized his point with three emphatic "extremelys," making his displeasure crystal clear.
Though he avoided naming the individual responsible, everyone knew it was Marchena.
"I need some time to cool off," Yang Hao concluded abruptly, leaving the press conference early.
The incident quickly became the talk of the football world. Media outlets and fans alike speculated on the fallout from Yang Hao's blunt remarks.
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