Chapter 92
This allowed Atlético to understand how its players' salaries ranked relative to their peers in the same position and similar level. Besides external comparisons, the club also conducted internal evaluations—assessing each player's contribution to determine their appropriate salary tier.
However, the European football market was constantly evolving. Most fans focused only on what happened on the pitch and were unaware of these behind-the-scenes dynamics. Yet within the industry, changes occurred daily.
Take the recent example of the Abu Dhabi consortium buying Valencia. By signing four key Atlético players, Valencia offered salaries far above the usual rates for players of their caliber.
David Villa, Lúcio, and Petr Čech all signed contracts worth €8 million annually.
What kind of salary level is that?
Currently, the highest-paid players in Europe earn €9 million annually, with most top stars earning between €8.5 million and €9 million. These rates were almost universally accepted as the ceiling for top salaries.
For instance, Real Madrid had offered €9 million to lure Michael Ballack. Both Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimović, who renewed their contracts this summer, were also earning €9 million.
Many praised Arsène Wenger, saying:
"What a manager! Zlatan and Ronaldo are not causing trouble—he's handling them so well!"
But consider this: when Zlatan was at Juventus, he earned only €1.7 million annually. During the bidding war between Inter Milan and Real Madrid, Inter offered him just €5 million before taxes, which would have been significantly lower after accounting for Italy's tax rate.
Now, however, Real Madrid was paying him top-tier wages.
Cause trouble? Try finding another league or club willing to match that salary!
Leaving La Liga would mean taking a pay cut, as no other league was offering these rates.
In Yang Hao's previous life, Zlatan moved from Inter to Barcelona with only a slight salary increase. When he later transferred to AC Milan, the official story was a minor decrease in wages, but with performance bonuses, his overall income remained consistent. However, Milan had acquired Zlatan for a bargain price.
Today, no club would offer such a deal while also matching his Real Madrid-level salary.
Real Madrid was careful not to mistreat its players. Salaries were the result of negotiations and mutual agreements. Given that the club paid well and offered a solid structure, players like Zlatan had little reason to complain.
At Barcelona, Ronaldinho earned €9 million, while Eto'o and Henry made €8.7 million. Real Madrid and Barcelona's competitive salaries inevitably caused ripples across La Liga. For instance, when Carlos Tévez joined Barcelona, his salary was €6 million, raising the wages of teammates like Xavi and Puyol.
While it was tempting to blame Valencia for driving up salaries, the truth was that Real Madrid and Barcelona had already set the tone.
Real Madrid's aggressive offer for Ballack had sent shockwaves through the market, but from a business perspective, it paid off. Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan's strong performances validated their wages, while their agents, Jorge Mendes and Mino Raiola, capitalized on the opportunity to secure even better deals for their clients.
Meanwhile, Valencia's strategy was different. As a newly wealthy club, it had to offer high salaries to attract talent. Additionally, the team relied more on fixed wages to stabilize its squad, unlike established giants like Real Madrid or Barcelona, which had more balanced pay structures.
Before this surge in salaries, Atlético's wages were reasonable. But with these changes, they were starting to look low by comparison.
This was why Yang Hao wanted to renegotiate contracts with Kaká and Messi—it wasn't just a spur-of-the-moment idea.
Previously, Fernando Vázquez had prepared a comprehensive salary report, which Yang Hao reviewed and agreed with. While non-playing staff salaries were manageable, player wages had to be tailored to each individual. Players were the club's core assets.
This was also why clubs couldn't renew too many contracts at once—it was an enormous logistical and financial challenge.
Take Kaká, for instance. As a mature and stable player at the peak of his career, Kaká was already earning €6.5 million in base salary. With commercial endorsements, he had been the highest-earning footballer in Europe for two consecutive years.
Atlético's salary structure for Kaká featured a 70-30 split between fixed and performance-based pay, a widely accepted ratio in the industry.
________________________________________
Yang Hao's desire to extend and adjust the contracts of Kaká and Messi was also a response to recent market trends. Both players were performing exceptionally well, and Messi's rapid development posed an additional concern—clubs with deep pockets might attempt to trigger his €300 million release clause.
This wasn't just paranoia. While Messi was deeply loyal to Atlético, his dazzling performances were attracting global attention. Renewing his contract wasn't just about security; it was also about rewarding him appropriately and acknowledging his value.
In the fiercely competitive world of football, talent like Messi and Kaká was priceless. Yang Hao was determined to ensure that Atlético remained the best environment for them to thrive—on and off the pitch.
However, there's one crucial factor to consider: Kaká is only 25 years old. He likely has one or two more contract renewals in his career, which presents Atlético Madrid with a dilemma: how much should they offer?
If they offer too much now and fail to increase revenue later, the next renewal could become problematic. But if they offer too little, the global football community—where top players' salaries are more or less public knowledge—will take notice.
When discussing salary adjustments, additional revenue from sponsorships doesn't always apply, as those are separate agreements and involve compromises. From a certain perspective, negotiating contract renewals requires clubs to strike a balance between being financially prudent and maintaining goodwill with players. Agents play a critical role in these discussions.
For Fernando Torres, the situation is quite similar to Kaká's. Both are currently Atlético's highest earners.
But what about Messi?
For rapidly improving young players, salary structures are often designed to motivate them, using pay as a way to fuel ambition. In contrast, older veterans like Baraja are typically given fixed salaries to retain their loyalty.
This is why people often say that a well-structured salary system significantly affects player morale. And it's true.
Take Real Madrid as an example:
Ballack is now struggling to secure regular playing time while earning €9 million annually. With Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimović as the team's pillars, how could the club justify paying them any less? Without comparable salaries, would these two superstars have the motivation to perform at their peak?
Just as clubs conduct research before deciding on salary offers, agents and players stay equally informed. They too gather data to negotiate effectively.
Atlético is fortunate to have a clear and balanced approach.
Yang Hao has always been of the mindset:
"What the club can and should pay, we will pay, and with sincerity. But players must, in return, give their best on the pitch and maintain professionalism."
When Atlético sold players like Petr Čech, Lúcio, David Villa, and Antonio López, they cleared significant space in their wage budget. Since then, the club has been steadily renegotiating contracts with players.
However, the contracts for the most high-profile players have yet to be finalized. The reason is simple: every detail must be meticulously calculated, taking into account all possible factors.
Yang Hao's stance is clear—Atlético should benchmark against Real Madrid.
Although Atlético's revenue still trails slightly behind Real Madrid's, the move to the new stadium has significantly boosted matchday income, far exceeding initial projections. Originally, breaking the €100 million mark was the target, but now it seems they'll surpass that with ease.
Every match at the Emirates Stadium, with its 76,500-seat capacity, has been sold out. This level of attendance is astounding.
Given these circumstances, Yang Hao is confident that Atlético's overall revenue will increase substantially, with the club potentially breaking the €400 million barrier this season.
With this financial foundation, why shouldn't Atlético offer their stars salaries comparable to Real Madrid's?
Atlético's Advantage
Yang Hao has also noticed something unique: compared to Real Madrid or Barcelona, Atlético runs a much leaner operation.
Both Real and Barça have numerous "legacy hires"—staff members who either contributed significantly to the club in the past, were hired through connections, or serve unclear roles. These individuals inflate operational costs, especially in membership-based clubs where certain expenditures remain opaque.
In contrast, since Atlético's restructuring, the club has kept such inefficiencies to a minimum.
For Yang Hao, this round of salary restructuring is critical. It's about more than just extending contracts for Kaká, Torres, Messi, Iniesta, and Xabi Alonso—it represents Atlético's transformation from a fast-growing club into a stable footballing powerhouse.
The implications of these renewals will shape the club's operations and development for the next two to three years, if not longer.
________________________________________
Messi's Situation
As Messi's star has risen, Jorge Messi (his father) has left his job to focus entirely on his son's career. Messi has even purchased land near Yang Hao's home to build a villa, though for now, his family still resides in their previous residence.
Unlike Yang Hao's previous life, where Messi's family faced significant financial struggles—his brother quit football early to become a chef, and Jorge Messi juggled multiple jobs to make ends meet—the situation now is entirely different.
Atlético has ensured Messi's family is well-supported. His brother continues playing in lower-tier leagues, while Jorge Messi focuses solely on managing Lionel's affairs. The family's improved circumstances have allowed them to rebuild their home in Argentina, earning respect and admiration in their hometown.
Yang Hao, while maintaining close ties, has adjusted his approach. He avoids frequent visits to Messi's home, not wanting to give the impression of favoritism, especially as Messi matures and becomes more independent. Maintaining a healthy professional distance ensures mutual respect and trust.
When Yang Hao called Jorge Messi to discuss Lionel's contract, the latter arrived promptly.
"Jorge, you've put on some weight," Yang Hao teased warmly as they greeted each other.
The conversation began with casual small talk about family matters, including Lionel's partner Antonela and other personal topics.
Though Jorge Messi is technically his son's agent, much of Lionel's off-field affairs—such as sponsorship deals and charity work—are managed by Atlético's marketing team. Lionel has even established a foundation to help children in Argentina, with the club's support.
During the discussion, Yang Hao got straight to the point:
"The club plans to give Lionel a pay raise."
"Really?" Jorge Messi's surprise and delight were evident.
Yang Hao noticed the reaction. The Messi family had likely heard rumors of contract renewals for Kaká and Torres, both offered €9 million annually, the highest salaries at Atlético. While they hadn't pressed the issue, it was clear they were waiting patiently for their turn.
Matters of sentiment aside, financial fairness is always a priority in football negotiations.
Regarding Messi's salary, Yang Hao and the management proposed an increase from €5 million to €7.5 million annually.
When Yang Hao revealed this to Jorge Messi, he closely observed his reaction. Jorge paused for a moment, then lit up with delight, clearly satisfied with the proposed raise.
This reassured Yang Hao. The salary adjustment was evidently well-received.
However, Yang Hao also emphasized fairness:
"Jorge, you know Leo is only 20 years old. When designing his salary package, we can't immediately offer something exorbitantly high. First, it would disrupt the club's salary structure."
Jorge nodded repeatedly. If someone else had said this, he might have questioned it, but coming from Yang Hao, he trusted it completely.
"Second, I hope you understand this from a human perspective. We need to leave room for Leo to grow further, to maintain his motivation. In the coming years, as he performs even better, we'll certainly renegotiate. If he achieves outstanding results, we wouldn't hesitate to offer him a top-tier salary—one comparable to or even exceeding the highest in football."
This served as a direct promise from Yang Hao to Jorge Messi, who was highly satisfied.
"You know, Yang, both Leo and I trust you deeply. Whatever you decide, we'll go along with it."
"That wouldn't be fair," Yang Hao said with a smile. This time, he genuinely wanted to hear Jorge's thoughts.
"In addition, I've spoken to our marketing department. Given Leo's current form, he'll be a priority for our promotional efforts. We're confident that in the next two to three years, we can help him achieve over €20 million in annual commercial revenue."
Jorge's eyes widened in disbelief.
"That much?"
"As long as Leo maintains or improves on his current performance, believe me, that figure is conservative—it could be even higher."
Atlético couldn't yet justify raising Messi's salary to the same level as Kaká or Torres, as they needed to reserve room for future increases. While Messi's current trajectory is remarkable, he hasn't yet matched Kaká's global standing.
Additionally, Didier Drogba's salary was also set to rise to €7.5 million annually. Arjen Robben's was set at €6.5 million, while Andrés Iniesta, Xabi Alonso, and Dani Alves were at €5 million.
In the broader context of European football, €5 million is already a significant salary.
For context, only about 30 players across Europe earn more than €5 million annually. Atlético now counts several players in that elite bracket.
Here are some comparisons:
Liverpool's Steven Gerrard earns €7.5 million. Real Madrid's Raúl earns approximately €6.5 million. Manchester United's Rio Ferdinand earns €6 million. Roma's Francesco Totti earns €5.5 million. Bayern Munich, despite their reputation, reportedly offered Luca Toni €5.2 million when they signed him—a club-record salary.
In the Premier League, known for its high wages, Chelsea's Frank Lampard earns €8.1 million annually, and Andriy Shevchenko earns €7.8 million. Even Deco's salary at Chelsea is €7 million.
This demonstrates that Atlético's proposed raises are substantial, reflecting the club's sincerity and determination to support its players.
During a recent high-level meeting, Yang Hao emphasized that if players work tirelessly on the pitch to achieve outstanding results, the club must maximize its commercial revenue to support them. Greater revenue enables higher salaries for players, staff, and everyone in the organization.
Beyond generating income, another critical task for Atlético's finance department is tax optimization for its players—a common practice among European clubs.
From shadow contracts to offshore accounts in low-tax jurisdictions, European football has long engaged in these practices. While constantly evolving, the essence remains unchanged.
In this area, English clubs are among the most inventive, employing a variety of sophisticated schemes. In Spain, due to the Beckham Law, the tax rate is comparatively low, which helps players retain more of their earnings.
For instance, Kaká recently signed two sponsorship deals in Thailand worth approximately €6 million. Atlético, which holds 50% of Kaká's image rights, ensures that the €3 million belonging to Kaká incurs minimal taxation.
The process involves complex financial structures, with funds routed through countries like Ireland, Malta, Madeira, and even the Caribbean—common tax havens.
________________________________________
October 23, Madrid, Emirates Stadium
In the third round of the Champions League group stage, Atlético hosted Slavia Prague.
This was a mismatch in terms of strength. Within five minutes, Arjen Robben bypassed two defenders on the left and delivered a cross, which Kaká converted with a precise shot from the penalty area to make it 1–0.
Atlético continued to dominate, creating numerous chances. Patrice Evra delivered two pinpoint crosses, but Drogba narrowly missed both headers.
In the 23rd minute, Robben received a brilliant pass from Iniesta, entered the penalty area, and scored to double the lead, 2–0.
By the 29th minute, Messi and Kaká combined beautifully on the right flank. Kaká delivered a diagonal pass to Dani Alves, whose cross found Drogba for a clinical header, 3–0.
Before halftime, Messi switched to the left side, intercepted a defender's pass, dribbled past the goalkeeper, and slotted home into an empty net, 4–0.
In the second half, just one minute in, Kaká set up Robben, who scored his second goal with a low strike, 5–0.
By the 50th minute, Robben and Messi combined again on the left. Messi cut into the box and scored with the outside of his right foot for his second goal, 6–0.
Three minutes later, Drogba, Robben, Messi, and Iniesta orchestrated a series of passes. Kaká received the ball near the penalty spot and calmly finished, also completing a brace, 7–0.
Desperate to match his teammates, Drogba chased every opportunity but was repeatedly denied. He missed a sitter in the 72nd minute, smashing the ball into the side netting.
The Ivorian was visibly frustrated, drawing laughter and encouragement from his teammates.
In the 82nd minute, Modrić received a pass from Iniesta, dribbled to the right side of the penalty area, and unleashed a powerful shot that found the net. 8–0!
Drogba was visibly frustrated, standing near the goal with his arms outstretched as if saying, "I was in position! Why didn't you pass it to me?"
Shortly after, substitute Luis Suárez had a chance of his own, breaking into the right side of the box and firing a shot that ricocheted off the post. Drogba looked utterly exasperated, almost on the verge of losing his composure.
Finally, in the 89th minute, Modrić and Suárez completed a one-two on the right flank. Suárez broke into the box and, despite being in a prime scoring position, unselfishly crossed the ball. Drogba rushed in at the far post and tapped it into the empty net.
The Ivorian striker was ecstatic. He dashed out of the penalty box, sliding on his knees to leave a dramatic three-line trail on the pitch, arms spread wide to bask in the thunderous applause from the Atlético fans. He had finally scored his brace!
9–0!
Atlético annihilated Slavia Prague in a historic Champions League rout.
Post-Match Reactions
The European football world was left stunned by Atlético's emphatic victory.
Back-to-back thrashings—first in La Liga and now in the Champions League—left opponents and fans alike wondering: does Atlético leave anyone standing?
________________________________________
October 27 – Valencia City Stadium
La Liga, Matchday 9: Atlético Madrid faced bottom-placed Levante in an away match.
To everyone's surprise, Levante started aggressively, attempting to seize an early lead. In the 6th minute, Rigano got a header on target, but Neuer made a comfortable save.
Neuer's performances had become something of a rollercoaster, ranging from brilliant to baffling. As Yang Hao put it, "Young goalkeepers are often inconsistent. You just have to get used to it."
From the 10th minute onward, Atlético took control, creating chance after chance.
In the 17th minute, Xabi Alonso delivered a diagonal pass to the right flank. Messi picked it up, dribbled into the penalty area, and fired a shot that was parried by goalkeeper Storari. Torres, unmarked, easily pounced on the rebound to slot it home. 1–0!
With the lead, Atlético ramped up their high pressing and aggressive play.
In the 24th minute, Messi intercepted the ball from defender Alfaro, surged into the box, and coolly chipped the ball over the keeper for a second goal. 2–0!
The young Argentine was in scintillating form. Since news of his impending contract renewal surfaced, Messi had been delivering incredible performances, excelling not just in attack but also in pressing and defensive contributions.
Just seven minutes later, Messi broke past a defender again and delivered a precise through ball to Torres. El Niño timed his run perfectly, broke free from the offside trap, and calmly slotted home. 3–0!
Atlético continued to press for more goals throughout the first half but couldn't convert further chances.
In the second half, it took just three minutes for Kaká to deliver a lethal through ball. Torres slipped behind the defense and finished clinically to complete his hat-trick. 4–0!
Three minutes later, Kaká carried the ball forward and sent a diagonal pass to Messi, who entered the box, stopped abruptly, and used his left foot to curl the ball into the far corner. 5–0!
Messi's finishing had become increasingly precise as his physicality improved. Every shot seemed to target the corners, leaving defenders and goalkeepers helpless.
________________________________________
A Slip in Defense
Perhaps emboldened by their dominant attacking display, Atlético's defense grew complacent. In the 82nd minute, Ramos fouled Rigano in the box, conceding a penalty.
Rigano converted from the spot, reducing the deficit to 5–1.
Yang Hao appeared visibly frustrated on the sidelines, but he acknowledged the difficulty of defending against Rigano. Standing at 1.91 meters, the Italian striker towered over Ramos, often forcing the Spanish defender to resort to physical challenges.
Nonetheless, Atlético comfortably secured a 5–1 victory in an away match that saw them maintain their strong form.
________________________________________
Elsewhere in La Liga
Real Madrid hosted Deportivo La Coruña at the Bernabéu. Just one minute into the match, Van Nistelrooy scored for Deportivo, putting Los Blancos on the back foot.
Real struggled until the 78th minute, when Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up to equalize. In the 89th minute, substitute Robinho netted the winner to complete a 2–1 comeback.
Van Nistelrooy's performance garnered widespread praise. Since being discarded by Real Madrid, he had made it a habit to shine whenever facing his former club, leaving a lasting impression.
Barcelona secured a 2–0 home victory over Almería, with goals from Henry and Eto'o.
However, the biggest surprises of the round came in two matches:
Zaragoza 3–1 Villarreal: The Yellow Submarine, considered title contenders, were humbled by relegation-threatened Zaragoza. Sevilla 3–0 Valencia: The match was hailed as a triumph of football purity. While Valencia is seen as a product of financial might, Sevilla relies heavily on developing young talent. Despite Valencia dominating much of the match, they fell to a counterattacking masterclass from Sevilla, with Kanouté opening the scoring and two late goals sealing the victory.
After the match, Valencia manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed disappointment with his team's performance, citing a need for greater consistency.
Ancelotti summarized the state of La Liga with a telling remark:
"The competition is relentless—brutally intense."
Midweek Action: La Liga, Matchday 10
On the first day of Matchday 10, Villarreal defeated Levante 3–0 at home, bouncing back from their previous loss. Meanwhile, Real Madrid dominated Valencia in a 5–2 away win.
Carlo Ancelotti's Valencia suffered their second consecutive defeat, primarily due to Raúl Albiol being sent off with a red card in the 39th minute when the score was tied 1–1. Reduced to ten men, Valencia's defense crumbled in the second half, conceding goal after goal.
Ancelotti's coaching tenure has become synonymous with occasional heavy defeats, almost like a trademark. His teams don't seem to miss the chance to collapse spectacularly from time to time.
Barcelona also failed to impress, managing only a 1–1 away draw against Valladolid.
Mourinho's Barcelona is struggling with a significant problem this season: poor away form. While they've been solid at home, their away matches have been filled with stumbles, earning the label of "away game phobia."
Mourinho scoffed at the criticism but didn't deny the team's struggles on the road.
________________________________________
Atlético vs. Sevilla: A Rollercoaster Encounter
At the Vicente Calderón, Atlético Madrid hosted Sevilla in what turned out to be an unexpected showdown. To Yang Hao's surprise, Sevilla opted for an all-out attacking approach against his side. Even more baffling, Atlético's so-called "Three Stooges" in defense had a collective meltdown.
The match began positively for Atlético. In just the 2nd minute, Drogba's shot was saved by Sevilla's keeper, but Messi collected the rebound near the goal line and played it back for Kaká to score.
A dream start!
However, in the 16th minute, Pepe fouled Luis Fabiano, granting Sevilla a dangerous free-kick. Fabiano converted with a stunning strike, leveling the score at 1–1.
Just two minutes later, Atlético regained the lead. Messi's shot was parried, but Drogba pounced on the rebound to score from close range.
But right before halftime, calamity struck again. A cross from Sevilla's right flank found Luis Fabiano contesting a header with Sergio Ramos. In an unfortunate twist, Ramos inadvertently headed the ball into his own net.
2–2 at halftime!
Yang Hao was at a loss for words during the break. He couldn't bring himself to criticize the players—Pepe's foul and Ramos's own goal were accidental, yet undeniably costly. Instead, he kept his instructions simple: "No more mistakes in the second half."
The second half began with Sevilla tightening their defense in an Italian-style catenaccio setup, forcing Atlético into a tough grind.
The tension boiled over as the match grew more physical, with Atlético pushing forward relentlessly.
Finally, in the 68th minute, Di María delivered a diagonal cross from the left. Messi controlled it with his chest and executed a brilliant volley from a tight angle, restoring Atlético's lead at 3–2.
In the 83rd minute, Di María struck again with a left-side breakthrough and cut-back, setting up David Silva for a fourth goal. 4–2!
However, as the match neared its conclusion, Arteta sent a precise through ball into the box. Neuer charged out to intercept but was beaten by Fabiano, who calmly slotted into an empty net.
4–3!
Yang Hao sat on the bench, exasperated.
The "Three Stooges" had returned with another collective debacle.
"Really? First no goals, then three gifts in one game? Are you trying to ruin me?" he thought, frustrated.
No matter how prolific the attack, such defensive lapses were unsustainable. Yang Hao joked to himself about tearing his defenders apart in sheer rage.
________________________________________
Post-Match Press Conference
"I don't believe there's a crisis in our defense," Yang Hao stated with a beaming smile at the press conference, starkly contrasting with the fiery reprimand he'd delivered in the locker room minutes earlier.
"Analyzing the three goals we conceded, there were individual mistakes, yes, but it's unfair to pin the blame entirely on the players."
Yang Hao reiterated that conceding goals is part of the game and assured reporters that he had full confidence in his defenders.
When asked about fan dissatisfaction, he dismissed the notion entirely. "I didn't hear any complaints from our supporters. In fact, we won, and the fans seemed quite pleased."
Yang Hao firmly denied the existence of a defensive crisis.
________________________________________
Media Reaction
Despite Yang Hao's assurances, skepticism lingered.
Marca highlighted the inconsistency of Atlético's defense, particularly the pairing of Pepe and Ramos. "Every time we see Ramos and Pepe start together, we can't help but think: is Atlético doomed to concede tonight? And now, they've added Neuer to the mix..."
The departure of defensive stalwarts like Lucio and Čech last summer left gaps that are still being filled.
AS gleefully stoked the flames, predicting Atlético's downfall. "Atlético Madrid will end the season empty-handed, undone by their shaky defense. Meanwhile, Real Madrid will rise to claim glory."
Atlético, however, ignored the noise and continued focusing on their internal matters.
________________________________________
Messi's Renewal
Shortly after the match, Atlético officially announced that they had reached an agreement to extend Lionel Messi's contract.
While the club didn't release specifics, leaks suggested that Messi's release clause had been set at an astronomical €500 million.
"I swear, the next time I let all three of them play together, I'll…"
As Yang Hao stormed down the hallway of the Majadahonda training facility, his voice was filled with frustration.
Midway through his sentence, he suddenly stopped. Turning his head, he saw Juanma Lillo, Guardiola, Pochettino, and the rest of the staff—all watching him with amused anticipation, as if ready to record his rant for posterity.
Yang Hao froze, his right index finger still pointing mid-air. After an awkward cough, he muttered, "...nothing."
"Seriously?" Lillo sighed dramatically, clearly disappointed.
"That's not fair! You can't start and then leave us hanging!" Guardiola chimed in.
Pochettino and the others followed behind, grinning mischievously, their expressions practically begging for more drama.
Yang Hao shook his head in exasperation. "The world is truly degenerating. People have no decency anymore!"
These assistants were supposed to help ease his burdens, not revel in his misery. What use were they? Someone, drag them out and… well, he'd think of something.
________________________________________
The group eventually made their way to Yang Hao's office, where they closed the door and continued their conversation.
"You know, this situation really is partly your fault," Lillo pointed out. "You've gone so overboard with your offensive tactics that your defense is getting exploited. What can you do?"
He wasn't wrong. Atlético's attacking setup left their backline vulnerable, especially with both fullbacks constantly pushing up. This often left just two center-backs to fend for themselves—a daring gamble for any team.
"Remember how you used to mock Real Madrid back in the day?" Lillo teased, imitating Yang Hao's past criticisms with uncanny accuracy. "'All offense, no defense! Of course, they're conceding goals left and right. We'd never play like that!'"
The room erupted in laughter.
Yang Hao could only sigh. These people had no loyalty.
"Okay, but you can't compare this Atlético to that Madrid team," Guardiola added.
Finally, someone with some sense, Yang Hao thought.
But Guardiola continued with a smirk, "Because that would be a grave insult to Madrid!"
Laughter erupted again, leaving Yang Hao with a look of utter despair.
________________________________________
Analyzing the "Three Stooges" Defense
After the jokes died down, the group returned to serious matters.
"The data speaks for itself," Lillo said. "When those three are on the field together, our goals-conceded rate spikes significantly. Thiago Silva, on the other hand, is much more reliable."
Everyone nodded in agreement.
Yang Hao's decision to take a chance on Thiago Silva years ago had been a masterstroke. Not only did Atlético help him overcome a serious medical condition, but Silva repaid their faith with consistent and dependable performances.
While Pepe and Ramos had their strengths—physicality and tenacity—they lacked Silva's steadiness. The Brazilian defender wasn't as flashy or aggressive but exuded calm under pressure.
"This was obvious last season," Lillo continued. "Silva and Lucio's partnership was key to our treble win, especially with Čech behind them. Now, though…"
The current situation was starkly different. Čech had been replaced by Neuer, a talented but inexperienced goalkeeper prone to risky decisions. Silva was often partnered with Pepe or Ramos, whose volatile styles created opportunities for mistakes.
Even Diego Godín, another defensive option, was not yet the reliable force he would later become.
In less challenging matches, like their Champions League game against Slavia Prague, the defense seemed solid. But against high-caliber opponents, cracks became glaringly apparent.
________________________________________
A Tactical Dilemma
Lillo highlighted how opponents in La Liga were rapidly adapting to exploit Atlético's weaknesses.
"They've figured us out," he explained. "They know we push high and leave space behind. So they target us with long balls and quick counterattacks.
"And let's be honest," he added, "our players aren't the most patient or composed under pressure."
This last point struck a chord. Impatience and inexperience were common traits among younger players, and Atlético's squad was filled with them.
The group debated possible solutions, with Yang Hao emphasizing the importance of improving high pressing and counter-pressing.
"If we can disrupt their long-ball attempts or pressure them into poor passes, we'll neutralize a lot of these threats," he said.
This idea mirrored some of Arsenal's past defensive struggles under Wenger. A lack of coordinated pressing in midfield often left their defenders exposed during transitions, leading to frequent counterattacks.
Atlético's current issues felt eerily similar.
________________________________________
A Critical Week Ahead
The team's next match would be against Villarreal, a club known for their fluid, attack-minded style. Pellegrini's side was sure to test Atlético's defensive frailties once again.
"Every team in La Liga is getting smarter," Lillo observed. "They're all gunning for our weak points. And with the level of coaching talent in this league, it's no surprise."
Indeed, the wealth of managerial expertise in La Liga—paired with a fiercely competitive environment—made every match a tactical chess game.
For Atlético, the challenge was balancing their potent attack with a more stable defense. Yang Hao knew this would be a recurring theme throughout the season, but he was determined to find a solution.
"It's simple," he concluded. "We press harder, disrupt their play, and win the ball back before they can exploit us. No more excuses."
________________________________________
As the team prepared for Villarreal, Yang Hao reflected on the recent defensive lapses. He couldn't afford another game like the one against Sevilla. The fans might love high-scoring thrillers, but for the manager, it was a nerve-wracking ordeal.
One thing was clear—he couldn't rely solely on his "Three Stooges" in the backline. Balancing offense and defense would be the key to maintaining Atlético's momentum in the title race.
Atlético Madrid's offense was far superior to Arsenal's, especially with both full-backs pressing forward. This made the entire midfield and attack come alive, as evidenced by their series of high-scoring matches. However, the cost was evident: insufficient pressure in counter-pressing and poor defensive positioning. Against strong teams like Sevilla—and with Ramos, Pepe, and Neuer all having off days—the defensive line was easily breached.
If even two out of the three stayed mentally sharp, breaking through Atlético's defense would already be a tough challenge. Yang Hao saw this more clearly than anyone else. The media and fans outside, however, had a harder time grasping the situation. Most either blamed individual player mistakes or criticized Yang Hao's overly aggressive tactics for leaving the defense exposed.
"Thiago Silva must start. The other two darlings can rotate," Yang Hao decided.
Not just any team could breach Atlético's defense. The current defensive lineup was far stronger than before, but opponents had also improved significantly. For example, Sevilla fielded strikers like Kanouté and Fabiano—proven European talents. The next match against Villarreal would feature players like Giuseppe Rossi, Agüero, and Nihat, all top-class attackers.
The competition was intense—unreasonably so. It wasn't just Atlético facing these challenges. Mourinho's Barcelona consistently stumbled in away games, and Real Madrid's next match was a tough away fixture against Sevilla.
"I've got a feeling Madrid might lose," Yang Hao said with a sly smile.
"Why?" the staff asked, feeling the tension.
Yang Hao shrugged mysteriously. "Can't say."
It was nothing more than intuition, but his confidence made everyone laugh.
Real Madrid's trip to Sevilla was a big test, just as Atlético's home match against Villarreal and Valencia's away game against Mallorca presented their own challenges. This was La Liga now: every match felt like a potential upset, with the stakes impossibly high.
________________________________________
November 4, Madrid. Estadio Metropolitano.
La Liga, Round 11: Atlético Madrid vs. Villarreal.
The match began with intensity, and by the 7th minute:
"Atlético take the corner."
"Players are jostling for position in the box. Let's see who wins this one."
"Villarreal's Alou Diarra heads the ball clear!"
"The ball lands outside the box—Xabi Alonso plays it left to Evra."
"Evra whips it back into the box—"
"Chance!"
"Ramos with the header—"
"GOAL!"
"Ramos! Ramos scores with a powerful header to give Atlético the lead!"
"1–0!"
"Just seven minutes in, Ramos breaks the deadlock with a brilliant header."
"This young center-back continues to live in the spotlight. Last week, he scored an own goal; today, he redeems himself with a crucial goal for Atlético."
"Ramos' performances are always a mix of brilliance and mistakes, leaving fans torn between love and frustration. But as Yang Hao said, he's only 21—we need to give him time."
With Ramos setting the tone, Atlético pushed forward with relentless pressure. The 70,000 fans in attendance roared as the team created chance after chance.
In the 24th minute, Iniesta delivered a piercing through ball. Robben darted into the left side of the penalty area, evading Fuentes, and curled a left-footed shot into the far corner.
"2–0!"
"Robben doubles Atlético's lead!"
"Atlético are playing with a confidence and fluidity that's simply stunning."
"Look at the replay—Iniesta spots the gap and delivers a perfectly timed pass. Robben does the rest with clinical precision."
By the 31st minute, Villarreal struck back. Lucas Biglia launched a long ball, and Agüero timed his run perfectly to beat the offside trap. Neuer, once again rushing out recklessly, was chipped by Agüero.
"1–2."
Yang Hao shook his head on the sideline, exasperated.
"Villarreal's midfield is sharp; their players are excellent at quick passing," commented Juanma Lillo.
Despite Atlético's attempts to counter-press, Villarreal's players managed to bypass them with one-touch passes, showcasing their own technical prowess.
Shortly after, during a defensive corner, Neuer made amends. He judged the ball's trajectory perfectly and claimed it with a commanding leap, drawing applause from Yang Hao.
Players like Neuer and Ramos had distinct strengths but were also prone to mistakes. Yang Hao knew that embracing their bold style also meant accepting their occasional errors.
________________________________________
Before Halftime:
Lionel Messi made a breathtaking run to the byline, cutting into the penalty area and drawing defenders before delivering a precise cutback. Kaká was waiting and calmly slotted the ball into the far corner.
"3–1!"
________________________________________
Second Half:
Just two minutes after the restart, Messi broke into the box again. His cross hit Cani's hand, but the referee waved play on. Messi regained possession and passed back to Kaká, who floated a delicate chip into the area. Torres met it with a powerful header.
"4–1!"
In the dying moments of the game, Villarreal's Cani delivered a pinpoint diagonal pass. Giuseppe Rossi controlled the ball on the left side of the box, sidestepped Ramos, and fired a low shot past Neuer.
"2–4!"
________________________________________
Post-Match Analysis:
Atlético claimed another commanding victory, but the defensive lapses remained a concern. Yang Hao's mixed emotions were evident on the sideline. Despite the win, the vulnerabilities in defense were glaring.
The media, fans, and even Yang Hao himself knew that the "Three Stooges" at the back—Ramos, Pepe, and Neuer—were both exhilarating and exasperating. Their potential was immense, but so were their mistakes.
Atlético's relentless offense continued to set La Liga ablaze, but the defensive question lingered: could this team outscore its way to a championship, or would its Achilles' heel prove fatal?
Atlético Madrid secured a 4–2 home victory over Villarreal with goals from Ramos, Robben, Kaká, and Torres. As the final whistle blew, the Metropolitano Stadium erupted in cheers. Fans were ecstatic, and in the Calderón section of the stands, supporters held up cards to form a giant "43."
"What's going on?" Yang Hao asked, surprised.
"It's 43 matches unbeaten—tying Arsenal's record," Parales replied with a grin.
Yang Hao paused, visibly caught off guard. He hadn't paid much attention to this particular stat, and no one had mentioned it before.
"We've gone that many matches unbeaten?"
"Thirty-three last season, plus ten this season, including tonight," Parales explained.
Yang Hao couldn't help but laugh. With so much to manage daily, he hadn't kept track of the streak. Without the fans' TIFO display, he might not have realized it at all.
In Yang Hao's previous timeline, Arsenal famously went 49 matches unbeaten to claim the Premier League title. However, in this timeline, Wenger's team hadn't achieved that feat. Arsenal had lost a match during the 2003/04 season, leaving their record at 43 unbeaten matches without a title-winning campaign.
Last season, Atlético only suffered one loss, falling to Wenger's Real Madrid at the Bernabéu. Since then, they had remained undefeated throughout the season. Now, ten matches into the current campaign, they had tied Arsenal's 43-match unbeaten record.
Yang Hao found the milestone pleasantly surprising.
After the match, Atlético's players, led by Torres, made their way around the stands to thank the fans. Yang Hao, meanwhile, headed toward the visiting team's technical area.
"Congratulations," Pellegrini offered.
"Almost got blown out by your team," Yang Hao responded wryly.
Pellegrini understood what Yang Hao meant. "It's because you're playing so aggressively. You commit so many players forward in attack, leaving your defense too exposed."
After a pause, Pellegrini added with a knowing smile, "But I suspect you're fully aware of this—maybe even doing it on purpose."
"No, not on purpose. It just suits our style," Yang Hao replied.
Pellegrini understood the subtext. Atlético's current strength meant that few teams posed a real threat to them. Moreover, as their defensive players continued to improve, their overall defensive stability would also increase.
For instance, Thiago Silva had performed well in this match, anchoring the defense. Given Atlético's expansive, attacking style, the only reliable way to stop them seemed to be through ultra-defensive tactics. But how many teams could simultaneously defend resolutely and counterattack effectively against Atlético?
Even Pellegrini, known for valuing defensive solidity, had fielded two defensive midfielders, Alou Diarra and Lucas Biglia. Yet his team still conceded four goals, highlighting the overwhelming firepower Atlético possessed.
"Oh, by the way, congratulations on tying Wenger's record," Pellegrini added with a smile.
"Thank you."
"Keep it up. Break the record, and while you're at it, maybe even go after AC Milan's streak," Pellegrini joked.
AC Milan's 58-match unbeaten record seemed a near-impossible feat to surpass. Yang Hao simply smiled. "We'll take it as it comes."
________________________________________
Yang Hao and Atlético didn't dwell too much on the milestone, but in Spanish football circles, it caused a stir.
With 43 matches unbeaten, Atlético now held the second-longest undefeated streak in European top-flight history, trailing only the legendary 58-match streak of AC Milan. That streak had been a hallmark of the Dutch trio's reign at Milan, marked by dominance and a championship-winning unbeaten season.
Spanish media didn't push Atlético to aim for Milan's record but instead celebrated the team's remarkable consistency and dominance over the past two seasons. The 43-match streak was seen as the ultimate testament to their stability and strength. It was also the longest undefeated run in Spanish football history, underscoring Atlético's rise to prominence.
In the past two seasons, Atlético had twice achieved the treble, shocking the European football world. Given their dominance, a 43-match unbeaten run seemed almost unsurprising to some fans.
"Is this really worth making a fuss over?" one Atlético fan commented online.
Spanish media offered praise, encouraging Atlético to extend their unbeaten streak. As Marca pointed out, breaking Milan's record would indeed be a historic achievement.
However, when the news reached Italy, it sparked intense discussion among Italian media and fans.
In recent years, Serie A had declined in prominence, often ridiculed as a talent factory for La Liga. For example, Aquilani had been thriving at Valencia, and clubs were reportedly eyeing Roma's De Rossi. These developments fueled frustration and even insecurity among Italian fans.
The pride of Italian football was rooted in its glorious past, particularly during the Piccola Coppa del Mondo (Little World Cup) era. Among their crowning achievements was AC Milan's 58-match unbeaten streak—a record steeped in the legend of the Dutch trio.
To many Italians, that record symbolized an untouchable legacy. The idea of another club challenging it seemed almost sacrilegious.
With Atlético still 15 matches away from Milan's record, Italian media were quick to dismiss comparisons.
"Given the fierce competition in La Liga this season, it's almost impossible for Atlético to remain unbeaten," Gazzetta dello Sport argued.
"Atlético may be strong, but suggesting they could match Milan's golden era is an insult to Serie A's history," Corriere dello Sport proclaimed.
"Break the 58-match record?" scoffed La Repubblica. "That's a pipe dream."
"It would be wiser for Yang Hao to focus on improving Atlético's defense," the paper added. "With their shaky backline, who knows when they'll falter?"
For Italians, the 58-match streak remained football's ultimate unbreakable record. Fans in Milan, Turin, and Rome—for once—stood united in their skepticism.
________________________________________
Yang Hao's intuition proved correct.
Real Madrid suffered a 0–2 defeat in their away match against Sevilla.
Seydou Keita and Luis Fabiano scored two goals within three minutes, leaving Real Madrid reeling. Sevilla then settled into a solid defensive strategy, relying on counterattacks.
Real Madrid applied relentless pressure, creating chance after chance and constantly threatening Sevilla's goal. Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Diego López, who had spent years as Casillas' backup, delivered an extraordinary performance, making numerous saves to keep a clean sheet.
This seemed to exacerbate a recurring problem for Real Madrid: every time they faced former players, those players seemed to have something extra to prove and often produced outstanding performances against them.
In the end, Wenger's team succumbed to a 0–2 defeat away from home.
Meanwhile, Valencia, with Morientes scoring twice, secured a 2–0 away victory over Real Mallorca.
The most surprising result of the round came from Levante. Despite Unai Emery's Almería performing well this season, they suffered a crushing 0–3 defeat away to Levante.
This match was a stark example of the fierce competition in La Liga. Up until this round, there had been only one draw in the season, and Levante seized their opportunity to secure a decisive 3–0 home victory.
Barcelona also delivered an impressive performance at home, defeating Real Betis 3–0 with Ronaldinho scoring twice and Henry adding another.
After 11 rounds, Atlético Madrid, with one match in hand, climbed to the top of the league for the first time this season with 28 points, surpassing Real Madrid, who had 27 points.
This marked Atlético's return to the summit for the first time in half a year.
Real Madrid followed in second, while Villarreal, Valencia, Barcelona, and Deportivo La Coruña trailed closely behind.
________________________________________
Brÿne, near the North Sea, boasts a beautiful beach. Despite its short summers and long, cold winters, it is one of Norway's wealthiest agricultural regions.
The town has a population of just six or seven thousand people, leading a quiet yet busy life. Football is the town's most beloved sport, particularly the rivalry with Viking FK.
Viking, based in nearby Stavanger, has won several domestic league titles, but its fierce rivalry with Brÿne stems from reasons long forgotten—or perhaps no longer relevant.
Football, after all, thrives on passion and identity, and a deep sense of belonging makes the game all the more thrilling.
Every weekend, the town's residents take their children to Brÿne Football Club, which houses the town's sole football field and its best youth academy.
Life in the town can be tough. The cold sea winds blow year-round, and the air carries a salty, fishy scent that outsiders find hard to endure. Yet, remarkably, many who leave Brÿne—whether as carpenters, university graduates, professional footballers in the Premier League, or even national champions—choose to return to this small town for its simplicity and stability.
Brÿne's coach, Berntsen, is one of those who returned. So is his friend Alf and his wife, who run a farm in town.
Every weekend, Alf sends his seven-year-old son, Erling, to train with Berntsen's youth team.
Erling is a skinny and short boy, one of just 40 children in the program, who often practice and play together across age groups without strict structure.
It's said that Alf also teaches him basic football skills at home, and Erling shows promise despite his physical disadvantage. Still, the town's limited resources mean every bit of advice counts.
After practice, Berntsen often pulls Alf aside to offer the same piece of advice:
"Feed him well, old friend. He's too skinny and short."
Alf always laughs and assures him he will, then takes Erling to their favorite local restaurant, Wenhua House, a Chinese eatery at a street corner near the Brÿne training ground.
This is Erling's favorite spot. He knows the owner well, often rushing in, picking a seat, and eagerly ordering his favorite dishes.
"Dad, I don't want to wear my Arsenal jersey anymore," Erling announced one day after ordering.
"Why not?" Alf asked, surprised.
"I want to wear Atlético Madrid's jersey."
Alf chuckled. "Why's that?"
"I heard Atlético is the best team in the world now."
"That's true," Alf agreed.
"They've won lots of trophies, play amazing football, and score so many goals."
"And?"
"I want to wear their jersey, score lots of goals, and play for Atlético someday. I want to win all the trophies," Erling declared with conviction.
Alf burst out laughing at his son's innocent ambition. "And what about avenging me?" he teased.
Erling hesitated. He had initially chosen Arsenal's jersey because he'd heard they were Manchester United's archrivals, and he wanted to avenge his father's past grievances with United.
"Can't I do both if I join Atlético?" he asked, wide-eyed.
"Maybe. You could face Manchester United in the Champions League."
"Then I'll play in the Champions League!" Erling exclaimed excitedly.
"You really like Atlético now?" Alf asked.
"Yes, I'll only play for the best team and win the most trophies," Erling said firmly.
At that moment, Wenhua House's owner, Wang Huizhu, arrived with their dishes. Overhearing the conversation, she smiled and chimed in, "You're aiming for Atlético?"
"Yes, what do you think, Wang?" Erling asked eagerly.
Wang chuckled, glancing at Alf before answering, "That's a great idea. Atlético is the strongest team now."
"You think so too?" Erling asked, lighting up.
"They even have a Chinese coach," Wang added with a grin.
"Wait, aren't you Norwegian?"
"I'm Norwegian-Chinese, so that makes me Chinese too. Atlético's coach is Yang Hao, a fellow Chinese. We're all connected." Wang's tone was playful but sincere.
"Wow, do you know him?"
"Of course! All overseas Chinese know each other," Wang said with mock seriousness.
"Can you call him?" Erling asked eagerly.
"What for?"
"Tell him there's a football genius waiting for his call here in Brÿne!"
Wang burst out laughing. "You're too young now. Are you planning to move to Madrid already?"
"Hmm, yeah, I guess it's too early," Erling admitted, momentarily deflated.
"You should focus on training hard and head to Madrid when you grow up."
"That makes sense. I trust you, Wang, but you must call him. Otherwise, he won't know me."
"Alright, I'll call him tonight." Wang Huizhu smiled and urged them to eat while the food was hot before bidding farewell to Erling.
"Dad, don't forget to buy me an Atlético jersey. From now on, I'm an Atlético fan."
"Oh, sure."
"Don't forget!"
"Got it, now eat up."
________________________________________
November 7, UEFA Champions League Group Stage Round 4
Atlético Madrid faced Slavia Prague away.
Despite being the visitors, Atlético took control of the game from the very start.
In the first half, Dani Alves scored with a long-range strike, breaking the deadlock to make it 1–0.
After halftime, Didier Drogba and Kaká each found the back of the net, while Alves added a second goal in the 87th minute.
Atlético won 4–0 away, securing their fourth consecutive group-stage victory and advancing as group leaders with two games to spare.
This feat made Atlético the first team this season to qualify for the knockout rounds as group winners.
Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Sevilla also achieved four wins each, causing a stir across European football as all four Spanish teams topped their groups.
Many were reminded of La Liga's dominance in recent years and began speculating whether Spanish clubs would continue to rule European football this year.
________________________________________
La Liga Round 12
Barcelona defeated Getafe 2–0 away.
Valencia triumphed 3–0 at home against Murcia, with David Villa scoring twice and Lucio adding another.
Atlético Madrid narrowly won 1–0 against Almería, thanks to Kaká's decisive goal.
Real Madrid secured a thrilling 4–3 home victory over Mallorca, while Villarreal edged Sevilla 3–2.
With Round 12 complete, Spanish media began to buzz once again about Atlético's unbeaten streak.
44 games!
This surpassed Arsenal's record, making it the second-longest unbeaten streak in European top-flight history, just behind AC Milan's legendary 58 games.
Initially, many Italian outlets had mocked Atlético, claiming the Colchoneros would never surpass Milan's record.
Now, with Atlético still winning, those claims seemed increasingly hollow.
"Almería's fierce resistance at home was broken by Kaká's decisive strike, sealing another crucial victory for Atlético," one Spanish outlet noted.
"While Milan's run ended at 58, Atlético remains in motion, currently at 44 and counting!"
Online, Atlético fans rallied around the team. They formed a virtual "Colchoneros Army," pledging to extend the team's glory beyond the pitch and dominate the internet too.
________________________________________
Three days after Round 12, Atlético faced Granada away in the Copa del Rey Round of 32 first leg.
Atlético earned a narrow 2–1 victory, with goals from Luis Suárez and Ángel Di María.
Suárez's goal came from a Luka Modrić assist, while Di María scored thanks to a perfect pass from Toni Kroos. Both players impressed during the game.
For Kroos, who typically played in the Segunda División and only appeared as a substitute in La Liga, this Copa del Rey start was a rare opportunity, and he made the most of it.
________________________________________
After the Copa del Rey, Yang Hao and his coaching staff headed to the Las Rozas Training Center to prepare Spain's national team for matches against Sweden and Northern Ireland.
Both games held little suspense, as Spain had already qualified, allowing Yang Hao to focus on developing younger players.
Veterans like Morientes and Capdevila were given starting roles, alongside other fringe players.
In a 3–0 victory against Sweden at the Santiago Bernabéu, Capdevila shone. He scored the opening goal from a brilliant pass by Cesc Fàbregas, assisted Andrés Iniesta's strike, and later set up Sergio Ramos for another.
This performance stunned Yang Hao, who had primarily rotated the lineup to rest key players.
Four days later, Spain hosted Northern Ireland, again fielding a heavily rotated squad while maintaining their tactical framework.
Spain controlled possession throughout the match, giving Northern Ireland no chances.
In the 52nd minute, Iniesta assisted Xavi for the opener, followed by a goal from Pepe later in the game.
Spain secured a comfortable 2–0 victory at home.
In these two matches, both Ramos and Pepe—the "unpredictable duo" from Atlético's defense—scored for the national team, delighting Spanish media.
As Marca put it: "These two players are both lovable and infuriating. They bring energy and drive but also make frequent errors, leaving fans conflicted."
Of the two, Pepe seemed slightly more reliable, while Ramos, as Marca noted, "remains the most unpredictable."
________________________________________
After Spain's win against Northern Ireland, France Football unveiled the 35-player shortlist for the Ballon d'Or.
This year marked a significant change for the Ballon d'Or, expanding from 52 European media outlets to 96 global ones to enhance its international influence.
This move aligned with a broader trend in European football.
Following La Liga's wildly successful globalization efforts, which generated massive profits, other leagues, including the Premier League, began pursuing similar strategies.
The expanded voting pool brought more attention to the Ballon d'Or, with the 35 players on the shortlist guaranteed to receive votes.
Atlético led all clubs with nine players in both the 50-man and 35-man lists, the highest representation of any team in Europe.
The final top three and the winner would be announced at 11:00 AM on December 2.
However, most observers had already made their predictions.
Kaká was considered the frontrunner, with Messi almost certain to be in the top three.
The only real uncertainty was whether Atlético could sweep the podium.
To do so, either Fernando Torres or Didier Drogba would need to outperform Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid in the voting.
Given Drogba's focus on cup competitions and Torres' dominance in the league, either could make a compelling case.
With Atlético's treble-winning season as their foundation, both players had a strong chance of breaking into the top three.
After the conclusion of the Euro 2008 qualifiers, UEFA announced a major adjustment.
Due to the Club World Cup, the final group-stage matches for Atlético Madrid (at home against Steaua Bucharest) and Slavia Prague (hosting Lyon) were rescheduled to December 4, a week earlier than the other groups.
Simultaneously, the Spanish FA confirmed another change: Atlético's postponed Round 2 La Liga match against Mallorca would be delayed again, with the date to be determined. This game was initially rescheduled for December 4, but the Champions League changes necessitated further adjustments.
It wasn't until this announcement that many fans and media realized that Atlético, currently leading La Liga, still had a game in hand. With a one-point lead over Real Madrid and a home match pending, it was assumed they could secure at least a draw, if not more.
________________________________________
La Liga Round 13
Barcelona secured a 3–0 home victory over Recreativo de Huelva, with goals from Gabriel Milito, Bojan, and Carlos Tévez.
Real Madrid defeated Murcia 2–0 away, with goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Joaquín.
Atlético faced Valladolid at home.
Just two minutes in, Fernando Torres laid the ball off in the box, allowing Kaká to burst into the left side of the area and score with a low shot, giving Atlético an early 1–0 lead.
The first half ended without further goals, but in the second half, the floodgates opened.
In the 50th minute, Marcelo delivered a long diagonal pass to the far post. Lionel Messi controlled the ball, eluded his marker, and curled a shot into the far corner for 2–0.
Six minutes later, Xabi Alonso's free-kick from the right found an unmarked Messi at the back post. The Argentine struck a left-footed volley into the net, completing his brace.
In the 72nd minute, Dani Alves delivered a diagonal pass from the right. Torres, beating the offside trap, controlled the ball with his chest before firing a powerful volley to seal the score at 4–0.
The match ended with a dominant 4–0 victory for Atlético, with Messi's brace and goals from Kaká and Torres.
Friends, if you enjoyed the novel, you can subscribe to my Patreon channel.
Read 16 Chapters In Advance: patreon.com/Canserbero10