Chapter 17:

Chapter 17:

November 7, Calderón Stadium, Madrid.

The second leg of the UEFA Cup second-round knockout stage saw Atlético Madrid hosting Danish side HFK Helveg.

The visitors arrived prepared for a fight to the death but also resolute to defend at all costs.

Head coach John Jensen set up his team in a defensive 5-4-1 formation, making it clear they intended to park the bus.

Atlético, true to their identity, lined up in their signature 4-2-3-1 formation. However, they struggled to break through the Danish defense in the first half, leaving the scoreline unchanged.

During halftime, Yang Hao made adjustments, emphasizing better utilization of possession.

The second half began with Atlético launching an immediate offensive.

Just three minutes in, Pandiani broke the deadlock with a clinical finish.

Five minutes later, the Uruguayan striker doubled his tally, giving Atlético full control of the game.

What followed was a flood of goals:

61st minute: Pandiani completed his hat trick.

64th minute: Xabi Alonso added a stunning long-range strike.

75th minute: Pandiani capped off a sensational performance with his fourth goal.

Final score: 5–0. Atlético advanced to the third round with an aggregate score of 6–1.

In the UEFA draw that followed, Atlético was paired with Croatian side Osijek in the third round.

When the draw was announced, a name suddenly popped into Yang Hao's mind:

Luka Modrić.

The future Ballon d'Or-winning Croatian midfield maestro... where was he now?

Yang Hao knew he had to investigate further.

However, a potential complication loomed: Croatia was not yet part of the EU, so Modrić would count as a non-EU player.

No matter. Finding the talent was the priority.

November 11: Clash of Rising Stars

On Singles' Day, Yang Hao led Atlético into a fierce contest against Mallorca.

Under head coach Luis Aragonés, Mallorca had been the second-hottest team in La Liga behind Atlético.

Their schedule mirrored Atlético's in intensity. From Round 6 to Round 8, Mallorca faced Deportivo, Barcelona, and Real Madrid, earning a draw against Deportivo and wins over both Barça and Real Madrid.

In the previous round, they extended their unbeaten streak to five matches with a 1–0 away win against Real Sociedad, climbing to seventh in the league.

Two of La Liga's in-form teams clashed in Round 10.

But the schedule heavily favored Mallorca.

While Atlético had a midweek UEFA Cup match, Mallorca enjoyed home-field advantage and extra rest. In the end, Aragonés and his squad capitalized on the situation.

Mallorca struck twice in the first half with counterattacking goals from Eto'o and Luque.

Atlético mounted a spirited comeback in the second half, with Adriano pulling one back, but it wasn't enough.

Final score: Mallorca 2–1 Atlético.

Shifting Dynamics

The rest of Round 10 saw mixed results for La Liga's top teams:

Deportivo defeated Zaragoza 2–0.

Real Madrid thrashed Las Palmas 5–1.

Valencia drew 2–2 with Rayo Vallecano.

Barcelona suffered a shocking 2–1 home loss to Villarreal.

Despite the loss, Atlético remained atop the table with 22 points, but their lead shrank.

Real Madrid climbed to second with 19 points, followed by Deportivo, Mallorca, and Valencia.

Bouncing Back

Amid speculation that Atlético might collapse under pressure, the team silenced doubters in Round 11.

In an away match against Real Sociedad, Atlético bounced back with a resounding performance:

12th minute: Vicente assisted Deco for the opening goal.

First half: Xabi Alonso's corner kick set up Lucio to score against his former club.

Second half: Joaquín and Vicente added goals, sealing a 4–1 victory.

At the post-match press conference, Yang Hao dismissed the media's criticism with a sharp retort:

"We're used to hearing about this 'Atlético collapse theory.' It doesn't affect us. In fact, the louder you shout, the more motivated we get."

Translation: "Keep talking. We'll keep proving you wrong."

Elsewhere in Round 11:

Mallorca's unbeaten run ended with a 1–0 loss to Las Palmas, a surprising defeat to a newly promoted side.

Deportivo and Valencia settled for draws, while Real Madrid edged Villarreal 1–0.

Barcelona continued their downward spiral, losing 3–1 to Zaragoza, dropping to 12th in the league.

November Midweek: UEFA Cup Domination

In the first leg of the UEFA Cup third-round tie, Atlético hosted Osijek.

Over 90 minutes, they dismantled their Croatian opponents in a 5–1 rout.

What stood out wasn't just the scoreline but the diversity of scorers: five different players contributed goals, showcasing Atlético's offensive versatility.

Their goals came from set pieces, long shots, penalty-area poaching, and intricate buildup play.

Rising Challenges in La Liga

Round 12:

Mallorca defeated Villarreal 2–1, but not without controversy. Villarreal received two red cards early in the match, yet still managed to score first.

Barcelona edged Osasuna 2–0, thanks to a Kluivert brace.

Valencia, Deportivo, and Real Madrid all secured wins.

Atlético obliterated Las Palmas 5–1 at home.

Adriano and Vicente both scored braces, while Fernando Torres, coming on as a late substitute, netted in the 89th minute.

Round 13:

Valencia drew 0–0 with Valladolid.

Deportivo beat Espanyol 2–0.

Real Madrid secured a tight 3–2 win over Osasuna.

Barcelona managed a 3–3 draw against Celta Vigo.

Atlético endured a frustrating 0–0 stalemate with Villarreal.

After a grueling 90-minute battle, neither team could find the net.

The Tightening Race

With 13 rounds complete:

Atlético: 29 points

Real Madrid: 28 points

Valencia: 25 points

Deportivo: 24 points

While Atlético remained league leaders, their advantage had narrowed considerably.

The Spanish press reignited talks of an Atlético collapse, pointing to their dual commitments in La Liga and Europe.

Pundits argued that injuries and fatigue were inevitable as the season progressed.

One glaring example was Joaquín's injury, which left Atlético reliant on veteran Aguilera to cover the right flank—a substitution that proved less than ideal.

As December loomed, questions swirled around whether Yang Hao's squad could maintain their form, or if the cracks in their depth would lead to an eventual breakdown.

Yang Hao fielded a reserve lineup for Atlético Madrid's trip to Croatia.

After a grueling journey, Atlético suffered a 2–0 defeat away to Osijek.

However, thanks to their commanding 5–1 victory in the first leg, Atlético advanced to the UEFA Cup Round of 16 with a 5–3 aggregate score.

Their next opponent, to be faced in February, would be Inter Milan.

...…

Back in Madrid: Zaragoza Stalemate

Returning from Croatia, Yang Hao immediately turned his focus to the match against Zaragoza.

Even before kickoff, bad news struck Atlético. Lucio suffered an injury during training, joining Mauricio Pochettino on the sidelines. This forced Yang Hao to pair Carvalho with Santi as the central defenders.

Despite these setbacks, the greater challenge lay elsewhere.

Yang Hao had noticed that La Liga teams were increasingly finding ways to counter Atlético's tactics—a natural evolution in competitive football.

The problem wasn't their strategy but the packed schedule.

With back-to-back matches across two competitions, Yang Hao hardly had time to tweak or refine his approach. The team often had to stick with the same game plan from match to match without targeted tactical adjustments.

At home against Zaragoza, Pandiani gave Atlético the lead. However, Zaragoza managed to equalize, and the match ended in a disappointing 1–1 draw.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid cruised to a 3–0 victory over Celta Vigo, overtaking Atlético in the standings.

After 14 rounds, Atlético sat in second place with 30 points (9 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses).

Real Madrid moved into first with 31 points, sparking celebrations among their supporters.

A Media Frenzy

Pro-Real Madrid outlet AS declared:

"Unlike Atlético's dwindling form, Real Madrid is reaching their peak."

They boldly predicted:

"The La Liga title will undoubtedly belong to Real Madrid this season!"

Head coach Vicente del Bosque echoed their confidence:

"We will not relinquish the top spot again."

Three Days Later: Embarrassment for Real Madrid

On paper, everything was going Madrid's way.

Then came their Copa del Rey second-round match against Toledo, a fourth-tier Segunda División B side.

Just five minutes into the game, Toledo stunned Madrid by scoring. By the 14th minute, the underdogs had doubled their lead.

Though Savio managed to pull one back, Real Madrid suffered an unthinkable 2–1 defeat, crashing out of the tournament.

Despite resting stars like Zidane, Raúl, and Figo, Del Bosque fielded a lineup featuring Morientes, Savio, and Solari—players more than capable of overcoming lower-tier opposition.

The result sent shockwaves through the football world.

Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid stayed focused, securing a 1–0 victory over Salamanca in their Copa del Rey match, thanks to a goal from the recently recovered Adriano.

When Yang Hao heard about Real Madrid's embarrassing defeat, he couldn't resist a wry comment:

"Ah, such fine tradition!"

Back to La Liga: Rounds 15 and 16

After the cup matches, La Liga resumed with two rounds of fixtures in quick succession:

Round 15: Atlético defeated Osasuna 2–0 away.

Round 16: In a harder-fought match, they edged Celta Vigo 4–2 at home.

While the scoreline against Celta suggested dominance, the match itself was far closer.

Real Madrid Stays Ahead

Real Madrid, undeterred by their Copa del Rey embarrassment, continued their strong league form:

2–1 away win against Espanyol

3–1 home victory over Rayo Vallecano

At the end of Round 16, La Liga paused for the Christmas and winter break.

Winter Break: Reflections and Regrouping

As players departed for a much-needed rest, the Atlético coaching staff stayed hard at work.

Yang Hao opened a midseason meeting with a clear message:

"In my mind, we should be entering the winter break as league leaders."

This sentiment was shared by everyone at the club, from players to staff.

Leading the league for so long, only to be overtaken by Real Madrid, left a bitter taste.

"We're not here to assign blame," Yang Hao stressed. "We're here to solve problems."

Earlier, Yang Hao had asked his staff to outline the challenges they faced this season, as well as factors contributing to their current standing.

Assessing the Situation

Had Atlético performed well?

At the start of the season, anyone predicting that Atlético would sit second in La Liga at the winter break would have been laughed at.

Yet, after spending so much time atop the table, the team couldn't shake the frustration of being overtaken.

What's the solution?

Fight to reclaim the top spot.

Yang Hao began the discussion with his own assessment:

"We don't have any catastrophic issues, but we have many small ones."

This, he explained, was why they had led for so long but ultimately lost ground.

"Our tactics are becoming too familiar to opponents," he continued.

Yang Hao's analysis wasn't baseless. His conversations with Juanma Lillo and the data analysis team had confirmed it:

"At first, everyone saw us as relegation candidates. Even when we led the league, no one took us seriously. But as time went on, they started paying attention."

"On one hand, this shows respect for our abilities. On the other hand, it brings bigger challenges. Teams like Villarreal are focusing entirely on defending against us, making things harder."

Everyone nodded in agreement.

The Need for Tactical Evolution

After navigating a grueling schedule, many teams had adopted defensive counterattacks—or even outright parking the bus—against Atlético.

While Atlético still managed to win thanks to their quality, this approach wasn't sustainable long-term.

Juanma Lillo weighed in:

"I think our midfield is still lacking in organization, control, and creativity."

This long-standing issue had become more apparent as the season progressed.

The Gravesen-Baraja duo had excelled early in the season, particularly during the toughest stretches. Their defensive work, pressing, and coverage were top-notch.

However, they lacked the playmaking ability to control the tempo or orchestrate attacks.

Yang Hao had hoped Gravesen could evolve into a deep-lying playmaker, but the Dane's instincts and habits proved hard to change. He often surged forward, leaving gaps behind.

In Yang Hao's system, the deep-lying midfielder didn't need to be glued to the backline like Busquets at Barcelona.

However, quick reading of the game and the ability to recover position were non-negotiable—a test of football IQ.

Gravesen, while hardworking and skilled, struggled in this area.

In truth, even during his time at Everton in Yang Hao's previous life, Gravesen had never been a true defensive midfielder.

"In the second half of the season, I plan to give Cambiasso and Xabi Alonso more playing time," Yang Hao announced confidently during the coaching staff meeting.

He believed deeply in the abilities and potential of these two midfielders.

"Once they fully develop their potential, Gravesen will find it hard to compete with them."

The rest of the staff nodded in agreement.

Focus on Kaká's Development

Yang Hao then shifted the discussion to Kaká, addressing fitness coach Ortega:

"How's Kaká doing lately?"

Ortega, renowned for his expertise in fitness and body conditioning, responded:

"Kaká has reached a height of 1.86 meters. We recently conducted a thorough medical checkup to confirm that his physical growth has stabilized. Moving forward, we'll focus on strengthening his body."

Kaká's growth spurt over the past few years had been dramatic, leaving him lanky and in need of muscle development. Ortega emphasized the need for a scientific, gradual approach to physical training that aligned with Kaká's technical style.

Yang Hao nodded thoughtfully:

"Make sure the training is scientific and tailored. We need to consider his technical characteristics at all times."

The Potential of the Christmas Tree Formation

Yang Hao had been pondering an idea. With players like Deco, Adriano, Pandiani, Cambiasso, Xabi Alonso, and even Kaká, Atlético might have the tools to implement Carlo Ancelotti's famed Christmas Tree Formation (4-3-2-1).

"Ancelotti perfected this system to maximize Kaká's unique skill set," Yang Hao mused. "I don't need years of trial and error. I already know how to bring out the best in Kaká."

While the Christmas Tree was a defensive counter-attacking system best suited for high-intensity matches or tournaments like the Champions League, Yang Hao believed Atlético could adapt it when necessary.

Injury Management and Progress in Science

Injuries were another topic of concern.

Compared to other teams, Atlético had suffered relatively few injuries so far, and those that occurred were mostly minor. However, Yang Hao wanted the club to remain vigilant and continue improving in this area.

Atlético's investment in a state-of-the-art sports science lab, combined with hiring experts in medicine and sports science, was beginning to show results. With consistent development and better training methodologies, the benefits would only grow over time.

Strengthening the Current 4-2-3-1 Formation

Yang Hao emphasized that while experimentation was valuable, the 4-2-3-1 system remained Atlético's core identity.

"Leagues are won with offense; cups are won with defense," Yang Hao reminded his team.

In a league as long and grueling as La Liga, where opponents had ample time to adapt and devise strategies, attacking football was essential.

"If you want three points, you must attack. Defending might secure a draw, but that's only one point," he declared.

Yang Hao outlined key priorities for enhancing the 4-2-3-1 system:

Improving wing play – Leveraging the pace and creativity of players like Joaquín and Vicente.

Activating Deco more effectively – Allowing the Brazilian to operate as a true playmaker.

Faster transitions – Enhancing the team's ability to switch between attack and defense.

"Draft a concrete plan for these adjustments," he instructed Juanma Lillo, who accepted the task with determination.

A Special Mission: Finding Luka Modrić

Yang Hao had one final request for Mendióro, the head of Atlético's scouting department.

"I need you to go to Zadar, Croatia, and find someone for me."

Zadar, a coastal city in western Croatia, had become home to many refugees during the Balkan Wars. Luka Modrić and his family had fled there during that time and never left.

According to Yang Hao's knowledge from Modrić's autobiography:

Modrić's father, a soldier stationed near Zadar, encouraged the family to stay.

Young Luka showed exceptional promise in Zadar's youth academy, prompting his parents to prioritize his football development.

Yang Hao added:

"A friend of mine discovered him at the Vodice youth tournament. He's technically gifted, smart on the ball, and has a distinct knack for outside-of-the-foot passes. He even had a trial at Hajduk Split but wasn't kept on. I want you to bring him to Atlético."

The room fell silent.

Yang Hao's scouting intuition, often accompanied by his mysterious "friend" anecdotes, had become something of a legend at Atlético.

Hajduk Split, one of Croatia's top clubs, had indeed produced stars like Tudor. However, Luka Modrić was overlooked, and Yang Hao saw this as an opportunity to recruit a future Ballon d'Or winner.

Mendióro chuckled:

"Another one of your famous friends?"

The room erupted in laughter, but Mendióro and his team took the mission seriously. They had learned to trust Yang Hao's instincts, no matter how unusual his methods seemed.

The Bigger Picture: Upgrading Atlético's Arsenal

Yang Hao was fully aware of Atlético's limitations as they approached the second half of the season:

Other teams were adapting to their tactics.

Depth issues in key positions, particularly when players like Joaquín were injured.

To stay ahead in the title race and remain competitive in Europe, Atlético's tactics needed an upgrade.

With Lillo working on tactical enhancements, Ortega focusing on physical conditioning, and the scouting team searching for talent like Modrić, Yang Hao aimed to position Atlético not just as title contenders but as one of Europe's most forward-thinking clubs.

Since the players recommended by Yang Hao, such as Kaká, Adriano, and Aurelio, had consistently delivered impressive performances with clear potential, his judgment was highly regarded. Even if Yang Hao refused to disclose the identity of his mysterious "friend," the staff had no choice but to accept it without further questioning.

Still, Mendióro repeatedly expressed a desire to meet this enigmatic friend and learn from their insights.

"I can't exactly tell them I made it all up, can I?" Yang Hao thought. Thus, he kept evading the topic.

Yang Hao's Growing Reputation

With Atlético spending a significant portion of the season at the top of La Liga, Yang Hao's reputation as a "genius coach" spread rapidly across Europe and even garnered attention worldwide.

The buzz was particularly strong in the Middle Eastern market, an area Atlético sought to develop aggressively.

During the winter break, the team planned to hold a training camp in Dubai, which included a friendly match against Bayern Munich.

This fixture was the result of coordinated efforts by Atlético and its sponsors: Emirates Airlines, the team's jersey sponsor, and Audi, which also sponsored Bayern Munich. Both sponsors were interested in expanding their presence in the Middle East, while Bayern sought greater exposure in the region.

For Yang Hao, this wasn't just a training camp—it was a business trip.

Why Yang Hao?

During the flight to Dubai on Emirates Airlines, Yang Hao sat in first class alongside Atlético's marketing director, Carlos Leó.

As they sipped drinks, Yang Hao finally voiced his confusion:

"Carlos, why me?"

A polite flight attendant approached with a warm smile, offering Yang Hao a fresh cup of hot tea.

"Thank you," Yang Hao replied politely, flashing a brief but sincere smile.

Carlos Leó, seated nearby, couldn't help but notice the disparity in service. The attendants seemed far less enthusiastic about him, even though they sat in the same section.

"Same cabin, same status—why such preferential treatment?" Carlos muttered under his breath before turning back to Yang Hao.

"You're asking why it's you? Just take a look at our squad. Who else can we send?"

"What's wrong with the players?" Yang Hao asked, genuinely puzzled.

Carlos sighed:

"Well, Adriano is one of our most popular players right now, but his appearance… let's just say it doesn't scream 'marketability.'"

Yang Hao chuckled, seeing the logic in Carlos's point.

"And Deco? He's fantastic on the pitch, but with that perpetually grim face? Sponsors would run for the hills!"

Yang Hao nodded, amused. He had always thought Deco was a victim of his own expression. If Deco had Kaká's charm or Beckham's looks, he could have been a global sensation.

Carlos continued:

"Gravesen? Not suitable. Baraja? Decent looks, but midfielders don't get much recognition. Vicente and Joaquín still need to establish themselves. And Lucio?" Carlos waved dismissively. "Not a chance."

It was clear: Atlético's roster lacked an "idol-like" superstar.

"We're all about the hard workers!" Yang Hao joked.

Potential Future Faces of Atlético

Yang Hao proposed a solution:

"We could groom Torres or Kaká. Both have the looks and potential to be marketable."

Carlos agreed, adding:

"Exactly. Torres is still a bit rough around the edges, but once he develops, we can bring in stylists to transform him into a marketable star. Same with Kaká. Oh, and don't forget Xabi Alonso—he's got potential, too."

Carlos paused, then sighed:

"And Cambiasso? What was he thinking? He had that artsy vibe with his long hair, but now that he's shaved his head, he's ruined his image."

Yang Hao burst out laughing. To him, Cambiasso's shaved head symbolized his transformation into a more formidable player.

"Honestly, Yang," Carlos admitted, "if we had a better option, I wouldn't make you do this. But right now, you're the best face for the club—known, respected, and with a strong image."

Flattery or not, Yang Hao couldn't deny that Carlos was skilled at buttering people up.

"We've even discussed promoting your image further on the commercial side," Carlos revealed. "You're perfect for it, especially after that whole thing with Miss Spain."

Yang Hao instantly turned serious.

"Let's not spread rumors. We're just friends."

Carlos nearly spat out his drink in laughter.

"Just friends? The tabloids caught you two checking into a hotel and not coming out until the morning. If that's 'just friends,' I'd love to have your version of friendship."

Though Yang Hao never confirmed or denied the alleged relationship, the media had speculated that their breakup stemmed from conflicting schedules.

"Anyway," Carlos smirked, "you'll be in Dubai at the same time as all those luxury events. Big brands, beach shows, models... who knows? You might meet someone you like."

Yang Hao simply chuckled, deciding to let the topic slide.

Men, indeed.

The Dubai Campaign Begins

As the plane descended toward Dubai's glittering skyline, Yang Hao pondered the opportunities ahead. This wasn't just about football—it was a chance to strengthen Atlético's presence on the global stage.

And while Carlos handled the logistics and sponsors, Yang Hao knew his role wasn't limited to shaking hands and posing for photos.

It was about proving that Atlético Madrid wasn't just a club—it was a brand.

Emirates Airlines rolled out the red carpet for Yang Hao and Carlos Leó, arranging a luxury transfer to the iconic Burj Al Arab, which had been open for just over a year.

Despite having written about the hotel extensively in his past life and seen countless photos, Yang Hao was still awestruck when stepping into its opulent interiors.

Luxury at Its Peak

The sheer grandeur of the Burj Al Arab left a lasting impression.

"Gold has always struck me as a flashy, almost gaudy color," Yang Hao thought, "but here, it feels... trendy."

Every inch of the hotel—from the lobby to the elevators, suites, restaurants, and sky bar—radiated gold in ways that felt more artistic than ostentatious.

"It's like being smothered by wealth, but somehow, I don't mind."

The craftsmanship reminded him of Norman Foster's work, such as the iconic gold bowl-shaped stadium for the 2022 Qatar World Cup. That, too, was luxurious yet artistic—designed to stand out.

The Burj Al Arab? The same principle, in every sense.

Settling Business First

Over the next few days, Yang Hao juggled responsibilities with moments of leisure.

Sponsorship Events: Yang Hao appeared at events arranged by Emirates Airlines, strengthening ties with the team's main sponsor.

Winter Training Logistics: He visited potential training venues and hotels to finalize arrangements for Atlético's upcoming winter camp.

While the five-star accommodations and service in Dubai met his high expectations, the training fields had room for improvement. Some lacked adequate facilities, which he flagged during discussions.

The Emiratis, true to their reputation, immediately offered to upgrade the venues according to his specifications.

"Just give us a list, and we'll have it ready," they said with typical confidence.

Yang Hao couldn't help but marvel at their deep pockets.

Exploring Dubai

During downtime, Yang Hao explored Dubai. It was an emerging city back then, with construction sites everywhere and a palpable sense of ambition.

While it didn't have the fully-developed tourist attractions of the future, there was no shortage of experiences to enjoy.

One evening, he attended a beach fashion show as a VIP guest, sitting right by the runway.

In the Spotlight

Wherever you go, sports stars are at the top of the food chain.

Actors, singers, and even fashion icons often find themselves overshadowed by the sheer magnetism of athletes, especially those with a global reputation.

Yang Hao, at just 25 years old, was already one of the hottest names in European football. His achievements with Atlético Madrid had made him a sensation.

Seated at the runway's edge, Yang Hao noticed the occasional flirtatious glance from models as they strutted down the catwalk.

However, he remained nonchalant—until she appeared.

A Stunning Entrance

A statuesque model, with strikingly delicate features and a sensual allure, walked onto the runway.

She instantly commanded everyone's attention, including Yang Hao's.

It wasn't just her beauty—her presence was magnetic, elevating her above the rest.

And Yang Hao immediately recognized her.

Alessandra Ambrosio, the future Victoria's Secret Angel.

But at that moment, her global fame was still years away. Judging by the muted reaction from others, it seemed that many didn't recognize her potential yet.

"She's just starting her journey," Yang Hao mused, captivated by her effortless elegance.

A Chance Encounter

A day later, fate intervened again.

Yang Hao attended an exclusive event at the Burj Al Arab's 27th-floor sky bar, courtesy of the hotel's invitation.

To his surprise, he spotted Alessandra Ambrosio among the guests.

She was surrounded by admirers, but her demeanor suggested she wasn't particularly interested in any of them.

Yang Hao waited patiently for her to clear the crowd before making his move.

"Good evening, Miss Ambrosio," he began, approaching with a confident yet polite smile. "May I buy you a drink?"

Alessandra turned, her expression brightening as she recognized him.

"It would be my pleasure, Mr. Yang," she replied, her voice laced with warmth and charm.

The two made their way to the bar, ordered cocktails, and began chatting.

An Unexpected Connection

Their conversation flowed effortlessly.

Yang Hao learned that Alessandra was still building her career and had yet to achieve widespread recognition.

In turn, Alessandra knew of Yang Hao thanks to the popularity of Adriano, Aurelio, and Lucio in Brazil.

"Your name is actually quite well-known back home," she remarked with a teasing smile.

The more they talked, the more they found common ground.

Both were driven, ambitious individuals navigating competitive fields, determined to rise to the top.

By the end of the evening, the connection between them was undeniable.

"Meeting you feels like destiny," Alessandra admitted, her eyes sparkling.

"Perhaps it is," Yang Hao replied, raising his glass.

The Morning After

Yang Hao sank into the luxurious bathtub in his hotel suite, the warm water soothing his body after a sleepless yet exhilarating night. The memories of Alessandra Ambrosio lingered vividly in his mind, and he couldn't help but smile at the thought of her charm and spontaneity.

When she mentioned staying in Dubai for work over the next few weeks, Yang Hao wasted no time inviting her to visit Atlético's training camp and watch their match against Bayern Munich.

She agreed without hesitation.

One thing led to another, and the night unraveled in ways that felt almost scripted—though entirely natural.

Barely catching a short nap after returning to his room, Yang Hao was abruptly awakened by the persistent ring of the doorbell.

Dragging himself out of bed, he opened the door to find Carlos Leó standing there, his face a mixture of frustration and relief.

"What's wrong?" Yang Hao asked lazily, shuffling toward the seating area in his suite.

"What's wrong? I almost called the police last night!" Carlos exclaimed, marching in.

"Call the police? For what?"

"Where the hell were you?!"

A Night Unaccounted For

Yang Hao paused for a moment, feigning confusion as he rubbed his eyes.

"I didn't go anywhere. Just wandered around the hotel."

"Really? Then why didn't you answer my calls?" Carlos asked, his eyes narrowing.

Yang Hao scratched his head, pouring himself a glass of water.

"Ah, must've been out of battery. I didn't notice. These old Nokia phones are terrible."

Carlos was unconvinced.

"What time did you get back?"

"Around 2 a.m., maybe?"

"Well, I knocked on your door twice after that. You didn't answer either time."

"I must've been asleep," Yang Hao replied, starting to grow impatient. "Seriously, what are you trying to say?"

Carlos let out a deep sigh.

"I was worried you'd been kidnapped, that's all!"

Yang Hao burst into laughter.

"Kidnapped? Me? I'm not exactly a billionaire, Carlos."

Seeing the genuine concern in Carlos' red-rimmed eyes, Yang Hao relented.

"Fine. I'll let you know next time I go out."

Of course, he had no intention of doing so. Another rendezvous was already planned for that evening. The real challenge now was finding a way to send Carlos back to Spain without him interfering.

A Clever Ruse

Once the club-related obligations were handled, Yang Hao concocted a reason to stay behind in Dubai while persuading Carlos to return to Madrid.

For a few days, everything went smoothly—until the media caught wind of Yang Hao and Alessandra renting a yacht for a day trip.

When the photos were published, Carlos finally pieced it all together. Furious at being duped, he called Yang Hao immediately to demand an explanation.

After enduring Carlos' grumbling, Yang Hao placated him with promises of two lavish dinners upon his return. As a token of goodwill, Carlos also agreed to help Yang Hao rent a house in Madrid's affluent western suburbs.

Player Reactions

When Atlético's players reunited after the holiday break, news of their coach's romance had spread throughout the team.

The Brazilian contingent was especially impressed, given Alessandra's rising fame back home.

Adriano was the first to speak up:

"Boss, you're unbelievable. From Miss Spain to one of our country's top models? No downtime at all!"

"Exactly! It's like he doesn't even need a break."

"Honestly, it's because the boss is so good-looking," another chimed in. "The newspapers even said it was love at first sight."

"With his talent and looks, the boss doesn't just turn heads—he owns the room," joked Lucio, drawing laughter from the group.

"If only I had half his looks," Lucio added wistfully.

The room erupted again.

"Half his looks? You'd bankrupt the world's plastic surgeons!"

The Winter Training Camp Begins

When the players and coaching staff arrived in Dubai, they found everything meticulously arranged, from accommodations to training facilities.

The evening of their arrival, Yang Hao convened the team in a hotel conference room for their first meeting after the break.

Having reviewed reports from the coaching staff about the players' physical conditions, Yang Hao didn't hold back in reprimanding those who hadn't stayed disciplined during the holidays.

Those who had maintained their fitness, however, received well-deserved praise.

One unexpected standout was Adriano.

Unlike other Brazilian players who had indulged during their time at home, Adriano returned in excellent shape, crediting his father for accompanying him to the gym daily.

A Changed Fate

Yang Hao felt a swell of emotion.

He couldn't help but reflect on Adriano's tragic trajectory in his previous life—his father's passing, the subsequent mental health struggles, and a career derailed by personal issues.

Now, things were different.

Adriano's father was healthy, his blood pressure well-managed with medication, and he had a stable life in Madrid, even welcoming a second child into the family.

"I've changed his fate," Yang Hao thought, a sense of accomplishment washing over him.

"If I can change Adriano's destiny, why not Atlético's? Why not the league?"

The memory of Real Madrid's dominant championship run in his past life flashed through his mind. With Zinedine Zidane added to their ranks, they seemed even more formidable now.

But Yang Hao was determined.

"If I can reshape one life, I can reshape history. Let's see who stands taller at the end of this season."

While the expansion of the Champions League had diminished the prestige of the UEFA Cup (Europa League), it remained a coveted European title.

The competition had intensified this season, with eight third-placed teams from the Champions League group stage, including Barcelona, Bayer Leverkusen, Hamburg, and PSV Eindhoven, joining the knockout rounds. They were joined by strong contenders like Inter Milan, Liverpool, Roma, Porto, and Werder Bremen.

Advancing to the Round of 16 meant every match would be a showdown with a formidable opponent.

At the meeting, Yang Hao made it clear to his players that they needed to mentally prepare for grueling battles in the coming months.

"From here on out, we're competing on three fronts: La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the UEFA Cup. The pressure will be far greater than in the first half of the season," Yang Hao emphasized.

Instead of being daunted, the players—young and brimming with confidence—were energized by the prospect.

Pressure? What pressure?

Yang Hao continued, "I know many doubters are still waiting for us to collapse. They think we'll fall from the top ranks, but I've never cared about their opinions."

He glanced around the room, his gaze sharp.

"When I took over Atlético last season, those same critics said we were doomed to relegation. And what happened?"

The players nodded, smiles breaking out as they recalled the miraculous turnaround.

"Now, we have a stronger squad, better players, and an even greater fighting spirit. I firmly believe we can compete with any opponent on any stage!"

The room erupted in applause, the players fully buying into their coach's vision.

Yang Hao raised a hand to quiet them.

"The road ahead won't be easy. Winning a title isn't supposed to be easy—it's what gives it value."

The players chuckled, nodding in agreement.

"But I have faith in our ability to rise to the challenge and emerge victorious."

Facing the Giants

Yang Hao analyzed the league standings, identifying Real Madrid as the primary rival for the La Liga title.

"Let's face it: Real Madrid is rich and ambitious," he said, noting reports of their attempts to sign top-tier defenders like Alessandro Nesta, Fabio Cannavaro, and Jaap Stam.

Though these were just rumors, one thing was clear—Real Madrid felt their backline was vulnerable.

"Why are they scrambling for reinforcements?" Yang Hao asked rhetorically. "Because they're scared of us! They know we've put immense pressure on them in the first half of the season. Even they aren't confident they can maintain their lead in the second half."

His words struck a chord.

"Remember this: we don't need to fear our opponents. It's our opponents who fear us! That fear proves our strength."

Yang Hao's conviction lit a fire in the players, their confidence soaring.

"Let them sign whoever they want. It won't matter. This season's champions will be Atlético Madrid!"

The players responded with a thunderous ovation, their determination solidified.

Winter Training in Dubai

Atlético's winter camp in Dubai focused on two main areas: physical conditioning and tactical refinement.

Yang Hao concentrated on perfecting their 4-2-3-1 formation while experimenting with a 4-3-3 system, particularly a single-pivot midfield. He tested combinations like Deco with Baraja or Cambiasso, and even tried Cambiasso or Xabi Alonso in a deep-lying playmaker role.

In addition to training, the team held daily tactical meetings to review their first-half performance, identifying weaknesses and areas for improvement.

"Post-match analysis is crucial," Yang Hao explained. "Understanding our mistakes and how to fix them is how we grow."

The camp proceeded efficiently, with only a couple of promotional events interrupting the rigorous schedule. Yang Hao finally gave the players a half-day break just before their friendly against Bayern Munich.

Testing Against Bayern

Neither Atlético nor Bayern treated the match as a must-win affair. Instead, both teams used it to test players and tactics.

Yang Hao alternated between 4-3-3 in the first half and 4-2-3-1 in the second, even bringing on youngsters like Kaká, Fernando Torres, and Gabi in the latter stages.

Ottmar Hitzfeld kept Bayern in their usual 4-4-2, their lineup more settled and experienced. Bayern ultimately won 3-1, with Pandiani scoring Atlético's lone goal.

Yang Hao wasn't concerned about the result.

"This was a valuable learning experience," he told his players. "Bayern is one of the strongest teams in Europe. We held our own with an unpolished system in the first half and with a group of youngsters in the second. That's progress."

Returning to Madrid

Back in Spain, Atlético resumed their competitive schedule with a Copa del Rey third-round clash against Segunda División strugglers Leganés.

The first half was tense, with Atlético struggling to find their rhythm after the winter break. But just before halftime, Pandiani headed down a corner for Santi Denia to nod in the opener.

With the lead in hand, the second half flowed more smoothly. Pandiani doubled the lead in the 53rd minute, and while Leganés managed to pull one back shortly after, Pandiani struck again to seal a 3-1 victory.

Atlético advanced to the Round of 16, where they were drawn against Zaragoza.

A Clear Goal

Yang Hao's winter camp had reinvigorated the team, instilling belief and a clear sense of purpose.

Their message to the footballing world was loud and clear:

"We're here to fight. Not just for trophies but for respect. We're ready to take on anyone, anywhere."

Two days after their Copa del Rey match, Yang Hao attended a press conference in Majadahonda.

Atlético Madrid, currently second in La Liga, attracted a sizeable media presence for this first post-winter break briefing.

Yang Hao announced the squad for their upcoming away match against Espanyol and shared updates about the team. Among the topics was a request from the Brazilian Football Federation to release Adriano, Maicon, and Kaká for the South American U-20 Championship starting mid-January.

While Maicon and Kaká's involvement wasn't an issue, Adriano was a crucial player for the team, and Yang Hao was initially reluctant to let him go. Adriano himself, however, expressed a desire to participate, and after Brazilian U-20 coach César called Yang Hao personally to plead his case, Yang Hao reluctantly agreed.

"But I'll assign someone to track their performance and provide updates," Yang Hao informed César.

The team's schedule was packed with La Liga, Copa del Rey, and UEFA Cup matches in the coming months. Although Yang Hao could have vetoed the request, he also understood the players' aspirations.

"Playing for a club is a job. Representing your country is an honor," Yang Hao noted in the press conference. "That's why the World Cup remains football's ultimate prize."

When asked about the impact of the trio's absence, Yang Hao acknowledged it would affect the team but expressed confidence in his squad.

"We have Pandiani, Kiko, and Fernando Torres from our youth team."

Yang Hao used the moment to emphasize Atlético's respect for players' desires, underscoring its importance to the club's culture.

Chasing the Leader

The inevitable topic of Real Madrid arose. The city rivals had overtaken Atlético at the end of the first half of the season, and rumors of their pursuit of Nesta to bolster their defense were swirling.

Yang Hao dismissed comments on Real Madrid's transfer plans but confidently declared:

"It doesn't matter who they sign. We'll overtake them in the second half of the season."

His bold assertion immediately drew gasps from the assembled reporters.

"Yes, I know my words will stir controversy," he continued, eyes unwavering. "But I believe in my players."

Yang Hao then pointed out a key factor:

"Let's not forget, Real Madrid has a significant scheduling advantage—they only play one match a week."

The room burst into laughter. Everyone knew this was a jab at Real Madrid's early exit from the Copa del Rey, courtesy of their humiliating loss to fourth-division Toledo.

Yang Hao seized the moment to raise the stakes:

"But I'm confident we'll retake the top spot by February."

The room erupted into chatter. With only four La Liga matches before February, Yang Hao was effectively predicting a dramatic turnaround within a month.

His strategy was clear: this was psychological warfare.

Real Madrid's toughest upcoming fixture was an away match against Valencia in Round 20. Yang Hao's words were calculated to heap pressure on his rivals while motivating his own squad to stay focused and match Madrid's pace.

A Media Firestorm

Yang Hao's remarks sparked a media frenzy across Spain.

Real Madrid's strong influence in the press was evident. Major outlets like AS and Marca, both known for their pro-Madrid stance, seized on Yang Hao's comments to criticize and ridicule him.

Alfredo Relaño, the editor of AS, dismissed Atlético's chances, claiming their youthful squad lacked the strength and maturity to win La Liga. Relaño, a staunch supporter of Real Madrid's Galáctico policy, viewed Yang Hao's comments as an affront to his club's grandeur.

Columnist Óscar added fuel to the fire, declaring in his column:

"If Atlético tops the league by February, I'll run naked around Poseidon Square to celebrate with them."

The mention of Poseidon Square—a traditional Atlético celebration spot—further inflamed tensions.

The media onslaught underscored Atlético's lack of influence in Spain's press landscape. While Real Madrid enjoyed the backing of AS and Marca, Atlético could only rely on isolated voices like Cadena SER's José Ramón de la Morena, whose support was vocal but insufficient to counter the tidal wave of criticism.

Inside the Atlético Camp

Yang Hao, however, paid little attention to the external noise. His focus remained firmly on the team.

In training sessions and team meetings, he reinforced the importance of staying united and maintaining belief in their abilities.

"Critics will always doubt us. Let them. We'll silence them on the pitch."

Yang Hao's unwavering confidence inspired his players, setting the tone for the challenges ahead.

The battle wasn't just for trophies; it was also for respect—and Atlético was ready to fight.

Inside Atlético Madrid's locker room, Yang Hao's defiant words received unanimous support.

No one in the team accepted Real Madrid's rise to the top. If anything, their success only fueled Atlético's determination to retake the lead. The louder the outside criticism grew, the more resolved Atlético's players became to prove themselves.

Yang Hao, however, approached the situation with humor and optimism.

"Enjoy this moment, guys. It's rare to have the whole world against you."

"Once we're back on top, these spineless critics will kneel and sing our praises. And when they do, it won't be as fun anymore."

January: The Decisive Month

While much of the media derided Yang Hao's bold claims, some voices in the football community were more measured.

Luis Aragonés, who had coached both Real Madrid and Atlético during his career, indirectly supported Yang Hao's assessment.

"January will set the tone for the La Liga title race," Aragonés remarked. "With teams juggling dual or even triple competitions, whoever leads after January will have the advantage. Falling behind now makes it very hard to catch up later."

La Liga Matchday 17

Real Madrid played their match ahead of Atlético, traveling to northern Spain to face Alavés.

Despite Alavés' strong performance this season, their coach Mane adopted a cautious approach against the Galácticos. Playing with hesitation, they allowed Real Madrid to dominate early on.

In the 13th minute, Raúl converted a cross from right-back Geremi, giving Madrid the lead. The goal jolted Alavés into action, and they began pressing aggressively. Their efforts paid off in stoppage time when center-back Téllez scored a header off a corner, leveling the game.

In the second half, Alavés' momentum was disrupted by a controversial red card. In the 50th and 53rd minutes, midfielder Begoña received two yellow cards—the first contested by coach Mane, the second for a deliberate handball outside the box.

Down to 10 men, Alavés conceded an own goal in the 54th minute when Carmona inadvertently turned the ball into his own net. Despite Madrid's numerical advantage, their performance remained disjointed, only securing their third goal in the 88th minute when substitutes Munitis and Guti combined to seal a 3–1 victory.

After the match, Mane criticized the officiating, claiming the first yellow card was undeserved but reluctantly accepting the second.

Atlético's Turn

As news of Real Madrid's victory reached Atlético's camp, Yang Hao gathered his players during their preparation for Espanyol.

"Our rivals won," he announced. "That leaves us no choice. If we want to reclaim our honor and retake the lead, we must fight for it!"

"I believe in you. Now let's prove them wrong."

Determined to secure a win, Atlético entered the match with a focused mindset.

Espanyol's Struggles

Espanyol's financial struggles had forced them to sell key players like Pochettino and replace them with untested youngsters. Their center-back pairing featured 20-year-old Lopo and 21-year-old Soldevila, both talented but inexperienced.

Atlético exploited this weakness ruthlessly.

In the 19th minute, Vicente delivered a dangerous cross from the left. Under pressure from Pandiani, Soldevila attempted to clear but accidentally turned the ball into his own net.

1–0.

Atlético maintained their dominance. In the 34th minute, Vicente and Aurelio combined brilliantly on the left wing before Vicente's cutback found Pandiani in the box. The Uruguayan calmly slotted the ball home to double the lead.

2–0.

The scoreline remained unchanged, and Atlético left Catalonia with a crucial victory.

The Bigger Picture

Elsewhere in La Liga, Valencia narrowly defeated Racing Santander 1–0, while Barcelona scraped a 3–2 victory over Real Oviedo. Despite a dominant first half, Barça nearly threw away their lead in the second half, drawing heavy criticism.

Deportivo La Coruña faltered, losing 3–1 to Valladolid, while Mallorca climbed to sixth place with a quiet but steady rise.

After 17 rounds, the standings were as follows:

Real Madrid – 40 points

Atlético Madrid – 39 points

Valencia – 32 points

Deportivo La Coruña – 30 points

Barcelona – 30 points

Reflections in the Media

Despite Yang Hao's brash approach, his coaching ability continued to earn praise.

Under his leadership, Atlético had transformed into a formidable force, keeping pace with Real Madrid and establishing themselves as title contenders.

In contrast, Deportivo's high-profile acquisitions of Valerón, Capdevila, and Molina—former Atlético stars—had not yielded the expected results. Some media outlets speculated whether these players regretted their decisions to leave, given Atlético's current standing.

Copa del Rey Drama

In the midweek Copa del Rey action, Atlético hosted Zaragoza in the first leg of their Round of 16 tie. The match ended in a 2–2 draw, leaving the tie finely poised for the return leg.

Yang Hao's challenge to Real Madrid's dominance was far from

With Adriano absent and a congested fixture list, Atlético Madrid had to rely heavily on squad rotation. Although Reyes and Pandiani each scored, defensive lapses led to an 85th-minute equalizer from the opposition. The game ended in a frustrating 2–2 draw.

La Liga Matchday 18

The round began with a thriller at Camp Nou as Barcelona hosted Valladolid.

In the 45th minute, Abelardo's red card pushed Barça into a desperate situation with the score still 0–0. Just when the home crowd began to despair, Pep Guardiola, not yet fully bald but as composed as ever, rose to the occasion.

Despite being down a man, Guardiola led by example. First, he assisted Kluivert from a corner, breaking the deadlock. However, Valladolid's Caminero—a former Atlético player—equalized just three minutes later.

The final moments were electric. In the second minute of injury time, Guardiola unleashed a stunning 30-yard free-kick, reclaiming the lead for Barça. Two minutes later, Rivaldo secured the win with a solo effort, making it 3–1.

Barcelona fans rejoiced at a hard-fought victory.

Next, Deportivo La Coruña faced Valencia in another high-stakes clash.

The game was tight, with both teams struggling to find the net. However, in the 56th minute, Valencia's striker Ili was sent off after receiving two yellow cards. Deportivo capitalized in the 89th minute when Makaay scored the decisive goal, earning a 1–0 win.

Atlético vs. Rayo Vallecano

At the Vicente Calderón, Atlético began with fierce attacking intent against Rayo Vallecano.

Just six minutes in, Pandiani assisted Deco for the opening goal. However, defensive frailties emerged again. Rayo's Michel capitalized on a counter-attack in the 17th minute, leveling the score.

The first half ended 1–1, but after the break, Atlético seized control.

Argentine midfielder Cambiasso delivered a sensational performance.

51st minute: Assisted Baraja for a goal.

68th minute: Set up Deco's second goal, giving him a brace.

75th minute: Assisted Joaquín for Atlético's fourth goal.

In just 25 minutes, Cambiasso turned the match into a personal showcase, delivering his best performance since joining the club. His motivation seemed to peak whenever it involved challenging Real Madrid, fueling a fiery determination.

In the final moments, Carvalho, a substitute, added a fifth goal with a header from a corner.

5–1, Atlético crushed Rayo Vallecano.

In the post-match press conference, Yang Hao reiterated his confidence:

"We're in excellent form. We're just waiting for Real Madrid to slip up."

However, Real Madrid responded emphatically later that evening.

At the Bernabéu, the Galácticos dismantled Real Oviedo 4–0. Playing with a 4-4-2 formation, even substitutes like McManaman and Munitis found the net, showcasing their depth.

Spanish media quickly countered Yang Hao's provocations, asserting that Real Madrid thrived under pressure:

"As the strongest team in Spain—and Europe—Real Madrid fear no challenge."

Coach Vicente del Bosque dismissed talk of any crisis:

"The team is in excellent shape, and we're ready for anything."

Copa del Rey Woes

Midweek, Atlético traveled to Zaragoza for the second leg of their Round of 16 Copa del Rey clash.

With Adriano away on international duty and a fatigued squad, the team struggled. Zaragoza capitalized on Atlético's defensive vulnerabilities, securing a 2–1 victory. With a 4–3 aggregate win, Zaragoza advanced, eliminating Atlético from the competition.

Yang Hao had prioritized the league over the cup, understanding that La Liga held greater significance.

However, the media seized the opportunity to criticize, with AS journalist Oscar predicting doom:

"This is just the beginning. Atlético will crumble in La Liga and the UEFA Cup. By February, they'll be out of the running entirely."

The elimination fueled narratives about Atlético's lack of squad depth and experience.

La Liga Matchday 19

The weekend kicked off with Barcelona's narrow 1–0 win over Valencia, thanks to a goal from Frank de Boer.

Deportivo La Coruña faced Málaga and endured an early scare, conceding in the 3rd minute. But Makaay equalized, and Scaloni's two late goals (84' and 89') sealed a 3–1 victory for Deportivo.

Real Madrid vs. Valladolid

Real Madrid's away match against Valladolid saw a rollercoaster of events.

Former Atlético midfielder Caminero opened the scoring just three minutes in, giving Valladolid an early lead. However, Roberto Carlos and Morientes scored in quick succession to put Madrid ahead.

In the 80th minute, Caminero won a penalty after a tussle with Celades. Fernando converted the spot kick, leveling the score 2–2.

Real Madrid dropped two crucial points.

Atlético's Response

With Real Madrid's slip-up, Atlético sensed an opportunity to close the gap.

Yang Hao rallied his players with a simple message: "The door is open. Let's make them regret it."

The La Liga standings after Matchday 19:

Real Madrid – 42 points

Atlético Madrid – 41 points

The battle for the title had never been tighter.

Real Madrid drew?!

Atlético Madrid's match against Alavés was scheduled three hours after Real Madrid's game. When news of Real Madrid's draw against Valladolid reached the Mendizorroza Stadium, Atlético's players were in the middle of pre-match preparations.

Hearing the news, Yang Hao immediately asked for confirmation. Once he got a firm answer, he stood still for a moment, seemingly in disbelief.

"Real Madrid actually drew!"

Yang Hao shared the update with his coaching staff.

Juande Lillo and the others couldn't hide their joy.

Nobody had expected Real Madrid to drop points before their upcoming fixture against Valencia. This development was an unexpected stroke of luck.

But while everyone was celebrating, Yang Hao seemed deep in thought, his expression one of contemplation.

"What's the matter? Overwhelmed by the sudden good news?" Lillo teased, his smile infectious.

Indeed, with Real Madrid drawing, a win against Alavés would see Atlético reclaim the top spot in La Liga. The opportunity to leapfrog their rivals was tantalizing.

Alavés, on the other hand, were coming into this game off the back of three consecutive losses—defeats to Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Real Mallorca. This run of poor results had pushed them down to 10th place in the standings.

It seemed like the perfect opportunity to strike a demoralized opponent. "Strike while the iron is hot," as the saying goes.

So why did Yang Hao seem concerned?

"I'm wondering whether we should tell the players about the result," Yang Hao admitted.

"Of course, we should tell them! Good news like this is a must-share," assistant coach José María Parreiras responded without hesitation.

But Lillo picked up on Yang Hao's unease.

It wasn't that Alavés were weak—they weren't pushovers by any stretch. While they had suffered three straight losses, the defeats were against top-tier opposition, and their performances were far from abysmal:

Against Barcelona, they narrowly lost 2–3, nearly staging a comeback.

Their loss to Real Madrid was marred by a controversial red card.

Against Mallorca, it was a close 3–4 defeat.

Despite the losses, Alavés had shown resilience and fighting spirit. They were not a team that would roll over easily.

Yang Hao worried about how the news of Real Madrid's draw might affect his players' mentality. Would the knowledge of their rivals' stumble create unnecessary pressure?

Parreiras voiced another concern: "We probably can't hide the result, though."

With Real Madrid's match ending before Atlético's warm-ups concluded, players would undoubtedly hear about it, either from media or fans. Trying to withhold the information might lead to more confusion or even rumors that Madrid had won.

"How do we avoid this turning into a distraction?"

The final decision rested with Yang Hao. As head coach, he had to weigh all perspectives and make the call.

After taking in his staff's input, Yang Hao quickly made up his mind.

"We tell them!"

Lillo raised an eyebrow, sensing the boldness in the decision, but Parreiras beamed, pleased his suggestion had been adopted.

Yang Hao explained his reasoning: "I trust my players, just as they trust me. They've shown they can handle this."

Alavés' Locker Room Reaction

Across the stadium, Alavés head coach Mané was digesting the same news.

Hearing that Real Madrid had drawn gave Mané a glimmer of hope. He immediately gathered his staff.

"Madrid dropped points," one assistant confirmed.

A sly grin spread across Mané's face.

The rivalry between Atlético and Real Madrid had reached fever pitch. With first place hanging in the balance, both teams had been locked in a heated battle, dominating Spanish headlines.

Mané knew that this result meant Atlético would be desperate to win. They would attack relentlessly, eager to capitalize on this chance to reclaim the top spot.

Mané shared his insights with his staff:

"Atlético will come at us full force. This is our chance to hit them on the counter."

His game plan was clear: sit back, absorb the pressure, and punish Atlético on the break.

Mané's confidence was bolstered by Javi Moreno, Alavés' in-form striker. The Spanish forward, having scored regularly in recent weeks, was gaining recognition and calls for inclusion in the national team.

Mané believed Moreno could exploit gaps in Atlético's defense if the team stayed disciplined.

As Alavés players returned from their warm-ups, Mané shared the news about Real Madrid and laid out his tactical approach.

This wasn't just any match—it was an opportunity to disrupt Atlético's momentum while restoring Alavés' own confidence after a difficult run.

Atlético's Dressing Room

Back in the visitors' locker room, Yang Hao gathered his players.

"I've got news for you—Real Madrid drew today!"

The room erupted in cheers, but Yang Hao raised his hand, signaling for calm.

"Yes, this is great news. But remember, it means nothing if we don't win tonight."

He emphasized the importance of focusing on their game plan:

"Alavés are no pushovers. They've lost three straight, but they've been fighting hard in every match. Do not underestimate them."

The players nodded, absorbing their coach's words.

Yang Hao looked each of them in the eye:

"This is our chance. If we win, we take back the top spot. Go out there and prove that we deserve to be champions!"

The Match

From the opening whistle, Atlético played with purpose. The team pressed high, creating early chances.

In the 18th minute, a pinpoint cross from Vicente found Pandiani, who powered a header into the net. 1–0!

However, Alavés fought back. Just before halftime, a defensive lapse allowed Javi Moreno to break free and equalize. 1–1.

Yang Hao's halftime talk was fiery:

"This is our game. Push harder, stay sharp at the back, and finish your chances!"

In the second half, Atlético's relentless pressure paid off.

53rd minute: Cambiasso sent a defense-splitting pass to Joaquín, who slotted home. 2–1.

76th minute: Pandiani, unmarked in the box, volleyed a corner into the net. 3–1.

Alavés couldn't recover. When the final whistle blew, Atlético had secured the win and returned to the top of La Liga.

La Liga Standings After Matchday 19

Atlético Madrid – 44 points

Real Madrid – 43 points

Atlético were crowned half-season champions, breaking multiple records for the best first half in the club's history.

Yang Hao's bold decision to inform his players had paid off, cementing their confidence and determination.

Now, all eyes were on whether they could maintain their momentum and finish the season as champions.

Facing Atlético Madrid, Alavés coach Mané adopted a similar approach to their prior matches against tough opponents.

"Jordi, Javi—when our midfield and defense recover the ball, your first priority is to connect. Play quickly, break their defense. Got it?"

Jordi Cruyff, the son of legendary Johan Cruyff, had joined Alavés in 2000 after stints with Barcelona, Manchester United, and Celta Vigo. While his career never reached his father's heights, he was a reliable player for a mid-table team like Alavés.

Paired with Javi Moreno, both La Masia graduates, the two had developed strong chemistry up front.

"Gentlemen!"

As kickoff approached, Mané addressed his team in the locker room.

"Yes, we've faced a tough stretch—Barcelona, Real Madrid, Mallorca. Three straight losses. We've fallen from the top ranks to 10th place."

"But I still believe in this team. I believe in all of you. We can turn this around and fight our way back into contention for Europe. Let's start tonight, by defeating Atlético Madrid!"

First Half: Atlético Dominate Early

From the opening whistle, Alavés committed fully to defense, setting up a compact block just outside their penalty area.

How defensive were they?

Their first action after kickoff was to punt the ball deep into Atlético's half—not to a teammate but deliberately out of bounds.

This odd tactic felt almost like taunting.

Watching from the sideline, Yang Hao's immediate reaction was to recall a famous meme: "You come over here!"

And Atlético obliged, pressing forward aggressively.

Atlético's Tactical Adjustments

Yang Hao's side employed their signature high press. The double pivot of Gravesen and Baraja anchored midfield control, while the rest of the team swarmed Alavés in their half.

The Basque team deployed their own 4-2-3-1, with Javi Moreno, nicknamed "The Bullet," leading their counterattacks. His speed and instincts made him a dangerous threat in transition.

Yang Hao, however, left only Pochettino and Lucio at the back, committing the rest of his players to relentless attacking.

For the first 10–15 minutes, the game was entirely one-sided. Atlético had possession and created chances but struggled to break through Alavés' low block.

Yang Hao quickly identified a potential weakness.

"Belletti!" he called out to his right-back.

When the Brazilian looked over, Yang Hao gestured: "Push forward and overload their left side with Joaquín."

Alavés' left-back, Delfí Geli, was a veteran who had been part of Atlético's double-winning side in the mid-90s. However, he was naturally right-footed and uncomfortable defending against quick, overlapping attackers like Joaquín and Belletti.

Yang Hao instructed Gravesen and Deco to shift the focus to the right flank, aiming to exploit this mismatch.

20th Minute: Atlético Break Through

Atlético ramped up their attack, with Joaquín drifting inside to give Belletti the entire right flank. The Brazilian surged forward repeatedly, providing relentless width and energy.

Alavés' midfield and central defenders were forced to provide additional cover for their left side, leaving gaps elsewhere.

In the 20th minute, a quick one-two between Belletti and Joaquín unlocked the defense.

Belletti stormed into the box but was tightly marked by Geli, who forced him toward the byline. Under pressure, Belletti managed a sharp cutback.

Joaquín, now on the edge of the box, feinted past his marker but couldn't break through. Instead, he cleverly passed back to Baraja, who was lurking at the top of the penalty area.

Without hesitation, Baraja unleashed a thunderous strike.

The shot blasted through a crowded box, forcing Alavés goalkeeper Martín Herrera into a difficult save. He parried the ball, but the rebound fell straight to Pandiani, who pounced like a predator and stabbed the ball into the net.

GOAL! 1–0 to Atlético!

Yang Hao erupted in celebration on the sideline, clapping and cheering for his Uruguayan striker. Behind him, his coaching staff embraced and roared with delight.

Post-Goal Tactical Shift

After taking the lead, Atlético adjusted their approach.

Yang Hao pulled his team back slightly, allowing Alavés to come forward—a reversal of roles from the opening minutes.

Mané, watching from his dugout, was incensed.

"They're just sitting back now, waiting for us to attack? Shameless!"

He compared Yang Hao's approach to the cunning strategies of Luis Aragonés, noting the similarities in how both coaches manipulated the flow of a match.

But while Alavés now saw more of the ball, they struggled to break down Atlético's organized defense.

Second Half: Alavés Fight Back

Knowing a single-goal deficit wouldn't suffice, Mané urged his players forward.

Javi Moreno and Jordi Cruyff linked up well, creating a few dangerous counterattacks. However, Pochettino and Lucio stood firm, intercepting crosses and blocking shots.

Atlético's midfield trio—Baraja, Gravesen, and Deco—controlled the tempo, ensuring that Alavés never gained sustained momentum.

Final Whistle: Atlético Triumph

Despite late pressure from Alavés, Atlético held firm and secured a 1–0 victory.

Pandiani's opportunistic goal proved decisive, as Atlético leapfrogged Real Madrid to reclaim the top spot in La Liga.

Standings After Matchday 19

Atlético Madrid – 44 points

Real Madrid – 43 points

Atlético were officially crowned half-season champions, a milestone that further solidified Yang Hao's status as one of Europe's brightest coaching talents.

In the post-match press conference, Yang Hao sent a defiant message to the doubters:

"We've shown tonight that we're here to fight until the end. Our goal is clear: to be champions."

The league had entered its second half, and the battle for supremacy between Madrid's two giants was heating up.

Second Half: Tactical Adjustments

By the 60th minute, Alavés coach Mané started tweaking his game plan.

First, he brought on Iván Alonso, a Uruguayan striker, for Magno to bolster his attack with a two-forward setup. However, just three minutes later, he subbed off Jordi Cruyff for center-back Iván Tomic, shifting to a five-defender formation to fortify his defense.

The series of substitutions aimed to balance a defensive posture while leaving room for counterattacks, a strategy that had served Alavés well against Mallorca.

On Atlético Madrid's side, Yang Hao was equally vigilant. Having studied Mané's tactical adjustments in previous matches, he had anticipated Alavés' late-game changes.

At the 65th minute, Yang made his own move.

Fernando Torres, a 16-year-old prodigy, stepped onto the field, replacing veteran forward Walter Pandiani.

Yang Hao's Instructions to Torres

Before Torres stepped onto the pitch, Yang Hao clasped his shoulder and leaned in close.

"Fernando, this is your chance. Forget about everything else—stay tight on their defensive line. Whenever you see an opening, break through. Trust your instincts. The team will feed you the ball."

Torres, already brimming with energy, nodded eagerly.

Yang Hao locked eyes with him, his voice carrying an unmistakable urgency.

"Listen carefully. Real Madrid drew today. Tonight is our chance to reclaim the top spot. Whether we can take it back depends on you."

Torres, emboldened by his coach's faith, felt his nerves replaced by adrenaline.

"Don't worry, boss. I won't let you down!"

Torres Makes His Presence Known

This wasn't Torres' first appearance for Atlético; he had played several matches as a substitute. Despite his promising talent, critics had questioned whether he was ready to shine at the top level.

Physically, Torres wasn't imposing yet. Tall but slender, his frame still lacked the muscle mass typical of seasoned forwards. The coaching staff had opted to delay bulking him up, prioritizing his long-term development over short-term gains.

Yet within just three minutes of stepping onto the pitch, Torres demonstrated his potential.

He latched onto a forward pass and darted toward Alavés' defensive line, slicing through with his speed. Though the linesman flagged him for offside, the electric run rattled Alavés.

Watching from the sideline, Mané gritted his teeth.

"Damn it. A speedster. They've brought him on to break our backline."

With Torres lurking like a dagger, Mané knew his team couldn't overcommit to attacking without risking a fatal counter.

The Decisive Moment

By the 82nd minute, Alavés was still hesitant to commit too many players forward, wary of Torres' speed.

That caution proved their undoing.

In midfield, Baraja intercepted a sloppy Alavés pass and surged forward. As soon as he crossed the halfway line, he spotted Torres making a diagonal run behind the defense.

Baraja delivered a perfectly weighted through ball.

Torres' initial touch wasn't perfect—the ball rolled slightly ahead of him. Center-back Carmona, chasing back, believed he could clean up the situation.

With a glance over his shoulder, Carmona slowed, preparing to tap the ball to his teammate Téllez.

But Téllez shouted a frantic warning:

"Watch your back!"

Carmona turned just in time to see Torres accelerating like a bullet. In a flash, the young forward overtook him, leaving the defender scrambling.

The stadium gasped collectively.

How had Torres closed the gap so quickly? His explosive pace seemed almost unnatural.

Now alone with Téllez, Torres calmly lifted the ball over the sliding challenge, bypassing the defender entirely. With another burst of speed, he reclaimed possession inside the box, facing an onrushing Martín Herrera, the Alavés goalkeeper.

Unfazed, Torres gently chipped the ball over Herrera's head. The ball arched gracefully into the net.

GOAL!

Torres didn't stop running. He sprinted straight to the stands, leaped into the air, and pumped his fist triumphantly.

History is Made

The commentators erupted in excitement.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL! Torres! The 16-year-old wonderkid has just scored a decisive goal for Atlético Madrid!"

"Wait—hold on! I've just confirmed—this is a historic moment! Torres is now the youngest goalscorer in La Liga history!"

"He breaks the record set in 1941 by Valencia's Juan Mena, who scored at 17 years and 6 days. Torres is just 16! Ladies and gentlemen, we are witnessing history tonight!"

Yang Hao's Pride

Standing on the touchline, Yang Hao watched in awe as Torres celebrated.

When the stadium announcer confirmed the record-breaking goal, Yang turned to his assistant coach, Juanma Lillo.

"Did he really just break the La Liga record?"

Lillo, grinning ear to ear, nodded emphatically.

"Sixty years. This record's stood for sixty years!"

Yang Hao shook his head, still processing the moment.

He hadn't set out to make history—his sole focus had been Torres' development. Yet here they were, witnessing the teenager shatter a milestone that had stood for decades.

A Hug of Gratitude

After celebrating with his teammates, Torres sprinted toward the touchline.

"Boss!" he called out, his face alight with joy.

Before Yang could react, Torres threw his arms around him in a jubilant hug.

"Thank you, boss! Thank you for believing in me!"

Yang patted his back, smiling warmly.

"You earned this, Fernando. This is just the beginning."

Final Whistle

The match ended 2–0.

Atlético reclaimed the top spot in La Liga with 44 points, ahead of Real Madrid's 43.

More importantly, they had discovered a new hero—Fernando Torres, the youngest goalscorer in La Liga history, now a symbol of Atlético's bright future.

As reporters swarmed him after the match, Torres kept his response humble:

"I'm just grateful to the coach and my teammates for giving me this opportunity. I hope to repay their trust in every match."

The night belonged to him, and with it, the promise of greater glory for Atlético Madrid.

Yang Hao smiled with pride at Torres.

"You've earned this. Keep working hard!" he encouraged.

Torres nodded enthusiastically, his face beaming with joy as he ran back to the field.

A Moment of Triumph

The historic goal and Torres' jubilant celebration filled the Atlético Madrid camp with excitement. The players and coaching staff couldn't contain their elation.

In contrast, Alavés, having conceded twice, seemed to lose their fighting spirit. The final minutes of the match turned into a formality.

When the referee blew the final whistle, confirming Atlético Madrid's 2–0 victory with goals from Pandiani and Torres, the team didn't waste time celebrating on the pitch. Instead, they rushed to the sidelines, gathering around Yang Hao.

Yang received a laptop from his assistant, Roca, and turned the screen toward the players.

On the live standings page of La Liga's official website, Atlético Madrid sat at the top, having overtaken Real Madrid by a single point.

Upon seeing this, the players erupted into cheers, hugging one another and shouting in sheer joy. For the first time in a month, Atlético Madrid was back at the top of the table.

They had achieved this a week earlier than Yang Hao had predicted.

Breaking Records and Reclaiming Glory

The 2–0 victory over Alavés not only marked a historic moment with Torres' record-breaking goal but also solidified Atlético's status as La Liga's half-season champions.

News of the triumph spread rapidly across Spain, Europe, and even the world. The story wasn't complete without Yang Hao's bold statement during the post-match press conference:

"No one will take us down from the top again!"

To some, these words sounded arrogant, even reckless. But for neutral fans and many media outlets, they reflected Yang Hao's confidence and determination.

Yang Hao's Reflections

Yang Hao expressed satisfaction with his team's performance under pressure. He lauded their growing maturity:

"I don't understand the doubters. Have they even watched our matches?"

He firmly believed that anyone who had seen Atlético play would recognize their competitiveness:

"We're one of the strongest teams in La Liga. We're no less formidable than our city rivals."

Reclaiming the top spot was more than just a victory for Atlético—it was an invaluable experience.

"This reminds us to treasure our accomplishments and respect every match ahead. We will give 200% focus in training and games."

The feat, he added, would also be a major confidence boost:

"It shows us our potential and makes us even more determined."

A Word on Torres

Yang Hao praised Torres' potential, calling him a future European football star.

"In the locker room, I showered him with praise but also gave him constructive advice. He's still very young, raw, and full of untapped potential."

For months, Torres had been training with Kiko, refining his technical skills. His physical development, however, remained a work in progress.

"Unlike players like Adriano, who have natural physical strength, Torres is still developing. Right now, he's not ready to shoulder heavy responsibilities."

During the press conference, Yang Hao also urged the media to keep their expectations for Torres realistic:

"The record is nice, but it's not the most important thing in a professional career. These milestones will eventually be surpassed. Dwelling on them can lead to complacency, which is dangerous."

Yang emphasized the importance of hunger and a grounded mindset for Torres' continued growth.

Half-Season Champions

Atlético's journey to the half-season title evoked a sense of nostalgia.

"The last time we won the mid-season championship was five years ago, and we ended up winning the league and the Copa del Rey," Yang reminded reporters.

This time, however, the double crown would have a different target: La Liga and the UEFA Cup.

"My players and I are ready for any challenge," he declared confidently.

"We fear no one."

Reactions and Speculation

Yang Hao's bold remarks reverberated across the media. Critics dismissed them as premature—after all, the second half of the season still had 19 rounds to play, and anything could happen.

But even skeptics couldn't deny the significance of Atlético's achievement. Their young squad, boasting the lowest average age in Europe's top four leagues, had risen to the top in a dramatic fashion.

National and International Praise

El País commented:

"Yang Hao and Atlético Madrid are rewriting the power dynamics of La Liga."

The article noted that Atlético's youthful roster, combined with their relentless performance, marked them as contenders for years to come.

ABC acknowledged the accomplishment but urged caution:

"The half-season title is a reason to celebrate, but Atlético cannot afford to be complacent. Real Madrid remains a formidable threat."

The report highlighted Real Madrid's efforts to bolster their squad, including a rumored €20 million bid for Fabio Cannavaro from Parma after failing to secure Nesta.

European Attention

The story of Atlético Madrid's resurgence under Yang Hao also captivated European media.

Germany's Kicker magazine ran a feature titled:

"Atlético Madrid's Remarkable Revival: The Miracle Worker Yang Hao."

The article lauded Atlético's balanced gameplay:

"With stamina, tactical discipline, and swift transitions, Atlético has blended incisive attacks with resolute defense—a seemingly paradoxical football philosophy achieved seamlessly."

Even Arrigo Sacchi, a former Atlético coach and Italian legend, chimed in during an interview:

"What Yang Hao has done at Atlético is nothing short of extraordinary. He's realized the vision I once aspired to achieve with this club: a cohesive, attack-minded team that excels in all phases of play."

Looking Ahead

While critics remained skeptical, Atlético's performance had turned heads worldwide. With the half-season title secured and their confidence surging, Yang Hao's team looked poised to continue challenging the status quo.

"The season is long," Yang reminded his players, "but tonight, celebrate this moment. You've earned it."

Beyond Kicker magazine, France's L'Équipe also featured a special report on Yang Hao with the headline: "Yang Hao and Atlético Madrid Leave Their Mark on La Liga!"

L'Équipe emphasized that in recent years, La Liga's progress has been evident. Known for its emphasis on technique and attacking football, the league has attracted massive global fanfare, expanding its influence across Europe and beyond.

However, the past few seasons have seen significant shifts. Last season, Deportivo La Coruña stunned the football world by beating Real Madrid and Barcelona to the league title. This season, Atlético Madrid has similarly surprised everyone, clinching the mid-season championship with brilliant performances that overshadow even Real Madrid's star-studded squad.

The report highlighted how La Liga's traditional powerhouses, Real Madrid and Barcelona, are now under siege from new challengers, creating an unpredictable and thrilling league dynamic.

"Fans are tired of the old narrative of the two giants taking turns at the top. They are drawn to teams like Atlético Madrid—passionate, bold, and unafraid to challenge the status quo of Spanish football."

Despite the praise, L'Équipe tempered expectations, pointing out that challengers like Atlético still have much to prove.

Even Deportivo, last season's champions, have struggled to maintain momentum despite strengthening their squad with the additions of Bellarón, Capdevila, and Molina. The rise of Real Madrid, bolstered by Zinedine Zidane, Luis Figo, and a formidable midfield trio of Makélélé, Celades, and Flávio, has made the league even more competitive.

The report credited Yang Hao as the key to Atlético's resurgence.

"The man Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez once dismissed as a charlatan has silenced his critics. His team's victories over Real Madrid and their mid-season title have disproven Pérez's remarks."

However, L'Équipe warned that Atlético's real test lies ahead.

"Barcelona is already eyeing Atlético's successes as a blueprint for their rebuild. Meanwhile, Sir Alex Ferguson in England is desperate for a replacement for Roy Keane, and Thomas Gravesen fits the bill. On top of that, 18-year-old Adriano is drawing attention from Europe's top clubs."

"Atlético's achievements are impressive, but maintaining this level of excellence will be their greatest challenge."

La Liga Standings After 19 Rounds

With 19 matches played, Atlético Madrid sits atop La Liga with 45 points from 14 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses. This marks their return to first place after more than a month.

Real Madrid is close behind with 44 points, while Barcelona, showing signs of resurgence, occupies third place with 35 points, narrowly ahead of Valencia due to head-to-head results.

Deportivo La Coruña has dropped to fifth, with Mallorca rounding out the top six.

At the halfway point of the season, Atlético and Real Madrid have opened up a commanding nine-point lead over the rest of the league, solidifying their positions as the primary title contenders.

As analysts predicted, January's matches clarified the championship race. For now, Atlético vs. Real Madrid is shaping up to be the showdown for the title.

Odds Favor Atlético's Title Chances

European bookmakers have adjusted their odds, with Atlético now considered strong favorites for the title, second only to Real Madrid. This shift underscores the growing belief in Atlético's potential among fans and analysts alike.

La Liga Round 20

In the 20th round, Atlético Madrid played ahead of Real Madrid, traveling to face Real Oviedo.

This matchup was a reunion with former Atlético manager Radomir Antić, who had faced Yang Hao in the season opener. Back then, Antić confidently aimed to prove himself but saw his team thoroughly outclassed at the Calderón.

Now, with Atlético as league leaders and Oviedo in 13th place, the dynamics had changed. Antić, acknowledging Yang Hao's transformation of Atlético, admitted in a pre-match interview that the mid-season title was well-deserved.

Yet, Yang Hao's side showed no mercy, particularly after defender Gaspar's transfer from Atlético to Oviedo.

Gaspar had sought the move due to dissatisfaction with his diminished role, falling from a starter to a deep reserve. When Oviedo offered an opportunity, he eagerly accepted, moving for €1.5 million.

In this match, Gaspar made his debut for Oviedo, starting as part of Antić's five-defender formation.

Despite their defensive setup, Oviedo could not withstand Atlético's relentless pressure.

37th minute: Vicente's brilliant left-wing play set up Deco for a header to break the deadlock.

Second half: Baraja and Vicente each added goals, sealing a comprehensive 3–0 victory for Atlético.

Antić's team showed resilience but ultimately could not handle Atlético's intensity. Gaspar's first game for Oviedo ended in disappointment.

Madrid's Duel for the Title Continues

Later that evening, Real Madrid faced Valencia at the Mestalla. Thanks to a Morientes assist and a decisive goal from Raúl, Real scraped a narrow 1–0 win.

Meanwhile, Barcelona and Deportivo both drew their matches, further widening the gap between the Madrid giants and the rest of the league.

After 20 rounds, the championship narrative has become increasingly clear: It's a two-horse race between Atlético and Real Madrid.

A Brief Respite

After the match, Yang Hao gave himself and his players a rare day off. While enjoying a public date, Yang didn't forget to make a cheeky call to AS:

"Remember your editor's promise to streak if we reclaimed the top spot? I'm waiting."

"I've never seen an old man streak before—don't let me down."

END CHAPTER

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