Starting With Real Madrid

When Gao Shen was in China, he often heard that Real Madrid was considered the aristocracy and the rich, hence its nickname "the royal club". Even King Juan I was a fervent Real Madrid fan.

In contrast, Atlético de Madrid was seen as representing the commoners and lower middle class, hence their quirky nickname "the Mattress Makers". Gao Shen found this nickname amusing—after all, who would want to be associated with bedsheets?

However, upon arriving in Madrid, Gao Shen quickly realized that such generalizations were outdated. The landscape of professional football had evolved significantly from decades past. While the rivalry and historical animosity between Real Madrid and Atlético remained, the demographics of their fan bases had shifted.

For instance, during a taxi ride from the Odalésa district to the Bernabéu, Gao Shen encountered a die-hard Real Madrid fan driver. Despite not being able to afford tickets to the Bernabéu due to high prices, the driver and his family remained devoted to Real Madrid and its superstar players like Raúl, Ronaldo, and Zidane. The driver even expressed his hope for Gao Shen to consider reinstating Ronaldo in the starting lineup, citing the Brazilian superstar's enduring skills.

The driver praised Real Madrid's recent matches at the Bernabéu and Highbury, especially the exhilarating game at Highbury, which he described as the most thrilling match he had seen in years. However, he was also concerned about the upcoming away game against Valencia, aware of the challenges it posed.

Gao Shen assured him with a smile, "Don't worry, we'll do our best."

Upon arriving at the Bernabéu, the driver refused to accept payment from Gao Shen, considering it an honor to have driven the coach of Real Madrid. Gao Shen insisted on leaving money behind, feeling that the driver deserved compensation for his service, though he humorously lamented not receiving his change back.

Later, when Gao Shen visited the Bernabéu office, he navigated directly to the front desk, where the receptionist immediately recognized him and escorted him to Vice President Butragueno's office. After a courteous introduction, Gao Shen engaged in discussions with Butragueno, who was impressed by Gao Shen's articulate responses and insights into football strategy.

Butragueno, who served as both vice president and technical director, was curious about Gao Shen's contract preferences. Gao Shen clarified that he had no personal demands regarding his treatment; instead, he proposed two specific requests.

"Firstly," Gao Shen began, "I believe our club needs to enhance its data analysis capabilities. Relying solely on scout reports is outdated. We should invest in a modern, data-driven scouting network akin to those seen in American baseball and the NBA."

Butragueno nodded thoughtfully, recognizing the importance of data analysis in modern sports management.

"Secondly," Gao Shen continued, "I'd like to recruit a more specialized fitness coach under the club's auspices. This is an immediate need, and I propose targeting a coach currently with Cadiz."

Butragueno, initially cautious about potential contractual complications, eventually agreed to pursue the Cadiz coach, assuring Gao Shen of financial support and logistical arrangements.

Impressed by Gao Shen's proactive approach and strategic insights, Butragueno proceeded to present a contract tailored to Gao Shen's expectations. Upon reviewing its terms, however, Gao Shen's expression turned incredulous, prompting him to question Butragueno's seriousness.

"Are you certain this contract is genuine?"