Football: Starting with the Crescent Moon Slash

Inside the Shaanxi Gymnasium in Xi'an, fans lingered, reluctant to leave.

After saying goodbye to the fans in the stands, Jiang Yan walked towards the players' tunnel with Gao Hongbo.

The rest of the players and staff were still celebrating inside the stadium.

"Jiang, I can't believe it, we really did it! You absolutely have to come to the celebration party next time!"

Jiang Yan smiled and shook his head: "I've already bought the tickets for the direct flight to Spain, so I'm afraid I won't have a chance to celebrate with you all."

Gao Hongbo paused for a moment: "So rushed? Quite a few fans want to see you..."

"Five more days."

"What?"

"There are only five days left until El Clásico, which is crucial for the La Liga title. I cannot refuse."

"I see." Gao Hongbo nodded. "Playing football overseas must be really tough... In another two weeks, it will be the group stage for the final 12. I hope we can get a good draw."

"When soldiers come, generals will block them; when water comes, earth will dam it."

……

After taking a shower.

A cold, mechanical synthesized sound rang out.

[Ding~ Congratulations, host, on completing the mission: King of Adversity.]

Adversity cannot defeat you; it will only become a whetstone, making you stronger!

Congratulations on receiving the reward: a random player skill pack!

[Open?]

It's finally here! The new skill pack!

"Open!"

[Random player skill packs are now available...]

A steel-like figure stands in the midfield, his body as upright as an iron tower. He runs tirelessly and never backs down in battle. He can run for ninety or even one hundred and twenty minutes and still have explosive power!

With his perpetual motion machine-like endurance, steely physique, and indomitable fighting spirit, he became the most awe-inspiring and indomitable warrior on the court...

He is widely recognized as an ironman in football, a perpetual motion machine in midfield, and the ultimate embodiment of willpower and physical endurance.

He possesses no fragile physique prone to injury or illness, no cowardly fighting spirit, but rather unparalleled physical reserves, an iron body, and an indomitable fighting will.

In Serie A and the Champions League, he is the backbone of the team, the bulwark of the midfield, and a tireless, iron-willed warrior who runs the entire field.

He exemplified what it means to be an indomitable ironman on the court, through his unwavering tenacity, ferocity, and passion.

……

Congratulations! You have obtained the Nedved "Iron Body" skill pack!

Your physical stats have improved!

Physical fitness: 66 → 78

[Body: 70→80]

It's actually a skill set from "Iron Man" Nedved!

Physical fitness and stamina have always been his two biggest headaches. Benitez even created a muscle-building plan for him, but the results were not very noticeable.

Now, not only my body, but also my physical fitness has been upgraded.

Moreover, after these two values ​​were improved, Jiang Yan's overall score finally reached 76 points!

"Finally! This day has finally come!"

It took a full 15 skill packs to raise the overall rating from 65 to 75!

Although his current stats don't qualify him as a top star, these skills alone would give him a place in any club!

Jiang Yan clenched his fist, feeling the power surging within him.

Nedved's skill set made his body even tougher, and even his muscles, which hadn't grown in a long time, showed some changes at this moment.

……

After taking a shower, he changed his clothes and prepared to head straight to the airport.

Suddenly, a familiar voice rang out: "Jiang... Jiang Yan!"

"Um?"

He turned around and saw a familiar man with a short haircut, an honest face, and eyes full of trepidation, who seemed to have just entered the locker room.

"Wu Lei?" Jiang Yan smiled. "You were very active in your positioning today."

Wu Lei did not continue the conversation following Jiang Yan's words.

"Are you leaving?"

Jiang Yan nodded: "The national derby is just around the corner. If we don't go back, I'm afraid the head coach will be furious."

"Have a safe trip." Wu Lei kept his head down, and only when Jiang Yan was about to leave the locker room did he finally muster the courage to ask, "A chance... do I have a chance to go to Spain?"

Upon hearing Wu Lei's words, Jiang Yan stopped in his tracks.

He didn't expect Wu Lei to ask him such a question.

Seeing that Jiang Yan did not answer for a long time, Wu Lei had already anticipated the worst outcome.

"It was my abruptness..."

"Yes."

Jiang Yan's voice was absolutely certain.

"With your talent, you're definitely going to Spain, so don't give up and keep going."

After saying that, he patted Wu Lei on the shoulder and walked straight out of the locker room.

"I hope to see you again in Spain!" Wu Lei shouted.

Jiang Yan remained silent, simply waving his hand and leaving Wu Lei with only his back turned.

……

On the way to the garage, we passed the reporters' interview area.

Upon seeing Jiang Yan emerge, reporters rushed to interview her:

"Jiang Yan, you saved the national football team tonight. What are your thoughts?"

"Jiang Yan, this is destined to be a match that will go down in history. Can you share your thoughts?"

Seeing this, Jiang Yan stopped and gave what he thought was a friendly smile.

At this moment, a female reporter had already rushed to the front of the crowd, panting as she said:

"Jiang Yan, tonight you led the national team to victory against Qatar. In the final 12, we may face even more formidable opponents like Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Australia... Are you confident you can lead the national team into the World Cup?"

Jiang Yan nodded, his expression natural: "Yes, not just me, but the best generation of players in China is already in the team. We will work together."

"Who gave you such courage and decisiveness? Does Coach Gao Hongbo have some hidden tricks up his sleeve?"

"As long as I am here, China will not lose."

Hearing his words, everyone was stunned for a moment, then looked at Jiang Yan's serious expression.

Thinking back to his performance tonight, he single-handedly and completely dominated the Qatari team.

A round of enthusiastic applause erupted from the back of the crowd.

……

After Jiang Yan left, reporters from various stations uploaded their interview records.

News reports have dominated the trending topics on the internet.

His match highlights were played over and over again, and various clips of his matches spread virally on the internet.

The name Jiang Yan is known to everyone in China, from 80-year-old grandmothers to elementary school students who don't watch football.

Jiang Yan, China's own football king.

A stunning comeback! Jiang Yan, number 10 for the Chinese national football team, came off the bench and orchestrated the game, creating three goals and leading China to a stunning victory!

Fifteen years of waiting have finally paid off! We've qualified!

"A Renowned Coach! Capable! Gao Hongbo—The Self-Cultivation of a Master Coach."

"Solo runs and tight ball handling: Did you really understand Jiang Yan's performance in this match?"

Extreme Individual Heroism vs. Team Football!

not only that.

Even CCTV News reported on the match, highlighting Jiang Yan's performance and calling him a leading figure in the new generation of Chinese football.

Online, any post about Jiang Yan generates alarmingly high numbers.

Overnight, Jiang Yan's name became known throughout the country.

As for Jiang Yan, he had already arrived at the airport accompanied by the rest of the national football team.

"Jiang Shen, you must come back again."

"Thanks to you these past few days, we will become stronger and better able to assist you."

"Wait for me in Spain, I will definitely come to find you!"

Jiang Yan high-fived everyone, gave them a few words of advice, and then boarded Real Madrid's private plane back to Spain.

Looking at Jiang Yan's retreating figure, Gao Hongbo felt somewhat dazed.

The experience during this period felt like a dream, with both matches he coached after taking office resulting in thrilling victories.

So this is what it feels like to coach a max-level character.

Gao Hongbo tilted his head back, trying hard not to let his tears fall.

Chinese football can still get better.

……

After Jiang Yan left.

An article titled:

"The most hardworking person in football – Jiang Yan flew to Spain immediately after the national team break to prepare for El Clásico."

The article caused a huge uproar online as soon as it was published.

[Seriously? Not a single day of rest? It's one thing to play well, but to be this hardworking? No wonder he's a starter at a club like Real Madrid!]

Putting everything else aside, just his professional attitude of flying to Spain immediately after playing for the national team completely surpasses that of many so-called star players.

[Who understands! I cried for half an hour after watching the match against Qatar. From being behind to turning the tide, Jiang Yan carried the whole team forward single-handedly. It was so moving!]

My grandma never watches football, but she just passed by the living room and asked me: "Did that young man named Jiang Yan win glory for the country?"

[Don't even mention it, I booked tickets for El Clásico overnight! I'm going to the Bernabéu to watch Jiang Yan thrash Barcelona!]

Even CCTV has spoken out! With such a leader, how can Chinese football not revive?

……

On the plane, Jiang Yan held a tablet computer in his hands, which was playing all of Barcelona's match records from the past six months.

"Jiang, Benitez asked me to give this to you so you can study it carefully and prepare for the upcoming El Clásico."

"Why are you so eager to show me the video? Have you already decided on the starting lineup?"

"Mr. Benitez, you must know him... Let's not talk about him, I doubt any coach would not use a player who has improved so quickly and is in such good form."

Jiang Yan smiled and said, "That makes sense."

……

Meanwhile, in Florentino's office.

Benitez was called in for a talk once again.

As for the reason for this, he himself is not quite sure.

"Sir, what brings you here this time...?"

Florentino turned the computer next to him toward Benitez.

"Take a look at this."

The computer was playing a replay of the South American World Cup qualifier match between Colombia and Ecuador, where Colombia defeated Ecuador 3-1.

In this match, James Rodriguez was involved in all three goals and single-handedly led the Colombian national team to a complete thrashing of Ecuador.

"James Rodriguez...played quite well."

Florentino frowned, his hands crossed, resting right on his lips.

"Not bad? He played like a Real Madrid star for the Colombian national team."

"You mean...?"

"You must be well aware of the gap between the level of football in Asia and the Americas."

Benitez nodded, not in a hurry to express his opinion.

"Fans, media, sponsors, everyone is expecting James Rodriguez to return to Real Madrid's starting position." Florentino's tone was calm, but carried an undeniable pressure. "The El Clásico is the focus of attention for fans all over the world. That Asian kid beat Barcelona by luck, but I've never believed in luck in my life."

"You mean... to start James Rodriguez in El Clásico?"

Florentino remained silent, his deep and intensely piercing eyes fixed on Benitez.

it is more than words.

"Jiang Yan is in better form than James Rodriguez," Benitez said firmly. "He just completed a miracle in Asia, and he's at his peak both mentally and physically."

Florentino shook his head: "No matter how good his form is, he's still too young. The opponent is that Barcelona... James Rodriguez has a World Cup Golden Boot and the ability recognized by top clubs. You have to remember, this is El Clásico, not the Asian Cup, and certainly not an Asian qualifier."

He paused for a moment, then gave his final conclusion:

"For the next match, I want James Rodriguez in the starting lineup! Jiang Yan, put him on the bench!"

Benitez opened his mouth, but ultimately nodded slightly.

"……I see."

He understood that the dictator wanted to take this opportunity to put Jiang Yan in a bad light, while also not wanting to admit that buying James Rodriguez was a mistake.

When someone wants to stand out, someone else has to make sacrifices.

……

Ten thousand meters above the ground, the special plane smoothly shuttled between the clouds.

Jiang Yan was leaning back in his chair, resting with his eyes closed.

Having spent so much time in China, the jet lag upon returning to Spain was quite difficult to adjust to.

In just a few hours, he completed the transition from the savior of the Chinese national football team to a Real Madrid player.

When the plane landed at Madrid-Barajas Airport, Real Madrid's chauffeured car was already waiting outside.

Upon seeing Jiang Yan, the driver greeted him respectfully: "Mr. Jiang, Mr. Benitez has been waiting for you for quite some time!"

Benitez actually came to greet us personally!

"Thanks for your hard work."

Jiang Yan nodded slightly, opened the car door, and got in.

Inside the carriage, Benitez had been waiting for some time.

"Jiang, you've become famous overnight."

Benitez looked at Jiang Yan with a complex expression in his eyes.

Jiang Yan's expression was very bright.

"Thanks to my master's guidance, are you enjoying the local specialties I sent you?"

"Nice tea."

Seeing that Benitez wasn't in a good mood today, Jiang Yan asked with some curiosity:

"Master, what's wrong today? Is something on your mind?"

Benitez nodded.

"The Empress Dowager has spoken with me."

Before Benitez could finish speaking, Jiang Yan interrupted:

"Florentino wants to fire you? Don't worry, godfather, I'm here for you! Just let me know in advance if you find another job!"

Benitez was stunned. He hadn't even said anything yet, and Jiang Yan had already imagined a palace intrigue drama.

This left Benitez feeling utterly helpless and frustrated.

"It's not that I'll be fired..." Benitez handed Jiang Yan a tablet. "Take a look at this first."

The tablet displayed video footage of James Rodriguez playing for the national team, along with reports from various media outlets, including some that suggested he was "forcing Real Madrid out."

"James Rodriguez has performed excellently for the national team, and the president, fans, and sponsors all want him back in the starting lineup," Benitez said somberly. "Florentino is also unwilling to admit that his player acquisition strategy was flawed."

"I see."

Jiang Yan's calmness made Benitez feel even more guilty.

"Don't be discouraged," Benitez solemnly assured him. "I promise you, if the situation on the field turns against you, you'll be the first one to come on. I need you in this derby."

Jiang Yan looked out the window at the rapidly receding street scene; the Madrid sun was particularly dazzling.

Not allowing them to start?

Arrange for a substitute?

Do you think he just got lucky?

Jiang Yan's lips curled up slightly.

good very good.

Jiang Yan recalled the small card he had hidden in the corner—the business card of an Arsenal scout.

"Please convey my message to the Chairman."

Jiang Yan's voice was soft, yet incredibly resolute.

"In El Clásico, I will make him regret his decision today."

……

The next day.

Real Madrid's training ground.

After the international match day ended, the teammates chatted about the interesting things that happened during the game.

Upon meeting Jiang Yan, Kovacic looked at him with admiration: "Master, how does it feel to lead the team single-handedly?"

Benzema chimed in, "Don't say I don't care about you, brother. I was halfway through my business when I remembered your game, so I called a timeout."

Hearing this, Bell couldn't help but elbow him: "That must be premature ejaculation... Jiang, how are you feeling physically? Are you still able to adjust?"

Seeing the three men's concerned expressions, Jiang Yan felt a warmth in his heart. Although Florentino's words were still echoing in his ears, seeing his teammates made him realize that this Real Madrid team seemed pretty good.

"Don't joke around. When the World Cup really comes, don't let me beat you to a pulp."

……

Not far away, Benitez held a medical report, his pupils dilated, repeatedly confirming something with the team doctor.

"Are you kidding me? This physical condition... does China have some kind of secret technique?"

The team doctor shook his head, equally shocked by the changes in Jiang Yan's body.

"Sigh." Benitez put down the report in his hand. "How could Florentino Pérez want to bench a player who has improved so significantly?"