The All-Around Center Forward

The match was still ongoing, with Mourinho and his coaching staff meticulously taking notes.

They weren't particularly interested in goals.

Winning or losing didn't matter.

The purpose of this warm-up match was to build chemistry and train!

There would be some minor changes this season, and minor changes could lead to major ones. As a Head Coach who meticulously focuses on details, Mourinho naturally prioritized the issue of team chemistry.

Among the players currently on the field, he was only observing two individuals.

One was Casemiro.

The other was Khedira!

Casemiro was a player Mourinho strongly advocated for. As a defensive midfielder, Casemiro's defensive positioning, cooperative defense, and running intensity all needed to be observed.

The defensive midfielder position, or rather, the defensive midfield position!

Mourinho believed this position required 'sacrifice'.

They wouldn't receive much applause, couldn't attract attention, yet they covered the most ground and did the most tiring work!

When the opponent attacked, he needed to defend well!

When his own team attacked, he also needed to remain vigilant, even constantly paying attention to covering positions.

In a deadlock, he also needed to use frequent physical confrontations to disrupt the opponent's attack.

This was Casemiro's first warm-up match; his overall performance wasn't excellent, but it wasn't bad either.

With Srna's reminders, Casemiro didn't lose his position.

However, his reactions in cooperative defense and covering positions were a bit lacking.

This was still due to not fully grasping the tactics.

Mourinho's tactical requirement was that even without conscious thought, as the formation changed, the body should react first.

Modern football's pace is getting faster and faster!

This is no longer the era of looking up to find people, observing, tracking to limit, and then defending.

By then, the opponent would have already advanced the ball to the goal .

Especially in strong matchups, a simple 2-3 touches might already complete a shot.

Therefore, movements need to be simplified as much as possible.

Reactions also need to be instinctive.

And all of this requires daily practice and familiarity with tactics to achieve.

"Casemiro is still holding back, he's very nervous mentally. He doesn't dare to move his feet and expand his defensive range, and when the opponent threads a pass, his movements are a bit slow, as if he's hesitating!"

Faria looked at the field and said, "However, he runs very actively and tracks back decisively."

"Making mistakes and then trying to compensate for them is not the mark of a good defensive player!" Mourinho said calmly.

An excellent defensive player doesn't give the opponent a chance to threaten him.

"Let's keep watching. These are issues of experience and mentality. Once he plays a few more games and loosens up, he'll be fine!" Faria said.

Mourinho nodded as well, then his gaze turned to Khedira.

Faria's voice immediately came through.

"Khedira's performance… hmm…"

Mourinho could understand without Faria saying much.

He was very lost!

In fact, many times, he wouldn't actively track back, but rather shrink behind the opponent's midfielder, waiting for Kaka to pass him a through ball.

Mourinho understood that Khedira was unaccustomed to playing in an unfamiliar position.

But he wouldn't make adjustments for this.

If this piece of the puzzle didn't fit, he would replace it!

Of course, Mourinho wasn't entirely heartless; he would still give Khedira some opportunities.

If Khedira could adjust his form, even if Suker wanted to back Kroos, he wouldn't have a reason to.

Therefore, to stay at Real Madrid, Khedira had to fight for it himself.

On the other side, Ancelotti was also looking at the field.

The pressure seemed a bit too much!

He really wanted to find a strong team to test their strength.

But Real Madrid's pressure was too intense.

The old Real Madrid wouldn't play like this!

They wouldn't attack so aggressively!

Ancelotti looked towards Real Madrid's half.

"Because of Kaka?"

Ancelotti's intuition was still very sharp.

He also had a few ideas to counter, but they were useless!

"The squad strength gap is a bit large!" Ancelotti frowned.

To limit Kaka, besides the forwards tracking back, the midfielders also needed to push higher.

Even high pressing!

But if they did that, Suker would be free!

"Never mind, it's just a warm-up match, winning or losing isn't important!"

Just as he thought this, Suker received a pass from Kaka, a drag-back and turn.

He turned almost hugging Maxwell, physically pressuring him during the process. By the time Suker turned and accelerated, Maxwell couldn't keep up at all.

The rest was simple.

Suker swept the ball across the goal, and Benzema got ahead of everyone to tap it in.

In the 14th minute, Real Madrid 2:0 Paris Saint-Germain.

The warm-up match was going very smoothly.

Of course, it was very smooth for Real Madrid.

They found the right opponent, with just the right amount of pressure for them to build chemistry.

But for Paris Saint-Germain, it was quite a blow.

They had thought that after this squad reinforcement, they wouldn't be able to compete equally, but they could at least have a back-and-forth game.

However, it ultimately showed that they had overestimated themselves.

Their overall squad structure was inferior to Real Madrid's, and there was a significant gap in individual player abilities.

This also led to Paris Saint-Germain having a very difficult time.

"Awesome!"

Casemiro's face was excited.

After going two goals up, he started to loosen up.

With the excitement of the goal and the leading status, his mentality gradually stabilized.

Once his mentality was stable, Casemiro felt a sudden clarity.

He started playing more proactively and also expanded his defensive range.

Relying on his excellent physical qualities and tackling ability, he constantly disrupted the opponent's attacks.

However, the most brilliant defensive performance in this match still belonged to Ramos.

Following a through ball from Verratti, Ibrahimović had a one-on-one opportunity.

Everyone thought Ramos wouldn't foul.

But Ramos used his body, getting his foot in first to clear the ball away.

It should be noted that Ramos was the last defender; getting past Ramos was equivalent to a one-on-one.

But Ibrahimović failed to seize the opportunity.

The first half ended.

Neither team rested much, immediately making large-scale substitutions.

After all, it was a warm-up match, and everyone would get more or less playing time.

However, Real Madrid had withdrawn most of their starters for the second half.

But the Casemiro, Kaka defensive midfield combination was retained, and Kroos also came on as a substitute, forming a new midfield combination.

The second half was more contested.

Even though they were playing with substitutes, they were still Real Madrid's substitutes. While they didn't have the same dominance as the starting XI, they were still strong enough.

The two teams played a hard-fought match, and the final score of the second half was Real Madrid 1:2 Paris Saint-Germain.

Real Madrid defeated Paris Saint-Germain with an aggregate score of 3:2.

With the warm-up match over, Mourinho didn't plan to stay long, but instead went back for a summary meeting.

As he stated, there were many problems that needed to be resolved one by one.

Before leaving, Suker winked at Ancelotti, extending his thumb and pinky finger and wiggling them by his ear, making a phone call gesture.

Ancelotti nodded slightly.

Inside the meeting room of a Paris hotel, a group of Real Madrid players gathered.

Mourinho opened his notebook and said, "Let's start with the offense."

"We're doomed!"

Pepe grimaced and mumbled quietly.

Mourinho had opened his notebook and was categorizing his summary, which meant the summary meeting would be very long and wouldn't end anytime soon.

Mourinho spoke at the front. At first, everyone could listen, but as time went on, it became like a lullaby, making them sleepy.

Suker also tilted his head and yawned.

Suddenly, an angry voice rang out:

"I don't think there's a problem with my passing choice!"

At the sudden sound, everyone jolted awake.

They turned to look.

Only to see Casillas and Mourinho clashing again.

"You're not wrong?" Mourinho said angrily; "In front of the goal, be as concise as possible! A direct long kick is the safer choice!"

"Why a long kick? I could clearly pass it on the ground!"

"At that time, Ibrahimović was already rushing towards you!"

"He didn't get it!"

"What if he did? This is a hidden danger!"

"But it's also an opportunity!"

Mourinho said furiously: "I don't care if it's an opportunity or not, but I need to ensure immediate safety!"

"In front of the goal! Long kick!"

Mourinho was on the verge of exploding.

Casillas also glared, looking furious.

Ultimately, Faria intervened to mediate the atmosphere, then dismissed the players.

However, Mourinho and Casillas did not leave; they seemed to want to continue arguing.

Suker immediately stood up; he didn't want to get involved.

"Suker!"

Faria grabbed Suker's wrist.

Suker gave a wry smile; "I don't want to get involved!"

Faria sighed helplessly; "I know, but here, besides you, no one can stop them! You don't want to see them fight here and then be dragged to the police station, do you?"

Ha~~~~~

Suker couldn't help but sigh.

Take on as much as you can handle.

All his abilities were used for breaking up fights!

Suker and Faria walked back.

The two still maintained their previous posture.

Casillas sat on the chair, legs crossed, glaring at Mourinho.

Mourinho stood opposite him, arms crossed, also glaring at Casillas.

Faria pulled over a few chairs, and the four sat around together, then he cleared his throat and said;

"I think it's necessary for us to have a conversation."

Casillas: "I sought a conversation, but he didn't listen at all!"

Mourinho: "That's because your idea is wrong!"

Casillas: "Then what's right? Is your idea right?"

Mourinho: "I am the Head Coach! I have the right to do this!"

Bang!

Casillas stomped his foot in anger, he looked at Suker, pointed at Mourinho and said; "I f*cking hate this about him!"

Seeing the two about to escalate their argument, Faria could only appeal to Suker.

Suker also glanced at the two, sighing; "Gentlemen! Our farce should end."

They all turned to look at Suker.

What does he mean?

Suker: "First: I don't want to manage the conflict between you, nor do I want to get involved. I know what you are all thinking, but please don't affect the club!"

"Second: Please pay some attention and control your emotions. You are the Head Coach and the captain. You really shouldn't argue in front of the players, this is not conducive to our unity!"

Casillas was about to speak, but Suker raised his hand to interrupt him:

"Let me finish first!"

"Regarding today's matter, I believe the coach is correct!"

Casillas frowned, while Mourinho next to him relaxed his brows.

"This is purely from a tactical perspective. In dangerous moments, the Goalkeeper must clear the ball with a long kick. Once an accident occurs, there is a risk of conceding a goal."

"Also, are we expecting Ramos and Pepe to dribble? We are not a possession-based team either."

Suker said seriously; "Iker, your thinking is a bit extreme!"

Casillas's mentality had definitely gone awry.

The old Casillas would never play like this.

He was very conservative; unless it was very safe, or he had absolute confidence, he would not pass like that.

But now, Casillas was somewhat mentally unbalanced.

Especially after Mourinho mentioned this problem to him last time, this guy was like a rebellious teenager; whatever Mourinho didn't let him do, he would insist on doing.

This argument was originally Casillas being somewhat unreasonable.

After Suker finished speaking, Faria next to him cleared his throat, turned to Mourinho and said; "Jose, you also have a problem!"

"We are coaches, we certainly have the right to ask players to do things, but at the same time, we are a team! Respect is mutual; we respect them, and only then will they respect us!"

"In today's argument, Iker was also right; we have been too neglectful of player feedback, and this is not a good thing!"

Faria felt that Mourinho had changed somewhat.

This was no longer the Mourinho from his Porto days.

Back then, Mourinho was full of passion, and they created a miraculous season together.

After coming to Chelsea and Inter Milan, they also strived for excellence.

Every day was fulfilling then, every day was happy.

Their goals were aligned!

They were full of fighting spirit!

But ever since they stepped into Real Madrid, entering this so-called giant club, it felt like everything had changed.

That passionate Mourinho, he lost himself in the power struggles of the locker room, he no longer had that pure enthusiasm.

The old Mourinho simply pursued victory; he loved the feeling of winning!

But the current Mourinho was striving for the exchange of interests behind victory.

Suker and Faria ultimately managed to ease this conflict.

However, they were also somewhat shaken!

If these two really had a fierce conflict, or even came to blows, that would be truly terrible.

The hotel's fire escape.

Faria lit a cigarette and took a deep puff.

Suker, next to him, stood a little further away. He didn't smoke, nor did he like secondhand smoke.

Faria said with a wry smile: "Sorry! I don't usually smoke much, but right now I still want a cigarette, otherwise my head is a mess!"

Suker nodded; "I understand!"

Faria puffed on his cigarette, the glowing ember flickering in the stairwell.

Faria's eyes also occasionally looked at Suker.

"Can I ask you a question?" Faria suddenly spoke.

Suker: "What question?"

"What are you thinking?"

"What do you mean, 'what are you thinking'?"

"You should know what I'm asking, and you should understand the current situation of the club!"

Suker glanced at Faria: "I've already stated my position, I won't get involved, and don't drag me into it!"

Faria sighed; "But if this continues, the locker room will be in chaos!"

Suker pursed his lips, as if to say, 'Don't I know that!'

But there was nothing he could do!

Make Casillas back down?

That was impossible!

That guy was very stubborn too!

Get rid of Mourinho?

At least for now, it couldn't be done; the time wasn't right yet.

Moreover, when Mourinho first arrived, Suker had already considered this issue.

But Mourinho's arrival was still very necessary.

At the very least, he reformed Real Madrid's defense and also brought in many players like Bale, Casillas, and others to Real Madrid.

In the original timeline, Real Madrid during Mourinho's era wasn't considered particularly glorious!

But Real Madrid's later glory was based on Mourinho's unique eye for talent, the players he brought in, and the systematic transformation he initiated.

Suker didn't need Mourinho!

But he needed Mourinho's systematic transformation!

Therefore, even though he knew this would happen, he still expressed his approval.

The pain was temporary!

But the glory would last a long time!

He just had to get through it.

Seeing Suker remain silent for a long time, Faria also knew that Suker didn't want to talk much about these things, he said helplessly; "You go back, I'll have another one!"

Suker nodded; "Smoke less, it's not good for your health!"

Faria nodded, but from his tightly furrowed brows, it was clear he hadn't really listened.

But Suker didn't care anymore and went straight back to his room.

Creak!

Suker pushed the door open!

Immediately, ears pressed close!

"What happened?"

"Did they fight?"

"What did you all talk about?"

"They didn't really fight, did they?"

"Who won?"

"Mourinho probably can't beat Iker, right?"

"You never know!"

Looking at this group of gossiping guys, Suker was exasperated.

"Go back to sleep quickly, tomorrow we have to go to Germany for the second warm-up match, you're all too idle!"

After Suker sent the players away, he lay down on the bed and slowly let out a breath.

Kaka, next to him, slowly put down his Bible.

"Did they really fight?"

Suker turned his head, his eyes gazing meaningfully at Kaka.

Kaka slowly raised the Bible again, covering his face.

But Suker still heard two almost inaudible words.

"Petty!"

The next day, the entire Real Madrid team flew to Germany again.

The conflict from last night seemed non-existent; everyone appeared relaxed, but if one observed closely, they could see that behind this casualness, pairs of eyes were constantly exchanging signals, reading each other's expressions.

Mourinho sat in the front row of the team, while Casillas was at the very back.

After yesterday's conversation, these two had completely fallen out!

Suker couldn't help but complain!

All his words were wasted!