Chapter 459: Celebration and reorganization
After the final ended the next day, the whole world was immersed in the great victory of Real Madrid. The Galacticos returned to Madrid from Rome by plane.
The fervent fans had been waiting at the airport. When they saw familiar figures disembarking from the plane, the deafening cheers made everyone feel proud and satisfied.
"They're a lovely bunch," Ra��l's eyes were a little moist. Since 1994, he had been playing for this club for 15 years. Perhaps it was time to start a new journey.
Under tight security, they boarded the open-top bus prepared by the club to start the championship parade. The six glittering trophies almost blinded the eyes of Real Madrid fans.
The destination was still Plaza de Cibeles in the eastern part of Madrid city, where the symbolism of the Goddess of Harvest matched the achievement of Real Madrid.
First to speak was the head coach, Schuster. He thanked the club, the fans, and the players for their support and efforts, emphasizing that this achievement wouldn't be possible without any missing piece.
Next was Ra��l, who talked about the club's past glory and lows, his emotions choking up at times. He was deeply grateful for the opportunity fate had given him to contribute to the club's new dynasty.
When it was Wang Feng's turn, he hadn't spoken yet, but he was already drowned out by the cheers. It took a long time for the cheers to subside, and everyone could feel his high position in the hearts of the fans, perhaps unparalleled by anyone else.
"Thank you, everyone. Thank you to the club, thank you to my teammates. The glory belongs to Real Madrid, to all of you!" As soon as he finished speaking, applause and cheers erupted once again.
"Many fans, many media outlets are very concerned about my plans for the future. Here, I make a promise to everyone. I won't go anywhere! Next year, the year after, we will all celebrate here again!"
This was a carefully considered decision by Wang Feng. He decided to postpone renewing his contract with the club, but he had no intention of leaving. Therefore, this was also a guarantee to the higher-ups.
With this statement, the fans became even more excited. They screamed for the Chinese superstar as if they were going crazy, shaking the signs with his name on them even more vigorously. Even the most reserved fans couldn't help but show their joy. Everyone could see who the club relied on!
After the celebration, Real Madrid President Florentino organized a grand victory banquet. They booked an entire five-star hotel and invited Michelin-starred chefs to carefully prepare various delicacies.
However, Wang Feng was destined not to have the opportunity to taste them one by one. Shortly after the banquet began, he was summoned to an office by the Spaniards. General Manager Valdano, first-team manager S��nchez, and other top executives were all present.
"I'm sorry, Wang. We originally planned to discuss the club's plans for the new season with you in a few days, but I couldn't wait and had to disturb you enjoying the banquet," Florentino said apologetically as he handed a glass of red wine to the Chinese superstar.
"It's okay, sir. To be honest, I also want to have a good chat with you," Wang Feng said with a smile as he took the glass.
Their goals were very consistent. In the new season, they would not slack off and continue to challenge for the championship, whether it was in the league or the Champions League!
"It's very difficult. I may be fine, but others are inevitably going to feel lazy, and there's a lot of luck involved," the Chinese superstar said somewhat worriedly.
"Yes, that's why we need fresh blood, or you can say a restructuring. But the problem that comes with it is adjustment. By the way, new arrivals will inevitably mean old friends leaving."
"I'll tell you here in advance, Head Coach Schuster has decided not to renew his contract, and Ra��l and Cassano have submitted transfer requests."
Wang Feng was somewhat surprised. Although he had a vague premonition, he didn't expect it to actually happen. "So, who does the club favor to take over the team?"
"Benitez from Liverpool," Florentino said. "Although Liverpool had a good record this season, they still missed out on the Premier League title to Manchester United. The Spaniard wants greater success, and you are his most hopeful reliance."
"He has also coached Valencia, so he is not unfamiliar with La Liga."
The Chinese superstar nodded. Although Real Madrid had defeated Liverpool several times, they were indeed a tough opponent. He didn't know what sparks Benitez would bring.
"As for Ra��l, he has done enough for the club. It's time for him to look for his own opportunities."
Wang Feng didn't comment on this. Afterwards, the group discussed the direction and plans for the next signings in detail, mainly focusing on strengthening the midfield and defense and discovering new talents.
Compared to the joyous and orderly atmosphere in Real Madrid, there was much more chaos within Barcelona. When the majority of the team returned to Barcelona, they found themselves stranded at the airport without transportation.
It wasn't that the club deliberately embarrassed them, but the executives led by Rosell had begun to challenge Laporta. The two sides fought fiercely, and for a while, they couldn't spare any attention to the team's schedule.
Although remedial arrangements were made soon, the players returned to La Masia training base smoothly. But everyone was nervous, not knowing what fate awaited them next.
Fortunately, the chaos didn't last long. Rosell eventually gained overwhelming control of Barcelona, and there were frequent changes in the upper echelons. Surprisingly, Guardiola did not leave with Laporta.
"At the moment, finding a top coach to take over the team is not easy. Josep did well last season. He is from the Barcelona lineage, and I am willing to give him another chance," Rosell said to his confidant.
Guardiola staying meant that Eto'o would leave, and soon the club sent him to Inter Milan for �20 million and sought Ibrahimovic's arrival.
He had never gotten along with Ribery, so soon Inter made a decision, selling Ibrahimovic for �48 million.
During the negotiations, there was a very interesting insider story. When Ibrahimovic learned that he was going to Barcelona to deal with Wang Feng, he strongly resisted, but he didn't have the right to veto, so he could only reluctantly accept.
In addition to this signing, Barcelona also set its sights on Kaka from AC Milan. The Brazilian not only had superb individual skills but also had high commercial value.
Moreover, instead of spending time nurturing potential young players, it was better to introduce already well-known stars. They urgently needed to counteract the rising momentum of the Galacticos.
As for why the Rossoneri had to sell their leading star, the main reason was still their poor finances. Since the phone scandal in 2006, the Italian Football Federation had to check the accounts of various clubs every three years, and they might not pass the financial inspection.
In the end, Barcelona paid �65 million to bring Kaka back to the San Siro Prince's Park. Kaka bid farewell with tears to the club he had dedicated himself to for many years, embarking on his new adventure.
The Catalan team spent a total of �110 million just on bringing in Ibrahimovic and Kaka, and the newly appointed Rosell aimed to prove to the fans his determination to strengthen the team.
In addition to these acquisitions, they also bought Maxwell for �4.5 million and Zigic for �25 million to strengthen the defense. With these expenditures, they became the most lavish club in the summer transfer window.
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