Football: Starting from the Ronaldinho template

Chapter 329 The winds of North London, blowing across the bricks of Highbury, now howl through the Emirates Stadium.
After the match against Sunderland, big news suddenly broke in La Liga: the title race between Real Madrid and Barcelona has entered its final stage.

The two teams are currently separated by three points, with Real Madrid in the lead for the time being.

If Real Madrid can beat Malaga in the final round, then regardless of Barcelona's performance, they will miss out on the championship.

A wave of calls for Enrique's dismissal has swept the internet.

Just like Wenger a few years ago, from the signs outside the stadium to the banners flying over the stadium, they showed the Barcelona fans' disgust.

Northeast of Madrid.

Valdebebas Training Base.

Zidane was wearing a football training uniform. Despite his advanced age, his physique remained in good shape, and his bald head was the same as when he was a player.

He stood in front of the tactics board.

"Everyone knows that our Champions League final opponent is Arsenal, but do you know what kind of team they are?"

Zidane looked down at the players.

Some people looked serious, some smiled, and some looked disdainful.

This Real Madrid team, possibly the strongest since the millennium, certainly gave the players a great deal of confidence.

They have a backcourt that's capable of sweeping all the guards in the All-NBA Team.

They have a midfield combination that any team would covet.

They have a striker who is like a goal-scoring machine. Benzema went through a slump in his game, but his ball control and ability to draw defenders gave Ronaldo a lot of room to perform.

The only pity is that Bale is in poor form.

However, with Isco and Vázquez on the team, there's no shortage of replacements for Bale.

It's just a matter of adjusting tactics.

Zidane's gaze lingered on Ronaldo for a moment. Since his transformation, Ronaldo has almost stopped taking wasteful shots and is now more focused on seizing opportunities to attack the goal directly in order to compensate for his declining physical condition.

Zidane knows Real Madrid inside and out, but he doesn't know Arsenal as well.

"Let's take a look at the data."

Zidane turned on the projector, and the screen behind him flashed, displaying a lot of data.

"Arsenal have covered an average of 11.2 kilometers per game this season, 1.5 kilometers more than second-placed Liverpool. This physical advantage has translated into 27 clean sheets!"

"The team averages 14.3 clearances per game, and the defensive midfielders have a 72.4% tackle success rate. These statistics speak for themselves, but Arsenal's true strength lies elsewhere!"

Zidane sometimes gets a headache, wondering why Juventus didn't advance.

That would give him a better chance in the Champions League final.

"45 Premier League goals, 22 assists, and Champions League goals."

"His total goal involvements have reached 96 so far, and that doesn't even include his national team statistics."

"That's right, he is Qin, representing Arsenal's attack."

In the dimly lit room, the projector hummed with electricity, and the light from the screen reflected off the players' faces.

The brows of defenders like Marcelo, Ramos, Varane, and Carvajal grew increasingly furrowed.

They are among the world's top defensive players, so they naturally know what these statistics represent.

Qin Ming is every guard's nightmare.

"He averages 12 dribbling attempts per game with a success rate of 83.1%, and his dribbling is not only effective but also unpredictable."

Zidane gets a headache just thinking about this.

The bull's tail, the groin pass, the cross pass, the Marseille turn at high speed—almost every match creates a memorable moment.

Defenders dare not rush in to intercept easily because the probability of being faked out is too high.

But this also leaves him with plenty of space to shoot or pass the ball.

"How do you limit such a superhuman player? You absolutely cannot give him one-on-one opportunities; you must make up for the difference in strength with team defense."

Zidane's words displeased the Real Madrid players.

Isn't this just a blatant statement that there is no guard in the world who can stop Qin Ming?
Zidane took in everyone's expressions. "The core of our defensive strategy is to severely compress Qin's favorite space. He likes to receive the ball on the left flank and cut inside, so we tilt our formation to the same side, tightly protecting the edge of the penalty area and the left flank area."

"Of course, the most important thing is not defense, but to do our offense well!"

At this point, Zidane switched to the next page, where a few simple yet powerful arrows conveyed a sharp and imposing presence.

Arsenal have a strong attack.

Real Madrid is not weak either.

Do you want to beat Real Madrid by controlling possession?
With three forwards in a defensive counter-attacking formation, it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that this team is the best in history, not to mention the two midfielders who are masters of extremely accurate long passes.

Moreover, Modric and Toniklos were completely unafraid of being pressed during transitions from defense to offense.

And then there's Casemiro, the defensive stalwart.

One of the center-backs has excellent mobility and timely cover, while the other has good positional awareness and precise tackling.

The goalkeeper's reaction was absolutely incredible.

Even if Wenger goes crazy and parks the bus.

Real Madrid's two full-backs are both incredibly accurate crossers, and Ronaldo's heading ability is terrifying. Can Arsenal really withstand wave after wave of continuous attacks?
Even if they clear the ball, there are three players in midfield with outstanding long-range shooting abilities, and the problem is that they all have different styles.

"No team has ever defended the Champions League title since the competition was restructured."

Zidane turned off the projector, snapped on the lights, and under the blinding light, declared, "We will be the first team to do it!"

After the tactical meeting concludes.

Varane approached Carvajal to discuss how to defend against Qin Ming.

Cristiano Ronaldo sat there with his arms crossed, seemingly lost in thought.

Bell was thinking of finishing quickly so he could go back to Wales to play golf.

Modric, Casemiro, and Toniksroes are all together.

"We can't skip today's physical training. The Champions League final isn't until early June, so we must ensure we have good physical reserves."

Suddenly a calm voice came from outside the door, but the Real Madrid players felt as if they had heard a demon.

Pintus!
Why is it that no one in the world can wear down Real Madrid in a protracted battle?

It was precisely because of this physical trainer.

Moreover, Real Madrid is accustomed to adopting a low-key approach at the start, forcing the opponent to attack first, which not only takes risks but also depletes their energy.

After a prolonged period of attrition between the two sides, Real Madrid's bench suddenly saw the emergence of players of Isco, Asensio, and Kovacic's caliber.

While Real Madrid was actively preparing for the match, the Arsenal players were not relaxing either.

"The tactical arrangements were extremely detailed."

Qin Ming analyzed whether his passing and running could be optimized to better suit the opening tactics.

The answer is that there is indeed room for improvement.

"Qin, you won't be stuck in one position. Once the game starts, you have to move around and operate in the flanks between Real Madrid's midfield and defense lines. At the same time, be aware of the gaps on the flanks exposed when Marcelo makes a forward run."

During training, Wenger suddenly said something.

His pre-match strategy wasn't aimed at Ronaldo, Isco, or Modric, but rather at Real Madrid's left-back.

Marcelo!
Marcelo's powerful attacking ability is Real Madrid's lifeline, but also their Achilles' heel.

Continue to attack Real Madrid's most risky points.

This forced Casemiro and Varane to constantly cover for the defense, thus disrupting Real Madrid's overall defensive formation.

Then try to control the pace of the game.

As always, Wenger's initial tactics are all designed to establish an advantage early in the game, steer the pace of the match into Arsenal's familiar rhythm, and put the opponent in a passive, chasing position.

Qin Ming nodded to indicate that he understood.

In short: take the initiative, attack the enemy's vitals, and adapt dynamically!
However, there are too many details involved.

It will take a lot of time to adjust and reach its optimal state.

In this atmosphere.

The time soon came to March 5th.

The final match of the Premier League season.

Emirates Stadium. Packed with people.

Sky Sports is doing a history segment that invited several Arsenal legends, including Thierry Henry.

"In the late 1990s, Wenger reshaped the Premier League landscape under the name 'The Professor.' In the 1997-1998 season, Arsenal ended Manchester United's long-standing Premier League dominance, and behind their first trophy were Patrick Vieira's iron-willed defense and Bergkamp's artistic touches."

According to FA records, Arsenal had an average possession rate of 58.7% that season, scoring 2.1 goals and conceding only 0.8 goals. Their defensive efficiency remains among the top three in Premier League history.

“2001-2002赛季，阿森纳再次拿下英超冠军。当赛季博格坎普与亨利组成的前场组合场均制造2.3次绝佳机会，这种高效进攻体系让球队在38轮联赛中仅输2场。”

"What's even more amazing is that Wenger used only 18 players to complete the entire season, setting a record for the most streamlined squad in the Premier League."

"Arsenal in the 2003-2004 season created a miracle in the top five leagues."

"38 matches, 26 wins, 12 draws. Losses? Absolutely not."

The host's eloquent narration brought back memories of those glorious years for Arsenal fans.

"To this day, Arsenal still has a miniature gold trophy in their trophy room. Apart from that, in all other cases in the Premier League era, the winning team has to return the trophy they won."

"According to our information, Arsenal returned the trophy three weeks ago, although it will be back in their hands soon."

The host shrugged and smiled, "Thirry, what do you want to say about this current Arsenal team?"

Henry watched as waves of red and white surged toward the Emirates Stadium on the screen.

My heart is full of emotions.

"You must be envious. To be able to fight alongside such a group of teammates and such a coach will definitely be one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life."

Henry's smile was full of reminiscence. "Luckily, I've had that before."

Meanwhile, PP Sports is showcasing selected fan comments in its program.
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The sky over North London was already a vibrant red!
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This is truly the best lineup ever!
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[The "Top Four Fighter," the "Uncrowned Hero," the "Four Loyal Gentlemen," the "Seven-Point Savings," the "Medical Examination Room," 40,000,001 Pounds. Please add more!]
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[Defending the Premier League title is just the beginning!]
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We want a three-peat! (Soybean sticks out tongue and raises hand) We want a three-peat! (Soybean sticks out tongue and raises hand)
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[As long as the Earth doesn't explode, I love Arsenal!]
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The winds of North London, blowing across the bricks of Highbury, now howl through the Emirates Stadium!

Emirates Stadium.

Inside the players' tunnel, Qin Ming held the hand of a caddie and stood at the front of the line.

"This year's championship ceremony looks very lavish."

The players' tunnel has been completely redecorated, and the photos on both sides seem to transport you back in time to see the major events that have occurred since Arsenal's founding.

Qin Ming looked at the Arsenal players' group photo from the 2003-04 season.

Next to the Premier League title trophy, there is a small gold trophy, which has only been awarded to Arsenal in the Premier League so far.

Because it represents the glory of winning the championship 48 times across seasons without a single loss.

"Qin, let's give it our all in today's game and aim for fifty goals!"

Morata raised an eyebrow.

Qin Ming currently has 45 league goals, only 5 away from 50. With a little more effort, he definitely has a chance.

Didn't we have five goals when we played against Tottenham?
"Let's focus on winning the game first. Look at all the fans outside; it wouldn't be a perfect ending if we lost today."

Qin Ming didn't want to be a star all season only to suddenly falter at the end of the league.

That would definitely become a regret in life.

After all, who doesn't want a perfect ending? Just thinking about losing to Everton today would be very unpleasant.

There's a saying that goes something like that.

Life is full of regrets, but Qin Ming has too many. Two years ago, he had the Asian Cup and the German Cup, and a year ago, he had the Champions League and the FA Cup. He doesn't want any more regrets.

Let Harry Kane be the tragic hero.

The referee nodded to his back, indicating that he could prepare to go on the field, and Qin Ming waved his hand with his back turned.

Arsenal players immediately straightened their heads and puffed out their chests.

Lukaku next door was practically drooling with envy, wondering when he could be like Qin Ming, breaking the league goal record, leading the Champions League top scorer list by a wide margin, and being so handsome too.

It stands to reason.

Qin Ming was teammates with De Bruyne, and he himself was also teammates with De Bruyne.

Qin Ming is a forward, and so am I.

How can the difference be so big?
Lukaku's dark head reflected the light of intelligence.

The light before his eyes expanded and burst forth, and Qin Ming heard cheers that resounded through the sky. A trophy was placed at the entrance of the passage.

A very familiar trophy.

They won this title last season.

The trophy was engraved with Arsenal's name on the base, and Lukaku couldn't resist touching it, which immediately drew curses from Arsenal fans.

This isn't the Champions League final, for crying out loud.

The trophy is already ours, so why are you touching it?

Good afternoon, everyone!

"We are now broadcasting live the final match of the 38th round of the 2016-17 Premier League season!"

"I am Paul Dutton, the commentator for this game!"

"I am Thierry Henry!"

"The match has begun. Let's see how Everton's killer, Qin Ming, performs in this game!"

Paul Dutton suppressed his excitement.

For him, watching Arsenal is not just a job, but an indispensable part of his life.

He spent many years at the Emirates Stadium.

The twilight in North London always carries a touch of melancholy and tenderness, much like the memories Arsenal left him with—deep and lingering.

He remembered the moment Henry slid to his knees that year; it seemed as if the sunlight stood still for him.

At that moment, he seemed to hear the sound of time freezing.

He also remembered Qin Ming's stunning bicycle kick against Manchester United last season.

And a series of memorable, agile, and graceful figures.

The image in my mind overlaps with reality.

Qin Ming dribbled down the wing and broke through. From the Europa League two years ago to today's league match, Everton's right-back position has changed from Coleman to Holgate.

A fast horse from Jamaica.

But the result seemed unchanged: with continuous shaking and the cow's tail, it created space and cut into the heart of the land.

Everton manager Ronald Koeman sighed in frustration.

Everton have had a decent season so far, and if they can win this game and Manchester United lose, they could even finish in the top six of the league.

That would allow them to secure a Europa League spot.

But no matter how you look at it, it seems very difficult to beat Arsenal. He thinks that if he played Arsenal in the 37th round, the chances of winning might be better.

Arsenal will undoubtedly give it their all in the final match.

Wow! The cheers of the Gunners rang in his ears. Qin Ming cut into the heart of the defense but did not continue his breakthrough. Instead, he deftly chipped the ball to the wing.

Sanchez controlled the ball and dribbled into the penalty area.

"Inverted triangle!"

"The ball is in!"

"Qin! In the 5th minute of the match, he received a cutback pass from Sanchez inside the penalty area and slotted the ball into the Everton goal!"

"Arsenal are in top form and still have a hot streak in the final game of the season!"

"Pretty!"

Paul Dutton pumped his fist and roared.

With such momentum, how will Arsenal perform in the Champions League final?

He couldn't help but look forward to it.

On the field, Qin Ming ran to the corner flag and led his teammates in a robotic dance, bringing joy to the fans as always.

The coffee cups in the hands of the fans in the stands trembled at that moment.

"Arsenal!!!"

(End of this chapter)