After the match, just like in the FM game, the system provided Adrian Vandenberg with a detailed, visualized post-match data analysis.
The analysis included each player’s performance on the field, goal hotspots, technical indicators, player ratings, tactical proficiency, and more.
In addition to match content, the system also provided early warning information about each player’s physical condition, such as whether their injury risk was high or low.
All of this was almost identical to FM.
“Victory in this match, +20 points.
Host’s tactical training, technical training, and offensive training experience increased by 300.” “System, show me my personal ability data.” After a while, the system displayed the results.
“Host Ability Value Introduction: Defensive Training: 10 Offensive Training: 9 (300/3000) Technical Training: 10 (300/4500) Tactical Training: 14 (300/9500) Mental Training: 6 Fitness Training: 11 (200/5000) Set Pieces: 5 Man Management: 12 Judging Player Ability: 20 (System Enabled) Judging Player Potential: 20 (System Enabled) Working With Youngsters: 20 Determination: 17 Adaptability: 16 Coaching Style: Perfectionist, Resourceful, Resilient Coaching License: UEFA A License.” Adrian Vandenberg’s personal data could also be improved; the more major competitions he participated in the future, the faster his level would rise.
“Now give me a post-match analysis, focusing on the performances of Saša, Florian, and the overall team.” This was also the most frequently used function of the FM system.
“[Saša]: Goals: 1 Expected Goals: 0.85 Aerial Duel Success Rate: 85% Off-Ball Movement: 14/20 Pressing Intensity: 78% (Number of pressing interruptions throughout the match) Shots on Target: 3 Physical Condition: 74% (Stamina at the end of the match)” [Florian]: Goals: 2 Shots: 3 Expected Goals: 1.4 Successful Dribbles: 4 Crossing Success Rate: 60% Inverted Winger Tactical Adaptability: 18/20 Defensive Contribution: 68% [Team Analysis]: Team Expected Goals: 3.75 Team Pressing Intensity: 81% Possession: 49% Transition Speed: 7.5/10 Team Offensive Aggressiveness: 15/20 Expected Tackle Success Rate: 78%” This was the beauty of datafication; both individual player and overall team data were clear at a glance.
After carefully analyzing the players’ data, Adrian Vandenberg reviewed his first match and had a general idea.
Florian had a high success rate in dribbling, and his crosses were extremely accurate, especially when executing the inverted winger tactic, fully showcasing his talent.
However, he still had room for improvement defensively, though his decision-making and teamwork abilities were particularly strong.
This was a future member of the Germany national team; such a promising talent must be carefully nurtured to fully unleash his potential.
Reviewing the entire match, the team’s offensive performance far exceeded expectations, especially the combination of Florian and Saša which made the Düsseldorf defense extremely passive.
The entire team’s pressing intensity and quick counter-attacks were outstanding, but it was noted that possession was slightly insufficient, and further improvement in passing and control coordination and transition speed might be needed in the future.
Adrian Vandenberg completed the post-match analysis based on the data provided by the system.
…
The next day, on a cold morning, everyone gathered punctually at the training ground.
This time, no one was late or just barely made it; everyone arrived early, which indirectly showed that the players had acknowledged the ability of their young head coach.
Although the weather was cold, everyone’s spirits were high; they had waited too long for this victory after many consecutive losses.
Adrian Vandenberg stood in the center of the field, facing two rows of players, all looking energetic, with the joy of the 3-0 victory over Düsseldorf still visible on their faces.
“Everyone, yesterday’s match was excellent,” Adrian Vandenberg smiled, clapping his hands lightly to get their attention.
“3-0, that’s a beautiful score!
Everyone did their part, especially our offense; the cooperation between Florian and Saša was simply perfect.” As he said this, he nodded to the two, and everyone couldn’t help but applaud in acknowledgment.
Young Florian chuckled and scratched his head, saying, “Coach, it’s all thanks to your training; I just ran a bit more than before.” “Stop pretending, Florian, your head is like a compass; wherever the ball goes, you follow!” Saša joined in the teasing, making the whole team burst into laughter.
Adrian Vandenberg looked at Florian and said, “Florian, in my opinion, your two goals were textbook quick counter-attack goals.
I just realized that your agility and insight deserve more praise.” Then, he changed the subject and said, “In this match, not only the offense but also the defense showed progress.” He pointed to several players in the defensive line.
“Our defense didn’t give the opponent many chances, especially with those crucial tackles and blocks.
You put a lot of pressure on the opponent, especially in the second half, where Düsseldorf hardly found any breakthroughs.
Stefan, you did very well in this match, keep it up.” Stefan nodded, a satisfied smile on his face.
Adrian Vandenberg dropped his relaxed tone, his gaze becoming serious again.
“You all did indeed do very well, but this victory does not mean we have no areas for improvement.
During the match, I noticed several shortcomings in tactical execution, which I want to emphasize today.” The team immediately fell silent.
Everyone knew that although Adrian Vandenberg was young, no one dared to underestimate him due to his age anymore.
Adrian Vandenberg walked to the tactics board, picked up a pen, and began to draw some key scenes from last night’s match.
“First, although our possession rate was not low in the first half, our pressing in the front field was not tight enough.” He drew a few lines of forward runs on the tactics board.
“I noticed, especially in the first 15 minutes of the match, Düsseldorf launched several counter-attacks by exploiting the gaps in our midfield.
If it weren’t for the timely blocks from the defensive line, the opponent might have broken the deadlock.” He pointed to several midfielders, then to the tactics board.
“Here, our midfielders need to track back faster when pressing.
Especially when the opponent has possession, we cannot give them too much passing space, especially to opponents on the flanks.
Ivan, your assists were crucial, but your defensive positioning needs to be more stable; you can’t always be easily dribbled past by the opponent.” Ivan nodded seriously upon hearing this.
“Understood, Coach.
I’ll pay more attention to tracking back promptly next time.” Adrian Vandenberg also nodded in acknowledgment, then drew some new lines.
“I’m also thinking, should we try more high pressing in the next match?
Because this not only puts more pressure on the opponent but also helps us win back more possession in the attacking third.” He looked at everyone with an inquiring gaze, as if seeking an answer from them.
“Florian, Saša, your attacking combination is starting to take shape, and I think it can go even further.” He looked at the two and said, “When our team has possession in the attacking third, your positioning needs to be more flexible.
Saša, you need to learn to drift wide more often, creating space in the middle for Florian.
Florian, you need to be ready to cut inside at all times, using your speed and footwork to create danger.” “Coach, does that mean I can run more freely?” Florian asked excitedly.
“Exactly, free but not careless,” Adrian Vandenberg chuckled.
“Your task is not just to score, but to create more opportunities.
And Saša’s task is to be a sharp blade in front of the opponent’s defense, to strike fatally when necessary.
Whether you appear in the center or on the flank, you must ensure that the opponent cannot easily deal with you.” Florian felt confident after hearing this, and also gained more assurance.
“Don’t worry, Coach, I can do it!” Adrian Vandenberg continued.
“Everyone, don’t forget, defense is also part of the game.
Although our defensive line performed well last night, there were a few mistakes.
Especially when we attack, sometimes there will be gaps in the backline due to pushing too far forward.
Stojković, you are the core of the defense; make sure to pay attention to the connection with the defensive midfielder when attacking, and don’t let the opponent easily pass through our backline.” Stojković nodded seriously after hearing this.
“Understood, Coach.
Next time, I will coordinate better to ensure there are no loopholes in the defense.” “Overall, last night’s match was a beautiful victory, but we still need to improve.” Adrian Vandenberg scanned the entire team, his eyes full of confidence, “More challenges await us.
Remember, the victory in the last match is just a tiny beginning; a truly strong team can perform consistently against any opponent.” Adrian Vandenberg paused, then continued.
“I will not be satisfied with just one victory.
We must pursue higher goals—not only to establish ourselves in the League, but also to go further in the German Cup, and even, lift that damn trophy!” The entire team was instantly ignited by Adrian Vandenberg’s words, their eyes filled with confidence and anticipation.
Stefan also got emotional, shouting excitedly.
“Lift that damn trophy!” All the players applauded Adrian Vandenberg in unison.
Adrian Vandenberg watched this scene, thinking to himself that this was not only their path to victory but also his path to growth as a head coach.
He was currently just a head coach in the 2.
Bundesliga, and the opponents’ skill level was limited.
With the system’s help, victory didn’t come too hard.
But the German Cup would be different.
If he really led the team into the quarterfinals or even semifinals, they would definitely compete against Bundesliga giants, and that would be his real test.
After the speech, the players dispersed to prepare for training.
Adrian Vandenberg tidied up the tactics board and his notes, still thinking about what he had just said.
Club director Scholz, holding two bottles of warmed mineral water, slowly walked over from an inconspicuous spot.
He had specifically come to the training ground today without telling anyone, and had been listening to Adrian Vandenberg’s speech.
As soon as Adrian Vandenberg saw Scholz, he immediately composed himself and respectfully went to greet him.
“Adrian, you’ve done very well,” Scholz said with a smile, handing a bottle of mineral water to Adrian Vandenberg.
“This big victory really made all of us take notice, and your speech just now was also excellent.” Adrian Vandenberg smiled in response.
“Thank you for your praise, Mr.
Scholz.
It’s all thanks to the players; they performed excellently.” Scholz gently shook his head.
“Don’t be modest.
Anyone with eyes can see that your tactical arrangements and command played a crucial role.
Everyone can tell that although you are young, your ability to lead the team is no less than that of experienced coaches.” Hearing these compliments, Adrian Vandenberg felt a little thrilled.
Although he had just started his coaching career, receiving affirmation from the Club’s top management was undoubtedly an encouragement.
He responded to Scholz.
“Thank you for your recognition, boss.
What I want to do is to lead this team as far and as steadily as possible, at least to secure their position in the 2.
Bundesliga.” “Speaking of which,” Scholz looked at him.
“I also want to ask about your expectations for this season.
This victory is indeed great, but you should also know that our current situation is not easy.
With the current League table, we are under considerable pressure.
Do you have any specific ideas?” Adrian Vandenberg pondered for a moment, then said with a serious expression.
“To be honest, Mr.
Scholz, my goals are not lofty.
For us this season, the most important thing is to avoid relegation.
As long as we can stabilize our position and stay in the 2.
bundesliga, it will already be a successful season.
I don’t want to put too much pressure on the team; stability is the most important thing right now.” Scholz’s smile widened after hearing this, seemingly very satisfied with Adrian Vandenberg’s answer.
He nodded, saying with an approving tone.
“Very good, staying in the 2.
bundesliga is enough.
This is actually what I and the Club management think as well.
Although fans always hope we can challenge for higher rankings, or even promotion to the Bundesliga, given our current strength, the most pragmatic approach is to play steadily and maintain our position.” Hearing Scholz’s response, Adrian Vandenberg breathed a sigh of relief.
He had initially worried that the board would have overly high expectations for him, especially with the Club’s poor financial situation, making it truly difficult to aim for a higher ranking.
Now, hearing Scholz’s attitude, he finally confirmed that his goals were consistent with those of the senior management.
“I completely agree with your view,” Adrian Vandenberg continued, “Our current player roster still has a lot of room for improvement, and financial constraints also prevent us from making big signings like other Clubs.
The best strategy is to first establish ourselves in the 2.
bundesliga, and then consider higher goals once our finances and team strength are stable.” Scholz nodded with satisfaction, his expression showing a hint of admiration.
“Your clear understanding truly impresses me.
Many new coaches immediately think of achieving astonishing results, but overlook realistic limitations.
You are different; you are pragmatic and clearly know how to take each step.” Adrian Vandenberg said.
“I still have a lot to learn, especially how to adjust tactics when facing strong teams; I need more experience.
Although we won against Düsseldorf, I also saw my own problems.” Scholz nodded gently, his gaze carrying a trace of appreciation, and he patted Adrian Vandenberg’s shoulder.
“Don’t worry, young man, we will support you.” Scholz smiled, “As long as you continue to lead the team steadily forward, the Club will do its best to provide you with all possible support.
Believe in yourself, and don’t put too much pressure on yourself.” Hearing Scholz’s words, a faint warmth flowed through Adrian Vandenberg’s heart.
He knew that although this director seemed difficult to get along with, after their conversation, he genuinely hoped that he and the team would succeed.
Adrian Vandenberg straightened his clothes and said, “Thank you, Mr.
Scholz.
I will continue to work hard to help the team establish itself in the 2.
bundesliga and deliver a satisfactory performance to everyone.” “Good, I look forward to your performance,” Scholz said with a smile.
— T/N: Donate Power Stone to Push the rankings.