Destroy Bayern!
The British media were left stunned after Leeds United defeated Bayern Munich 3-1.
The prestigious Times even used this bold headline on its front page to express its astonishment.
The paper wrote that Leeds United's young team looked incredibly strong, leaving a deep impression throughout the dramatic match, especially in the final 20 minutes, which were simply breathtaking.
"Although this was a friendly, both sides approached it seriously. In the first half, they fielded their full-strength lineups, and the score remained 0-0. At the start of the second half, Leeds United took the lead, but Lewandowski soon equalized."
The Times criticized Leeds United's young center-back Saliba, claiming the 18-year-old was not yet ready to play at this level. He had been sent off in a previous game and was again outplayed by Lewandowski.
"Initially, he was expected to fill the void left by De Ligt, but it's clear now that he still has a long way to go before reaching that standard. In contrast, veteran José Fonte made his presence felt with a crucial header."
The paper noted that despite Leeds United's constant transfer activity, two players had been ever-present: center-back José Fonte and captain Jamie Vardy.
Since Leeds United's promotion from the Championship to the Premier League in 2012, Fonte, who joined from Southampton, has been part of the club. Although he gradually lost his starting role, he has remained a respected leader in the dressing room.
"In truth, José Fonte hasn't made many headlines in recent years, especially after losing his starting spot. But whenever Leeds United have needed him, he has always delivered steady performances."
"And he did it again this time!"
Fonte's header restored Leeds United's lead, but the real hero was Vinicius.
After the Brazilian winger came on, he caused chaos for Bayern's Pavard, beating him repeatedly with sharp turns and explosive acceleration. He was directly involved in both of Leeds United's decisive goals.
"Without a doubt, Vinicius was the star of the match. He repeatedly dismantled Bayern's defense and even made a tackle high up the pitch that nearly led to another goal."
"As a 19-year-old winger, Vinicius's performance was sensational. His pace and technical ability were remarkable, and it was hard not to think of Mbappé at his peak."
"Both players are lightning-fast with great footwork, but Vinicius is more of a pure dribbler. However, he still needs to improve his off-the-ball movement, link-up play, and goal-scoring instinct."
The Times ended its report with admiration, stating that it was astonishing to see Leeds United's youngsters dominate Bayern Munich so completely in the closing 20 minutes.
"In the last 20 minutes, the Leeds United youngsters completely controlled the match, launching wave after wave of attacks. Bayern could only defend desperately without any real counterattack."
"And just like that, Leeds United scored twice more and beat Bayern Munich 3-1."
The Times concluded that, after a chaotic summer, Leeds United's preseason performances had shocked the football world.
"After selling ten key players, critics demanded that Gao Shen and Leeds United's management explain how this team could possibly compete in the Premier League next season."
"But now, we have the answer!"
"Leeds United are a team to watch this season. Their young players have shown extraordinary talent and potential. They are one of the most promising teams in world football."
The paper also highlighted the 80-player shortlist for the 2019 Golden Boy award published by Tuttosport.
Although the list initially received little attention, the Times noted that Leeds United had an astonishing seven players included, the most of any club in the world: Vinicius, Rodrygo, Haaland, Foden, Sancho, Jon Amenée, and Alphonso Davies.
If João Félix and Matthijs de Ligt, who recently joined Real Madrid, were also counted, Leeds United would have produced nine nominees, confirming their status as the most talent-rich club in the world.
At first, few noticed this fact, but after watching Leeds United's young players fearlessly dismantle Bayern Munich, the football world took notice.
"If anyone still wonders how Leeds United plan to compete in the Premier League this season," the Times concluded, "the answer is clear: with these young geniuses."
...
Unleash Talent! Leeds United Let Their Geniuses Run Free!
This was the front-page headline of the French newspaper L'Équipe after Leeds United's 3-1 win over Bayern Munich.
As one of Europe's top clubs, every move Leeds United make attracts attention. To see them defeat a powerhouse like Bayern with a team of youngsters was nothing short of stunning.
After the match, manager Mauricio Pochettino praised his players in an interview and promised that the team would give its young stars more opportunities this season.
"Our goal in this match was to continue integrating the team, test our tactical systems, and at the same time give our young players the chance to face elite opponents. It's a rare opportunity for them to experience top-level football," said Pochettino.
He acknowledged Bayern Munich's impressive squad but emphasized that Leeds United's victory was no fluke.
"I know many are surprised by how well the young players performed, but to us, it's perfectly normal. This is their real level, and we've always known what they're capable of."
He explained that one key reason behind the sale of ten players this summer was to create room for younger players to grow.
"We've always been a club that values youth development. We are not rich, and we don't rely on expensive signings. Our history and our identity demand that we give young players opportunities."
"Only through consistent match experience can they improve and contribute more to the team."
Regarding the victory over Bayern Munich, Pochettino said he was very satisfied but not surprised.
Earlier, Leeds United's technical director Rodolfo Borrell had revealed that the club's goal for the upcoming Premier League season was to secure a top-four finish.
Pochettino agreed.
"I think that's a realistic target. I've discussed it with the players, and we're all confident we can achieve it."
However, the Argentine coach clarified that aiming for a top-four finish didn't mean the team lacked ambition.
"It's a goal we must reach, but we know we can do even better. Our players are hungry and have the right mindset. Leeds United will never be satisfied with just enough."
...
The British media, while impressed, expressed some skepticism. Given the fierce competition in the Premier League, securing a top-four finish would be no easy feat.
At least six clubs are strong contenders every year, and Leeds United, having sold ten key players, seemed destined to drop off.
Yet, after an undefeated preseason campaign—three wins and one draw—critics were forced to rethink their assumptions. The 3-1 victory over Bayern Munich, in particular, carried immense weight.
Meanwhile, Manchester United and Chelsea were both struggling with internal issues. Despite having expensive squads, they faced uncertainty heading into the new season.
Leeds United, on the other hand, had lost big names but gained something more important: the rise of a new generation.
With talents like Haaland, Vinicius, Foden, and Sancho leading the way, Leeds United looked ready to fight for a top-four spot once again.
As analysts dug deeper into the club's model, one question dominated headlines across Europe:
How does Leeds United keep producing world-class talents year after year, even after selling their stars?
All answers eventually pointed to one man: Gao Shen.
Because everything Leeds United are today began the moment Gao Shen took over the club and built its foundation.
And while Leeds United's youth revolution continued, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain were also evolving under his influence.
In Madrid, young players like Marcos Llorente, Asensio, Theo Hernández, and Dani Ceballos were emerging. In Paris, youngsters such as Nkunku and Lo Celso were beginning to shine.
On top of that, Paris Saint-Germain had just signed 20-year-old striker Darwin Núñez from Peñarol for 15 million euros, and he impressed everyone with his debut performance.
All of this pointed to one conclusion.
Gao Shen seemed to possess a kind of magic that defied understanding.
(To be continued.)