The systematic nature of the campaign extended to media relations, with the club's communications department beginning to plant stories that questioned Mateo's suitability for elite football.
The articles were subtle and seemingly balanced, but they consistently emphasized his communication challenges while downplaying his exceptional achievements.
The media campaign was sophisticated and multi-faceted, involving discussions with journalists who were encouraged to explore the "challenges" of managing players with communication difficulties.
The stories that resulted were not directly critical but created doubt about Mateo's commercial value and marketability, preparing public opinion for his eventual departure.
One particularly insidious article, published in a prominent sports magazine, featured an anonymous quote from a "club source" suggesting that Mateo's communication style created "challenges for team cohesion and tactical implementation."
