Haven't watched the anime version yet but I have read the manhua of this one last month and I actually enjoyed it. I wouldn't go far and say that I love it though as I also have some issues about the 'perfectness' of the MC but it was definitely a fine read. :)
What I do know from the responses I got about some friends fond of the show was that most minor details that held the story together were cut out from the anime. They too shared my experience about the show being rushed with 13 episodes to build from.
I would have to agree with your friends here. I suspect that the anime version has left a lot of material making the anime version felt likely rushed.
The Esports feels will probably happen after a year or so and after he finishes leveling up his new character to a certain level and has his self-made weapon (the umbrella thingy) completed.
That time I guess most of his enemies will now be 'pro' players instead of the clown guild leaders in the 10th server. XD
I can't say how great the manga when I haven't read it in depth. I skimmed a few chapters and saw some scenes omitted and could understand why production for the anime was rushed. The anime is more of a commercial thing rather than an art. Everyone else is only a Ye Xiu pawn to make him look good. One Punch man carried the OP character right. The story doesn't necessarily have to focus on the MC to make the MC connect and look good. Chinese cinematic production suffers these lack of story telling especially on live action. Still commendable is their level of animation for the intense fight scenes.