"The group has already won, so should we rotate heavily?" Stone asked, spreading the team sheets across Yves's desk.
His question carried significance beyond mere squad management. AEK Athens marked Monaco's final Champions League group match, but the stakes had shifted. With qualification secured and group leadership confirmed this fixture presented an opportunity rather than a burden.
Yves examined the player availability reports prepared by Michel. Several first-team regulars showed signs of fatigue, while the squad players deserved recognition for their patience throughout the campaign. European success meant little if it jeopardized domestic ambitions.
"Adebayor starts," Yves decided, making the first mark on his tactical notepad. "He earned it with his performance in the cup final."
