A Test of Unity

During Monaco's preparations for the upcoming match against Saint-Étienne, Situ Yunbing could sense a shift in the players' mindset on the training field. The atmosphere was more intense, with each player showing a level of focus and dedication that hadn't been as evident before. Their recent comeback victory over Lille had proven the effectiveness of Situ Yunbing's approach, instilling greater trust in his leadership. 

The players of Monaco, aware of their current strengths and limitations, understood that against opponents like Marseille and Lille, they didn't possess an overwhelming advantage in raw talent or physical power. However, Situ Yunbing had demonstrated his capability to bridge this gap through meticulous pre-match tactical planning and precise, in-game adjustments. His strategies were clear and actionable, giving the team a structured approach that had been lacking before. With such a coach at the helm, the squad felt reassured and inspired, recognizing his tactical acumen as a cornerstone of their success. 

After the previous match, Mollo's comments in a post-game interview had resonated widely. He acknowledged Situ Yunbing's unique approach, contrasting it with the more predictable methods of previous coaches. Those coaches often relied on conventional theories and familiar tactics, but Situ Yunbing brought "fresh, bold ideas" to training. When these ideas translated into results on the field, the players recognized that his approach was not only innovative but grounded in a deep understanding of the game. 

With team morale at a high, Situ Yunbing himself exuded a newfound confidence, a natural evolution in his role. His demeanor was a source of assurance for the players; they could see that he approached each challenge with resolve rather than anxiety. As a leader, his calm strength was essential—if he appeared nervous, how could he expect the team to face tough matches with composure and focus? 

On Friday, Situ Yunbing attended the pre-match press conference. French reporters, intrigued by this relatively new figure in Ligue 1, posed several questions, keen to understand his tactical perspective. 

A journalist from France Football pointed out a compelling observation: "The tactics Monaco employs seem almost contrary to the traditional style of French football." 

Situ Yunbing, ever thoughtful, responded, "Modern football tactics have evolved far beyond borders. In the past, we might have categorized football styles into European and South American. But today? We see South American teams adopting European technical and tactical approaches, and vice versa. 

"Even within Europe, if we look back ten years, nations like England, Germany, Spain, France, and the Netherlands each had their distinct playing styles. However, in recent years, these traditional styles have blended and evolved, with a trend toward tactical homogeneity becoming increasingly evident. 

"I don't intend to dismiss tradition. However, when tactical approaches are so widely accessible and studied, teams need to adapt to a more inclusive style. Drawing on the strengths of various footballing cultures to create a unique approach is the new norm. This trend will only grow stronger in the coming years." 

His thoughtful analysis gave the reporters pause, sparking some reflective murmurs in the room. Just then, an Asian female journalist raised her hand to ask a question. Situ Yunbing, still in high spirits, nodded in her direction. 

He couldn't help but wonder if she might be a Chinese journalist, perhaps sent to cover his journey in Ligue 1. After a month coaching in France, he figured his efforts might have made waves back in China too. There was a touch of pride in the possibility that his career had caught the attention of his compatriots. 

After the female reporter began speaking, Situ Yunbing's expression darkened. 

"Monaco has yet to provide a reasonable explanation for the exclusion of Chu-young Park from the squad," she stated. "We have information suggesting that you've attempted to extort Chu-young Park. Allegedly, a payment of 500,000 euros was demanded to reinstate him in the first team and grant him playing time. Is it true that, because Park couldn't meet your demands, you've decided to abandon him altogether?" 

A stunned silence filled the room. 

The other French reporters exchanged glances, eyes shifting between the unwavering confidence on the female reporter's face and the visibly tense expression on Situ Yunbing's. 

Situ Yunbing's displeasure wasn't just due to the reporter's accusations. Judging by her tone and the line of questioning, he suspected she was a Korean journalist. What had begun as a promising press conference was rapidly turning sour. 

For the past month, the media had closely followed Situ Yunbing's journey. He wore his Monaco sports gear constantly, lived modestly in Cap-d'Ail, commuted on foot, and dined at the club facilities. His dedication was evident, as was his relatively humble lifestyle, something that had already drawn public sympathy. Against this backdrop, an accusation of blackmail, though shocking, might seem plausible to an outsider unfamiliar with the reality of his situation. 

Situ Yunbing listened calmly until the journalist finished. He then stood up, requesting a piece of paper and a pen from a nearby reporter. While the room watched in suspense, Situ Yunbing turned to the female reporter. 

"Could you please state your name and the organization you represent?" he asked coolly. 

With a steady voice, she provided the information, which he jotted down. 

Situ Yunbing's response was direct and firm. "I have no time to waste on baseless accusations. I will be filing a defamation lawsuit against you and your publication for libel." 

The room fell silent as he continued, now addressing the reporters at large. "As for Chu-young Park, I'll offer a straightforward response. First and foremost, his skills are not currently among the best in the squad. As a coach, it is my duty to select players based on merit, not on any other factors. His level of professionalism has also been lacking, and I have the right to choose not to work with him. As long as I am Monaco's head coach, he will not be part of the team. I strongly suggest he seek opportunities with another club." 

Situ Yunbing paused, casting a meaningful look at the assembled press. "And to my friends in the media, remember this: those with integrity will always cross paths with the ignoble, and those who spread untruths often sound most convincing. I have promoted many young players during my time here. What could I possibly gain from these players? Think about that." 

Without another word, Situ Yunbing turned and left the room, leaving a heavy silence behind him. 

The French journalists glanced at the Korean reporter, some with frowns and others with raised eyebrows, as they processed what had just transpired. Situ Yunbing's response had been unyielding, a stark contrast to the insinuations of corruption. While it wasn't unheard of for coaches to face bribery accusations, his stance appeared unwavering. By announcing his intent to sue, he conveyed a level of confidence that suggested his conscience was clear. 

The Korean reporter's confident expression wavered slightly. Her information had come entirely from people close to Chu-young Park, but tangible proof? She had none. 

... 

... 

After leaving the press room, Situ Yunbing marched straight to the chairman's office. 

De Bontin was just pulling on his windbreaker, preparing to head home, when he noticed Situ Yunbing approaching, visibly agitated. 

"What happened now?" he asked, his tone weary. He hadn't had a moment of peace since Situ Yunbing's arrival, and each unexpected visit hinted at yet another potential issue. 

Situ Yunbing slapped a piece of paper with the name of the female reporter and her media organization onto De Bontin's desk. "A Korean reporter just accused me of blackmailing Chu-young Park for 500,000 euros to secure his place in the squad! This is absurd, and the club needs to address this publicly. If we don't act, my credibility in the locker room will be destroyed. The players might begin to distrust me. My reputation has been attacked!" 

It was clear that Situ Yunbing was furious. Being wrongfully accused was a heavy blow, especially since he knew the media would seize on the story, which could ripple through the team, undermining morale and unity. 

De Bontin frowned, gesturing for Situ Yunbing to calm down. "Alright, tell me exactly what happened," he said. 

Situ Yunbing took a breath and recounted the events from the press conference in detail. 

When he'd finished, De Bontin asked cautiously, "Have you ever contacted Chu-young Park privately?" 

Situ Yunbing shook his head firmly. "No. But his translator once approached me late one evening, offering 20,000 euros to try and sway me, but I refused outright! Now they're turning it around to make me look guilty!" 

De Bontin knew Situ Yunbing's character well enough by now to believe him. Over the past month, Situ Yunbing had worked tirelessly, sacrificing comfort and even basic needs. He had slept in his office on more than one occasion, dedicated to devising plans and strategies for the team. De Bontin had gradually come to respect this determination and grit, recognizing Situ Yunbing as someone who was truly invested in the club's success. 

"If you haven't done anything wrong, then you've got nothing to worry about," De Bontin replied, attempting to reassure him. 

But Situ Yunbing looked at him, his gaze intense. "If the club stays silent, people will assume I'm guilty. We need to counter this, for my sake and for the team's stability." 

He took a step closer, his tone growing more resolute. "Mr. Chairman, you may not realize this, but the team has finally started coming together. My role in building unity in the locker room is undeniable, and the club's public support is essential to preserve that unity. We cannot afford to have anyone in the squad sowing seeds of division, whether directly or indirectly. Chu-young Park can't stay here. Whether or not he was involved in this slander, he's become a destabilizing factor for us." 

De Bontin listened, weighing the situation carefully. "But Park was only brought in this summer for 2 million euros," he said, clearly hesitant. 

Situ Yunbing considered this for a moment, then responded, "Alright, then let's put him on the transfer list. Keep his price at 2 million euros, and we'll continue to pay his wages for now." 

De Bontin sighed, shaking his head. "Who's going to pay that kind of money for a player who hasn't been performing? His value has plummeted, and if he's sidelined, it's unlikely any club will take on that fee." 

Situ Yunbing didn't flinch. "He's 23—at a crucial stage in his career. If he wants to develop, he'll find a way to leave. If he doesn't, then let him sit out his contract here. But let's be clear: if he doesn't play in Monaco for a year or two, it could end his career." 

De Bontin's expression shifted, evaluating Situ Yunbing with renewed scrutiny. 

He had initially thought of Situ Yunbing as a coach with a scholarly, almost idealistic approach. But now, seeing this harder side of him, he understood that Situ Yunbing was a pragmatist, willing to make difficult decisions when necessary. 

If it hadn't come to this, Situ Yunbing would have preferred a quieter resolution—perhaps moving Chu-young Park and others like Distel Zola out during the winter break. It wasn't about making money but rather about trimming the squad to foster harmony. 

But after these baseless accusations, Situ Yunbing couldn't afford to be lenient. Any factor that threatened his authority or the team's cohesion was, in his view, a risk to their future. This wasn't just about clearing his name. It was about solidifying his foundation at Monaco and creating a platform to drive toward their ambitions in Ligue 1. 

... 

... 

The following day, French media widely reported the allegations of blackmail involving Situ Yunbing, with the claims originating from a South Korean source. The story had gained traction in South Korea's largest media outlet, Yonhap News, and quickly spread, casting a shadow over Monaco's young coach. 

In European football, cases of alleged misconduct involving coaches aren't unheard of, but Situ Yunbing's name was now in the spotlight as a "person of interest." Though still unproven, the accusations had stirred significant controversy. 

Later that morning, AS Monaco responded firmly. An official statement on the club's website announced that Monaco's legal team had sent a formal letter to Yonhap News, demanding a retraction of the report accusing Situ Yunbing of blackmailing Chu-young Park. The club called for a full clarification and a public apology to Situ Yunbing, warning that failure to comply would result in legal action. 

This announcement caused an immediate media storm. 

French outlets, which had initially reported the story neutrally, quickly updated their coverage to reflect Monaco's stance, posting updates on social media and expressing support for the club. While they had remained impartial before, the French media now rallied behind Monaco, emphasizing the importance of protecting the reputation of a Ligue 1 club against what they saw as an unwarranted attack by foreign media. 

As part of their statement, Monaco also declared that Chu-young Park had been placed on the transfer list, with an asking price of 2 million euros. This announcement was a clear message to the football world: any club willing to meet the price could acquire him. 

However, the reaction from the French media was skeptical. Many viewed the 2 million euro valuation as overly optimistic, especially given Park's unremarkable performance at Monaco so far. The club had brought him in for the same fee over the summer, and yet he had yet to prove his worth on the pitch. For potential buyers, this transfer fee seemed like a risky gamble. 

Chu-young Park's potential in European football remained uncertain, and the outside world had little to judge his abilities by. A 2 million euro price tag might attract clubs looking for a wildcard, but as several outlets noted, "Nobody's money grows on trees." 

... 

... 

Today, Situ Yunbing would be leading his team into a crucial match. He arrived at the club early for breakfast, heading to the training ground shortly after. But as he made his way, he spotted three players—Mollo, Nimani, and Mongongu—heading toward the reserve team's training area together. The unusual sight made him pause, and he called out to them. 

"The training session is about to begin. Where are you three going?" 

His tone was gentle, though his curiosity was evident. The players exchanged glances, clearly hesitant. After a moment of silent deliberation, Mollo raised his chin and spoke directly. 

"We were going to teach that guy a lesson," he admitted. 

Nimani, tall and visibly agitated, chimed in, "He's been way out of line. Somebody needs to show him that." 

Mongongu nodded in agreement. "I'm fed up with his attitude." 

Situ Yunbing felt a surge of gratitude. It was clear they were upset over the situation with Chu-young Park and wanted to stand up for him. He softened his tone, appreciating their loyalty. "Listen," he said, his voice firm but understanding, "do you know what matters most right now?" 

The three players looked at him, their attention fully on his words. 

"The most important thing is that each of you gives everything in tonight's game. Don't waste your energy on him, and don't risk getting yourselves into trouble over something so minor. Park is no longer part of our squad; he's a distraction, nothing more. Let's stay focused on what's important—our performance. Your best show of support for me is to play with determination and heart on the pitch. That's how we'll answer the doubters." 

Situ Yunbing's words hit home, and the players immediately cooled down. They recognized the logic in his advice. They'd all seen the reports in the media that morning, and the story of Situ Yunbing supposedly blackmailing Chu-young Park struck them as absurd. 

For them, the idea of Situ Yunbing using his position for personal gain was unthinkable. Over the past month, they'd witnessed his tough, principled approach firsthand. Adu's recent departure back to Portugal was a prime example—there had been no compromises, no attempts to win favor or take advantage. Situ Yunbing held everyone to the same standard and didn't tolerate unprofessional behavior. They knew this wasn't a man driven by anything other than his commitment to the team. 

Grateful for his timely intervention, the players took a breath and nodded, the tension dissipating. They understood that their coach needed them focused, not distracted by petty disputes. 

Situ Yunbing, meanwhile, was determined not to let anything interfere with his preparation for the match. Whatever the outside world thought, he knew his hard work would speak for itself, and he trusted that the players would see it too. Still, he hoped the club would take a clear stance on the matter, reinforcing his position and supporting the team's unity. 

... 

... 

In the afternoon, AS Monaco traveled westward nearly 300 kilometers to face Saint-Étienne. Last season, Saint-Étienne earned a spot in the UEFA Cup, but this year, balancing the demands of European competition with their domestic league campaign had taken its toll. Like many mid-table Ligue 1 teams, Saint-Étienne struggled to sustain form across multiple competitions. It was a common cycle—an impressive season would often lead to qualification for Europe, only for the following season to unravel under the pressure of competing on multiple fronts. Monaco themselves had experienced this, earning a UEFA Cup berth before finding themselves at a three-year low afterward. 

So far, under Situ Yunbing's guidance, Monaco had accumulated 11 points, a respectable start. Saint-Étienne, however, had only managed 7 points in their first seven matches, a slight decline from their form at this stage last season. 

With no midweek game, Monaco entered the match well-rested. In contrast, Saint-Étienne had just played a UEFA Cup game at home, securing a win but at the cost of valuable energy. 

On the evening of October 5th, Situ Yunbing led Monaco into the Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium to face Saint-Étienne. Before the match, he utilized the "Benzema" card he'd drawn from the system, giving it to Nimani in hopes of bolstering his attacking impact. Three other cards remained: last season's standout center-back Sébastien Puygrenier, full-back Laurent Bonnart, and midfield anchor Toulalan. 

For this game, Situ Yunbing made slight adjustments to the lineup. Sticking to the 4-5-1 formation, he opted to drop Lecco to the bench, pulling Meriem back into midfield and promoting Gakpé to play just behind Nimani. This setup was a strategic move aimed at countering Saint-Étienne's reliance on wing play. 

With Saint-Étienne's midfield boasting the likes of Matuidi and Perrin, known for their tenacious interceptions, Situ Yunbing chose to focus Monaco's strength on the flanks, anticipating that Saint-Étienne would commit heavily to attacks down the wings. His tactical preparation sought to exploit their fatigue and any resulting gaps in their structure. 

Despite their lower position in the league, Saint-Étienne attacked resolutely from the start, showing determination in front of their home crowd. Monaco, however, was ready. They deployed their full-backs conservatively, dropping back to close down Saint-Étienne's wing attacks, forcing them to fight through a well-organized defensive setup. 

Saint-Étienne's coach, Laurent Roussey, could only watch in frustration as his side's attacks struggled. Geoffrey Dernis and Ilan, usually skillful and effective on the flanks, were visibly fatigued. They lacked their usual sharpness, and Monaco's defenders effectively cut off their attempts to push forward. 

Though Monaco's attacks were measured, the combination of Nimani and Gakpé constantly stretched the Saint-Étienne defense, creating openings. Monaco's patient approach allowed Meriem and Pérez in central midfield to control the game's rhythm, weathering Saint-Étienne's limited offensive threats while launching well-timed counterattacks. In this respect, Monaco's adaptability was proving more effective than Saint-Étienne's efforts, as their mid-game tactical adjustments highlighted their versatility and situational awareness. 

As the first half drew to a close, Saint-Étienne, despite appearing fatigued, continued to press forward, desperately searching for an opening. But Monaco capitalized on their opponent's waning energy with a swift counterattack down the right flank. Nimani drifted wide, drawing the defense and creating space for Pino, who took advantage of the gap and fired a shot from the right side of the penalty area. Saint-Étienne's goalkeeper, Viviani, managed to block the initial attempt, but Gakpé was there to seize the rebound, slotting the ball into the net from close range. 

Monaco had taken a crucial 1-0 lead on the road! 

Situ Yunbing applauded from the sidelines, his satisfaction evident. He knew that Saint-Étienne, while talented, didn't hold a significant advantage over Monaco in terms of raw skill, and with Monaco's physical fitness and morale higher, they had gained a critical edge. 

As he watched his team, Situ Yunbing considered the broader picture of player development. Many of Monaco's squad members were in their early 20s, with their potential just beginning to unfold. Even without his system's cards, this group was in a natural phase of growth. However, he knew that each player's potential and rate of improvement varied, and he wanted to nurture their talents wisely, avoiding unnecessary setbacks. 

By giving them game time, focusing on disciplined training, and occasionally utilizing the "ability cards," Situ Yunbing hoped to accelerate their development, equipping them with the technical skills needed to thrive in Ligue 1. For him, today's match wasn't only about securing three points—it was about laying the foundation for a team that could mature and compete at an even higher level. 

Situ Yunbing discussed his observations with the senior members of his coaching staff, delving into a concept he called the "technical loop" of player development. It echoed the popular "10,000-hour rule" in talent theory, which posits that mastery requires prolonged, deliberate practice. For players, this meant that repetition and refinement could indeed enhance their professional skills—practice made perfect. However, just as with any athlete, each player had a ceiling, a natural limit set by their innate potential. 

Reflecting on his experience with the "Wendel" card, which he'd assigned to Mollo in a previous match, Situ Yunbing had observed interesting results. Mollo performed admirably and demonstrated improvement, but he had showcased skills already within his own repertoire rather than entirely new ones. When studying Wendel's abilities, Situ Yunbing noted that Wendel possessed an impressive long-range shot, proficiency with free kicks, and the occasional knuckleball. His preferred shot was a curling, left-footed strike—a specific technique honed through experience. However, these attributes hadn't materialized in Mollo's play because Mollo lacked the foundational skills to perform them. 

The card's enhancement was limited to amplifying a player's existing strengths; it could not create abilities from scratch. Situ Yunbing had noticed similar limitations before: goalkeeper cards were effective only on goalkeepers, defender cards didn't apply to forwards, and attacking cards couldn't elevate defensive-minded players. These constraints underscored the importance of aligning cards with players who had at least a baseline in the relevant skills, or they would have little effect. 

Recognizing these patterns, Situ Yunbing saw that the cards could provide an invaluable shortcut, accelerating players' development by enhancing their performance during real games. This allowed young players to gain experience faster, building confidence and skill through in-game successes. After all, nothing could replicate the growth that came from actual match play. 

However, Situ Yunbing was acutely aware of the broader limitations restricting Monaco's progress. The current squad had too few players with high potential, and if he maxed out the abilities of these players too quickly, the cards would lose their impact, eventually becoming insignificant. 

In football, a player's growth is not limitless. Potential caps a player's peak, and physicality places bounds on technical advancement. Situ Yunbing knew that if he remained committed to building Monaco, the next logical step would be to recruit as many high-potential players as possible. Only then could he foster a squad capable of pushing beyond their current limitations and competing at a higher level, laying the groundwork for a truly formidable team.