I took a deep breath, and for the second time in as many weeks, I told them the truth. "I've lost sight of what matters," I said, my voice quiet but clear, stripped of all the usual managerial bluster.
"I've been so focused on winning, on the league table, on my own ambitions, that I've forgotten about you. Your development. Your futures. And for that, I am truly sorry." The players stared at me, their expressions unreadable. I went on, the words a torrent of confession and regret.
"I've pushed you too hard. I've demanded too much. I've treated you like soldiers in my own private war, and I've forgotten that you are just kids, kids with your own dreams, your own fears, your own lives."
