Patrick Vieira spoke to the press on Thursday afternoon, in his weekly press conference and discussed what’s at stake in the final two games of the 2018-19 season.

To pick up more points than last season (54, against Le Gym’s current 53), to overtake Marseille (two points difference), to become the best defence in the league (32 goals conceded, as opposed to the 30 conceded by LOSC’s defence) or even to contribute to Monaco’s relegation... There are numerous sources of motivation heading into the final two league games of the season. In his final press conference, Coach Vieira upped the ante, revealing the agreement he put in place with his players before the final three games of the campaign. “There were nine points on the table (and Les Aiglons already picked up one thanks to the draw with Nantes on Saturday at the Allianz Riviera). If we get three points, we will return from holiday a lot earlier. If we pick up between five and six points, we will come back on the date that has been initially scheduled, and if we get more than six points, the players will be able to come back a little bit later.”

A “carrot” dangled in front of his players, but not one that will allow the former Gunner to forget the shape that these games take. “The manner in which we play is always important in my eyes. We played very well against Caen at home, but unfortunately, we lost it (0-1). I didn’t have much to criticise my players for in terms of their commitment, agression, determination and spirit. The most important thing for me is that they are serious and show their commitment until the very end.”

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