It was during the cool-down period that the club's media department made their appearance, led by Sascha Fligge, the head of communications. The team was gathered in the shade of the main building, grateful for any respite from the relentless heat, when Fligge approached with a small presentation box and a broad smile.
"Gentlemen," Fligge announced in German, before switching to English for Mateo's benefit, "we have some recognition to deliver today. The Bundesliga has announced its Player of the Month for August, and I think you can guess who has won this honor."
The teammates immediately began applauding and calling out Mateo's name, their genuine excitement evident despite the heat-induced fatigue. Aubameyang started a chant of "Mateo! Mateo!" that was quickly picked up by the rest of the squad.
