Massive squad anxiety, at key Milestones?

Dear EA,

I have noticed a recurring pattern: Every time I am about to reach a key milestone (for example, hitting 9 stars) across all game modes, my expensive players mysteriously start playing as if they have forgotten the shape of the ball.

At first, I thought you were intentionally increasing the difficulty, but then I told myself: that’s impossible. This is a football simulation, playing with other players, and not Super Mario Bros, where you have to fight the final "Boss." The idea that a trustworthy and generous company like yours, would manipulate gameplay on purpose, never even crossed my mind.

After giving it some thought, I came to the most plausible conclusion: the players themselves, knowing that promotion is on the line, suffer from severe anxiety attacks and freeze up, letting the opponent take a leisurely stroll through my penalty box.

Is there an in-game solution or countermeasure for this? I know real-life clubs employ physical therapists and psychologists. Is there something I can purchase in the Store, to help them handle the stress? Like team anxiolytics, a mental health counseling pack, or something similar?

Thanks in advance.