This far in i see trophies as attendance badges more than a measure of true skill as a manager. I dont mind playing at a +1 level in competitions but you should have roster restrictions on cup games so you cant rebuy your whole roster every seazon without forfeiting the cup matches if you dont replace your roster soon enough at the commencement.
I am more focussed on building full careers for my 1st wave academy youth. I like seeing 10s.