The first option reinforces the precedent of backing the stability of the common currency at any bailout cost but ignores the rise of German bailout fatigue in an election year, while the second option threatens to break that hard-fought stability apart.

FORBES: With Cyprus, The EU Needs To Urgently Erase Europe's 'Nobody Loses' Mentality

Unless you believe a player is fine in May but succumbs to fatigue a month later, it's hard to blame the winter break.

WSJ: Gabriele Marcotti: European Soccer's Christmas Vacation