Tactics

Watford: League Week 7 – Away to Brentford
Captain: André
Vice-Captain: Pitaluga

------------------Pitaluga
Bradley---Collins---Murillo--Esquerdinha
---------------André--Jones
--------------------White
Prestianni------------------------Domínguez
-----------------Evanilson

SUBS: Martinelli, Beraldo, Quansah, Moscardo, Gómez, Fernandez, Igor

SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with André as the holding/defensive midfielder who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (Jones). In front of them White will operate as the link between midfield and attack. This I feel will give us a better balanced midfield and while being absolutely defensively sound with 2 ‘sitting’ Jones will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with White and attack. I think this set-up lets us link up quickly with our attack while at the same time that little bit of extra cautiousness means it will be easy for us to close the door in midfield with all 3 players as comfortable sitting and breaking up attacks if necessary.
We want to play a nice tidy and crisp passing game. Our aim is to move the ball forward as quickly and as effectively as possible. When we have the ball we will use it wisely and when we don’t have the ball then we will press our opponents all over the park with high urgency to win it back. We want to keep the ball on the deck and attack as a team and equally as important defend as a team. This team is bursting with pace. We will utilise that to our advantage and make the pitch wide and use our flying wingers to cause all sorts of mayhem. It will also be a tool that we use to hit opponents on the counter where we know we can out pace any team.
Goalkeeper: Pitaluga is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: We will operate with André as the one holding/defensive midfielder. He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Jones). He has a more conservative role this week and while being a little more constrained than normal he will still have the opportunity to bomb forward when the time is right. They will both have to put a defensive shift in and both are very strong in the tackle. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition. In front of them White will operate as the link between midfield and attack. He will be our creator and can find that magic pass to break open a defence and release one of our front three.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Prestianni and Domínguez will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring White, Jones and Evanilson in to play. They can vary their attacks as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Jones may sit a bit deeper allowing White to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF.
As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Evanilson starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great playing off the shoulder of the last man he is deadly in and around the box. A bag of energy and very strong we will also look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his lightning pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: White, Domínguez or Prestianni with Collins, Murillo and Evanilson to offer an aerial threat. White and Domínguez (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.

Substitutions: (80 mins) If winning, then 3 like for like subs – Quansah for Collins, Moscardo for André and Igor for Evanilson.
If losing (60 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Jones with Igor and Prestianni with Fernandez. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
----------------André
Fernandez---White---Domínguez
-------------Igor--Evanilson

3-6-1 High tempo
Away to Chelsea

We play a fluid team full of pace, power and a high tempo, dominate possession with pace up top and width from wingers to stretch the game. Their attackers are poor defensively, so we take advantage. Kvarat effectively playing as a second striker, Trent and Nico giving us pace and natural width to stretch the game with 4 players in dm/cm/am/ss positions on different lines allowing us to dominate possession and quickly move from defence to attack.

Importantly both Trent and Nico have the pace and ability to deliver crosses first time without cutting back, allowing us to play wide and quickly deliver crosses for Osimhen and Kvarat. They offer the pace and width to create space for the trickery of Musiala and Kvaratskhelia. And stretch the game with width to allow Rodri and Valverde to dominate.

Theo gets the nod as lcb having played cb regularly in a 4 last season, so in a three we feel he will be comfortable defensively and importantly has the pace to match Chelsea’s quick attackers. With Trent on the right it also gives us the fluidity to switch to a 4 at the back if we need to. The Chelsea wingers naturally come inside, so the 3rd cbs help guard against this threat. We target Chelsea’s lb, likely with Mbappe ahead of him, they are weaker defensively here. Kvarat and Nico help target this area.

A change in shape to make us more attacking, dominate the midfield and target their fbs with our wingers. What is a 3-5-2 in name will more often look like a 3-6-1, Kvarat playing a fluid role, coming deep to get involved in the play, so as to play the role of a late runner targeting space. Effectively looking to force Chelsea to go man for man at the back.

With all the cbs strong on the ball and comfortable stepping into midfield, they help the cms dominate possession. The 3 cbs and two strong defensive cms give the rest of the team freedom to attack without leaving us exposed against Chelsea’s pace in attack.

The cbs, Rodri and Valverde have the quality to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Both cms have the energy and creativity on the ball to help our attacks going forward, while staying strong defensively.

With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Trent and Nico (both 5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully Chelsea.

Possession is always dominated by cms and defenders. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through them starting from the back, playing fast flowing football but varying the tempo when we need to slow down and regain control.

We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.

——————————————- Alisson
————— E.Militao —— Marquinhos —— Theo.H
—————————— Valverde —— Rodri
A.Trent ————————— Musiala —————— Nico.W
—————————— Osimhen —— Kvaratskhelia

Subs. Sanchez, Branthwaite, Udogie, Mac Allister, Olise, Gyokeres, Isak

Defending high

When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else gets into a narrow rigid 3-4-2-1 formation (wingers drop alongside Rodri/Valverde) behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape. The 4 narrow to the side of play Chelsea have the ball, when their defence have the ball we look to stay ball side of their cms, wingers narrowing to go man for man bar Kvarat who occupies the space between their deepest cm and their defence. Continuing to drop back deeper in this shape, pressing hard, with Valverde behind pressing any breakthroughs and Rodri zonal in the middle allowing one of the cbs to break wide if the they go long.

Marquinhos the man-marker next to Militao and Theo who are free to use their intelligence and pace to sweep up. If we are deeper, the winger on the opposite side of play drops to fb to guard the back post.

In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Stop them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.

Attack

Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.

We have a fluid attack, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.


Subs.

If winning after 68 mins bring on Udogie for Nico. Fresh pace and power in demanding role.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Mac Allister and Gyokeres for Musiala and Kvarat. More control in cm and more pace and power up top.

If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Gyokeres and Olise for Trent and Kvarat. 3-5-2. Two big men up top and more attackers behind.
If drawing or losing after 82 mins bring on Isak for Musiala. 3-4-3. Route one. Narrow front 3, Isak left, Gyokeres right.

Red card: sub Kvarat off for below, depending on position sent off.
Sanchez if GK
Branthwaite on if cb.
Udogie on if lm. Olise if RM.
Mac Allister on if CM or AM.
Isak on if Osimhen.
If Kvarat, no sub

Narrow 4-3-3
Arsenal

We play an attacking team, with a narrow front three and width provided by the fbs. We play a quick more direct style of football, not long balls or route one but looking to get the cms on the ball and using their distribution to quickly transition from defence to attack.

The wide forwards get as close as possible to Lautaro. Aiming to be in a position to link quickly and overwhelm the cbs and create opportunities. This should also drag players centrally creating space for the fbs, and cms to get on the ball.

The fbs bombing forward to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.

Bruno the dm, Barella the deep playmaker and KdB the attacking cm. Three players that are strong in possession, and that have a killer ball in their locker.

Defensively we have great pace and strength at the back. We play a mid line, not deep but not high, in a position to push up as a team but deep enough to guard against counters. Giving us the ability to quickly drop deep and soak up pressure if we need to.

————————————— Oblak
R.James ——- R.Araujo —— Konate —— Ait Nouri
—————— B.Guimares——— N.Barella
———————————— de Bruyne
——— Raphinha ———————————— D.Nunez ——
———————————— Lautaro.M

Subs. Restes, Tonali, Vitinha, Martinelli, Sancho, Cunha

Defending high

When we lose the ball the team retreat back into a narrow 451 formation. Using the high work rate of Raphinha and Nunuez to get into a solid defensive shape, narrowing to the side of the ball. The closest player presses the ball.

Konate the man-marker next to Araujo who is free to use his pace and intelligence to sweep up. The cm trio play as a tight unit, pressing and guarding the back 4. Bruno the dm with Barella and KdB pressing the ball and closing any central passing lanes. Key to this is Raphinha/Nunuez opposite play getting close to the trio, the wide forward opposite play extending the unit to make it wider as a 4 with the wide forward on side of playing pressing the ball.

When we win the ball we break quickly, use the quality of the cms on the ball and the pace of the front three.
Attack

We have a fluid front three, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.


Subs.

If winning or drawing after 70 mins bring on Martinelli for Nune. Fresh pace against tired legs.
If winning or drawing after 75 mins bring on Tonali for Barella. More solid option in cm.
If winning after after 80 mins bring on Sancho for Raphinha. More fresh pace.

If losing after 70 mins bring on Martinelli for Ait Nouri. 3-5-2. Nunez up top
If losing after 75 mins bring on Cunha for Barella. KDB to cm. Playing as a second striker.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Sancho for Raphinha.

Man City vs Villa

------------------------ 🇮🇪 Kelleher --------------------------
🇲🇦 Hakimi --- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk --- 🇳🇱 V.de Ven - 🇮🇹 Calafiori
---------------------- 🇵🇹 João Neves ------------------------
------ 🇳🇱 X.Simons ------------------- 🇳🇴 Ødegaard ------
------------------------- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz ---------------------------
----------------- 🇷🇸 Vlahovic --- 🇫🇷 Nkunku ---------------

Subs:
Kounde, Lewis, Timber, Caicedo, Barcola, Garnacho, Messi

At home and in good form we want to play front foot attacking football. We look to overwhelm with our 4 man midfield allowing us to dictate the game as we go with a young dynamic team playing with a fluid interchangeable system. Total football at its best.

The diamond is a snapshot of our team in transition. Neves playing in a quarterback role allows us to dictate the game from deep and gives him a multitude of options in possession. If we’re hitting them on the counter he’ll be looking for a quick ball either side to Simons or Ødegaard, a ball through the middle to Wirtz or a direct defence splitting pass up to the front two.

In possession our twin 8’s have the option to travel with the ball or continue the quick ascent into the final third as we play at pace cutting apart the opposition.

Out of possession Simons & Ødegaard in drop in alongside Neves giving us a midfield three. Plenty of bodies in the middle will make it extremely congested and difficult for the opposition to play through us. We want to force them wide with a CM’s working in tandem with our FB’s to rob them of possession and hit them quickly on the break.

------------------ Kelleher
Hakimi -- Van Dijk -- V.de Ven -- Calafiori
--- X.Simons -- J.Neves -- Ødegaard
------------------ F.Wirtz
----------- Vlahovic -- Nkunku

With Wirtz, Vlahovic & Nkunku staying forward we’ll have the numbers to pick them apart on the counter as we turn defence into attack in the blink of an eye.

Now a savvy manager might decide the best tactic to survive the onslaught might be to sit deep in a low block, however this would be a periless mistake…

------------------ Kelleher
Hakimi -- Van Dijk -- V.de Ven -- Calafiori
--------------- Joao Neves
--- X.Simons -- F.Wirtz -- Ødegaard
----------- Vlahovic -- Nkunku

In the final third is where we really look to turn the screw. Simons & Ødegaard push forward alongside Wirtz in a AM trio. If they sit deep we pin them in and look to dissect their defence with surgical precision. Press resistant our AM trio are excellent technicians who thrive in tight spaces. This set up gives us a multitude of options. For example when Ødegaard is in possession one of their players will be forced to engage, as soon as they do we look to exploit the space they’ve vacated, he’ll have the option of playing the ball into the hole for Wirtz, a cross field ball to Simons, a through ball in behind for Nkunku or a defensive splitting diagonal ball into the path of Vlahovic to finish.

Similarly Wirtz & Simons will have at least 4 different defence splitting options when in possession making it a tactical nightmare for their defence to cope.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Van Dijk will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. He won’t however need to do it singlehandedly with the fastest player in the prem next to him, with lightening pace Van de Ven can comfortably deal with any balls in behind as they form a solid CB pairing.

Our fullbacks have slightly different roles. Hakimi has license to push forward down the wing whipping balls in for our frontmen to attack whilst Calafiori will play more of a steady defensive role.

A solid back 4 which can evolve into a back 3 when Hakimi’s pushes forward down the right. When he does Calafiori will play LCB in a back three as Van de Ven sits in the middle and Van Dijk drifts across to RCB covering the space vacated by Hakimi.

Midfield:

Midfield is where we feel the game can be won. Neves will be our key holding player in the middle operating as a DM. A fantastic reader of the game we want him to sit in front of our defence, breaking up the opposition play and also cutting out the passing lane to their CF. In possession he plays as quarterback hitting balls from deep setting us up on the counter.

Simons & Odegaard will see plenty of the ball with both capable of turning a game. Quick interchanging passing should open up space, if the opposition back off both can travel with the ball and with goals & assists in their locker we give them the freedom to showcase their ability.

Forwards:

Wirtz plays at the tip of the attacking diamond. Playing in the hole he’ll look to unlock their defence and is a real goalscoring threat anywhere around the edge of the box.

Up top our front two should thrive. Nkunku optimises the fluidity to our game. He’ll link up with our midfield 4 whilst also be an incredibly dangerous player in and around their box. With the big bodied Vlahovic bullying their CB’s next team Nkunku will look to drift into space and is a great technician capable of engineering a goal at any opportunity.

Vlahovic is the perfect target man, big and strong he’s capable of holding the ball up allowing our attacking quartet to get up and support. We want him to pin back their CB’s opening up space on the edge of the box for the likes of Nkunku and Wirtz to get off a shot at goal.

In the area we want him to attack the 6 yard box with crosses being whipped in from out wide and slide rule balls from our AM’s ensuring our number 9 will get plenty of service as we go for goals.

Subs:

If winning:
65 mins: Hakimi off, Kounde on. Strengthen defensively at RB.
75 mins: Nkunku off, Caicedo on. Neves & Caicedo as dual DM’s. 4-2-3-1.
80 mins: Simons off, Garnacho on. Extra pace out wide as we look to pick them off on the break.

If drawing/losing:
65 mins: Simons & Nkunku off, Barcola & Garnacho on. Injection of pace as we go attacking 4-3-3. Wirtz & Ødegaard twin AM’s with Barcola & Garnacho either side of Vlahovic.
75 mins: Hakimi off, Messi on. Little sprinkle of magic on we bring on the Argentinian wizard to unlock their defence as we go for the win.

--------------- Kelleher
- Van Dijk - Van de Ven - Calafiori
--------- J.Neves -- Odegaard
Garnacho ---- F.Wirtz ---- Barcola
--------- Vlahovic -- Messi

++++++++Match Day 8++++++++

Aston Villa v BRENTFORD


________________🇫🇷Chevalier
🇹🇷Kadıoğlu__🇳🇱Flamingo___🇩🇪Tah___🇫🇷Digne
____________🇩🇪Stiller_____🇦🇷Varela
___________🇯🇵Kubo______🇭🇺Szoboszlai
__________🇪🇬Marmoush_____🇰🇷Son


Subs
🇯🇵 Zion Suzuki
🇧🇦 Amar Dedic
🇬🇷 Konstantinos Koulierakis
🇸🇪 Hugo Larsson
🇫🇷 Enzo Millot
🇳🇱 Tijjani Reijnders
🇳🇱 Cody Gakpo

Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai/Digne
Pens - Marmoush

Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.

What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?

The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.

The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.

The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.

The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.


What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?

The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.

The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.

The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.

The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.

Subs on 70 mins
Reijnders on for Kubo
Gakpo on for Son

----------------------- D.Raya -----------------------

J.Kimmich -- J.Stones -- M.Guehi -- Robertson

------- Goncalves -- Kamara -- C. Baleba -------

Semenyo ----------- Watkins ------------ Grealish

M.Sels, Laporte, Vanderson, Gundogan, Adeyemi, M.Rogers, Lewandowski

A solid back 4 with Guehi looking to pick up the main striker, he is quick and powerful CB to come against, so will look to bully the striker, be on his toes at all times looking to intercept and ball through to No.9 nip in ahead when he can but nothing rash so he doesnt lose out in possession. Stones alongside, again a very tough, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Guehi if needed or pick up a CF/SS/AM, Both can play it out and very good on the ball so no need for rash punts up field unless tequired and no other option, will look to play it to the fullbacks or the midfielders ahead

Fullbacks will attack at the same time look for the one/two with the winger ahead but will time these and not bomb forward willy nilly, Robertson will be driving down the line, Kimmich moving in central allowing Goncalves to push forward, can also use the CMs for quick passing to get the winger passed the opposition fullbacks. defensively, stay strong, keep the wingers to the outside away from danger, try and keep them on there 'bad' foot so they find it difficult to get a cross in, I do not want to see my defenders dive in, so stay tall and use upper body strength to keep there chances to a minimum. This is a solid back 4 who will be difficult to attack, must stay focussed.

The 3 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Kamara is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes he will be there snapping at his heals, he doesnt venture very far from hwere he need to be thus giving support to the back line. Baleba is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Kamara making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball. Goncalves will be allowed to roam and pick out players at will, he can push more forward, when attacking he moves into a free role basically anywhere across the line where he will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence in the trio with Kamara and it is very solid, just hassle the midfield and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.

Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks, really take them on, either with skill and pace or at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking

Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, always dragging players away to make space for himself and others, getting into dangerous positions waiting for the ball to come his way, he makes runs other forwards dont he has the intelligence find the space for others to find, he should get plenty supply, he doesnt defend, no need too, if he stays up top this will stop their defenders moving forward especially with the 3 behind buzzing around.

Captain - Kimmich
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - Goncalves
Corners - Wingers

Subs:-

Losing -

65 Mins - Lewandowski for Baleba go up top, Gundogan for Goncalves 442/424
75 Mins - Adeyemi for Grealish

Winning -
75 Mins - Gundogan for Goncalves doesnt drive on so much, Adeyemi for Grealish, lewandowski fo rWatkins

Drawing -
70 Mins - Lewandowski for Watkins, Adeyemi for Semenyo, M.Rogers for Grealish a whole new fresh front line

Leicester vs United
Attacking 4-3-1-2 High tempo

We play a fluid attacking team full of pace and power and a high tempo, dominate possession in cm with pace up top and width from attacking fbs to stretch the game. Fbs playing high and wide, stretching the game to allow us to control the midfield.

Foden in a free role in attack. A fluid front three where we expect Foden will naturally drift right and Isak will naturally drift left. Dragging players both out of position, creating space for others, and also doubling up on their fbs (or lack of) to target them/this space as a weak link.

Musiala, Rodri and Valverde have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Valverde and Musiala have the power, energy and quality on the ball to play box to box roles, Rodri as the sitting cm providing cover and controlling the tempo of the game. When attacking down the right Musiala comes inside next to Rodri, giving Valverde freedom to attack and link with Trent and Foden. Vice versa happens on the other side.

The cm coming across next to Rodri, provide a duo to control midfield and keep possession, defensively providing great cover for the attacking fbs. The fbs bombing forward to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.

Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate. Foden with complete freedom to come deep, wide or go beyond the cfs.

With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden and Trent (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully Uniteds kids.

Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through them starting from the back, playing fast flowing football but varying the tempo when we need to slow down and regain control.

We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.

————————————— Alisson
Trent.A —— Marquinhos —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
—————— Valverde —— Rodri —— Musiala
————————————— P.Foden ——————
———————— Osimhen ——— Isak

Subs. Sanchez, Militao, Udogie, Mac Allister, Koopmeiners, Nico Williams, Kvaratskhelia

Defending high

When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape. Isak drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the 3 cms narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Foden is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.

Gvardiol the man-marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Valverde and Musiala either side of him, and just slightly ahead of him pressing the play in line of 3 cms. Foden zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Isak marks their deepest cm. Isak and Foden giving our cms ability to press and narrow to the side opposition are attacking. In zones to stop their attacking midfielders and allowing Rodri to cover or step in if one cm needs to step out to press or to help the fb.

In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options.

Attack

Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.

We play a fluid front three, who switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This will help the players to get away from their markers, and create space.


Subs.

If winning after 68 mins bring on Koopmeiners for Foden. Play lcm, Musiala to AM. Fresh legs in midfield and natural left footer to help us play more direct as space opens up.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Kvaratskhelia for Isak. Playing off the striker. Fresh pace.
If winning after 78 mins bring on Mac Allister for Musiala. Fresh energy.

If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Kvaratskhelia for Foden. Theo lcb. Trent RM. Kvarat LM. Musiala AM.
If losing or drawing after 77 mins bring on Udogie for Valverde, Musiala to cm, Kvarat AM. Natural width on left get all the crosses in, going direct.
If losing or drawing after 80 mins bring on Nico.W for Isak. Fresh pace in the front two.

Watford: League Week 8 HOME vs Chelsea
Captain: Beraldo
Vice Captain: Jones

Team:
-----------------Mamardashvili
Bradley----Beraldo--Murillo----Vázquez
-------------------Jones
--------------Gómez---White
Enciso------------------------------Edwards
------------------Evanilson

SUBS: Israel, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Moscardo, Price, Domínguez, Igor

We want to play a neat crisp passing game at high tempo using our obvious pace to punish the opponent. Our formation will be a 4-3-3 that will allow our full backs to join in the attack when necessary and also offer us the flexibility to fall back into a more standard 4-4-2 when under pressure. We need to boss the midfield from the start and control the game with our own tempo. When in possession use the ball well and try and bring our wide men in to play. When chasing the ball press the opponent with urgency and all over the park. Don’t take too many risks and hold onto the ball. With our creativity and pace we will be able to open teams up. Wait for the chances to arise and take them when they come.

Goalkeeper: Mamardashvili is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.

Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.

Midfield: Jones will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. Gómez and White will play just in front of Jones. Gómez will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. White will be the midfield magician. Clever, elusive and tricky we will look to him for creating the midfield openings with his eye for a pass. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition.

Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Enciso and Edwards will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring White, Gómez and Evanilson in to play. They can vary their attacks by going wide or cutting inside as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Gómez may sit a bit deeper allowing White to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF. As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.

Evanilson starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great big old fashioned centre forward. We will look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. An eye for a pass and not afraid to have a go from distance. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his power pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.

Free Kicks/Corners: Gómez, Edwards or Enciso with Beraldo, Murillo and Evanilson to offer an aerial threat. White and Edwards (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Evanilson

Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Igor for Evanilson and Domínguez for Enciso, 2 like for like substitutions.

If losing (on 70 minutes) Domínguez for Gómez and Igor for Enciso. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Igor and Giovani offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.

---------------Jones
Domínguez--White--Edwards
---------Evanilson-Igor

Man City

------------------ 🇮🇹 Donnarumma -----------------
--- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk ---- 🇮🇹 Bastoni ---- 🇮🇹 Calafiori
--------------- 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 R.Lewis -- 🇵🇹 J.Neves ----------
---- 🇳🇱 X.Simons --------------------- 🇳🇴 Ødegaard
----------------------- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz ---------------------
-------------- 🇷🇸 Vlahovic -- 🇫🇷 Nkunku -----------

Subs:
Kelleher, Hakimi, Kounde, Lavia, Barcola, Garnacho, Messi

In fine form we look to keep the good times rolling as we continue to play front foot attacking football. We look to overwhelm with our 5 man midfield allowing us to dictate the game as we go with a young dynamic team playing with a fluid interchangeable system. Total football at its best.

Away to Newcastle we go with a variation of a hybrid 3-5-2 which can interchange into a 4-3-1-2 as the game ebbs and flows. The advantage of the 5 man midfield is that we will able to dictate the game through our control in midfield, with some real technicians in the middle of the park we will be able to retain possession and constantly move the opposition out of position as we have them chasing shadows. Get the ball into our playmakers as we transition from defence to attack with plenty of quality in the final third to take advantage when we’re in goalscoring positions.

Neves & Lewis playing in the deeplying playmaker roles they allow us to dictate the game from deep with a multitude of options in possession. If we’re hitting them on the counter they’ll be looking for a quick ball either side to Simons or Ødegaard, a ball through the middle to Wirtz or a direct defence splitting pass up to the front two.

In possession our twin 8’s have the option to travel with the ball or continue the quick ascent into the final third as we play at pace cutting apart the opposition. Our front two will find themselves in one on one match ups against their CB’s and have the quality to thrive.

In the final third is where we really look to turn the screw. Simons & Ødegaard push forward alongside Wirtz in a AM trio. If they sit deep we pin them in and look to dissect their defence with surgical precision. Press resistant our AM trio are excellent technicians who thrive in tight spaces. Quick one two’s will open up space in the final third with our front two set to thrive off of the service from midfield.

Taking on board some of the comments from Rofs write up on our last game we bring an extra body in the middle adding an extra layer of protection in front our defence. Key to our set up is the interchangeability of some of our players, Rico Lewis should thrive as he adeptly interchanges between RB and CM, a role in which he has really began to flourish.

With a three man defence we are comfortable with them having the ball on the flanks, we remain compact in the middle enabling us to comfortably deal with any balls in the box. In addition we have Rico who can comfortably slot into the RB allowing us to easily transition into a back four when required.

---------------- Donnarumma
R.Lewis -- Van Dijk -- Bastoni -- Calafiori
---- X.Simons -- J.Neves -- Ødegaard
-------------------- F.Wirtz
------------ Vlahovic -- Nkunku

Out of possession Simons & Ødegaard drop in alongside Neves giving us a 3 man midfield shielding a solid back 4. Plenty of bodies in the middle will make it extremely congested and difficult for the opposition to play through us.

With Wirtz, Vlahovic & Nkunku staying forward we’ll have the numbers to pick them apart on the counter as we turn defence into attack in the blink of an eye.

Defence:

We go with a perfectly balanced back three, strong defensively but also with great ball players which will allow us to retain possession and play out from the back. Van Dijk will play RCB and has the perfect blend of pace and power to deal with any threat from the left. Alongside him we have Bastoni and Calafiori who both more than comfortable playing in a back three as they do for their Country. Three strong CB’s all comfortable in possession works perfectly in our set up.

In addition Lewis can also slot in at RB with Van Dijk and Bastoni playing as a central pair and Calafiori shifting to LB. Giving us a solid foundation at the back to deal with the threat of the oppposition.

Midfield:

Midfield is where we feel the game can be won. Neves and Rico will be our holding players in the middle operating as dual DM’s. They’ll sit in front of our defence, breaking up the opposition play, nullifying the threat of their AM and cutting out the passing lane’s to their CF. In possession they’ll operate as deeplying playmakers hitting balls from deep setting us up on the counter.

Simons & Odegaard will see plenty of the ball with both capable of turning a game. Quick interchanging passing should open up space, if the opposition back off both can travel with the ball and with goals & assists in their locker we give them the freedom to showcase their ability.

Forwards:

Wirtz plays at the tip of the attacking diamond. Playing in the hole he’ll look to unlock their defence and is a real goalscoring threat anywhere around the edge of the box.

Up top our frontmen two should thrive. Nkunku optimises the fluidity to our game. He’ll link up with our midfield 5 whilst also being an incredibly dangerous player in and around their box. With the big bodied Vlahovic bullying their CB’s Nkunku will look to drift into space and is a great technician capable of engineering a goal at any opportunity.

Vlahovic is the perfect target man, big and strong he’s capable of holding the ball up allowing our attacking quartet to get up and support. In the area we want him to attack the 6 yard box with crosses being whipped in from out wide and slide rule balls from our AM’s ensuring our number 9 will get plenty of service as we go for goals.

If winning:
65 mins: Nkunku off, Lavia on. Neves & Lavia as dual DM’s. 4-2-3-1.
75 mins: Simons off, Garnacho on. Fresh legs and energy out wide as the game opens up.
85 mins: Odegaard off, Barcola on. Pace on both flanks as we pick them off on the counter.

If drawing/losing:
65 mins: Nkunku off, Messi on. The Argentinian Magacian works his wizardry for the final half hour.
75 mins: Lewis & Simons off, Garnacho & Barcola on. Electric pace on both flanks as we look for the winner.

------------ Donnarumma
--- Van Dijk - Bastoni - Calafiori
--------- J.Neves -- Odegaard
Garnacho --- F.Wirtz --- Barcola
-------- Vlahovic -- Messi

Red card scenario:

In all scenario’s we revert to a 4-4-1 formation. Nkunku will be replaced with one of the below whilst our AM’s drop back in a 4 man midfield. Little change from a tactical perspective as we form a tight unit and pick off the opposition on the break as they commit men forward.

Donnarumma
Lewis Van Dijk Bastoni Calafiori
Simons Neves Odegaard Wirtz
Vlahovic

GK - Kelleher
FB - Hakimi
CB - Kounde
CM - Lavia
AM - Messi

----------------------- G.Rulli -----------------------
B.White -- Cr. Romero -- Ruben Dias -- Mendes
----------- Tchouameni --- J.Bellingham ---------
M.Salah ------------ K.Yildiz ------------- Mbappe
---------------------- Haaland -----------------------

Bergstrom(Ch. Youth), Lukeba, E.Fernandez, S.Nypan, R.Leao, L.Sane, J.Duran

I have nothing but praise for Watford, however we must stop the rot, so gone slightly more attacking putting Jude deeper to be a creative spark in the middle, adding Kenan Yildiz as a SS to try and provide, create and score more goals!

We need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. We have plenty pace, power and most importantly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line even if they get numbers back we will look to expose there lack of a midfield and dominate that part of the pitch, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly.

Today Dias is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Romero to take care of the main man, the CF in for a tough game despite how big and strong he is, Romero is equal to him, both stick to their jobs, give the striker a yard or two, dont sit right on him as if he is lost then the striker is away, giving them a wee bit of room allows them time to adjust to where he is going and gives them that extra second to manouver into position to stop the threat and stop the attack, dont dive in, just shimmy the player to give him second thoughts on what he is doing, allowing our boys to win the ball and get it away from danger, Dias in particular is very good and coming out from the back with the ball and will look to set up attacks from the back, if under pressure boot it away if you have too.

Our fullbacks will come inside to help with the extra man advantage in midfield, I want Tchouameni taking care of the AM, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the midfield with that extra player so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, Mendes look to push wide allowing Leao to cut inside, one twos which will either get Mendes out wide to cross in or Mbappe to get into the box with a nice slide rule pass, obvs these two have a great understanding, White will likely look for more of a long ball over to utilise Mbappe pace to beat the defenders.

Jude and Tchouameni must be patient, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Tchou doing the marking job on the most advanced midfielder opposition may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, when attacking Tchou sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our 2/3 CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. Jude will provide more creativity & will push a further forward allowing Yildiz to push on and support Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area be creative with his passing, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.

Yildiz is the link between midfield and attack, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Haaland, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play and really drive at the Watford defense, let the pass go as players come onto him, as this will take them out them game and less for our attackers to worry about, plenty options for him to aim for if he decides not to go for goal himself and he is always good for a goal or two. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediate so will always help out the midfield by closing down any runners from deep and look to block the ball/player from advancing, look to start attacks very quickly.

Our wingers are extremely quick and tricky, also a huge goal threat especially Mbappe, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack, make sure their fullbacks attacks are nulified just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, Salah and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Yildiz and the midfield more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power/pace/movement, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Jude, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.

Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Bellingham

Losing -
65 Mins - Leao for Yildiz, he goes to LW, Mbappe up top 442/424
75 Mins - Lukeba for Romero, 3 at the back with Lukeba on the left of the 3, Sverre Nypan for Mendes he goes into the 10 role and will provide the front 4 along with Jude

Drawing -
70 Mins - Leao for Yildiz, to LW, Mbappe up top, Sane for Salah
80 Mins - Duran for Haaland

Winning -
75 Mins - Enzo Fernandez for Yildiz go to the left of Tchouameni
83 Mins - Leao for Haaland switch with Mbappe, Sane for Salah