---------------------- De Gea ----------------------
Bellerin ---- Caldara ---- Bonucci ---- D.Blind
---------------------- Barella ----------------------
---------------- Neves ----- Delph ----------------
Ziyech ------------------------------------ Willian
----------------------- Icardi -----------------------
Letica, Vidal, Barkley, C.Wilson, Chiesa, Traore, Rashford
Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team from the front and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially Barella, Neves and Delph as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards. When defending we drop the wingers back into a 4141 formation to keep it tight and try to outnumber their attack.
Bellerin and Blind have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, (Bellerin more than Blind as he makes up a back 3), one always staying back so we will have a back 3, they will bomb down the line supporting the wingers, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Icardi. They look to play one twos with the attacking midfield 2 which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Caldara the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Bonucci alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, both very powerful defenders, dominate in the air and good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Both up for corners, fullbacks and Barella stay back. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both CBs are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..
Barella's primary role is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defence where the opposition’s number 10 will likely to be operating whilst also being aware when the full-backs had pushed forward.Take care of of the No 10/SS is also a main focus, stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him. At times he likes to carry the ball forward, when he does this Delph will sit back
Delph is our box-to-box midfielder and has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for team mates, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running they are expected to do. The box-to-box midfielder is more likely to be found on the side of the pitch where the full-back that is less efficient in the attacking third plays to provide balance on both flanks. Neves main responsibility is to create chances for the three attackers in front of him. He will often find himself the furthest forward of the three midfielders and sometimes even in the number 10 role if the correct situation arises. The main requirement of Neves is creativity; he needs to be able to play a pass that penetrates the opposition’s defense or dictates the direction of the attack These three should work well together and between them have everything a midfield needs.
Wingers are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos, using Neves to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using Neves to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Icardi so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.Icardi will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two/three with the aid of Neves and the wingers and sometimes the fullbacks. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges with hopefully a few crosses coming in he can get up and above defenders for. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Willian, Ziyech and Neves will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side if he cant go for goal himself. But especially look for Neves as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.
We must defend as a team tho, from the front, so wingers track back and cover the fullbacks, even just to stop them supporting the wingers, we must drive into them and pressurize them into mistakes
Captain - Bonucci
Pens - Icardi
FK's - Neves/Willian
Corners - Wingers
Subs
Losing -
65 Mins - Barkley for Delph, he is more attacking and will get into useful scoring positions behind Icardi
75 Mins - C.Wilson fro Bellerin, we go 3 at the back in a 3412 formation with Wilson joining Icardi up front and barkley in a free role, Rashford for Willian at the same time for fresh speedy legs down the left
Winning -
75 Mins - Vidal for Delph, tenacity and fresh legs into midfield
80 Mins - Rashford for Willian
Drawing -
70 Mins - Rashford for Willian, Barkley for Delph
80 Mins - Chiesa for Ziyech
Bournemouth Tactics: League Cup – Group A (vs Arsenal)
Captain: Grohe
Vice Captain: Liziero
Team:
------------------Grohe
Bustos--Santos—Rabello--Saracchi
------------------Liziero
------------Palacios---Paquetá
Rodríguez------------------------Everton
-------------------Gómez
SUBS: Ronaldo, Murilo, Álvarez, Maycon, Vargas, Cunha, Wesley
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: Grohe is a big mobile keeper and very agile. 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: Liziero 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. Palacios and Paquetá will play just in front of Liziero. Palacios will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Paquetá 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 Rodríguez and Everton 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 Paquetá, Palacios and Gómez 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 Palacios may sit a bit deeper allowing Paquetá 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.
Gómez 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: Paquetá, Everton or Rodríguez with Santos, Rabello, Liziero and Gómez to offer an aerial threat. Paquetá and Everton (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Gómez
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Álvarez for Rabello, Wesley for Gómez and Maycon for Palacios, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 80 minutes) Vargas for Palacios and Wesley for Rodríguez. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Wesley and Vargas offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
-----------------Liziero
Vargas---Paquetá----Everton
-----------Gómez---Wesley
-----------------------Perin
Jedvaj---Milenkovic---Baumgartl-Klostermann
---------------Rudy---------Kampl
----Coman--------Neuhaus------------Rebic
-----------------------Jovic
Subs: Müller, Elvedi, Andersen, Gagliardini, Götze, Forsberg, Mitrovic
Our defensive unit consists of Nikola Milenkovic and Timo Baumgartl paired up at centre-back, Tin Jedvaj at right-back and Lukas Klostermann at left-back, with Sebastian Rudy and Kevin Kampl as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Rudy and Kampl we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Kampl can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Rudy can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Kampl’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Kampl running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Sebastian Rudy.
A holding midfielder through and through, Rudy is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Rudy such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Kingsley Coman, Florian Neuhaus and Ante Rebic as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luka Jovic as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Rudy or Kampl, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Jedvaj and Klostermann can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Rudy and Kampl can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Kingsley Coman and Ante Rebic, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box.
Neuhaus lines up as our “Raumdeuter” (space-interpreter), who will use his distinct and unorthodox technique to find spaces between the lines. Neuhaus is an intuitive and instinctive player who will nearly always play a perfect pass and make a perfect run.
His space-interpreting ability will be reflected in the spaces he picks up his assists from, often behind our oppositions midfield and ahead of their defence, able to play a perfect pass forward and pick the right spot in the blink of an eye.
We’ve tweaked our philosophy to involve Neuhaus so as to have as little as possible to do in terms of build-up of play and do what he is best at: find space, interpret play and be two steps ahead of our opposition by using his finest tool, anticipation.
Perhaps the deadliest asset Neuhaus possesses is his work without the ball, to get into good scoring positions or to put his teammates in good scoring positions.
Neuhaus’s movement is different from all others. He’ll interpret space and form cohesion with his intelligent running and inhuman anticipatory skills and as a result, Jovic, Coman and Rebic will benefit. Neuhaus isn’t our flashiest player or doesn’t seem the most dangerous but once a keen eye is kept on him, his true expertise will be known.
Another highly noticeable attribute of a Neuhaus’s game is his link-up play. Neuhaus will make runs and movement to support Coman, Rebic and Jovic with ease, mostly with one or two touch football and that will adequately support his teammates and vice versa.
Neuhaus is aware with his running and of the surroundings near him that will help attacking moves. With our full-backs, this sort of movement will influence their own overlapping runs, and as with our forwards, they can get into good goal scoring positions. Neuhaus will make himself readily available to teammates and without the intention, provide much more help in the build-up of attacking play than they notice.
Jovic will hold up play as an outlet to play others in and provide layoffs in the final third, but he will also make well-timed runs in behind against high defensive lines. He will be especially gifted at receiving the ball in this match, and Jovic will often manipulate his body position to create an opportune angle even if he has his back turned to goal.
Jovic’s innovation in front of goal will also be a useful trait because he will manage to adjust his body to make best use of the crosses from free kicks and corners even if they come in slightly behind him. The power and precision of his shots will make him a deadly finisher in and around the box. He will also link up well Coman, Neuhaus and Rebic through his quick footwork.
Subs on 75 mins
Mitrovic on for Jovic and Forsberg on for Rebic
Pretty much like for likes, but showing the quality and depth that we can bring on with 15 minutes to go.
--------------------- Oblak ---------------------
E.Hysaj ---- Stones ---- Varane ---- Sandro
-------------------- Fabinho --------------------
--------------- Pjanic --- Pogba ---------------
Mbappe ------------------------------ Thorgan
----------------- Lewandowski ----------------
Meret, Tousart, Aouar, Maddison, N.Pepe, A.Plea, Kluivert
Possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, Fabinho, Pjanic and Pogba just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and the front 3 in and around the half way line, Lewandowski slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow Pjanic and Pogba to dictate play, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.
Varane picks up the CF, Stones spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly when we have possession, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, fullbacks must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. When they attack, only one at a time, as to not let ourselves be exposed, they drive down the line in support of the wingers. the two always make themselves available to the wingers. If either get caught up field I want Fabinho to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover I want both Stones and Varane to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Fabinho sitting back.
In the centre of the pitch are Pjanic, Fabinho and Pogba. Fabinho our deepest player sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, Pjanic and Pogba must be disciplined and lend a hand to stop them coming through. Fabinho must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. Pjanic slightly higher up the pitch, he will stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, make our midfield very difficult to pass through, protect our defence and de Jong as best as possible and again in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Pogba as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Pogba is essential to our style of play, he is the link(alongside Pjanic) between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in a 10 role and look for the Fabinho/Pjanic pass. he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.
Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Thorgan will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Pogba to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Thorgan to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Lewandowski who has the power and ability to beat any defender and the other winger who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Lewandowski right on top of the goalkeeper to put a lot of pressure on him, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game.
Captain - Varane
Pens - Lewandowski
Corners - Pjanic
Free Kicks - Pjanic
Losing -
65 Mins - N.Pepe for Pogba he goes to RW and Mbappe using his pace through the middle 442
75 Mins - A.Plea for Sandro, Hysaj inot a 3 man defence 343
82 Mins - Kluivert for Thorgan straight swap, fresh quick legs on
Winning -
75 Mins - Tousart for Pogba, sit in a 3 man midfield and tighten it up
80 Mins - N.Pepe for Lewandowski, Pepe to RW, Mbappe up top to run everything down
85 Mins - Aouar for Thorgan 4141
Drawing -
70 Mins - Maddison for Pogba, Pepe for Lewandowski we go 4231 with Maddison at 10, Pepe at RW and Mbappe up top to change it about and ahave a lot of pace in the final 3rd
80 Mins - Kluivert for Thorgan, straight swap
———————————Svilar
Weiser——Christensen——Ampadu———Zinchenko
————————-——Maier
————Loftus-Cheek————Mount
Harit—————————Arp——————Brandt
Subs: Pope, R.James, McKennie, Kamara, Guedes, Sargent, Hudson-Odoi
Captain: Julien Brandt
Free Kicks: Julien Brandt
Corners: Mason Mount
Penalties: Julien Brandt
The aim of our build up play will be to get the ball into the free CB, as well as drawing Hull’s midfield forward. Position our midfield deeper, with Maier just ahead of the CBs, CMs dropping towards play, CBs stretched out and FBs slightly higher in line with Maier, creating a diamond in both half spaces through which we can escape pressure, before switching to the CB on the free side (can use Svilar when needed). CB can carry the ball forward and plays a ball into the CM on his side to provoke one of the Hull CMs into stepping up, the CM can play it immediately back back to the CB, Maier or the FB, who will then play it vertically into the inverted winger/Arp who drops either side of the DM. Equally, if the CB brings it forward and the opposition don’t break their structure, he can play a long ball out to the opposite flank to stretch the game.
When establishing possession we use short passing combinations, minimal spacing between players, staggered between the lines. Allows for quick movement of the ball, shifting constantly to different lines, drawing more of a reaction from the opposition and sucking them in towards the ball to open up space elsewhere, which we can quickly switch into. The constant movement of the ball, and constant movement of our players, changing runs and swapping positions, creates a mental overload on the opponent, with some players chasing to follow the ball, and others the man, allowing us to break their defensive structure and unmark ourselves higher up the field. The opponent then has to react to the hole that they leave, and this sucks defenders out of the last line of defence, allowing us to play in their blindsides.
Maier and the CBs are the second pass facilitators of this style, with a better view of the pitch ahead of them, and more space to work in they have the best access to passing lanes, and can make the best choice of where to build attacks. When these guys get the ball with space, the players ahead of them must make runs, particularly using a CM, or a winger to make a run in behind their defence for a quick lofted pass.
Mount is the main creator in the side today, roaming the midfield to link play, and find space in the half space / between the lines, as well as drifting wide to overload their FBs, as well as combining closely with Arp. Loftus-Cheek will have a box to box role, his energy will be key when recovering possession, but he links play well too, and his direct runs and presence in the box can be a huge threat.
Our wingers look to create positional superiority alongside our CMs and Arp. Both can stretch the game and pin the FBs back, to open up more 1 v 1 battles for our CMs and themselves, whilst both can invert and link with the CMs/Arp to overload the midfield and force the Fbs into tucking in and leaving space wide, or leaving the CMs vulnerable. Both can make runs behind, the pace they have means the Hull defence have to drop and become detached from midfield, or risk being beaten in a foot race, particularly we want our wingers to really push their FBs back.
Arp comes in to give us a focal point, it will be a tough game so will need someone that we can be direct to. Arp can hold the ball up and bring others into play, he’s particularly good at first time balls to find diagonal runs of the wingers. At times he can drop to aid chance creation, but his main role today will be to occupy the CBs, alongside the wingers he keeps their defence pegged back, and places more defensive onus on their more offensive players to stop our midfield. When we get in the final third, he’s finding space in the box.
Off the ball we use a 4-5-1 shape. We will look to high press, with three key triggers. Firstly a ball played between CBs. Arp will look to pressure the ball carrying CB, closing vertical passing lanes. When the CB passes to the other CB, ball side CM will step up and press in the same manner as Arp, creating a 4-4-2. Wingers stay tucked into the half spaces to make vertical passes difficult, Maier always slightly deeper than the other CM to create a strong core. This should force them to the corners, which is our next pressing trigger. When this happens, the winger steps out to press the FB, with CF and CM in the first line of defence also pushing out to the wing, looking to pen the FB in, with our FB pushing higher up to condense space and cut passing lanes to the winger (far side winger, Maier and the other CM create a strong midfield 3).
The final trigger is pressing from Goalkicks. Our front three will come narrow, covering the width of the box, wingers pressing the Cbs if they try to play out, CMs can go out to the FBs when needed, whilst Arp covers passing lanes to the DM. Force them to go long from GKs.
The back line adjusts their position based on the position of the ball and team mates, so when Hull have the ball with their defence and we are high pressing, the back 4 will be pushed up right behind the midfield line, keeping minimal space between the lines, shutting down passing lanes in the middle to force the opponents wide or long. Our 3 lines move up and down in unison, so when Hull have periods of established possession in our half, our 4-5-1 shape falls right back together to keep us compact, using the same pressing triggers as we would higher up.
Subs:
If Winning: R.James for Weiser 70’, more defensive RB to offer solidity. Kamara and Hudson-Odoi for Mount and Harit 80’, Kamara plays the holding role with Maier moving just head.
If Drawing: Sargent for Arp 70’. Guedes and Hudson-Odoi for Harit and Mount, Brandt will drop into midfield to take charge of the game 75’.
If Losing: Kamara and Guedes for Harit and Zinchenko 60’, 3-4-3 with Weiser RWB and Brandt LWB, Guedes will play alongside Ruben just behind Arp. Hudson-Odoi for Loftus-Cheek 70’.
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v Tottenham
Injuries: Mina, Ozil, Vitolo, Sturaro
-------------------- Arrizabalaga
Hakimi - Marquinhos - Barzagli - Wendell
--------- Rakitic - Khedira - Gundogan
--------- Di Maria - Immobile - Perisic
Subs: Leno, Maffeo, Benkovic, Diawara, Hamsik, Januzaj, Vardy
-----------------
Must win game today, to stand any chance of progression. Going to start patiently, while ensuring we can go for the win boldly nearer the end of the game. No point losing the game early on.
A tough but winnable game today against Tottenham, hopefully our back four will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Arrizabalaga in goal, Marquinhos and Barzagli at centreback, Hakimi and Wendell at fullback, Rakitic, Khedira and Gundogan in midfield, Di Maria and Perisic either side of Immobile upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Tottenham are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Arrizabalaga - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Immobile.
Marquinhos/Barzagli - Marquinhos mark their striker, force them high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Barzagli to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Hakimi/Wendell - Both of you to force the Tottenham wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Di Maria and Perisic as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Immobile and link with Rakitic and Gundogan. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Khedira - Our DM today, sit in front of the back four, break up play, watch out for runs from deep from the opposition, when in possession use your range of passing to look for teammates in advanced positions, use Rakitic and Gundogan alongside you if you're closed down.
Rakitic/Gundogan - Two box to box midfielders today, one either side of Khedira at DM. Both of you are required to get back and assist Khedira in front of the back four when we don't have the ball, but both with the ability and the freedom to push forward and join the front three, while always leaving at least one of you behind the ball. Look to link with Di Maria, Perisic or Immobile.
Di Maria/Perisic - Both with the trickery to beat the Tottenham fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Immobile with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Rakitic and Gundogan, and capitalise on the space Immobile's presence will create for you.
Immobile - you will be expected to occupy the Tottenham centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Di Maria or Perisic on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you to create opportunities.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Di Maria, Gundogan and Perisic off, Benkovic, Hamsik and Diawara on. Change to 5-3-1-1, Benkovic an extra CB, midfield trio of Diawara, Rakitic and Khedira, with Hamsik in the AM role providing support to Immobile upfront.
If drawing or losing (because its "must win": Barzagli and Khedira off, Hamsik and Vardy on. 3-1-4-2, Hakimi - Marquinhos - Wendell at the back, Rakitic the playmaker from deep, Di Maria - Hamsik - Gundogan - Perisic behind Immobile and Vardy upfront. Push for goals.
-------------------Buffon
Lirola----Retsos----Verthongen----Cucurella
------------------Dorsch
------------Fred-------Locatelli
Lamela-------------------------------Son
-------------------Inaki
Subs
Strakosha, Inigo, Bertrand, Brozovic, Mkhi, Simeone, Kovacic
Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control, they have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance.
Verthongen is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counters, When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out, they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style.
For the full backs the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly.
Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who to go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up, looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the attackers to drag the opposition defensive players out of position. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Gameiro, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.
When Lacazette is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.
Set Pieces
Corners - Locatelli takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Inaki work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Son and Fred flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Dorsch looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Lamela takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, as well as occasionally providing the short option to draw defenders out of the box.
Free Kicks - Lamela takes Direct FK's
Penalties - Lamela is the designated taker.
Subs
If Winning
70 mins - Mkhi for Son - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
82 + 86 Mins - Brozovic for Dorsch and Bertrand for Cucurella - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Mkhi for Fred - add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
67 Mins - Simeone, Mkhi and Inigo for Dorsch, Cucurella and Lirola - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.
BRUM vs Leicester (cup)
-------------------------------------Lunin--------------------------------
Dalot-------------Diop---------------Maguire------------Chilwell
-----------------------Pellegrini----------Kondogbia-----------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neres------------------------------------------------------------------Keita
--------------------------------------Philipp----------------------------------------
-------------------------------------Higuain-------------------------------------
Subs - Lafont, Ruben Dias, Kessie, Cristante, Adama, Zaha, Batshuayi
CAPTAIN - HIGUAIN
CK'S - NERES
FK'S - NERES
PENALTIES - HIGUAIN
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo dont get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
Lunin is a quality young keeper. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Diop and Maguire bring a whole lot of experience and pace to the defence. Maguire will use his experience to marshal the defence and Diop will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Kondogbia will be covering for them when they go attacking.
Defence Mids
Kondogbia + Pellegrini
Kondogbia will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or play a through ball from deep to our wingers.
Pellegrini will be playing as a b2b midfielder. When he has the ball I want him to pass the ball forward and try and play through balls for our wingers to run onto. I want the team to use him as an outlet to get play started or when the oppo is pressing us I want him to use his expert ball control to keep hold of possession of the ball. When not in possession of the ball I want him to sit alongside Kondogbia in the middle and protect the defence. Make attacking runs forward when we have the ball and don't be afraid to have a crack from long range.
Wingers
Neres + Keita
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. They are 2 young and hungry players and I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Keita will be looking to cut in from the left and Neres likewise from the right. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of our fullbacks and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. Dalot and Chilwell are no slouches attacking wise so use them! If you can cut in onto your stronger foot, don't be afraid to shoot from range as you both have the ability to score from long range. If there is no space to do so then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Higuain to get his head on. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack.
Attack Mid
Maximilian Philipp
Philipp will be playing just behind Higuain and will look to help him out in attack. Be ready for passes into your feet and shoot if you see an opportunity. Mix up your attacking runs to throw off the oppo DM. I want him to dribble with the ball and play 1 2's with the rest of the team. Shoot if you see an opening.
Striker
Gonzalo Higuain
Higuain will look to use his strength to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and hold the ball up for Keita/Neres to make infield runs ahead of you.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Zaha for Kondogbia, Adama for Neres and Cristante for Kondogbia to bring some more pace on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212.
------------------------------------Lunin--------------------------------
Dalo----------------Diop-----------Maguire------------Chilwell
---------------------------------Cristante------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adama--------------------------------------------------------------Keita
-----------------------------------Philipp------------------------------------
---------------------Higuain--------------Zaha-------------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Philipp and put on Ruben Dias in CB. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Adama on for Neres and Zaha for Higuain.
------------------------------------Lunin--------------------------------
Dalot--------Diop------Maguire-------Dias-------Chilwell
----------------Pellegrini--------Kondogbia----------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------Adama---------------------------------------------Keira---------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------Zaha---------------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Adama on for Neres
Kessie on for Kondogbia
Zaha on for Higuain
Fresh legs to bring on.
--------------------Lloris
Danilo----Kompany---Manolas---Rodriguez
--------------------Herrera
------------Ramsey-----Fabregas
Malcom----------------------------Costa
--------------------Cavani
Pickford, Maitland-Niles, Mee, Cook, Martins, Amiri, Giroud
A tough game for us today, but we should come into it fit and ready having trained well. I have selected a 4-1-2-3 formation for today for multiple reasons. The first is that we can have a more defensive minded midfielder to limit the Portsmouth creativity, whilst also having two midfielders in front of them who can operate as more creative types, concentrating on getting the ball forward. The second reason is that it allows for us to operate with pace and skill on the flanks, setting up direct runs either at the defence or via balls over the top and into the space behind, which will serve as a benefit.
In goal I have recalled Lloris, as I think his experience could be key with the absence of Manolas in defence. He will operate in a sweeper keeper role, comfortable with the ball at his feet and looking to start attacks from deep. Primarily I will be looking for him to play in our two attack minded full backs, who will be given license to burst forward and supplement our attacking players. He is also capable of going long, should the opposition push up and try to cut out the ball out of the back, and then he will look for Cavani, who will play in our wide men.
Kompany and Manolas is a strong pairing of defenders, who both have physical presence in abundance. They will work together as a unit, with Kompany pressing the opposition striker, keeping a tight hold on his location and not allowing him an inch of space, all whilst Manolas covers the space in behind, operating almost as a sweeper, making sure that anything that gets past Kompany does not also get past him. When on the ball, they will obviously provide each other as an option, with the added short ball forward to Herrera. Their primary interest will be to find the pass out to our full backs, however, who will burst forward to start attacks.
Herrera is sitting just in front of the defence today, and I intend for him to marshall that position. Combining a dogged persistence with decent ability on the ball, he is perfect for this role. This comes especially due to the presence of creative midfield players alongside him. Herrera will press and harass their furthest forward midfielder, not allowing them to have time or space on the ball to start attacks through the middle, and getting a bit rough if it is required. Limiting them through the centre should also limit the amount of chances that fall their way. When he gets the ball, he will have plenty of options, either spreading it out wide to either the full backs or the wingers, or looking forward to Fabregas and Ramsey. He, however, will stay in his position and not contribute going forward.
The chosen full backs today are both attacking players who love to play on the counter, picking the ball up in defensive positions before joining the charge forward and contributing to the attack. I expect them to emulate this today. They will be key for us in playing a fast counter to hit Bournemouth on the break whenever we win back possession, providing an outlet for passing but also for overlapping runs and runs into the box. When on the back foot, they both have the energy to get back in position and track their winger, not allowing them time or space.
Fabregas is the creative force of my midfield. He may not have the legs for top level football anymoe, but that is why his midifield partner, Ramsey, is so important, as together they will work as a team to create chances, with Fabregas providing the technical flair whilst Ramsey presses and makes the runs, getting in the box so that he can chip in with some goals. Fabregas’ key outlet will be balls into the wide players, whether that be straight to feet or through balls for them to run on to, and with us doubling up in these positions, there should be plenty of space to explot. Off the ball, Ramsey will press and harangue their midfield, not allowing them a moments time to think and start dangerous attacks.
I have kept faith in my traditional wingers for todays game, as I think Malcom and Costa suit our game perfectly. Both are fast and direct players, who like to run at the opposition. I give them license to do this, trying to get in behind and stretch the opposition defence. With the added benefit of overlapping runs from the full backs, I think we can see plenty of joy coming down these flanks, especially with Fabregas explicitly looking to pick them out. They will also look to get in the box as often as possible, and get onto any knock downs from Cavani, meaning that off the ball the trident must drop back to the halfway line and wait for the attack to start again. This should, however, mean that there should be lots of space to exploit in behind.
Cavani leads the line for us today as he always does. A big presence on the pitch and a goalscorer capable of causing a threat to any defence. He is a physical and energetic presence, who will look to get into the box as often as possible. With our wide play, we should be looking to get crosses in on top of his head, as well as him in behind the opposition into one on one situations with the opposition goalkeeper. Either way, Cavani is bound to punish Bournemouth.
Substitutions
If drawing/losing
Cesc Fabregas off for Nadiem Amiri 65 mins
A bit more of an energetic and attack minded option in that position, with Fabregas likely tiring from the game. The fresh legs should allow us to push forward more, as well as winning more of the midfield battles.
Malcom off for Gelson Martins 75 mins
A fresh set of legs on the right hand side of our trident. Martins will largely play the same role as Malcom, attacking with pace and skill, and looking to get in behind the opposition defence.
Ander Herrera off for Lewis Cook 80 mins
A switch to a 4-2-3-1, with Amiri playing in the number 10 role in behind the striker, whilst Lewis Cook and Aaron Ramsey work as the two deeper midfielders.
If winning
Cesc Fabregas off for Lewis Cook 65 mins
Lewis Cook comes on as a fresh set of legs in the midfield. He will largely play the same role as Fabregas, looking to control the play and start attacks from midfield, but should offer a bit more fitness.
Aaron Ramsey off for Ainsley Maitland-Niles 75 mins
Again, us looking for more fresh legs in the midfield to try and control this key area of the pitch. AMN will play the same role as Ramsey.
Edinson Cavani off for Olivier Giroud 80 mins
Fresh legs up top, and a super sub coming off the bench, to try and score a goal to kill the game.
Attacking 4-3-3
We look to play our usual attacking game and take the game to Spurs, controlling possession and the tempo of the game. Control possession and find space in between the opposition lines. Get Ceballos and Beltran on the ball and looking to play killer balls to open up the opposition using the pace of our attacking players.
Key to our attack is quick passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly. Pass and move. Tire the opposition out physically and mentally with our possession play. Predominantly short passing on the deck, but varying our play when a counter is on.
As you'd expect, possession starts at the back, Laporte the man marker next to Ramos who is free. In midfield, Ascaibar reading the play looking to win the ball back as the dm alwatys staying back and offering cover, Ceballos and Beltran will offer inteligence defensively, with the pressing of Ceballos also improtant.
Getting Beltran and Ceballos on the ball and get pushing up the pitch, they are used to being on the offensive and playing in tight spaces, so we look to them to pick the passes. But if they play a high line they can pick the passes through or over the top to expose the space behind them. Quick one twos between the two and the attacking trio and Shaw and Alexander-Arnold always looking to provide an option.
The defence will be patient on the ball, will be hugely important in keeping possession and pushing us up the pitch. Playing a reasonably high line, with good pace at the back and energy in front. As soon as we get the ball to our midfield, we look to move the ball quickly, quick passing and moving. Brum have great pace in attack, but they'll be tired from chasing us keep the ball while we also have pace at the back.
In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Brum. Get the fbs attacking. One bombing forward the other fb remains a little more reserved offering option to go back and switch play.
Hazard has a free role in attack, with Shaw offering width on the left. On the right, Correa stays wide stretching the game looking to take on their lb.
--------------------- Neuer
Trent.A - J.Gomez - Laporte - L.Shaw
-------------------- Ascaibar
------------ Ceballos.A --- F.Beltran
A.Correa ------------------------------ Hazard
------------------- Richarlison
Subs. Schmeichel, Kehrer, Ascaibar, Thiago, Geubbels, Lautaro, Ronaldo
Defending in numbers
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone else bar Richarlison gets behind the ball into position. Stop them breaking.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Draw them in to positions where they can’t hurt us, and then try and win the ball back. Then get forward quickly.
As Brum advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1. Our wingers will track any forward runs made by their fbs, and Ascaibar presses the space in front of our cbs, sweeping up danger in front of the defence, the cms pressing their midfield.
In this tight formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Ascaibar will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, getting across to cut out any danger. Beltran picks up the most advanced cm. The winger opposite play comes inside and sits on their deepest cm while Ceballos presses the space next to and in front of Ascaibar. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Attack.
Get the ball to our midfield trio, get them linking up with quick passing, getting the ball to our wingers and get balls into Richarlison. The trio's movement will be key in opening up the opposition defence.
The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game. We look to find space between their defence and midfield, committing defenders from there and playing killer balls.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Ceballos, Beltran and the wingers will always be looking for the killer ball. If it is not on, we are happy to keep the ball moving and keep possession.
Richarlison has freedom to play his natural game, using his blistering pace to get through on goal.
Subs. If winning after 70 mins bring on Ronaldo for Richarlison. Fresh energy and quality to hold up ball.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Thiago for Beltran.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Casemiro for Ceballos. More power in an important area.
If drawing after 60 mins bring on Oyarzabal for Correa.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Thiago for Beltran.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Ronaldo for Beltran. 4-2-3-1. Ceballos deeper, Richarlison left, Hazard behind Ronaldo.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Thiago and Casemiro for Ascaibar and Ceballos.
NEWCASTLE 4-3-3
___________Alisson
Azpi____Alder___Godin___Robbo
__________Jorginho
________Kante___Silva
Salah______Suarez________Mane
SUBS: Milner, Suso, Lukaku, Alli, N’Zonzi, James, Bobby
Captain: Diego Godin
Penalties: Luis Suarez
Corners: David Silva
Freekicks: Luis Suarez
Crossing Freekick: David Silva
The formation deployed today is so that we gain as much control as possible higher up he pitch. We expect to have more of the ball so patience is key. We also expect the four behind the striker to drift around a bit, getting into positions where their natural play can cause damage. The striker up front presses when we don’t have the ball and the entire team will support him cut passing lanes to help win the ball higher up. The quality of our players will allow us to break through the oppositions press. When we have the ball we will want to attract the press and use the spaces that they open up to attack.
Full backs will get forward when the opportunity arises. Our full backs are good at feeding our forward line with their ability on the ball and we aim to utilize that with their ability to get up the pitch and tactical arareness. We also need our full backs to widen the pitch for us. Our centre halves are good on the ball, and a long punt every now and then to utilize our pace out wide is encouraged. Our right back will also tuck in to help solidify the team.
The regista will drop in to form a back three so that the centre backs can split wide to push the full backs general position higher up in line with the midfielders (and wide forwards engage their back line along with the striker). In doing so we create a four man midfield to overpower their midfield. This will allow our midfield to be flexible, if one of their midfielders steps forward, one of ours will move into the space they vacated. The regista will be the link between our defence and midfield and because of the way he plays, he will draw the opponents forward towards him to attack the ball, pulling their team’s lines apart. This will create more spaces between the lines for our midfield and forward lines to move into. The right centre mid will be the more defensive one in his box to box role, closing down space and cutting passing lanes with his incredible interception ability. Playing alongside the regista will give him less areas of the pitch to cover, and shorter distance needed to win the ball back to start the next attack. Both centre mids will float between the lines during the attacking phase just behind our forwards.
By having our wide forwards up front when we have the ball it will effectively create space out wide. We would expect our full backs to sometimes go infield to collect the ball from the keeper, while one of the midfielders goes wide so when he receives the ball he will have time to look up and pick passes as the opposition midfield will be reluctant to press which will leave a man free in midfield. This can be done by a midfielder too, dropping deep to create a free man in the first line with time on the ball, ping it straight to the striker who can lay it off to the other onrushing midfielder.
If short passing options aren’t available the passing range and accuracy of our keeper will safely transfer the ball forwards via our full backs, wherever they are on the pitch. The keeper can also dink the ball into space for the striker or wide forward to control taking out 6 or 7 opposition players in the process.
The striker’s main role will be to create space for the wide forwards. He will drop deep into a ten to drag defenders out and create space for our wide forwards to run into. This will tie into our quick short passing which is aimed at dragging their players out of position and create space between their lines. Our team will always recycle the ball back to the regista to keep possession and to keep the ball moving.
When we don’t have the ball we will expect our four behind the striker to drop into a 4-5-1 in support of our regista and right centre mid. We will also create triangles to trap the opposition players that have the ball, cutting the passing lanes and others putting pressure on players that might receive the ball. We stop the oppositions rhythm and force them into mistakes with our pressure. To stop their counter attacks after we lose the ball, three players will swarm the ball carrier before he can get his head up to play. If they beat the immediate press when the team’s main goal is to push their play wide where they can do the least damage. Our midfielders are an integral part to our play, when we win the ball back we will create space and time for them with our team shape. There will be times when we are under the cosh and will have the option of deploying a bowl shaped 5 at the back, with the right centre mid dropping in to make closing down the opponents very effective.
Subs
70 mins: Milner comes on for Silva, our legs will start to tire, so will theirs, Milner will add box to box ability and energy late in the game.
75 mins: Bobby comes on for Suarez, a different style of forward play for the opposition to think about.
If winning 80 mins: N’Zonzi comes on for Jorginho to close out the game. He is capable in deep midfield alongside Kante in a 4-2-3-1.
If losing/drawing 80 mins: Lukaku comes on for Jorginho and play 2 up front.
Bournemouth Tactics: Week 13
Captain: Grohe
Vice Captain: Paredes
Team:
-----------------Grohe
Bustos--Santos—Rabello--Saracchi
----------------Paredes
----------Palacios---Paquetá
Pussetto----------------------Everton
-------------------Gómez
SUBS: Ronaldo, Murilo, Álvarez, Wendel, Vargas, Cunha, Wesley
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: Grohe is a big mobile keeper and very agile. 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: Paredes 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. Palacios and Paquetá will play just in front of Paredes. Palacios will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Paquetá 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 Pussetto and Everton 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 Paquetá, Palacios and Gómez 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 Palacios may sit a bit deeper allowing Paquetá 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.
Gómez 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: Paquetá, Everton or Pussetto with Santos, Rabello, Paredes and Gómez to offer an aerial threat. Paquetá and Everton (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Gómez
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Álvarez for Rabello, Wesley for Gómez and Wendel for Palacios, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 80 minutes) Vargas for Palacios and Wesley for Pussetto. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Wesley and Vargas offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
------------Paredes
Vargas---Paquetá----Everton
-------Gómez---Wesley
Injuries for Week 13
Glenn Middleton
Nico Elvedi (u21) CB/RB/LB Swiss
Emil Forsberg LW Swedish
Florian Müller (u21) GK German
-----------------------Perin
Jedvaj---Milenkovic---Andersen---Tagliafico
---------------Rudy---------Kampl
----Coman--------Neuhaus------------Rebic
-----------------------Jovic
Subs: Hennessey, Klostermann, Lobotka, Gagliardini, Götze, Trossard, Mitrovic
Our defensive unit consists of Nikola Milenkovic and Joachim Andersen paired up at centre-back, Tin Jedvaj at right-back and Nicolás Tagliafico at left-back, with Sebastian Rudy and Kevin Kampl as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Rudy and Kampl we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Kampl can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Rudy can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Kampl’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Kampl running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Sebastian Rudy.
A holding midfielder through and through, Rudy is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Rudy such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Kingsley Coman, Florian Neuhaus and Ante Rebic as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luka Jovic as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Rudy or Kampl, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Jedvaj and Tagliafico can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Rudy and Kampl can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Kingsley Coman and Ante Rebic, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box.
Neuhaus lines up as our “Raumdeuter” (space-interpreter), who will use his distinct and unorthodox technique to find spaces between the lines. Neuhaus is an intuitive and instinctive player who will nearly always play a perfect pass and make a perfect run.
His space-interpreting ability will be reflected in the spaces he picks up his assists from, often behind our oppositions midfield and ahead of their defence, able to play a perfect pass forward and pick the right spot in the blink of an eye.
We’ve tweaked our philosophy to involve Neuhaus so as to have as little as possible to do in terms of build-up of play and do what he is best at: find space, interpret play and be two steps ahead of our opposition by using his finest tool, anticipation.
Perhaps the deadliest asset Neuhaus possesses is his work without the ball, to get into good scoring positions or to put his teammates in good scoring positions.
Neuhaus’s movement is different from all others. He’ll interpret space and form cohesion with his intelligent running and inhuman anticipatory skills and as a result, Jovic, Coman and Rebic will benefit. Neuhaus isn’t our flashiest player or doesn’t seem the most dangerous but once a keen eye is kept on him, his true expertise will be known.
Another highly noticeable attribute of a Neuhaus’s game is his link-up play. Neuhaus will make runs and movement to support Coman, Rebic and Jovic with ease, mostly with one or two touch football and that will adequately support his teammates and vice versa.
Neuhaus is aware with his running and of the surroundings near him that will help attacking moves. With our full-backs, this sort of movement will influence their own overlapping runs, and as with our forwards, they can get into good goal scoring positions. Neuhaus will make himself readily available to teammates and without the intention, provide much more help in the build-up of attacking play than they notice.
Jovic will hold up play as an outlet to play others in and provide layoffs in the final third, but he will also make well-timed runs in behind against high defensive lines. He will be especially gifted at receiving the ball in this match, and Jovic will often manipulate his body position to create an opportune angle even if he has his back turned to goal.
Jovic’s innovation in front of goal will also be a useful trait because he will manage to adjust his body to make best use of the crosses from free kicks and corners even if they come in slightly behind him. The power and precision of his shots will make him a deadly finisher in and around the box. He will also link up well Coman, Neuhaus and Rebic through his quick footwork.
Subs on 75 mins
Mitrovic on for Jovic and Trossard on for Rebic
Pretty much like for likes, but showing the quality and depth that we can bring on with 15 minutes to go.
-------------------Buffon
Florenzi----Sokratis----Verthongen----Luis
------------------Brozovic
------------Rabiot-------Kovacic
Lamela-------------------------------Son
-------------------Lacazette
Subs
Uzoho, Inigo, Bertrand, Fred, Mkhi, Simeone, Inaki
Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control, they have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance.
Verthongen is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counters, When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out, they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style.
For the full backs the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly.
Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who to go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up, looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the attackers to drag the opposition defensive players out of position. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Gameiro, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.
When Lacazette is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.
Set Pieces
Corners - Kovacic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Lacazette work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Son and Brozovic flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Rabiot looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Lamela takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, as well as occasionally providing the short option to draw defenders out of the box.
Free Kicks - Lamela takes Direct FK's
Penalties - Lamela is the designated taker.
Subs
If Winning
70 mins - Mkhi for Son - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
82 + 86 Mins - Fred for Rabiot and Bertrand for Luis - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Mkhi for Brozovic - add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
67 Mins - Inaki, Mkhi and Inigo for Brozovic, Luis and Florenzi - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.
---------------------- De Gea ---------------------
Bellerin ---- Caldara ---- Bonucci ---- D.Blind
---------------------- Freuler ---------------------
---------------- Neves ----- Vidal ----------------
Ziyech ------------------------------------ Willian
----------------------- Icardi ----------------------
McCarthy, Delph, Barkley, Rashford, Barella, Chiesa, C.Wilson
Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team from the front and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially Freuler, Neves and Vidal as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards. When defending we drop the wingers back into a 4141 formation to keep it tight and try to outnumber their attack.
Bellerin and Blind have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, (Bellerin more than Blind as he makes up a back 3), one always staying back so we will have a back 3, they will bomb down the line supporting the wingers, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Icardi. They look to play one twos with the attacking midfield 2 which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Caldara the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Bonucci alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, both very powerful defenders, dominate in the air and good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Both up for corners, fullbacks and Freuler stay back. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both CBs are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..
Freuler's primary role is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defence where the opposition’s number 10 will likely to be operating whilst also being aware when the full-backs had pushed forward.Take care of of the No 10/SS is also a main focus, stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him. At times he likes to carry the ball forward, when he does this Vidal will sit back
Vidal is our box-to-box midfielder and has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for team mates, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running they are expected to do. The box-to-box midfielder is more likely to be found on the side of the pitch where the full-back that is less efficient in the attacking third plays to provide balance on both flanks. Neves main responsibility is to create chances for the three attackers in front of him. He will often find himself the furthest forward of the three midfielders and sometimes even in the number 10 role if the correct situation arises. The main requirement of Neves is creativity; he needs to be able to play a pass that penetrates the opposition’s defense or dictates the direction of the attack These three should work well together and between them have everything a midfield needs.
Wingers are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos, using Neves to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using Neves to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Icardi so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.Icardi will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two/three with the aid of Neves and the wingers and sometimes the fullbacks. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges with hopefully a few crosses coming in he can get up and above defenders for. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Willian, Ziyech and Neves will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side if he cant go for goal himself. But especially look for Neves as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.
We must defend as a team tho, from the front, so wingers track back and cover the fullbacks, even just to stop them supporting the wingers, we must drive into them and pressurize them into mistakes
Captain - Bonucci
Pens - Icardi
FK's - Neves/Willian
Corners - Wingers
Subs
Losing -
60 Mins - Rashford for Willian - same role, fresh legs & pace
70 Mins - C.Wilson for Vidal 4-4-2/4-2-4 with Neves being a deeper role setting things up for front 4
80 Mins - Chiesa for Bellerin, 3-4-3
Winning -
70 Mins - Delph for Vidal, same role, fresh legs
80 Mins - Rashford for Willian, Barella for Neves, Barella will try and control the final 10 mins
Drawing -
70 Mins - Barkley for Neves, Rashford for Willian
80 Mins - Chiesa for Vidal, he goes to RW and Ziyech into a central attacking position
--------------------- Oblak ---------------------
E.Hysaj ---- Stones ---- Varane ---- Sandro
-------------------- Fabinho --------------------
--------------- Aouar ---- Pogba ---------------
Mbappe ------------------------------- Neymar
----------------- Lewandowski -----------------
Meret, Romagnoli, Tousart, Maddison, Thorgan, Gnabry, Piatek
Possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, Fabinho, Aouar and Pogba just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and the front 3 in and around the half way line, Lewandowski slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow Aouar and Pogba to dictate play, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.
Varane picks up the CF, Stones spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly when we have possession, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, fullbacks must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. When they attack, only one at a time, as to not let ourselves be exposed, they drive down the line in support of the wingers. the two always make themselves available to the wingers. If either get caught up field I want Fabinho to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover I want both Stones and Varane to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Fabinho sitting back.
In the centre of the pitch are Aouar, Fabinho and Pogba. Fabinho our deepest player sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, Aouar and Pogba must be disciplined and lend a hand to stop them coming through. Fabinho must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. Aouar slightly higher up the pitch, he will stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, make our midfield very difficult to pass through, protect our defence and Fabinho as best as possible and again in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Pogba as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Pogba is essential to our style of play, he is the link(alongside Aouar) between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in a 10 role and look for the Fabinho/Aouar pass. he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.
Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Neymar will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Pogba to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Lewandowski who has the power and ability to beat any defender and the other winger who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Lewandowski right on top of the goalkeeper to put a lot of pressure on him, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game.
Captain - Varane
Pens - Lewandowski
Corners - Aouar/Pogba
Free Kicks - Neymar
Losing -
65 Mins - Thorgan for Aouar, he goes to RW and Mbappe into support Lewandowski
75 Mins - 3412, Sandro to LM, Neymar LCF, Mbappe RCF
82 Mins - Gnabry for Sandro, Piatek for Lewandowski
Winning -
75 Mins - Tousart for Aouar, he and Fabinho form a wall in front of the defence, leaving Pogba slightly ahead of them
80 Mins - Thorgan for Lewandowski, he goes RW with Mbappe up front using pace to shut everyone down
Drawing -
70 Mins - Thorgan for Aouar, Mbappe to support Lewandowski, Thorgan to RW
80 Mins - Gnabry for Lewandowski, he goes to LW and Mbappe/Neymar play it amongst themselves in a 9 & 10 role trying to rip the tiring defence apart for final 10 mins
——————————Ter Stegen
Odriozola———Rüdiger————Sule————Castro
————————Keita—————Torreira
B.Silva————————Dybala———————Sancho
————————————Kane
Subs: Pope, Upamecano, Rodri, Tielemans, Loftus-Cheek, Guedes, Brandt
Captain: Marc Andre Ter Stegen
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala / Lucas Torreira
Corners: Bernardo Silva / Lucas Torreira
Penalties: Harry Kane
We want to drop players deeper in build up, and start with slower ball circulation to draw their forward and midfield lines forward, so that we can later exploit the space in behind. We move the ball out to the FB on the touchline, creating back 3 on ball side and using Torreira to help circulate. Keita will position himself slightly higher than Torreira, in line with the far CB and Dybala will drop to Keita’s hight on the ball side. Ball side winger stays high and pins his FB so he can’t join the press. As soon as they are drawn in we circulate the ball back through the defence (keeper if needed) and look to either use the far side CB to carry the ball forward if the Arsenal winger hasn’t tucked in, or move the ball into the far side FB by the touchline if the winger has tucked in. This Fb can carry the ball forward but from here also has easy access to play the ball into midfield behind the press, or find his winger in a 1 v 1 with the FB.
Once we progress the ball we look to quickly exploit the space between the opponents defence and midfield, ether side of the DM or out wide, adapting our shape in game to go and attack where the space opens up. In Torreira we have a player who will sit and control the tempo of our game, always available for a pass and to recycle possession, particularly as a second passer in short passing combinations, his composure on the ball, as well as the CBs, allows us to go back to them and keep possession, and allow their team mates ahead to change their movements and run into space, with all 3 of them capable of playing laser passes between opponent lines. Keita has a box to box role, and his higher positioning in comparison to Torreira allows us to create triangles in the midfield, the staggering of the 3 central players heights means we have the option to use quick diagonal passing, which draws more opponents towards the pass and opens up new spaces behind. Keita will look to move the ball quickly, as well as using his pace and dribbling to break opponent lines, either with the ball at his feet, or with his movement.
The Fbs are crucial, they allow for overloads to open up the opposition. At times we want them overlapping, particularly Odriozola, as this allows Dybala and Silva to overload the right half space and leave the FB with a decision to make, stay wide, opening up space for Silva and Dybala to exploit between FB and CB, or tuck in and leave an easy pass on for Odriozola who can whip in crosses. When receiving the ball deeper I want both FBs to make diagonal runs into the half spaces, with our wingers pinning back their FBs this forces the opposition midfield to react. The diagonal runs draws more players in and opens up more passing lanes, either back wide to the winger for a 1 v 1 battle, or into Dybala/Keita, who can escape their markers.
The front 4 look to attack the opposition at pace. With the front three maintaining a high position and pinning the opposition defensive line back, Dybala should make full use of his 10 role to exploit the space between the lines. If we can create a 1 v 1 battle with the DM, we feel Dybala can take the super hand and create chances. He will be constantly on the move, often drifting wide where he can create triangles with FB and winger to open up the flanks, dropping deeper to receive the ball either side of the DM and behind the CMs, and making runs off of Kane to get behind the opposition. Sancho will look to hold width at all times, a key aim is to get the ball to the wingers in quick transitions from build up, and we believe Sancho with his dribbling can win his 1 v 1 battle and get crosses into the strikers. He’s also great at slowing the game down, drawing the opposition defence across and then beating 2-3 men, with Dybala, Keita, Silva and Kane to attack the box this will be hard to defend. Silva has a license to come into the half space more often. Kane’s role is to be on the move around the penalty box, getting into scoring positions.
Off the ball we press firstly in a 4-4-2, Dybala joining Kane in looking to force the CBs wide on the ball, Sancho will push high onto his FB with Silva dropped off and tucked in more, as we look to force their build up out to the LB, as they have massive injuries here, and likely have to play Azpi on his weaker side. Once the ball goes wide we swing our defensive pendulum, Sancho dropping back, Silva stepping up, Dybala drops back into midfield for a 4-1-4-1 shape, with Keita able to go and help Silva box the FB in. If they move the ball to the other side the pendulum swings, right sides players dropping and left sided players stepping up. We fall into a mid block, not looking to press the man but instead pressing passing lanes, so that the opposition have no where to go. Dybala and Keita are staggered, the ball side player slightly higher, with Torreira behind the two of them, the staggering in midfield makes it harder for Arsenal’s AM’s to find space between midfield and defence. Our FBs stay compact to the CBs so the half spaces can be closed off. When the ball is wide the back 4 shuffles across on the same pendulum as the midfield. We wait for a mistake, or a pass towards the touchline, and then we can be more aggressive.
Subs:
If Winning: Brandt for Sancho 70’. Loftus-Cheek for Dybala 75’. Rodri for Keita 80’.
If Drawing: Ruben Loftus-Cheek for Keita 70’. Brandt and Guedes for Silva and Sancho 75’, fresh legs out wide.
If Losing: Upamecano and Loftus-Cheek for Keita and Sancho 60’, 3-5-2, make us more difficult to press with an overload deeper, it will force them to pull forward their FBs when they want press higher, Dybala can drift wide to find space behind them, Ruben and B.Silva will be the CMs with Torreira at the base of midfield, both of these CMs can also stretch wide and open up holes in the middle that Dybala can drop into. Use this phase of them game to stop them pressing and allow us to set up position in their half. Guedes for Torreira 75’, 3-4-3, use this phase of the game to start overloading the half spaces.
-------------------Buffon
Florenzi----Sokratis----Verthongen----Luis
------------------Brozovic
------------Rabiot-------Kovacic
Lamela-------------------------------Son
-------------------Lacazette
Subs
Uzoho, Inigo, Bertrand, Fred, Mkhi, Simeone, Inaki
Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control, they have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance.
Verthongen is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counters, When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out, they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style.
For the full backs the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly.
Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who to go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up, looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the attackers to drag the opposition defensive players out of position. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Gameiro, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.
When Lacazette is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.
Set Pieces
Corners - Kovacic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Lacazette work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Son and Brozovic flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Rabiot looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Lamela takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, as well as occasionally providing the short option to draw defenders out of the box.
Free Kicks - Lamela takes Direct FK's
Penalties - Lamela is the designated taker.
Subs
If Winning
70 mins - Mkhi for Son - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
82 + 86 Mins - Fred for Rabiot and Bertrand for Luis - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Mkhi for Brozovic - add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
67 Mins - Inaki, Mkhi and Inigo for Brozovic, Luis and Florenzi - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.
Attacking 4-3-3
We look to play our usual attacking game and take the game to Spurs, controlling possession and the tempo of the game. Control possession and find space in between the opposition lines. Get Ceballos and Modric on the ball and looking to play killer balls to open up the opposition using the pace of our attacking players.
Key to our attack is quick passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly. Pass and move. Tire the opposition out physically and mentally with our possession play. Predominantly short passing on the deck, but varying our play when a counter is on.
As you'd expect, possession starts at the back, Laporte the man marker next to Ramos who is free. In midfield, Casemiro reading the play looking to win the ball back as the dm alwatys staying back and offering cover, Ceballos and Modric will offer inteligence defensively, with the pressing of Ceballos also improtant.
Getting Modric and Ceballos on the ball and get pushing up the pitch, they are used to being on the offensive and playing in tight spaces, so we look to them to pick the passes. But if they play a high line they can pick the passes through or over the top to expose the space behind them. Quick one twos between the two and the attacking trio and Marcelo and Carvajal always looking to provide an option.
The defence will be patient on the ball, will be hugely important in keeping possession and pushing us up the pitch. Playing a reasonably high line, with good pace at the back and energy in front. As soon as we get the ball to our midfield, we look to move the ball quickly, quick passing and moving. Spurs have great pace in attack, but they'll be tired from chasing us keep the ball while we also have pace at the back.
In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Spurs. Get the fbs attacking. One bombing forward the other fb remains a little more reserved offering option to go back and switch play.
Hazard has a free role in attack, with Marcelo offering width on the left. On the right, Sane stays wide stretching the game looking to take on their lb.
----------------- Schmeichel
Carvajal- S.Ramos - Laporte - Marcelo
------------------ Casemiro
----------- Ceballos --- Modric
L.Sane ----------------------------- Hazard
------------------ C.Ronaldo
Subs. Pereira J.Gomez, Shaw, Ascaibar, Richarlison, Coutinho, Belotti
Defending in numbers
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone else bar Ronaldo gets behind the ball into position. Stop them breaking.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Draw them in to positions where they can’t hurt us, and then try and win the ball back. Then get forward quickly.
As Spurs advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1. Our wingers will track any forward runs made by their fbs, and Casemiro presses the space in front of our cbs, sweeping up danger in front of the defence, the cms pressing their midfield.
In this tight formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Casemiro will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, getting across to cut out any danger. Modric picks up the most advanced cm. The winger opposite play comes inside and sits on their deepest cm while Ceballos presses the space next to and in front of Casemiro. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Attack.
Get the ball to our midfield trio, get them linking up with quick passing, getting the ball to our wingers and get balls into Ronaldo. The trio's movement will be key in opening up the opposition defence.
The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game. We look to find space between their defence and midfield, committing defenders from there and playing killer balls.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Ceballos, Modric and the wingers will always be looking for the killer ball. If it is not on, we are happy to keep the ball moving and keep possession.
Ronaldo has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals.
Subs. If winning after 70 mins bring on Richarlison for Ronaldo. Fresh energy and pure pace. Pushes tempo up.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Coutinho for Sane, new ideas and fresh legs in attack.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Ascaibar for Ceballos, brings pure energy to cm to keep our tempo high and also stronger defensively.
If drawing after 60 mins bring on Coutinho for Ceballos. More attacking cm.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Richarlison for Sane.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Gomez and Coutinho for Marcelo and Carvajal. 3-6-1. Couts left, Hazard just off Ronaldo in a free role.
--------------------Pickford
Danilo----Manolas----Llorente---Van Aanholt
------Goretzka----Cook----Ramsey
Malcom-----------Cavani-------------Costa
Lloris, Maitland-Niles, Mee, Fabregas, Sessegnon, Aspas, Martins
A change in formation again for today, seen as we are coming up against a strong Liverpool outfit. I expect Liverpool to try and attack us, so I have picked a side that I think can play an effective counter attacking game, hitting the opposition on the break with pace out wide and a conventional target man with a physical presence up front for those players to play off. I have also opted for a midfield trio today, who I hope can stamp their authority on the game.
I have decided to keep Pickford playing in goal for today. His role will largely be one of distributing the ball. Similar to the ball that was so effective against Spain for England, I anticipate Pickford to cut out the opposition midfield, by pinging direct balls forward to Cavani, who will look to bring others into the game. This allows us to turn defense into attack very quickly. I also insist that he get rid of the ball quickly, with no unnecessary dallying.
The full backs that I have selected today are both attacking options who like to bomb forward. Due to the three midfielders I will allow them to push forward and contribute to our offensive play when we have the ball going forward. Should they pick the ball up in the defensive third they will look to carry the ball down the line, overlapping our wide options. The spaces in behind them will be covered by our midfield. Both players will look to get back quickly, however, to contribute defensively and keep opposition wide men stuck out wide. They will be, however, players primarily focused on supporting the attack, as I believe that plays to their strengths.
Manolas and llorente form my first team defence, and will work as a standard two today, with Llorente sticking tight to the opposition striker, whilst Manolas covers the space in behind, not allowing them to turn Vincent, without being pounced upon by our Greek semi-sweeper. When they get the ball in possession, they will look to quickly distribute it directly to Cavani, who will take these balls in the same way as if they were coming from Pickford. Likewise, I don’t want either player holding the ball too long, and if a short option is needed then they should be spoiled for choice with options in midfield and the full backs.
Cook is my midfield choice for sitting in front of the centre backs today. He will marshall the area in between the midfield and defence, not allowing any Liverpool players to find holes in our team. He will use his sheer energy to harass and hastle the opposition into losing possession. He is the screen for the defence. When he gets the ball he will look short to his fellow central midfielders, and will similarly provide options when it is them that picks up the ball.
Ramsey and Goretzka sit slightly further forward than Herrera, but not substantially. Their game is to play a similar one to Herrera as well, but occupying a different space. They will work as a unit to win the ball back before it gets into any dangerous positions in and around the edge of our penalty area. Part of this role means that they will look to control the wide spaces that might be vacated by our full backs pushing forward. Both these players also have a bit more of a license to get forward, looking to get in and around the edge of their penalty area, to pick up any loose scraps that might fall their way. When they pick up the ball they can either perform quick interchanges in the middle, or look forward for a direct ball to Cavani, as well as having options to spread the play out wide.
Edinson Cavani plays a pivotal role in this system, and is given a chance to prove any doubters wrong. He will play primarily with his back to goal outside the penalty area, looking to win balls and bring other players into the play, specifically the two wide men playing alongside him. He is a physical enough presence to successfully play this role. I also expect him to get into the box when we have the ball out wide. Crosses will be aimed low and to his feet, as that better suits the other attackers, and Wood is an effective reaction finisher with his feet. We will play to his strengths and not look to release him over the top.
Costa and Malcom are direct wingers who are playing in the same line as Cavani today. Their roles will see them make a nuisance of themselves, using their pace and movement to draw the opposition defence around and out of position, before then using their blistering pace to make the runs that Wood can lay them off for. These runs will see them get in behind the opposition defence, and get into one on ones with the opposition keeper. Both players must be defensively disciplined as well, however, dropping back to support their full backs, before surging forward with the ball when we win it back.
Substitutions
If drawing/losing
Aaron Ramsey off for Iago Aspas 70 mins
A change of formation on the cards, with Aspas slotting in as a second striker in behind Cavani. He will largely do the same role as Malcom and Costa, but fresh legs and an extra man should cause some problems for the opposition. Goretzka will slot in alongside Herrera.
Leon Goretzka off for Cesc Fabregas 77 mins
A bit more of an attack minded player coming on in midfield, who will look to play positive balls forward at any opportunity, dictating the play and especially looking for those dangerous over the top balls.
Patrick van Aanholt off for Ryan Sessegnon 82 mins
A switch to wing backs as we go for another goal at least. Sessegnon and Danilo will push forward, and contribute even more to the attacking third.
If winning
Malcom and Douglas Costa off for Cesc Fabregas and Iago Aspas 75 mins
Change to a 4-1-3-2 formation, with Fabregas sitting in behind the three starting midfielders. Aspas goes up front to join Cavani.
Aaron Ramsey off for Ben Mee 80 mins
Switch to a 5-3-2 formation, with the extra defender allowing a bit more physical presence, and more men to defend our goal.
---------------------- Courtois -----------------------
Vrsaljko ---- Boateng ----- Hummels -- Hernandez
---------- Fernandinho ---- Verratti ----------------
M.Asensio --------- C.Eriksen ------------ A.Martial
--------------------- Kun Aguero ---------------------
Subs:
Hart, Bailly, Dier, Arthur, Draxler, Bailey, Werner
Captain: Hummels
Free Kicks: Eriksen
Penalties: Aguero
Corners: Eriksen
Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim for 3 points. Our three AM’s in support of Aguero will be key components of this style as we feel we pose threats from all angles with plenty of goals in our lineup. Fernandinho and Verratti offer great quality on the ball from a slightly deeper position as they both possess a fantastic range of passing, able to break the lines and play that killer pass in to our attacking quartet. We will look to dictate the play and frustrate the opposition when in possession, continually moving them around, making them chase the ball by switching flanks. In doing so we will not only be wearing them down but also continually pulling them out of shape, breaking down their defensive structure as we look to make numerous openings as we go for goals in today’s match up.
Whilst the opposition have some dangerous players we will look to significantly limit their impact by retaining possession, we will force them to track back or risk leaving their defence exposed when we push forward in numbers. We aim to make things uncomfortable for them and we feel that limiting their ability to have the ball in attacking areas will severely limit any threat posed. When they are in possession our wingers drop in as we play a compact 4-5-1 formation. The aim of the game will be to break at speed with our wide players offering an immediate outlet when we win back possession. Turning defence into attack in the blink of an eye.
We aim to play on the front foot, hit them early to take the lead and then exploit the space in behind as they push forward for an equaliser. We start fast, high intensity and pressing from the front, putting them under immediate pressure we can force mistakes early on.
Defence:
We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with experience and quality we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. We have two strong and aerially imposing CB’s to deal with the threat posed by their forwards. We will look to be dominant at the back as we aim to take the sting out of the opposition early on and play on the front foot. Our fullbacks have license to push forward when in possession, however one at a time. They will look to be more conservative as usual as with a solid defensive unit. We look to draw the opposition onto us, with their attack minded wingers and fullbacks we feel we can exploit the space they leave behind and hit them with devastating effect on the counter with the pace and directness of Martial and Asensio.
If the opposition play one up top then Hummels will mark, strong and aggressive we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Boateng will sweep up and cover in behind, a fantastic reader at the back he will also be the one to bring the ball out from defence. Nothing fancy just look to get the ball into the feet of our CM’s or the runs of our wide men who will look to do all the damage.
Midfield:
Fernandinho will control the midfield and offer additional protection through the middle, sitting alongside Verratti he will be key to our style of play with their quick passing. Keep the ball moving, continually recycling possession and making the opposition chase shadows. Don’t force the issue as we aim to run them down, tired legs leads to tired minds and we feel that this will lead to plenty of openings as we continually move them out of shape. Forming a double pivot in front of our defence they not only offer protection but form the first line of our attack. Look for the early runs of the wide players as they possess electric pace and will be looking to get in behind the oppositions defence at all times. Eriksen plays ahead of them in the AM role, a gifted technician in his own right he will be looking to craft opportunities all afternoon. With the runs of Aguero, Martial and Asensio to pick out we feel that he will thrive. An assist master we also encourage him to go for goal should the opportunity arise, we anticipate the opposition sitting deep and an Eriksen thunderbolt from distance is always on the cards when given space.
Forwards:
Frightening pace, electrifying dribbling and deadly finishing, we feel our front three have it all. Our wide players will look to take the opposition on at will. Asensio and Martial both have license to cut in from the flanks and go for goal, we encourage them to utilise their terrific pace and go at the opposition. Draw in the oppositions CB’s which in turn creates space for Aguero to be slipped in and finish. Both will look to make jinking runs into the box where they can draw a foul or drive to the byline and whip the ball into Aguero in the middle. Both wingers have fantastic work rate and will be a constant outlet as they make runs in behind when our playmakers are in possession. We play three up front when on the attack and really look to test the opposition defence with a goal threat from every angle. Aguero plays through the middle, a player with fantastic movement and real predator. Immediately look to get into the box when we’re on the attack as we look to lay down a marker.
Subs;
If winning:
60 mins: Martial off, Dier on.
75 mins: Eriksen off, Bailly on. 5-4-1 shut up shop time as we tighten up with a solid defensive unit as we see the game out and take the 3 points.
If drawing:
60 mins: Verratti off, Bailey on. Eriksen slots into CM alongside Fernandinho with Bailey, Asensio and Martial forming a midfield AM trio behind.
75 mins: Asensio off, Werner on. We move to 4-2-2-2 with a front two of Aguero and Werner as we go for a winner.
If losing:
55 mins: Fernandinho off, Bailey on.
65 mins: Hernandez off, Werner on. We revert to 3-4-3 with Aguero, Werner and Martial up top as we go for goals, goals, goals.
BRUM VS Wolves
-----------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Dalot-----------Skriniar---------------Maguire------------Chilwell
---------------------Valverde----------------Ndidi-------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neres------------------------------------------------------------------Zaha
------------------------------------Philipp----------------------------------------
----------------------------------Batshuayi-------------------------------------
Subs - Lunin, Ruben Dias, Kessie, Cristante, Soler, Adama, Dembele
CAPTAIN - SKRINIAR
CK'S - NERES
FK'S - NERES
PENALTIES - BATSHUAYI
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo dont get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
Lafont is a quality young keeper. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Skriniar and Maguire bring a whole lot of experience and pace to the defence. Maguire will use his experience to marshal the defence and Skriniar will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Ndidi will be covering for them when they go attacking.
Defence Mids
Ndidi + Valverde
Ndidi will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or play a through ball from deep to our wingers.
Valverde will look to sit deep and be the gap between the defence and the midfield and play as the deep lying playmaker. When he has the ball I want him to pass the ball forward and try and play through balls for our wingers to run onto. I want the team to use him as an outlet to get play started or when the oppo is pressing us I want him to use his expert ball control to keep hold of possession of the ball. When not in possession of the ball I want him to sit alongside Ndidi in the middle and protect the defence.
Wingers
Neres + Zaha
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. They are 2 young and hungry players and I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Zaha will be looking to cut in from the left and Neres likewise from the right. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of our fullbacks and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. Dalot and Chilwell are no slouches attacking wise so use them! If you can cut in onto your stronger foot, don't be afraid to shoot from range as you both have the ability to score from long range. If there is no space to do so then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Batshuayi to get his head on. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack.
Attack Mid
Maximilian Philipp
Philipp will be playing just behind Batshuayi and will look to help him out in attack. Be ready for passes into your feet and shoot if you see an opportunity. Mix up your attacking runs to throw off the oppo DM. I want him to dribble with the ball and play 1 2's with the rest of the team. Shoot if you see an opening.
Striker
Batshuayi
Batshuayi will look to use his strength to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and hold the ball up for Zaha/Neres to make infield runs ahead of you.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Dembele for Valverde, Adama for Neres and Cristante for Philipp to bring some more pace on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212.
------------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Dalot----------Skriniar-----------Maguire------------Chilwell
-------------------------------Ndidi------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adama--------------------------------------------------------------Zaha
--------------------------------Cristante------------------------------------
---------------------Dembele--------------Batshuayi ------------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Philipp and put on Ruben Dias in CB. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Soler on for Neres and Kessie for Valverde to add a bit more strength into the midfield.
------------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Dalot------Skriniar------Maguire------Dias-------Chilwell
-------------------------Kessie--------Ndidi----------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------Soler---------------------------------------------Zaha---------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------Batshuayi---------------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Adama on for Neres
Kessie on for Kondogbia
Dembele on for Batshuayi
Fresh legs to bring on.
*RED CARD SCENARIO*
-If GK gets sent off, take off Philipp and put on Lunin. Change formation to 441.
-If any of the defenders get sent off, take off Philipp and put on Ruben Dias for the sent off CB or Kessie for the sent off LB/RB. Change formation to 441.
-If any of my 2 DM's get sent off, change formation to 441 with Soler replacing Philipp and slotting in to CM.
-If my striker gets sent off, take off Philipp and put on Dembele in strike. Change formation to 441.
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v Birmingham City
Injuries: Vardy, McGuane, Pereira, Khedira
----------------- Arrizabalaga
Hakimi - Marquinhos - Barzagli - Wendell
------- Rakitic - Diawara - Gundogan
-------- Di Maria - Immobile - Perisic
Subs: Leno, Maffeo, Tah, Sturaro, Ozil, Vitolo, Ings
-----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Birmingham, hopefully our back four will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Arrizabalaga in goal, Marquinhos and Barzagli at centreback, Hakimi and Wendell at fullback, Rakitic, Diawara and Gundogan in midfield, Di Maria and Perisic either side of Immobile upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Birmingham are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Arrizabalaga - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Immobile.
Marquinhos/Barzagli - Marquinhos mark their striker, force them high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Barzagli to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Hakimi/Wendell - Both of you to force the Birmingham wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Di Maria and Perisic as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Immobile and link with Rakitic and Gundogan. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Diawara - Our DM today, sit in front of the back four, break up play, watch out for runs from deep from the opposition, when in possession use your range of passing to look for teammates in advanced positions, use Rakitic and Gundogan alongside you if you're closed down.
Rakitic/Gundogan - Two box to box midfielders today, one either side of Diawara at DM. Both of you are required to get back and assist Diawara in front of the back four when we don't have the ball, but both with the ability and the freedom to push forward and join the front three, while always leaving at least one of you behind the ball. Look to link with Di Maria, Perisic or Immobile.
Di Maria/Perisic - Both with the trickery to beat the Birmingham fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Immobile with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Rakitic and Gundogan, and capitalise on the space Immobile's presence will create for you.
Immobile - you will be expected to occupy the Birmingham centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Di Maria or Perisic on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you to create opportunities.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Di Maria, Immobile and Perisic off, Tah, Ings and Sturaro on. Change to 5-3-1-1, Tah an extra CB, midfield trio of Diawara, Rakitic and Sturaro, with Gundogan in the AM role providing support to Ings upfront.
If drawing: Diawara off, Ozil on. Switch to a 4-2-3-1, Rakitic and Gundogan in midfield, Ozil to AM behind Immobile. Try and find a winner.
If losing: Barzagli and Diawara off, Ozil and Ings on. 3-1-4-2, Hakimi - Marquinhos - Wendell at the back, Rakitic the playmaker from deep, Di Maria - Ozil - Gundogan - Perisic behind Immobile and Ings upfront. Push for goals.
In case of red card, change to 4-4-1
If Arrizabalaga, Gundogan off, Leno on
If Hakimi/Wendell, Gundogan off, Maffeo on
If Marquinhos/Barzagli, Gundogan off, Tah on
If Rakitic/Diawara/Gundogan, no change (the two left become the CM pair)
If Di Maria/Perisic, Gundogan off, Vitolo on
If Immobile, Gundogan off, Ings on
-----------------------Perin
Lazaro---Milenkovic--- Lindelöf---Tagliafico
-------------Lobotka------Nández
----Coman--------Neuhaus-------Forsberg
------------------------Jovic
Subs: Müller, Andersen, Augustinsson, Rudy, Götze, Trossard, Mitrovic
Our defensive unit consists of Nikola Milenkovic and Victor Lindelöf paired up at centre-back, Valentino Lazaro at right-back and Nicolás Tagliafico at left-back, with Stanislav Lobotka and Nahitan Nández as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Lobotka and Nández we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Nández can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Rudy can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Nández’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Nández running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Stanislav Lobotka.
A holding midfielder through and through, Lobotka is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Lobotka such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Kingsley Coman, Florian Neuhaus and Emil Forsberg as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luka Jovic as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Lobotka or Nández, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Lazaro and Tagliafico can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Lobotka and Nández can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Kingsley Coman and Emil Forsberg, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box.
Neuhaus lines up as our “Raumdeuter” (space-interpreter), who will use his distinct and unorthodox technique to find spaces between the lines. Neuhaus is an intuitive and instinctive player who will nearly always play a perfect pass and make a perfect run.
His space-interpreting ability will be reflected in the spaces he picks up his assists from, often behind our opposition’s midfield and ahead of their defence, able to play a perfect pass forward and pick the right spot in the blink of an eye.
We’ve tweaked our philosophy to involve Neuhaus so as to have as little as possible to do in terms of build-up of play and do what he is best at: find space, interpret play and be two steps ahead of our opposition by using his finest tool, anticipation.
Perhaps the deadliest asset Neuhaus possesses is his work without the ball, to get into good scoring positions or to put his teammates in good scoring positions.
Neuhaus’s movement is different from all others. He’ll interpret space and form cohesion with his intelligent running and inhuman anticipatory skills and as a result, Jovic, Coman and Forsberg will benefit. Neuhaus isn’t our flashiest player or doesn’t seem the most dangerous but once a keen eye is kept on him, his true expertise will be known.
Another highly noticeable attribute of a Neuhaus’s game is his link-up play. Neuhaus will make runs and movement to support Coman, Forsberg and Jovic with ease, mostly with one or two touch football and that will adequately support his teammates and vice versa.
Neuhaus is aware with his running and of the surroundings near him that will help attacking moves. With our full-backs, this sort of movement will influence their own overlapping runs, and as with our forwards, they can get into good goal scoring positions. Neuhaus will make himself readily available to teammates and without the intention, provide much more help in the build-up of attacking play than they notice.
Jovic will hold up play as an outlet to play others in and provide layoffs in the final third, but he will also make well-timed runs in behind against high defensive lines. He will be especially gifted at receiving the ball in this match, and Jovic will often manipulate his body position to create an opportune angle even if he has his back turned to goal.
Jovic’s innovation in front of goal will also be a useful trait because he will manage to adjust his body to make best use of the crosses from free kicks and corners even if they come in slightly behind him. The power and precision of his shots will make him a deadly finisher in and around the box. He will also link up well Coman, Neuhaus and Forsberg through his quick footwork.
Subs on 75 mins
Mitrovic on for Jovic
Just the one change, Mitrovic should trouble any tiresome legs in the oppositions defence as we look to pick up a late goal regardless of the result.
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Tactics
Page 10 of 20
11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15
posted on 29/11/18
---------------------- De Gea ----------------------
Bellerin ---- Caldara ---- Bonucci ---- D.Blind
---------------------- Barella ----------------------
---------------- Neves ----- Delph ----------------
Ziyech ------------------------------------ Willian
----------------------- Icardi -----------------------
Letica, Vidal, Barkley, C.Wilson, Chiesa, Traore, Rashford
Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team from the front and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially Barella, Neves and Delph as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards. When defending we drop the wingers back into a 4141 formation to keep it tight and try to outnumber their attack.
Bellerin and Blind have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, (Bellerin more than Blind as he makes up a back 3), one always staying back so we will have a back 3, they will bomb down the line supporting the wingers, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Icardi. They look to play one twos with the attacking midfield 2 which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Caldara the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Bonucci alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, both very powerful defenders, dominate in the air and good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Both up for corners, fullbacks and Barella stay back. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both CBs are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..
Barella's primary role is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defence where the opposition’s number 10 will likely to be operating whilst also being aware when the full-backs had pushed forward.Take care of of the No 10/SS is also a main focus, stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him. At times he likes to carry the ball forward, when he does this Delph will sit back
Delph is our box-to-box midfielder and has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for team mates, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running they are expected to do. The box-to-box midfielder is more likely to be found on the side of the pitch where the full-back that is less efficient in the attacking third plays to provide balance on both flanks. Neves main responsibility is to create chances for the three attackers in front of him. He will often find himself the furthest forward of the three midfielders and sometimes even in the number 10 role if the correct situation arises. The main requirement of Neves is creativity; he needs to be able to play a pass that penetrates the opposition’s defense or dictates the direction of the attack These three should work well together and between them have everything a midfield needs.
Wingers are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos, using Neves to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using Neves to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Icardi so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.Icardi will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two/three with the aid of Neves and the wingers and sometimes the fullbacks. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges with hopefully a few crosses coming in he can get up and above defenders for. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Willian, Ziyech and Neves will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side if he cant go for goal himself. But especially look for Neves as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.
We must defend as a team tho, from the front, so wingers track back and cover the fullbacks, even just to stop them supporting the wingers, we must drive into them and pressurize them into mistakes
Captain - Bonucci
Pens - Icardi
FK's - Neves/Willian
Corners - Wingers
Subs
Losing -
65 Mins - Barkley for Delph, he is more attacking and will get into useful scoring positions behind Icardi
75 Mins - C.Wilson fro Bellerin, we go 3 at the back in a 3412 formation with Wilson joining Icardi up front and barkley in a free role, Rashford for Willian at the same time for fresh speedy legs down the left
Winning -
75 Mins - Vidal for Delph, tenacity and fresh legs into midfield
80 Mins - Rashford for Willian
Drawing -
70 Mins - Rashford for Willian, Barkley for Delph
80 Mins - Chiesa for Ziyech
posted on 29/11/18
Bournemouth Tactics: League Cup – Group A (vs Arsenal)
Captain: Grohe
Vice Captain: Liziero
Team:
------------------Grohe
Bustos--Santos—Rabello--Saracchi
------------------Liziero
------------Palacios---Paquetá
Rodríguez------------------------Everton
-------------------Gómez
SUBS: Ronaldo, Murilo, Álvarez, Maycon, Vargas, Cunha, Wesley
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: Grohe is a big mobile keeper and very agile. 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: Liziero 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. Palacios and Paquetá will play just in front of Liziero. Palacios will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Paquetá 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 Rodríguez and Everton 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 Paquetá, Palacios and Gómez 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 Palacios may sit a bit deeper allowing Paquetá 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.
Gómez 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: Paquetá, Everton or Rodríguez with Santos, Rabello, Liziero and Gómez to offer an aerial threat. Paquetá and Everton (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Gómez
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Álvarez for Rabello, Wesley for Gómez and Maycon for Palacios, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 80 minutes) Vargas for Palacios and Wesley for Rodríguez. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Wesley and Vargas offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
-----------------Liziero
Vargas---Paquetá----Everton
-----------Gómez---Wesley
posted on 29/11/18
-----------------------Perin
Jedvaj---Milenkovic---Baumgartl-Klostermann
---------------Rudy---------Kampl
----Coman--------Neuhaus------------Rebic
-----------------------Jovic
Subs: Müller, Elvedi, Andersen, Gagliardini, Götze, Forsberg, Mitrovic
Our defensive unit consists of Nikola Milenkovic and Timo Baumgartl paired up at centre-back, Tin Jedvaj at right-back and Lukas Klostermann at left-back, with Sebastian Rudy and Kevin Kampl as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Rudy and Kampl we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Kampl can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Rudy can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Kampl’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Kampl running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Sebastian Rudy.
A holding midfielder through and through, Rudy is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Rudy such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Kingsley Coman, Florian Neuhaus and Ante Rebic as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luka Jovic as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Rudy or Kampl, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Jedvaj and Klostermann can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Rudy and Kampl can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Kingsley Coman and Ante Rebic, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box.
Neuhaus lines up as our “Raumdeuter” (space-interpreter), who will use his distinct and unorthodox technique to find spaces between the lines. Neuhaus is an intuitive and instinctive player who will nearly always play a perfect pass and make a perfect run.
His space-interpreting ability will be reflected in the spaces he picks up his assists from, often behind our oppositions midfield and ahead of their defence, able to play a perfect pass forward and pick the right spot in the blink of an eye.
We’ve tweaked our philosophy to involve Neuhaus so as to have as little as possible to do in terms of build-up of play and do what he is best at: find space, interpret play and be two steps ahead of our opposition by using his finest tool, anticipation.
Perhaps the deadliest asset Neuhaus possesses is his work without the ball, to get into good scoring positions or to put his teammates in good scoring positions.
Neuhaus’s movement is different from all others. He’ll interpret space and form cohesion with his intelligent running and inhuman anticipatory skills and as a result, Jovic, Coman and Rebic will benefit. Neuhaus isn’t our flashiest player or doesn’t seem the most dangerous but once a keen eye is kept on him, his true expertise will be known.
Another highly noticeable attribute of a Neuhaus’s game is his link-up play. Neuhaus will make runs and movement to support Coman, Rebic and Jovic with ease, mostly with one or two touch football and that will adequately support his teammates and vice versa.
Neuhaus is aware with his running and of the surroundings near him that will help attacking moves. With our full-backs, this sort of movement will influence their own overlapping runs, and as with our forwards, they can get into good goal scoring positions. Neuhaus will make himself readily available to teammates and without the intention, provide much more help in the build-up of attacking play than they notice.
Jovic will hold up play as an outlet to play others in and provide layoffs in the final third, but he will also make well-timed runs in behind against high defensive lines. He will be especially gifted at receiving the ball in this match, and Jovic will often manipulate his body position to create an opportune angle even if he has his back turned to goal.
Jovic’s innovation in front of goal will also be a useful trait because he will manage to adjust his body to make best use of the crosses from free kicks and corners even if they come in slightly behind him. The power and precision of his shots will make him a deadly finisher in and around the box. He will also link up well Coman, Neuhaus and Rebic through his quick footwork.
Subs on 75 mins
Mitrovic on for Jovic and Forsberg on for Rebic
Pretty much like for likes, but showing the quality and depth that we can bring on with 15 minutes to go.
posted on 30/11/18
--------------------- Oblak ---------------------
E.Hysaj ---- Stones ---- Varane ---- Sandro
-------------------- Fabinho --------------------
--------------- Pjanic --- Pogba ---------------
Mbappe ------------------------------ Thorgan
----------------- Lewandowski ----------------
Meret, Tousart, Aouar, Maddison, N.Pepe, A.Plea, Kluivert
Possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, Fabinho, Pjanic and Pogba just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and the front 3 in and around the half way line, Lewandowski slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow Pjanic and Pogba to dictate play, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.
Varane picks up the CF, Stones spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly when we have possession, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, fullbacks must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. When they attack, only one at a time, as to not let ourselves be exposed, they drive down the line in support of the wingers. the two always make themselves available to the wingers. If either get caught up field I want Fabinho to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover I want both Stones and Varane to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Fabinho sitting back.
In the centre of the pitch are Pjanic, Fabinho and Pogba. Fabinho our deepest player sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, Pjanic and Pogba must be disciplined and lend a hand to stop them coming through. Fabinho must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. Pjanic slightly higher up the pitch, he will stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, make our midfield very difficult to pass through, protect our defence and de Jong as best as possible and again in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Pogba as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Pogba is essential to our style of play, he is the link(alongside Pjanic) between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in a 10 role and look for the Fabinho/Pjanic pass. he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.
Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Thorgan will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Pogba to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Thorgan to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Lewandowski who has the power and ability to beat any defender and the other winger who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Lewandowski right on top of the goalkeeper to put a lot of pressure on him, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game.
Captain - Varane
Pens - Lewandowski
Corners - Pjanic
Free Kicks - Pjanic
Losing -
65 Mins - N.Pepe for Pogba he goes to RW and Mbappe using his pace through the middle 442
75 Mins - A.Plea for Sandro, Hysaj inot a 3 man defence 343
82 Mins - Kluivert for Thorgan straight swap, fresh quick legs on
Winning -
75 Mins - Tousart for Pogba, sit in a 3 man midfield and tighten it up
80 Mins - N.Pepe for Lewandowski, Pepe to RW, Mbappe up top to run everything down
85 Mins - Aouar for Thorgan 4141
Drawing -
70 Mins - Maddison for Pogba, Pepe for Lewandowski we go 4231 with Maddison at 10, Pepe at RW and Mbappe up top to change it about and ahave a lot of pace in the final 3rd
80 Mins - Kluivert for Thorgan, straight swap
posted on 2/12/18
———————————Svilar
Weiser——Christensen——Ampadu———Zinchenko
————————-——Maier
————Loftus-Cheek————Mount
Harit—————————Arp——————Brandt
Subs: Pope, R.James, McKennie, Kamara, Guedes, Sargent, Hudson-Odoi
Captain: Julien Brandt
Free Kicks: Julien Brandt
Corners: Mason Mount
Penalties: Julien Brandt
The aim of our build up play will be to get the ball into the free CB, as well as drawing Hull’s midfield forward. Position our midfield deeper, with Maier just ahead of the CBs, CMs dropping towards play, CBs stretched out and FBs slightly higher in line with Maier, creating a diamond in both half spaces through which we can escape pressure, before switching to the CB on the free side (can use Svilar when needed). CB can carry the ball forward and plays a ball into the CM on his side to provoke one of the Hull CMs into stepping up, the CM can play it immediately back back to the CB, Maier or the FB, who will then play it vertically into the inverted winger/Arp who drops either side of the DM. Equally, if the CB brings it forward and the opposition don’t break their structure, he can play a long ball out to the opposite flank to stretch the game.
When establishing possession we use short passing combinations, minimal spacing between players, staggered between the lines. Allows for quick movement of the ball, shifting constantly to different lines, drawing more of a reaction from the opposition and sucking them in towards the ball to open up space elsewhere, which we can quickly switch into. The constant movement of the ball, and constant movement of our players, changing runs and swapping positions, creates a mental overload on the opponent, with some players chasing to follow the ball, and others the man, allowing us to break their defensive structure and unmark ourselves higher up the field. The opponent then has to react to the hole that they leave, and this sucks defenders out of the last line of defence, allowing us to play in their blindsides.
Maier and the CBs are the second pass facilitators of this style, with a better view of the pitch ahead of them, and more space to work in they have the best access to passing lanes, and can make the best choice of where to build attacks. When these guys get the ball with space, the players ahead of them must make runs, particularly using a CM, or a winger to make a run in behind their defence for a quick lofted pass.
Mount is the main creator in the side today, roaming the midfield to link play, and find space in the half space / between the lines, as well as drifting wide to overload their FBs, as well as combining closely with Arp. Loftus-Cheek will have a box to box role, his energy will be key when recovering possession, but he links play well too, and his direct runs and presence in the box can be a huge threat.
Our wingers look to create positional superiority alongside our CMs and Arp. Both can stretch the game and pin the FBs back, to open up more 1 v 1 battles for our CMs and themselves, whilst both can invert and link with the CMs/Arp to overload the midfield and force the Fbs into tucking in and leaving space wide, or leaving the CMs vulnerable. Both can make runs behind, the pace they have means the Hull defence have to drop and become detached from midfield, or risk being beaten in a foot race, particularly we want our wingers to really push their FBs back.
Arp comes in to give us a focal point, it will be a tough game so will need someone that we can be direct to. Arp can hold the ball up and bring others into play, he’s particularly good at first time balls to find diagonal runs of the wingers. At times he can drop to aid chance creation, but his main role today will be to occupy the CBs, alongside the wingers he keeps their defence pegged back, and places more defensive onus on their more offensive players to stop our midfield. When we get in the final third, he’s finding space in the box.
Off the ball we use a 4-5-1 shape. We will look to high press, with three key triggers. Firstly a ball played between CBs. Arp will look to pressure the ball carrying CB, closing vertical passing lanes. When the CB passes to the other CB, ball side CM will step up and press in the same manner as Arp, creating a 4-4-2. Wingers stay tucked into the half spaces to make vertical passes difficult, Maier always slightly deeper than the other CM to create a strong core. This should force them to the corners, which is our next pressing trigger. When this happens, the winger steps out to press the FB, with CF and CM in the first line of defence also pushing out to the wing, looking to pen the FB in, with our FB pushing higher up to condense space and cut passing lanes to the winger (far side winger, Maier and the other CM create a strong midfield 3).
The final trigger is pressing from Goalkicks. Our front three will come narrow, covering the width of the box, wingers pressing the Cbs if they try to play out, CMs can go out to the FBs when needed, whilst Arp covers passing lanes to the DM. Force them to go long from GKs.
The back line adjusts their position based on the position of the ball and team mates, so when Hull have the ball with their defence and we are high pressing, the back 4 will be pushed up right behind the midfield line, keeping minimal space between the lines, shutting down passing lanes in the middle to force the opponents wide or long. Our 3 lines move up and down in unison, so when Hull have periods of established possession in our half, our 4-5-1 shape falls right back together to keep us compact, using the same pressing triggers as we would higher up.
Subs:
If Winning: R.James for Weiser 70’, more defensive RB to offer solidity. Kamara and Hudson-Odoi for Mount and Harit 80’, Kamara plays the holding role with Maier moving just head.
If Drawing: Sargent for Arp 70’. Guedes and Hudson-Odoi for Harit and Mount, Brandt will drop into midfield to take charge of the game 75’.
If Losing: Kamara and Guedes for Harit and Zinchenko 60’, 3-4-3 with Weiser RWB and Brandt LWB, Guedes will play alongside Ruben just behind Arp. Hudson-Odoi for Loftus-Cheek 70’.
posted on 2/12/18
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v Tottenham
Injuries: Mina, Ozil, Vitolo, Sturaro
-------------------- Arrizabalaga
Hakimi - Marquinhos - Barzagli - Wendell
--------- Rakitic - Khedira - Gundogan
--------- Di Maria - Immobile - Perisic
Subs: Leno, Maffeo, Benkovic, Diawara, Hamsik, Januzaj, Vardy
-----------------
Must win game today, to stand any chance of progression. Going to start patiently, while ensuring we can go for the win boldly nearer the end of the game. No point losing the game early on.
A tough but winnable game today against Tottenham, hopefully our back four will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Arrizabalaga in goal, Marquinhos and Barzagli at centreback, Hakimi and Wendell at fullback, Rakitic, Khedira and Gundogan in midfield, Di Maria and Perisic either side of Immobile upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Tottenham are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Arrizabalaga - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Immobile.
Marquinhos/Barzagli - Marquinhos mark their striker, force them high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Barzagli to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Hakimi/Wendell - Both of you to force the Tottenham wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Di Maria and Perisic as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Immobile and link with Rakitic and Gundogan. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Khedira - Our DM today, sit in front of the back four, break up play, watch out for runs from deep from the opposition, when in possession use your range of passing to look for teammates in advanced positions, use Rakitic and Gundogan alongside you if you're closed down.
Rakitic/Gundogan - Two box to box midfielders today, one either side of Khedira at DM. Both of you are required to get back and assist Khedira in front of the back four when we don't have the ball, but both with the ability and the freedom to push forward and join the front three, while always leaving at least one of you behind the ball. Look to link with Di Maria, Perisic or Immobile.
Di Maria/Perisic - Both with the trickery to beat the Tottenham fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Immobile with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Rakitic and Gundogan, and capitalise on the space Immobile's presence will create for you.
Immobile - you will be expected to occupy the Tottenham centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Di Maria or Perisic on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you to create opportunities.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Di Maria, Gundogan and Perisic off, Benkovic, Hamsik and Diawara on. Change to 5-3-1-1, Benkovic an extra CB, midfield trio of Diawara, Rakitic and Khedira, with Hamsik in the AM role providing support to Immobile upfront.
If drawing or losing (because its "must win": Barzagli and Khedira off, Hamsik and Vardy on. 3-1-4-2, Hakimi - Marquinhos - Wendell at the back, Rakitic the playmaker from deep, Di Maria - Hamsik - Gundogan - Perisic behind Immobile and Vardy upfront. Push for goals.
posted on 2/12/18
-------------------Buffon
Lirola----Retsos----Verthongen----Cucurella
------------------Dorsch
------------Fred-------Locatelli
Lamela-------------------------------Son
-------------------Inaki
Subs
Strakosha, Inigo, Bertrand, Brozovic, Mkhi, Simeone, Kovacic
Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control, they have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance.
Verthongen is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counters, When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out, they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style.
For the full backs the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly. Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who to go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up, looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the attackers to drag the opposition defensive players out of position. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Gameiro, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.
When Lacazette is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.
Set Pieces
Corners - Locatelli takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Inaki work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Son and Fred flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Dorsch looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Lamela takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, as well as occasionally providing the short option to draw defenders out of the box.
Free Kicks - Lamela takes Direct FK's
Penalties - Lamela is the designated taker.
Subs
If Winning
70 mins - Mkhi for Son - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
82 + 86 Mins - Brozovic for Dorsch and Bertrand for Cucurella - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Mkhi for Fred - add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
67 Mins - Simeone, Mkhi and Inigo for Dorsch, Cucurella and Lirola - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.
posted on 2/12/18
BRUM vs Leicester (cup)
-------------------------------------Lunin--------------------------------
Dalot-------------Diop---------------Maguire------------Chilwell
-----------------------Pellegrini----------Kondogbia-----------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neres------------------------------------------------------------------Keita
--------------------------------------Philipp----------------------------------------
-------------------------------------Higuain-------------------------------------
Subs - Lafont, Ruben Dias, Kessie, Cristante, Adama, Zaha, Batshuayi
CAPTAIN - HIGUAIN
CK'S - NERES
FK'S - NERES
PENALTIES - HIGUAIN
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo dont get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
Lunin is a quality young keeper. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Diop and Maguire bring a whole lot of experience and pace to the defence. Maguire will use his experience to marshal the defence and Diop will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Kondogbia will be covering for them when they go attacking.
Defence Mids
Kondogbia + Pellegrini
Kondogbia will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or play a through ball from deep to our wingers.
Pellegrini will be playing as a b2b midfielder. When he has the ball I want him to pass the ball forward and try and play through balls for our wingers to run onto. I want the team to use him as an outlet to get play started or when the oppo is pressing us I want him to use his expert ball control to keep hold of possession of the ball. When not in possession of the ball I want him to sit alongside Kondogbia in the middle and protect the defence. Make attacking runs forward when we have the ball and don't be afraid to have a crack from long range.
Wingers
Neres + Keita
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. They are 2 young and hungry players and I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Keita will be looking to cut in from the left and Neres likewise from the right. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of our fullbacks and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. Dalot and Chilwell are no slouches attacking wise so use them! If you can cut in onto your stronger foot, don't be afraid to shoot from range as you both have the ability to score from long range. If there is no space to do so then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Higuain to get his head on. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack.
Attack Mid
Maximilian Philipp
Philipp will be playing just behind Higuain and will look to help him out in attack. Be ready for passes into your feet and shoot if you see an opportunity. Mix up your attacking runs to throw off the oppo DM. I want him to dribble with the ball and play 1 2's with the rest of the team. Shoot if you see an opening.
Striker
Gonzalo Higuain
Higuain will look to use his strength to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and hold the ball up for Keita/Neres to make infield runs ahead of you.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Zaha for Kondogbia, Adama for Neres and Cristante for Kondogbia to bring some more pace on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212.
------------------------------------Lunin--------------------------------
Dalo----------------Diop-----------Maguire------------Chilwell
---------------------------------Cristante------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adama--------------------------------------------------------------Keita
-----------------------------------Philipp------------------------------------
---------------------Higuain--------------Zaha-------------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Philipp and put on Ruben Dias in CB. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Adama on for Neres and Zaha for Higuain.
------------------------------------Lunin--------------------------------
Dalot--------Diop------Maguire-------Dias-------Chilwell
----------------Pellegrini--------Kondogbia----------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------Adama---------------------------------------------Keira---------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------Zaha---------------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Adama on for Neres
Kessie on for Kondogbia
Zaha on for Higuain
Fresh legs to bring on.
posted on 2/12/18
--------------------Lloris
Danilo----Kompany---Manolas---Rodriguez
--------------------Herrera
------------Ramsey-----Fabregas
Malcom----------------------------Costa
--------------------Cavani
Pickford, Maitland-Niles, Mee, Cook, Martins, Amiri, Giroud
A tough game for us today, but we should come into it fit and ready having trained well. I have selected a 4-1-2-3 formation for today for multiple reasons. The first is that we can have a more defensive minded midfielder to limit the Portsmouth creativity, whilst also having two midfielders in front of them who can operate as more creative types, concentrating on getting the ball forward. The second reason is that it allows for us to operate with pace and skill on the flanks, setting up direct runs either at the defence or via balls over the top and into the space behind, which will serve as a benefit.
In goal I have recalled Lloris, as I think his experience could be key with the absence of Manolas in defence. He will operate in a sweeper keeper role, comfortable with the ball at his feet and looking to start attacks from deep. Primarily I will be looking for him to play in our two attack minded full backs, who will be given license to burst forward and supplement our attacking players. He is also capable of going long, should the opposition push up and try to cut out the ball out of the back, and then he will look for Cavani, who will play in our wide men.
Kompany and Manolas is a strong pairing of defenders, who both have physical presence in abundance. They will work together as a unit, with Kompany pressing the opposition striker, keeping a tight hold on his location and not allowing him an inch of space, all whilst Manolas covers the space in behind, operating almost as a sweeper, making sure that anything that gets past Kompany does not also get past him. When on the ball, they will obviously provide each other as an option, with the added short ball forward to Herrera. Their primary interest will be to find the pass out to our full backs, however, who will burst forward to start attacks.
Herrera is sitting just in front of the defence today, and I intend for him to marshall that position. Combining a dogged persistence with decent ability on the ball, he is perfect for this role. This comes especially due to the presence of creative midfield players alongside him. Herrera will press and harass their furthest forward midfielder, not allowing them to have time or space on the ball to start attacks through the middle, and getting a bit rough if it is required. Limiting them through the centre should also limit the amount of chances that fall their way. When he gets the ball, he will have plenty of options, either spreading it out wide to either the full backs or the wingers, or looking forward to Fabregas and Ramsey. He, however, will stay in his position and not contribute going forward.
The chosen full backs today are both attacking players who love to play on the counter, picking the ball up in defensive positions before joining the charge forward and contributing to the attack. I expect them to emulate this today. They will be key for us in playing a fast counter to hit Bournemouth on the break whenever we win back possession, providing an outlet for passing but also for overlapping runs and runs into the box. When on the back foot, they both have the energy to get back in position and track their winger, not allowing them time or space.
Fabregas is the creative force of my midfield. He may not have the legs for top level football anymoe, but that is why his midifield partner, Ramsey, is so important, as together they will work as a team to create chances, with Fabregas providing the technical flair whilst Ramsey presses and makes the runs, getting in the box so that he can chip in with some goals. Fabregas’ key outlet will be balls into the wide players, whether that be straight to feet or through balls for them to run on to, and with us doubling up in these positions, there should be plenty of space to explot. Off the ball, Ramsey will press and harangue their midfield, not allowing them a moments time to think and start dangerous attacks.
I have kept faith in my traditional wingers for todays game, as I think Malcom and Costa suit our game perfectly. Both are fast and direct players, who like to run at the opposition. I give them license to do this, trying to get in behind and stretch the opposition defence. With the added benefit of overlapping runs from the full backs, I think we can see plenty of joy coming down these flanks, especially with Fabregas explicitly looking to pick them out. They will also look to get in the box as often as possible, and get onto any knock downs from Cavani, meaning that off the ball the trident must drop back to the halfway line and wait for the attack to start again. This should, however, mean that there should be lots of space to exploit in behind.
Cavani leads the line for us today as he always does. A big presence on the pitch and a goalscorer capable of causing a threat to any defence. He is a physical and energetic presence, who will look to get into the box as often as possible. With our wide play, we should be looking to get crosses in on top of his head, as well as him in behind the opposition into one on one situations with the opposition goalkeeper. Either way, Cavani is bound to punish Bournemouth.
Substitutions
If drawing/losing
Cesc Fabregas off for Nadiem Amiri 65 mins
A bit more of an energetic and attack minded option in that position, with Fabregas likely tiring from the game. The fresh legs should allow us to push forward more, as well as winning more of the midfield battles.
Malcom off for Gelson Martins 75 mins
A fresh set of legs on the right hand side of our trident. Martins will largely play the same role as Malcom, attacking with pace and skill, and looking to get in behind the opposition defence.
Ander Herrera off for Lewis Cook 80 mins
A switch to a 4-2-3-1, with Amiri playing in the number 10 role in behind the striker, whilst Lewis Cook and Aaron Ramsey work as the two deeper midfielders.
If winning
Cesc Fabregas off for Lewis Cook 65 mins
Lewis Cook comes on as a fresh set of legs in the midfield. He will largely play the same role as Fabregas, looking to control the play and start attacks from midfield, but should offer a bit more fitness.
Aaron Ramsey off for Ainsley Maitland-Niles 75 mins
Again, us looking for more fresh legs in the midfield to try and control this key area of the pitch. AMN will play the same role as Ramsey.
Edinson Cavani off for Olivier Giroud 80 mins
Fresh legs up top, and a super sub coming off the bench, to try and score a goal to kill the game.
posted on 2/12/18
Attacking 4-3-3
We look to play our usual attacking game and take the game to Spurs, controlling possession and the tempo of the game. Control possession and find space in between the opposition lines. Get Ceballos and Beltran on the ball and looking to play killer balls to open up the opposition using the pace of our attacking players.
Key to our attack is quick passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly. Pass and move. Tire the opposition out physically and mentally with our possession play. Predominantly short passing on the deck, but varying our play when a counter is on.
As you'd expect, possession starts at the back, Laporte the man marker next to Ramos who is free. In midfield, Ascaibar reading the play looking to win the ball back as the dm alwatys staying back and offering cover, Ceballos and Beltran will offer inteligence defensively, with the pressing of Ceballos also improtant.
Getting Beltran and Ceballos on the ball and get pushing up the pitch, they are used to being on the offensive and playing in tight spaces, so we look to them to pick the passes. But if they play a high line they can pick the passes through or over the top to expose the space behind them. Quick one twos between the two and the attacking trio and Shaw and Alexander-Arnold always looking to provide an option.
The defence will be patient on the ball, will be hugely important in keeping possession and pushing us up the pitch. Playing a reasonably high line, with good pace at the back and energy in front. As soon as we get the ball to our midfield, we look to move the ball quickly, quick passing and moving. Brum have great pace in attack, but they'll be tired from chasing us keep the ball while we also have pace at the back.
In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Brum. Get the fbs attacking. One bombing forward the other fb remains a little more reserved offering option to go back and switch play.
Hazard has a free role in attack, with Shaw offering width on the left. On the right, Correa stays wide stretching the game looking to take on their lb.
--------------------- Neuer
Trent.A - J.Gomez - Laporte - L.Shaw
-------------------- Ascaibar
------------ Ceballos.A --- F.Beltran
A.Correa ------------------------------ Hazard
------------------- Richarlison
Subs. Schmeichel, Kehrer, Ascaibar, Thiago, Geubbels, Lautaro, Ronaldo
Defending in numbers
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone else bar Richarlison gets behind the ball into position. Stop them breaking.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Draw them in to positions where they can’t hurt us, and then try and win the ball back. Then get forward quickly.
As Brum advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1. Our wingers will track any forward runs made by their fbs, and Ascaibar presses the space in front of our cbs, sweeping up danger in front of the defence, the cms pressing their midfield.
In this tight formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Ascaibar will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, getting across to cut out any danger. Beltran picks up the most advanced cm. The winger opposite play comes inside and sits on their deepest cm while Ceballos presses the space next to and in front of Ascaibar. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Attack.
Get the ball to our midfield trio, get them linking up with quick passing, getting the ball to our wingers and get balls into Richarlison. The trio's movement will be key in opening up the opposition defence.
The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game. We look to find space between their defence and midfield, committing defenders from there and playing killer balls.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Ceballos, Beltran and the wingers will always be looking for the killer ball. If it is not on, we are happy to keep the ball moving and keep possession.
Richarlison has freedom to play his natural game, using his blistering pace to get through on goal.
Subs. If winning after 70 mins bring on Ronaldo for Richarlison. Fresh energy and quality to hold up ball.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Thiago for Beltran.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Casemiro for Ceballos. More power in an important area.
If drawing after 60 mins bring on Oyarzabal for Correa.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Thiago for Beltran.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Ronaldo for Beltran. 4-2-3-1. Ceballos deeper, Richarlison left, Hazard behind Ronaldo.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Thiago and Casemiro for Ascaibar and Ceballos.
posted on 8/12/18
NEWCASTLE 4-3-3
___________Alisson
Azpi____Alder___Godin___Robbo
__________Jorginho
________Kante___Silva
Salah______Suarez________Mane
SUBS: Milner, Suso, Lukaku, Alli, N’Zonzi, James, Bobby
Captain: Diego Godin
Penalties: Luis Suarez
Corners: David Silva
Freekicks: Luis Suarez
Crossing Freekick: David Silva
The formation deployed today is so that we gain as much control as possible higher up he pitch. We expect to have more of the ball so patience is key. We also expect the four behind the striker to drift around a bit, getting into positions where their natural play can cause damage. The striker up front presses when we don’t have the ball and the entire team will support him cut passing lanes to help win the ball higher up. The quality of our players will allow us to break through the oppositions press. When we have the ball we will want to attract the press and use the spaces that they open up to attack.
Full backs will get forward when the opportunity arises. Our full backs are good at feeding our forward line with their ability on the ball and we aim to utilize that with their ability to get up the pitch and tactical arareness. We also need our full backs to widen the pitch for us. Our centre halves are good on the ball, and a long punt every now and then to utilize our pace out wide is encouraged. Our right back will also tuck in to help solidify the team.
The regista will drop in to form a back three so that the centre backs can split wide to push the full backs general position higher up in line with the midfielders (and wide forwards engage their back line along with the striker). In doing so we create a four man midfield to overpower their midfield. This will allow our midfield to be flexible, if one of their midfielders steps forward, one of ours will move into the space they vacated. The regista will be the link between our defence and midfield and because of the way he plays, he will draw the opponents forward towards him to attack the ball, pulling their team’s lines apart. This will create more spaces between the lines for our midfield and forward lines to move into. The right centre mid will be the more defensive one in his box to box role, closing down space and cutting passing lanes with his incredible interception ability. Playing alongside the regista will give him less areas of the pitch to cover, and shorter distance needed to win the ball back to start the next attack. Both centre mids will float between the lines during the attacking phase just behind our forwards.
By having our wide forwards up front when we have the ball it will effectively create space out wide. We would expect our full backs to sometimes go infield to collect the ball from the keeper, while one of the midfielders goes wide so when he receives the ball he will have time to look up and pick passes as the opposition midfield will be reluctant to press which will leave a man free in midfield. This can be done by a midfielder too, dropping deep to create a free man in the first line with time on the ball, ping it straight to the striker who can lay it off to the other onrushing midfielder.
If short passing options aren’t available the passing range and accuracy of our keeper will safely transfer the ball forwards via our full backs, wherever they are on the pitch. The keeper can also dink the ball into space for the striker or wide forward to control taking out 6 or 7 opposition players in the process.
The striker’s main role will be to create space for the wide forwards. He will drop deep into a ten to drag defenders out and create space for our wide forwards to run into. This will tie into our quick short passing which is aimed at dragging their players out of position and create space between their lines. Our team will always recycle the ball back to the regista to keep possession and to keep the ball moving.
When we don’t have the ball we will expect our four behind the striker to drop into a 4-5-1 in support of our regista and right centre mid. We will also create triangles to trap the opposition players that have the ball, cutting the passing lanes and others putting pressure on players that might receive the ball. We stop the oppositions rhythm and force them into mistakes with our pressure. To stop their counter attacks after we lose the ball, three players will swarm the ball carrier before he can get his head up to play. If they beat the immediate press when the team’s main goal is to push their play wide where they can do the least damage. Our midfielders are an integral part to our play, when we win the ball back we will create space and time for them with our team shape. There will be times when we are under the cosh and will have the option of deploying a bowl shaped 5 at the back, with the right centre mid dropping in to make closing down the opponents very effective.
Subs
70 mins: Milner comes on for Silva, our legs will start to tire, so will theirs, Milner will add box to box ability and energy late in the game.
75 mins: Bobby comes on for Suarez, a different style of forward play for the opposition to think about.
If winning 80 mins: N’Zonzi comes on for Jorginho to close out the game. He is capable in deep midfield alongside Kante in a 4-2-3-1.
If losing/drawing 80 mins: Lukaku comes on for Jorginho and play 2 up front.
posted on 8/12/18
Bournemouth Tactics: Week 13
Captain: Grohe
Vice Captain: Paredes
Team:
-----------------Grohe
Bustos--Santos—Rabello--Saracchi
----------------Paredes
----------Palacios---Paquetá
Pussetto----------------------Everton
-------------------Gómez
SUBS: Ronaldo, Murilo, Álvarez, Wendel, Vargas, Cunha, Wesley
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: Grohe is a big mobile keeper and very agile. 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: Paredes 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. Palacios and Paquetá will play just in front of Paredes. Palacios will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Paquetá 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 Pussetto and Everton 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 Paquetá, Palacios and Gómez 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 Palacios may sit a bit deeper allowing Paquetá 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.
Gómez 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: Paquetá, Everton or Pussetto with Santos, Rabello, Paredes and Gómez to offer an aerial threat. Paquetá and Everton (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Gómez
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Álvarez for Rabello, Wesley for Gómez and Wendel for Palacios, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 80 minutes) Vargas for Palacios and Wesley for Pussetto. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Wesley and Vargas offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
------------Paredes
Vargas---Paquetá----Everton
-------Gómez---Wesley
posted on 8/12/18
Injuries for Week 13
Glenn Middleton
Nico Elvedi (u21) CB/RB/LB Swiss
Emil Forsberg LW Swedish
Florian Müller (u21) GK German
-----------------------Perin
Jedvaj---Milenkovic---Andersen---Tagliafico
---------------Rudy---------Kampl
----Coman--------Neuhaus------------Rebic
-----------------------Jovic
Subs: Hennessey, Klostermann, Lobotka, Gagliardini, Götze, Trossard, Mitrovic
Our defensive unit consists of Nikola Milenkovic and Joachim Andersen paired up at centre-back, Tin Jedvaj at right-back and Nicolás Tagliafico at left-back, with Sebastian Rudy and Kevin Kampl as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Rudy and Kampl we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Kampl can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Rudy can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Kampl’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Kampl running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Sebastian Rudy.
A holding midfielder through and through, Rudy is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Rudy such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Kingsley Coman, Florian Neuhaus and Ante Rebic as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luka Jovic as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Rudy or Kampl, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Jedvaj and Tagliafico can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Rudy and Kampl can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Kingsley Coman and Ante Rebic, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box.
Neuhaus lines up as our “Raumdeuter” (space-interpreter), who will use his distinct and unorthodox technique to find spaces between the lines. Neuhaus is an intuitive and instinctive player who will nearly always play a perfect pass and make a perfect run.
His space-interpreting ability will be reflected in the spaces he picks up his assists from, often behind our oppositions midfield and ahead of their defence, able to play a perfect pass forward and pick the right spot in the blink of an eye.
We’ve tweaked our philosophy to involve Neuhaus so as to have as little as possible to do in terms of build-up of play and do what he is best at: find space, interpret play and be two steps ahead of our opposition by using his finest tool, anticipation.
Perhaps the deadliest asset Neuhaus possesses is his work without the ball, to get into good scoring positions or to put his teammates in good scoring positions.
Neuhaus’s movement is different from all others. He’ll interpret space and form cohesion with his intelligent running and inhuman anticipatory skills and as a result, Jovic, Coman and Rebic will benefit. Neuhaus isn’t our flashiest player or doesn’t seem the most dangerous but once a keen eye is kept on him, his true expertise will be known.
Another highly noticeable attribute of a Neuhaus’s game is his link-up play. Neuhaus will make runs and movement to support Coman, Rebic and Jovic with ease, mostly with one or two touch football and that will adequately support his teammates and vice versa.
Neuhaus is aware with his running and of the surroundings near him that will help attacking moves. With our full-backs, this sort of movement will influence their own overlapping runs, and as with our forwards, they can get into good goal scoring positions. Neuhaus will make himself readily available to teammates and without the intention, provide much more help in the build-up of attacking play than they notice.
Jovic will hold up play as an outlet to play others in and provide layoffs in the final third, but he will also make well-timed runs in behind against high defensive lines. He will be especially gifted at receiving the ball in this match, and Jovic will often manipulate his body position to create an opportune angle even if he has his back turned to goal.
Jovic’s innovation in front of goal will also be a useful trait because he will manage to adjust his body to make best use of the crosses from free kicks and corners even if they come in slightly behind him. The power and precision of his shots will make him a deadly finisher in and around the box. He will also link up well Coman, Neuhaus and Rebic through his quick footwork.
Subs on 75 mins
Mitrovic on for Jovic and Trossard on for Rebic
Pretty much like for likes, but showing the quality and depth that we can bring on with 15 minutes to go.
posted on 9/12/18
-------------------Buffon
Florenzi----Sokratis----Verthongen----Luis
------------------Brozovic
------------Rabiot-------Kovacic
Lamela-------------------------------Son
-------------------Lacazette
Subs
Uzoho, Inigo, Bertrand, Fred, Mkhi, Simeone, Inaki
Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control, they have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance.
Verthongen is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counters, When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out, they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style.
For the full backs the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly. Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who to go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up, looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the attackers to drag the opposition defensive players out of position. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Gameiro, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.
When Lacazette is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.
Set Pieces
Corners - Kovacic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Lacazette work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Son and Brozovic flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Rabiot looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Lamela takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, as well as occasionally providing the short option to draw defenders out of the box.
Free Kicks - Lamela takes Direct FK's
Penalties - Lamela is the designated taker.
Subs
If Winning
70 mins - Mkhi for Son - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
82 + 86 Mins - Fred for Rabiot and Bertrand for Luis - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Mkhi for Brozovic - add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
67 Mins - Inaki, Mkhi and Inigo for Brozovic, Luis and Florenzi - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.
posted on 13/12/18
---------------------- De Gea ---------------------
Bellerin ---- Caldara ---- Bonucci ---- D.Blind
---------------------- Freuler ---------------------
---------------- Neves ----- Vidal ----------------
Ziyech ------------------------------------ Willian
----------------------- Icardi ----------------------
McCarthy, Delph, Barkley, Rashford, Barella, Chiesa, C.Wilson
Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team from the front and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially Freuler, Neves and Vidal as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards. When defending we drop the wingers back into a 4141 formation to keep it tight and try to outnumber their attack.
Bellerin and Blind have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, (Bellerin more than Blind as he makes up a back 3), one always staying back so we will have a back 3, they will bomb down the line supporting the wingers, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Icardi. They look to play one twos with the attacking midfield 2 which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Caldara the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Bonucci alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, both very powerful defenders, dominate in the air and good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Both up for corners, fullbacks and Freuler stay back. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both CBs are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..
Freuler's primary role is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defence where the opposition’s number 10 will likely to be operating whilst also being aware when the full-backs had pushed forward.Take care of of the No 10/SS is also a main focus, stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him. At times he likes to carry the ball forward, when he does this Vidal will sit back
Vidal is our box-to-box midfielder and has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for team mates, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running they are expected to do. The box-to-box midfielder is more likely to be found on the side of the pitch where the full-back that is less efficient in the attacking third plays to provide balance on both flanks. Neves main responsibility is to create chances for the three attackers in front of him. He will often find himself the furthest forward of the three midfielders and sometimes even in the number 10 role if the correct situation arises. The main requirement of Neves is creativity; he needs to be able to play a pass that penetrates the opposition’s defense or dictates the direction of the attack These three should work well together and between them have everything a midfield needs.
Wingers are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos, using Neves to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using Neves to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Icardi so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.Icardi will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two/three with the aid of Neves and the wingers and sometimes the fullbacks. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges with hopefully a few crosses coming in he can get up and above defenders for. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Willian, Ziyech and Neves will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side if he cant go for goal himself. But especially look for Neves as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.
We must defend as a team tho, from the front, so wingers track back and cover the fullbacks, even just to stop them supporting the wingers, we must drive into them and pressurize them into mistakes
Captain - Bonucci
Pens - Icardi
FK's - Neves/Willian
Corners - Wingers
Subs
Losing -
60 Mins - Rashford for Willian - same role, fresh legs & pace
70 Mins - C.Wilson for Vidal 4-4-2/4-2-4 with Neves being a deeper role setting things up for front 4
80 Mins - Chiesa for Bellerin, 3-4-3
Winning -
70 Mins - Delph for Vidal, same role, fresh legs
80 Mins - Rashford for Willian, Barella for Neves, Barella will try and control the final 10 mins
Drawing -
70 Mins - Barkley for Neves, Rashford for Willian
80 Mins - Chiesa for Vidal, he goes to RW and Ziyech into a central attacking position
posted on 13/12/18
--------------------- Oblak ---------------------
E.Hysaj ---- Stones ---- Varane ---- Sandro
-------------------- Fabinho --------------------
--------------- Aouar ---- Pogba ---------------
Mbappe ------------------------------- Neymar
----------------- Lewandowski -----------------
Meret, Romagnoli, Tousart, Maddison, Thorgan, Gnabry, Piatek
Possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, Fabinho, Aouar and Pogba just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and the front 3 in and around the half way line, Lewandowski slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow Aouar and Pogba to dictate play, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.
Varane picks up the CF, Stones spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly when we have possession, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, fullbacks must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. When they attack, only one at a time, as to not let ourselves be exposed, they drive down the line in support of the wingers. the two always make themselves available to the wingers. If either get caught up field I want Fabinho to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover I want both Stones and Varane to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Fabinho sitting back.
In the centre of the pitch are Aouar, Fabinho and Pogba. Fabinho our deepest player sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, Aouar and Pogba must be disciplined and lend a hand to stop them coming through. Fabinho must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. Aouar slightly higher up the pitch, he will stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, make our midfield very difficult to pass through, protect our defence and Fabinho as best as possible and again in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Pogba as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Pogba is essential to our style of play, he is the link(alongside Aouar) between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in a 10 role and look for the Fabinho/Aouar pass. he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.
Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Neymar will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Pogba to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Lewandowski who has the power and ability to beat any defender and the other winger who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Lewandowski right on top of the goalkeeper to put a lot of pressure on him, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game.
Captain - Varane
Pens - Lewandowski
Corners - Aouar/Pogba
Free Kicks - Neymar
Losing -
65 Mins - Thorgan for Aouar, he goes to RW and Mbappe into support Lewandowski
75 Mins - 3412, Sandro to LM, Neymar LCF, Mbappe RCF
82 Mins - Gnabry for Sandro, Piatek for Lewandowski
Winning -
75 Mins - Tousart for Aouar, he and Fabinho form a wall in front of the defence, leaving Pogba slightly ahead of them
80 Mins - Thorgan for Lewandowski, he goes RW with Mbappe up front using pace to shut everyone down
Drawing -
70 Mins - Thorgan for Aouar, Mbappe to support Lewandowski, Thorgan to RW
80 Mins - Gnabry for Lewandowski, he goes to LW and Mbappe/Neymar play it amongst themselves in a 9 & 10 role trying to rip the tiring defence apart for final 10 mins
posted on 16/12/18
——————————Ter Stegen
Odriozola———Rüdiger————Sule————Castro
————————Keita—————Torreira
B.Silva————————Dybala———————Sancho
————————————Kane
Subs: Pope, Upamecano, Rodri, Tielemans, Loftus-Cheek, Guedes, Brandt
Captain: Marc Andre Ter Stegen
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala / Lucas Torreira
Corners: Bernardo Silva / Lucas Torreira
Penalties: Harry Kane
We want to drop players deeper in build up, and start with slower ball circulation to draw their forward and midfield lines forward, so that we can later exploit the space in behind. We move the ball out to the FB on the touchline, creating back 3 on ball side and using Torreira to help circulate. Keita will position himself slightly higher than Torreira, in line with the far CB and Dybala will drop to Keita’s hight on the ball side. Ball side winger stays high and pins his FB so he can’t join the press. As soon as they are drawn in we circulate the ball back through the defence (keeper if needed) and look to either use the far side CB to carry the ball forward if the Arsenal winger hasn’t tucked in, or move the ball into the far side FB by the touchline if the winger has tucked in. This Fb can carry the ball forward but from here also has easy access to play the ball into midfield behind the press, or find his winger in a 1 v 1 with the FB.
Once we progress the ball we look to quickly exploit the space between the opponents defence and midfield, ether side of the DM or out wide, adapting our shape in game to go and attack where the space opens up. In Torreira we have a player who will sit and control the tempo of our game, always available for a pass and to recycle possession, particularly as a second passer in short passing combinations, his composure on the ball, as well as the CBs, allows us to go back to them and keep possession, and allow their team mates ahead to change their movements and run into space, with all 3 of them capable of playing laser passes between opponent lines. Keita has a box to box role, and his higher positioning in comparison to Torreira allows us to create triangles in the midfield, the staggering of the 3 central players heights means we have the option to use quick diagonal passing, which draws more opponents towards the pass and opens up new spaces behind. Keita will look to move the ball quickly, as well as using his pace and dribbling to break opponent lines, either with the ball at his feet, or with his movement.
The Fbs are crucial, they allow for overloads to open up the opposition. At times we want them overlapping, particularly Odriozola, as this allows Dybala and Silva to overload the right half space and leave the FB with a decision to make, stay wide, opening up space for Silva and Dybala to exploit between FB and CB, or tuck in and leave an easy pass on for Odriozola who can whip in crosses. When receiving the ball deeper I want both FBs to make diagonal runs into the half spaces, with our wingers pinning back their FBs this forces the opposition midfield to react. The diagonal runs draws more players in and opens up more passing lanes, either back wide to the winger for a 1 v 1 battle, or into Dybala/Keita, who can escape their markers.
The front 4 look to attack the opposition at pace. With the front three maintaining a high position and pinning the opposition defensive line back, Dybala should make full use of his 10 role to exploit the space between the lines. If we can create a 1 v 1 battle with the DM, we feel Dybala can take the super hand and create chances. He will be constantly on the move, often drifting wide where he can create triangles with FB and winger to open up the flanks, dropping deeper to receive the ball either side of the DM and behind the CMs, and making runs off of Kane to get behind the opposition. Sancho will look to hold width at all times, a key aim is to get the ball to the wingers in quick transitions from build up, and we believe Sancho with his dribbling can win his 1 v 1 battle and get crosses into the strikers. He’s also great at slowing the game down, drawing the opposition defence across and then beating 2-3 men, with Dybala, Keita, Silva and Kane to attack the box this will be hard to defend. Silva has a license to come into the half space more often. Kane’s role is to be on the move around the penalty box, getting into scoring positions.
Off the ball we press firstly in a 4-4-2, Dybala joining Kane in looking to force the CBs wide on the ball, Sancho will push high onto his FB with Silva dropped off and tucked in more, as we look to force their build up out to the LB, as they have massive injuries here, and likely have to play Azpi on his weaker side. Once the ball goes wide we swing our defensive pendulum, Sancho dropping back, Silva stepping up, Dybala drops back into midfield for a 4-1-4-1 shape, with Keita able to go and help Silva box the FB in. If they move the ball to the other side the pendulum swings, right sides players dropping and left sided players stepping up. We fall into a mid block, not looking to press the man but instead pressing passing lanes, so that the opposition have no where to go. Dybala and Keita are staggered, the ball side player slightly higher, with Torreira behind the two of them, the staggering in midfield makes it harder for Arsenal’s AM’s to find space between midfield and defence. Our FBs stay compact to the CBs so the half spaces can be closed off. When the ball is wide the back 4 shuffles across on the same pendulum as the midfield. We wait for a mistake, or a pass towards the touchline, and then we can be more aggressive.
Subs:
If Winning: Brandt for Sancho 70’. Loftus-Cheek for Dybala 75’. Rodri for Keita 80’.
If Drawing: Ruben Loftus-Cheek for Keita 70’. Brandt and Guedes for Silva and Sancho 75’, fresh legs out wide.
If Losing: Upamecano and Loftus-Cheek for Keita and Sancho 60’, 3-5-2, make us more difficult to press with an overload deeper, it will force them to pull forward their FBs when they want press higher, Dybala can drift wide to find space behind them, Ruben and B.Silva will be the CMs with Torreira at the base of midfield, both of these CMs can also stretch wide and open up holes in the middle that Dybala can drop into. Use this phase of them game to stop them pressing and allow us to set up position in their half. Guedes for Torreira 75’, 3-4-3, use this phase of the game to start overloading the half spaces.
posted on 16/12/18
-------------------Buffon
Florenzi----Sokratis----Verthongen----Luis
------------------Brozovic
------------Rabiot-------Kovacic
Lamela-------------------------------Son
-------------------Lacazette
Subs
Uzoho, Inigo, Bertrand, Fred, Mkhi, Simeone, Inaki
Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control, they have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance.
Verthongen is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counters, When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out, they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style.
For the full backs the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly. Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who to go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up, looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the attackers to drag the opposition defensive players out of position. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Gameiro, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.
When Lacazette is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.
Set Pieces
Corners - Kovacic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Lacazette work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Son and Brozovic flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Rabiot looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Lamela takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, as well as occasionally providing the short option to draw defenders out of the box.
Free Kicks - Lamela takes Direct FK's
Penalties - Lamela is the designated taker.
Subs
If Winning
70 mins - Mkhi for Son - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.
82 + 86 Mins - Fred for Rabiot and Bertrand for Luis - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.
If Drawing
70 Mins - Mkhi for Brozovic - add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing
67 Mins - Inaki, Mkhi and Inigo for Brozovic, Luis and Florenzi - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.
posted on 16/12/18
Attacking 4-3-3
We look to play our usual attacking game and take the game to Spurs, controlling possession and the tempo of the game. Control possession and find space in between the opposition lines. Get Ceballos and Modric on the ball and looking to play killer balls to open up the opposition using the pace of our attacking players.
Key to our attack is quick passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly. Pass and move. Tire the opposition out physically and mentally with our possession play. Predominantly short passing on the deck, but varying our play when a counter is on.
As you'd expect, possession starts at the back, Laporte the man marker next to Ramos who is free. In midfield, Casemiro reading the play looking to win the ball back as the dm alwatys staying back and offering cover, Ceballos and Modric will offer inteligence defensively, with the pressing of Ceballos also improtant.
Getting Modric and Ceballos on the ball and get pushing up the pitch, they are used to being on the offensive and playing in tight spaces, so we look to them to pick the passes. But if they play a high line they can pick the passes through or over the top to expose the space behind them. Quick one twos between the two and the attacking trio and Marcelo and Carvajal always looking to provide an option.
The defence will be patient on the ball, will be hugely important in keeping possession and pushing us up the pitch. Playing a reasonably high line, with good pace at the back and energy in front. As soon as we get the ball to our midfield, we look to move the ball quickly, quick passing and moving. Spurs have great pace in attack, but they'll be tired from chasing us keep the ball while we also have pace at the back.
In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Spurs. Get the fbs attacking. One bombing forward the other fb remains a little more reserved offering option to go back and switch play.
Hazard has a free role in attack, with Marcelo offering width on the left. On the right, Sane stays wide stretching the game looking to take on their lb.
----------------- Schmeichel
Carvajal- S.Ramos - Laporte - Marcelo
------------------ Casemiro
----------- Ceballos --- Modric
L.Sane ----------------------------- Hazard
------------------ C.Ronaldo
Subs. Pereira J.Gomez, Shaw, Ascaibar, Richarlison, Coutinho, Belotti
Defending in numbers
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone else bar Ronaldo gets behind the ball into position. Stop them breaking.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Draw them in to positions where they can’t hurt us, and then try and win the ball back. Then get forward quickly.
As Spurs advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1. Our wingers will track any forward runs made by their fbs, and Casemiro presses the space in front of our cbs, sweeping up danger in front of the defence, the cms pressing their midfield.
In this tight formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Casemiro will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, getting across to cut out any danger. Modric picks up the most advanced cm. The winger opposite play comes inside and sits on their deepest cm while Ceballos presses the space next to and in front of Casemiro. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Attack.
Get the ball to our midfield trio, get them linking up with quick passing, getting the ball to our wingers and get balls into Ronaldo. The trio's movement will be key in opening up the opposition defence.
The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game. We look to find space between their defence and midfield, committing defenders from there and playing killer balls.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Ceballos, Modric and the wingers will always be looking for the killer ball. If it is not on, we are happy to keep the ball moving and keep possession.
Ronaldo has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals.
Subs. If winning after 70 mins bring on Richarlison for Ronaldo. Fresh energy and pure pace. Pushes tempo up.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Coutinho for Sane, new ideas and fresh legs in attack.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Ascaibar for Ceballos, brings pure energy to cm to keep our tempo high and also stronger defensively.
If drawing after 60 mins bring on Coutinho for Ceballos. More attacking cm.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Richarlison for Sane.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Gomez and Coutinho for Marcelo and Carvajal. 3-6-1. Couts left, Hazard just off Ronaldo in a free role.
posted on 16/12/18
--------------------Pickford
Danilo----Manolas----Llorente---Van Aanholt
------Goretzka----Cook----Ramsey
Malcom-----------Cavani-------------Costa
Lloris, Maitland-Niles, Mee, Fabregas, Sessegnon, Aspas, Martins
A change in formation again for today, seen as we are coming up against a strong Liverpool outfit. I expect Liverpool to try and attack us, so I have picked a side that I think can play an effective counter attacking game, hitting the opposition on the break with pace out wide and a conventional target man with a physical presence up front for those players to play off. I have also opted for a midfield trio today, who I hope can stamp their authority on the game.
I have decided to keep Pickford playing in goal for today. His role will largely be one of distributing the ball. Similar to the ball that was so effective against Spain for England, I anticipate Pickford to cut out the opposition midfield, by pinging direct balls forward to Cavani, who will look to bring others into the game. This allows us to turn defense into attack very quickly. I also insist that he get rid of the ball quickly, with no unnecessary dallying.
The full backs that I have selected today are both attacking options who like to bomb forward. Due to the three midfielders I will allow them to push forward and contribute to our offensive play when we have the ball going forward. Should they pick the ball up in the defensive third they will look to carry the ball down the line, overlapping our wide options. The spaces in behind them will be covered by our midfield. Both players will look to get back quickly, however, to contribute defensively and keep opposition wide men stuck out wide. They will be, however, players primarily focused on supporting the attack, as I believe that plays to their strengths.
Manolas and llorente form my first team defence, and will work as a standard two today, with Llorente sticking tight to the opposition striker, whilst Manolas covers the space in behind, not allowing them to turn Vincent, without being pounced upon by our Greek semi-sweeper. When they get the ball in possession, they will look to quickly distribute it directly to Cavani, who will take these balls in the same way as if they were coming from Pickford. Likewise, I don’t want either player holding the ball too long, and if a short option is needed then they should be spoiled for choice with options in midfield and the full backs.
Cook is my midfield choice for sitting in front of the centre backs today. He will marshall the area in between the midfield and defence, not allowing any Liverpool players to find holes in our team. He will use his sheer energy to harass and hastle the opposition into losing possession. He is the screen for the defence. When he gets the ball he will look short to his fellow central midfielders, and will similarly provide options when it is them that picks up the ball.
Ramsey and Goretzka sit slightly further forward than Herrera, but not substantially. Their game is to play a similar one to Herrera as well, but occupying a different space. They will work as a unit to win the ball back before it gets into any dangerous positions in and around the edge of our penalty area. Part of this role means that they will look to control the wide spaces that might be vacated by our full backs pushing forward. Both these players also have a bit more of a license to get forward, looking to get in and around the edge of their penalty area, to pick up any loose scraps that might fall their way. When they pick up the ball they can either perform quick interchanges in the middle, or look forward for a direct ball to Cavani, as well as having options to spread the play out wide.
Edinson Cavani plays a pivotal role in this system, and is given a chance to prove any doubters wrong. He will play primarily with his back to goal outside the penalty area, looking to win balls and bring other players into the play, specifically the two wide men playing alongside him. He is a physical enough presence to successfully play this role. I also expect him to get into the box when we have the ball out wide. Crosses will be aimed low and to his feet, as that better suits the other attackers, and Wood is an effective reaction finisher with his feet. We will play to his strengths and not look to release him over the top.
Costa and Malcom are direct wingers who are playing in the same line as Cavani today. Their roles will see them make a nuisance of themselves, using their pace and movement to draw the opposition defence around and out of position, before then using their blistering pace to make the runs that Wood can lay them off for. These runs will see them get in behind the opposition defence, and get into one on ones with the opposition keeper. Both players must be defensively disciplined as well, however, dropping back to support their full backs, before surging forward with the ball when we win it back.
Substitutions
If drawing/losing
Aaron Ramsey off for Iago Aspas 70 mins
A change of formation on the cards, with Aspas slotting in as a second striker in behind Cavani. He will largely do the same role as Malcom and Costa, but fresh legs and an extra man should cause some problems for the opposition. Goretzka will slot in alongside Herrera.
Leon Goretzka off for Cesc Fabregas 77 mins
A bit more of an attack minded player coming on in midfield, who will look to play positive balls forward at any opportunity, dictating the play and especially looking for those dangerous over the top balls.
Patrick van Aanholt off for Ryan Sessegnon 82 mins
A switch to wing backs as we go for another goal at least. Sessegnon and Danilo will push forward, and contribute even more to the attacking third.
If winning
Malcom and Douglas Costa off for Cesc Fabregas and Iago Aspas 75 mins
Change to a 4-1-3-2 formation, with Fabregas sitting in behind the three starting midfielders. Aspas goes up front to join Cavani.
Aaron Ramsey off for Ben Mee 80 mins
Switch to a 5-3-2 formation, with the extra defender allowing a bit more physical presence, and more men to defend our goal.
posted on 16/12/18
---------------------- Courtois -----------------------
Vrsaljko ---- Boateng ----- Hummels -- Hernandez
---------- Fernandinho ---- Verratti ----------------
M.Asensio --------- C.Eriksen ------------ A.Martial
--------------------- Kun Aguero ---------------------
Subs:
Hart, Bailly, Dier, Arthur, Draxler, Bailey, Werner
Captain: Hummels
Free Kicks: Eriksen
Penalties: Aguero
Corners: Eriksen
Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim for 3 points. Our three AM’s in support of Aguero will be key components of this style as we feel we pose threats from all angles with plenty of goals in our lineup. Fernandinho and Verratti offer great quality on the ball from a slightly deeper position as they both possess a fantastic range of passing, able to break the lines and play that killer pass in to our attacking quartet. We will look to dictate the play and frustrate the opposition when in possession, continually moving them around, making them chase the ball by switching flanks. In doing so we will not only be wearing them down but also continually pulling them out of shape, breaking down their defensive structure as we look to make numerous openings as we go for goals in today’s match up.
Whilst the opposition have some dangerous players we will look to significantly limit their impact by retaining possession, we will force them to track back or risk leaving their defence exposed when we push forward in numbers. We aim to make things uncomfortable for them and we feel that limiting their ability to have the ball in attacking areas will severely limit any threat posed. When they are in possession our wingers drop in as we play a compact 4-5-1 formation. The aim of the game will be to break at speed with our wide players offering an immediate outlet when we win back possession. Turning defence into attack in the blink of an eye.
We aim to play on the front foot, hit them early to take the lead and then exploit the space in behind as they push forward for an equaliser. We start fast, high intensity and pressing from the front, putting them under immediate pressure we can force mistakes early on.
Defence:
We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with experience and quality we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. We have two strong and aerially imposing CB’s to deal with the threat posed by their forwards. We will look to be dominant at the back as we aim to take the sting out of the opposition early on and play on the front foot. Our fullbacks have license to push forward when in possession, however one at a time. They will look to be more conservative as usual as with a solid defensive unit. We look to draw the opposition onto us, with their attack minded wingers and fullbacks we feel we can exploit the space they leave behind and hit them with devastating effect on the counter with the pace and directness of Martial and Asensio.
If the opposition play one up top then Hummels will mark, strong and aggressive we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Boateng will sweep up and cover in behind, a fantastic reader at the back he will also be the one to bring the ball out from defence. Nothing fancy just look to get the ball into the feet of our CM’s or the runs of our wide men who will look to do all the damage.
Midfield:
Fernandinho will control the midfield and offer additional protection through the middle, sitting alongside Verratti he will be key to our style of play with their quick passing. Keep the ball moving, continually recycling possession and making the opposition chase shadows. Don’t force the issue as we aim to run them down, tired legs leads to tired minds and we feel that this will lead to plenty of openings as we continually move them out of shape. Forming a double pivot in front of our defence they not only offer protection but form the first line of our attack. Look for the early runs of the wide players as they possess electric pace and will be looking to get in behind the oppositions defence at all times. Eriksen plays ahead of them in the AM role, a gifted technician in his own right he will be looking to craft opportunities all afternoon. With the runs of Aguero, Martial and Asensio to pick out we feel that he will thrive. An assist master we also encourage him to go for goal should the opportunity arise, we anticipate the opposition sitting deep and an Eriksen thunderbolt from distance is always on the cards when given space.
Forwards:
Frightening pace, electrifying dribbling and deadly finishing, we feel our front three have it all. Our wide players will look to take the opposition on at will. Asensio and Martial both have license to cut in from the flanks and go for goal, we encourage them to utilise their terrific pace and go at the opposition. Draw in the oppositions CB’s which in turn creates space for Aguero to be slipped in and finish. Both will look to make jinking runs into the box where they can draw a foul or drive to the byline and whip the ball into Aguero in the middle. Both wingers have fantastic work rate and will be a constant outlet as they make runs in behind when our playmakers are in possession. We play three up front when on the attack and really look to test the opposition defence with a goal threat from every angle. Aguero plays through the middle, a player with fantastic movement and real predator. Immediately look to get into the box when we’re on the attack as we look to lay down a marker.
Subs;
If winning:
60 mins: Martial off, Dier on.
75 mins: Eriksen off, Bailly on. 5-4-1 shut up shop time as we tighten up with a solid defensive unit as we see the game out and take the 3 points.
If drawing:
60 mins: Verratti off, Bailey on. Eriksen slots into CM alongside Fernandinho with Bailey, Asensio and Martial forming a midfield AM trio behind.
75 mins: Asensio off, Werner on. We move to 4-2-2-2 with a front two of Aguero and Werner as we go for a winner.
If losing:
55 mins: Fernandinho off, Bailey on.
65 mins: Hernandez off, Werner on. We revert to 3-4-3 with Aguero, Werner and Martial up top as we go for goals, goals, goals.
posted on 16/12/18
BRUM VS Wolves
-----------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Dalot-----------Skriniar---------------Maguire------------Chilwell
---------------------Valverde----------------Ndidi-------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neres------------------------------------------------------------------Zaha
------------------------------------Philipp----------------------------------------
----------------------------------Batshuayi-------------------------------------
Subs - Lunin, Ruben Dias, Kessie, Cristante, Soler, Adama, Dembele
CAPTAIN - SKRINIAR
CK'S - NERES
FK'S - NERES
PENALTIES - BATSHUAYI
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo dont get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
Lafont is a quality young keeper. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Skriniar and Maguire bring a whole lot of experience and pace to the defence. Maguire will use his experience to marshal the defence and Skriniar will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Ndidi will be covering for them when they go attacking.
Defence Mids
Ndidi + Valverde
Ndidi will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or play a through ball from deep to our wingers.
Valverde will look to sit deep and be the gap between the defence and the midfield and play as the deep lying playmaker. When he has the ball I want him to pass the ball forward and try and play through balls for our wingers to run onto. I want the team to use him as an outlet to get play started or when the oppo is pressing us I want him to use his expert ball control to keep hold of possession of the ball. When not in possession of the ball I want him to sit alongside Ndidi in the middle and protect the defence.
Wingers
Neres + Zaha
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. They are 2 young and hungry players and I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Zaha will be looking to cut in from the left and Neres likewise from the right. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of our fullbacks and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. Dalot and Chilwell are no slouches attacking wise so use them! If you can cut in onto your stronger foot, don't be afraid to shoot from range as you both have the ability to score from long range. If there is no space to do so then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Batshuayi to get his head on. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack.
Attack Mid
Maximilian Philipp
Philipp will be playing just behind Batshuayi and will look to help him out in attack. Be ready for passes into your feet and shoot if you see an opportunity. Mix up your attacking runs to throw off the oppo DM. I want him to dribble with the ball and play 1 2's with the rest of the team. Shoot if you see an opening.
Striker
Batshuayi
Batshuayi will look to use his strength to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and hold the ball up for Zaha/Neres to make infield runs ahead of you.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Dembele for Valverde, Adama for Neres and Cristante for Philipp to bring some more pace on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212.
------------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Dalot----------Skriniar-----------Maguire------------Chilwell
-------------------------------Ndidi------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adama--------------------------------------------------------------Zaha
--------------------------------Cristante------------------------------------
---------------------Dembele--------------Batshuayi ------------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Philipp and put on Ruben Dias in CB. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Soler on for Neres and Kessie for Valverde to add a bit more strength into the midfield.
------------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Dalot------Skriniar------Maguire------Dias-------Chilwell
-------------------------Kessie--------Ndidi----------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------Soler---------------------------------------------Zaha---------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------Batshuayi---------------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Adama on for Neres
Kessie on for Kondogbia
Dembele on for Batshuayi
Fresh legs to bring on.
*RED CARD SCENARIO*
-If GK gets sent off, take off Philipp and put on Lunin. Change formation to 441.
-If any of the defenders get sent off, take off Philipp and put on Ruben Dias for the sent off CB or Kessie for the sent off LB/RB. Change formation to 441.
-If any of my 2 DM's get sent off, change formation to 441 with Soler replacing Philipp and slotting in to CM.
-If my striker gets sent off, take off Philipp and put on Dembele in strike. Change formation to 441.
posted on 17/12/18
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v Birmingham City
Injuries: Vardy, McGuane, Pereira, Khedira
----------------- Arrizabalaga
Hakimi - Marquinhos - Barzagli - Wendell
------- Rakitic - Diawara - Gundogan
-------- Di Maria - Immobile - Perisic
Subs: Leno, Maffeo, Tah, Sturaro, Ozil, Vitolo, Ings
-----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Birmingham, hopefully our back four will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Arrizabalaga in goal, Marquinhos and Barzagli at centreback, Hakimi and Wendell at fullback, Rakitic, Diawara and Gundogan in midfield, Di Maria and Perisic either side of Immobile upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Birmingham are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Arrizabalaga - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Immobile.
Marquinhos/Barzagli - Marquinhos mark their striker, force them high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Barzagli to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Hakimi/Wendell - Both of you to force the Birmingham wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Di Maria and Perisic as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Immobile and link with Rakitic and Gundogan. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Diawara - Our DM today, sit in front of the back four, break up play, watch out for runs from deep from the opposition, when in possession use your range of passing to look for teammates in advanced positions, use Rakitic and Gundogan alongside you if you're closed down.
Rakitic/Gundogan - Two box to box midfielders today, one either side of Diawara at DM. Both of you are required to get back and assist Diawara in front of the back four when we don't have the ball, but both with the ability and the freedom to push forward and join the front three, while always leaving at least one of you behind the ball. Look to link with Di Maria, Perisic or Immobile.
Di Maria/Perisic - Both with the trickery to beat the Birmingham fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Immobile with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Rakitic and Gundogan, and capitalise on the space Immobile's presence will create for you.
Immobile - you will be expected to occupy the Birmingham centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Di Maria or Perisic on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you to create opportunities.
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Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Di Maria, Immobile and Perisic off, Tah, Ings and Sturaro on. Change to 5-3-1-1, Tah an extra CB, midfield trio of Diawara, Rakitic and Sturaro, with Gundogan in the AM role providing support to Ings upfront.
If drawing: Diawara off, Ozil on. Switch to a 4-2-3-1, Rakitic and Gundogan in midfield, Ozil to AM behind Immobile. Try and find a winner.
If losing: Barzagli and Diawara off, Ozil and Ings on. 3-1-4-2, Hakimi - Marquinhos - Wendell at the back, Rakitic the playmaker from deep, Di Maria - Ozil - Gundogan - Perisic behind Immobile and Ings upfront. Push for goals.
posted on 17/12/18
In case of red card, change to 4-4-1
If Arrizabalaga, Gundogan off, Leno on
If Hakimi/Wendell, Gundogan off, Maffeo on
If Marquinhos/Barzagli, Gundogan off, Tah on
If Rakitic/Diawara/Gundogan, no change (the two left become the CM pair)
If Di Maria/Perisic, Gundogan off, Vitolo on
If Immobile, Gundogan off, Ings on
posted on 9/1/19
-----------------------Perin
Lazaro---Milenkovic--- Lindelöf---Tagliafico
-------------Lobotka------Nández
----Coman--------Neuhaus-------Forsberg
------------------------Jovic
Subs: Müller, Andersen, Augustinsson, Rudy, Götze, Trossard, Mitrovic
Our defensive unit consists of Nikola Milenkovic and Victor Lindelöf paired up at centre-back, Valentino Lazaro at right-back and Nicolás Tagliafico at left-back, with Stanislav Lobotka and Nahitan Nández as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Lobotka and Nández we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Nández can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Rudy can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Nández’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Nández running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Stanislav Lobotka.
A holding midfielder through and through, Lobotka is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Lobotka such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Kingsley Coman, Florian Neuhaus and Emil Forsberg as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luka Jovic as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Lobotka or Nández, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Lazaro and Tagliafico can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Lobotka and Nández can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Kingsley Coman and Emil Forsberg, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box.
Neuhaus lines up as our “Raumdeuter” (space-interpreter), who will use his distinct and unorthodox technique to find spaces between the lines. Neuhaus is an intuitive and instinctive player who will nearly always play a perfect pass and make a perfect run.
His space-interpreting ability will be reflected in the spaces he picks up his assists from, often behind our opposition’s midfield and ahead of their defence, able to play a perfect pass forward and pick the right spot in the blink of an eye.
We’ve tweaked our philosophy to involve Neuhaus so as to have as little as possible to do in terms of build-up of play and do what he is best at: find space, interpret play and be two steps ahead of our opposition by using his finest tool, anticipation.
Perhaps the deadliest asset Neuhaus possesses is his work without the ball, to get into good scoring positions or to put his teammates in good scoring positions.
Neuhaus’s movement is different from all others. He’ll interpret space and form cohesion with his intelligent running and inhuman anticipatory skills and as a result, Jovic, Coman and Forsberg will benefit. Neuhaus isn’t our flashiest player or doesn’t seem the most dangerous but once a keen eye is kept on him, his true expertise will be known.
Another highly noticeable attribute of a Neuhaus’s game is his link-up play. Neuhaus will make runs and movement to support Coman, Forsberg and Jovic with ease, mostly with one or two touch football and that will adequately support his teammates and vice versa.
Neuhaus is aware with his running and of the surroundings near him that will help attacking moves. With our full-backs, this sort of movement will influence their own overlapping runs, and as with our forwards, they can get into good goal scoring positions. Neuhaus will make himself readily available to teammates and without the intention, provide much more help in the build-up of attacking play than they notice.
Jovic will hold up play as an outlet to play others in and provide layoffs in the final third, but he will also make well-timed runs in behind against high defensive lines. He will be especially gifted at receiving the ball in this match, and Jovic will often manipulate his body position to create an opportune angle even if he has his back turned to goal.
Jovic’s innovation in front of goal will also be a useful trait because he will manage to adjust his body to make best use of the crosses from free kicks and corners even if they come in slightly behind him. The power and precision of his shots will make him a deadly finisher in and around the box. He will also link up well Coman, Neuhaus and Forsberg through his quick footwork.
Subs on 75 mins
Mitrovic on for Jovic
Just the one change, Mitrovic should trouble any tiresome legs in the oppositions defence as we look to pick up a late goal regardless of the result.
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