Total football 4-3-3

We go with an attacking team full of pace and width, stretch the game and target Utd out wide where they are weakest. With this width stretching the game we look to create space for the trio of central players, Felix in a free role, and looking to get him close to and playing off Osimhen. Vitinha comes in at cm for his high energy approach to make the most of this space.

We start fast and high, all out attack from the off, Nadz always sits deep so we will take the invitation and pile the pressure on. Both fbs bombing forward, Rodri offering cover in front of the cbs. Start as we mean to go on, frustrate their players by not letting them get a feel of the ball, and get the fans on their back early on. As the game progresses we slow the tempo and seek to have one fb more reserved next to Rodri in a position to help switch and keep play, but still in position to get forward.

Possession is dominated by defenders and cbs, and so with our cm duo and our back four, all top ball playing defenders we are confident we can play possession football. Play around their attackers, and create gaps in their shapes. Possession starts at the back, with Cbs and Rodri dictating the tempo, the cbs who are always the players that spend most time on the ball for a possession team. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through United starting from the back, playing patiently.

Rodri and Vitinha to link the defence and attack, with Felix being the key link between midfield and attack. We have a strong blend of power and energy in cm. Felix playing in an inside right role for his creativity and ability to support Osimhen closely. Osimhen the striker, offering an outball with pure pace and power to match his high work rate.

Felix has freedom to drift to find space in attacking areas, inside and off Osimhen, or wide and double up on the fb. Cause headaches for the opposition defence, with two supporting cms and a fb bombing forward on the overlap we create overloads on the side of the pitch we are attacking.

At the back, Gvardiol keeps his place for his height and set piece threat. We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line also allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having options to pass back to.

Wingers play high and wide, stretching the game creating space in the middle of the park for our midfielders. Up top Osimhen is a player that can importantly link the play and get on the scoresheet, he also gives us the option of a ball or cross in behind for his pace, or a more direct ball to use his power to take in. Rodri is key as the defensive midfielder staying reserved when we break forward.

Outnumber them in attack, and defend high in a 4-3-3 formation, we have a very strong back 4 and a high energy Cm trio while the wingers and fbs will commit forwards they have great pace to get back into shape. As soon as we lose the ball, the 2 closest players press hard, allowing the midfield and fbs to drop back in.


—————————————Alisson
R.James — Marquinhos —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
————————— Vitinha —— Rodri
————————————- J.Felix
Sterling ——————————————————— Musiala
———————————— Osimhen

Subs. Sanchez, Gvardiol, Vanderson, de Jong, Tonali, Pino, Lautaro

Defending high

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 gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape, then press them high up the park.

Gvardiol the man marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his pace and intelligence to sweep up. In midfield, Rodri plays zonally in front of cbs, with Vitinha next to and Felix just ahead pressing the play. The wingers narrow in front to the side of play United are attacking, in spaces on either side of their cms. In a position to block passing lanes central or wide.

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

As United get into our half, the wide players drop deep to add protection in front of the fb and next to the two cms. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play.

Attack

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

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


Subs.

If winning after 66 mins bring on de Jong for Felix. More control in cm. More direct as space opens up.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Pino for Musiala. Sterling switches sides. Fresh pace.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Lautaro for Osimhen.

If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Lautaro for Theo. 3-5-2.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on de Jong for Reece James. De Jong as 3rd cb, creating from deep.
If losing or drawing after 80 mins bring on Pino for Vitinha. Musiala moves to Cm.

Attacking 4-2-3-1

We go with an attacking team full of pace, playing with a high tempo in defence and attack. A fluid front four with real quality and pace.

We see the oppositions weakness is defensively, so we look to attack, push both fbs up and wide. A simple job of overlapping the wide players, giving them the freedom to go inside and create.

We think this should simply leave their fbs with two men to pick up, drawing out the cbs or cms, creating space for our wide players drifting in and for Nkunku,Verratti and Benzema to exploit.

Outnumber them in attack, and defend in a 4-2-3-1 formation, we have a very strong back 4 and Cm duo while the wingers and fbs will commit forwards they have great pace to get back into shape.

We look to win the midfield battle, with two cms that love playing two touch football and can control the game, both though capable of getting stuck in. We pile the pressure on, this gives us a huge advantage in seeking to create chances. Looking to work attacking overloads in wide areas of the park and using movement of players to create half spaces for our quality in attack to make the difference.

Up top Benzema is the in form player in world football. He has been playing at a level higher than anyone in the current season, more than evens his goal/assist tally suggests. His link up play with the wide men, and goal scoring will be key in the middle. Simply stick it near him in the box and his movement will somehow see the ball bounce off his head and into the net.

With the attacking fbs, Nkunku and a winger we look to work the play down the wings. The opposite fb will be slightly deeper but ahead of the cbs in a position to charge on to a ball played into space. Target the wings and get into positions to get down the outside for cut backs and crosses for Benzema.

Casemiro plays zonally in front of cbs, Verratti who presses the play. In attack, Nkunku had a free role to get the best out of him.

If we didn’t already make the point, we look to exploit their full backs and space out wide.

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

We have a cm duo who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid front four, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.

———————————— E.Martinez
K.Walker ——— Rudiger —— Laporte —— K.Tierney
————————— Casemiro —— Verratti
Raphinha —————-—— Nkunku ————— Danjuma
————————————— Benzema

Subs. Bazanu, L.Martinez, R.Sanchez, Onana, Terrier, Tete, Schick

Defending

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 gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and press them high up the park.

Rudiger the man marker next to Laporte who is free to use his pave to sweep up. In midfield, Casemiro plays zonally in front of cbs, with Verratti ball side. The wingers narrow in front to the side of play they are attacking, in spaces on either side of their cms. In a position to block passing lanes central or wide.

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

As they get into our half, the wide players drop deep to add protection in front of the fb and next to the two cms pressing (Verratti and Nkunku), Casemiro behind between the lines. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play.


Subs.

If winning after 70 mins bring on Terrier for Danjuma.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Schick for Benzema. Fresh legs to bully tired legs.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Sanches for Verratti, fresh legs and power as game opens up.

If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Schick for Danjuma. Nkunku left, Two men up top. Play direct for 5 mins to mix it up.

If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Terrier for Walker. 3-5-2. Nkunku back central.

Spurs v BRENTFORD

Szoboszlai, Salisu, Ramsay (sold), Svanberg (loaned out)


------------------------Simón
Dumfries, Andersen, Guehi, Grimaldo
-----------Koopmeiners, Laimer
Berardi----------Ødegaard------Damsgaard
-----------------------Broja

Subs: Kelleher, Gatti, Cambiaso, Höjbjerg, Skov Olsen, Baumgartner, Ibrahimovic

Captain: Ødegaard
Free Kicks: Ødegaard/Koopmeiners
Penalties: Koopmeiners

Our defensive unit consists of Joachim Andersen & Marc Guehi paired up at centre-back, Denzel Dumfries at right-back and Álex Grimaldo at left-back, with Teun Koopmeiners and Konrad Laimer as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Koopmeiners and Laimer 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 Laimer can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Koopmeiners 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 Laimer's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.

With Laimer running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will be dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Teun Koopmeiners.

Koopmeiners 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 Koopmeiners such a talent.

The attacking unit consists of Domenico Berardi, Martin Ødegaard and Mikkel Damsgaard as our band of three attacking midfielders with Armando Broja 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 Koopmeiners or Laimer, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.

Dumfries and Grimaldo can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Koopmeiners and Laimer can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Domenico Berardi and Mikkel Damsgaard, who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers, will cut inside or make runs into the box.

Martin Ødegaard, our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders. Ødegaard is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer with his quick flicks and one-touch passing, will combine exceptionally well with Berardi, Damsgaard & Broja to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other..

Upfront Broja is our classical style all round centre forward, a real number 9 who has the ability to be a bully, but also has the technical ability to be more than just a menace to our opponents defenders.

Whilst 6ft 3in tall he isn’t just about his height, he is a great ball player and has great positional awareness. He'll cause our opponents some big problems with his ability to play off the last man, draw defenders wide and drop in and link up with midfielders. But most of all, he is a lethal finisher and a natural goal poacher.

Subs on 75 mins

Skov Olsen on for Berardi and Ibrahimovic on for Broja

Double substitution - pace, vision and creativity from Skov Olsen, and a real focal point for the attacking midfielders in Ibrahimovic during the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line.

Week 4

ARSENAL (H) v Man Utd

-------------------- Maignan -------------------

Hakimi —-- Stones --- Saliba ---- Lucas. H

--- Bruno. G --- T. Partey --- Fabian. R ---

B. Saka —------- P. Dybala —------- Alvarez

A 4-3-3 today. We have switched to a back four to throw up a tactical mix for the opposition, but also it is just a shuffle for us from our normal formation, so familiar patterns are there on the pitch. Man Utd are quite often light in the midfield area and opt for width. We’ve chosen to have technical players in the team to dominate the ball today, whilst wide CMs will provide protection for our FBs to help prevent counters. Our shape should nullify their strengths and enable us to take our stamp on the game.

Man Utd usually play with wing backs or full backs that can be got at. This is why we’ve chosen two wingers who love to drive at defenders and dribble so well. Saka and Alvarez are intense, strong and enthusiastic players who can turn a game and break shapes with one burst. They should stay wide and try and isolate those WBs/FBs and Dybala is a striker between them that can drop in and knit things together, he should try little one-twos to help the wingers advance further. When Saka or Alvarez get wide, the other should be in the box to finish the chance.

Right focus: We should focus lots of our attack down the right where Saka can turn and combine and come inside, Hakimi can overlap and Alvarez can get into the box. To cover Hakimi forward he have the right defensive shield in Partey and Stones, both who have played RB before, Bruno is the shuttler to try and aggressively close down the ball and stop transition.

Left side: This side is more of our playmaking side. Lucas Hernandez is a solid full back with excellent passing ability for Bayern Munich and France. Ahead of him he has the new PSG playmaker, Fabian Ruiz. These two will be a hub of on the ball quality, looking to receive the ball from the GK/CBs, go direct to Alvarez or switch to our right side plan of attack.

Mid 3: Partey the more reserved and the Octopus who will sweep up everything defensively in that midfield. He will also cover the right side when Hakmi overlaps Saka, this will see Fabian slide across and Bruno shift ahead to almost create a 325 formation in attack. This ensures we have plenty of attacking lanes to overcome the opponent, whilst also retaining a strong defensive structure to win back and retain the ball if needed. Ruiz, the left footer in his home at LDM where he can dribble and dictate the tempo. Partey has been chosen for his physical dominance and ability to turn and play at pace. The dynamic midfielder has the qualtity and experience to add to our midfield.

Saliba the quarterback in the team. he will put his passing to great use to occasionally go long to Alvarez, Saka or Hakimi and mix up our attack. Our CBs and LB have very high percentile passing stats across a variety of ranges so we will play with three playmakers at the back, mixing up their approach and ensuring we sit high and dominate, starve the opposition of the ball.

Attacking shape 325

------------------------- Maignan ------------------------
-------- Stones —---- W. Saliba —---- Lucas ---------
—---------- T. Partey —------ Fabian. R —-------------
Hakimi ---------- Bruno Guimaeres ------------------
—----- B. Saka —--- P. Dybala —---- Alvarez —------


As we have good recovery pace across the pitch, we should look to move forward as a team and push the opposition back.

In possession this formation allows Hakimi to get forward and do what he does best, stretching the pitch with his pace and staying wide. He has recovery pace to track his winger but in possession he will help to stretch the Man Utd defence, creating room for others more centrally.

Dybala the attacking leader and heartbeat today - he will gravitate to where our possession is based, this will draw defenders out and allow the midfield and the wingers to drive into the gaps and get into final ball territory.

When we attack Dybala drops into that role and Saka should push ahead and Hakimi emerge into the attacking quartet and Alvarez and Bruno buzzing about to make the difference.

When we are out of possession, we should look to win the ball back quickly with intense pressure from the fresher legs we will have after holding possession and making them run for so long. We then use the highlighted zones in order to break their shape and get back into attacking zones.


SUBS: Raya, White, Locatelli, Paqueta, Mahrez, Jota, Aubameyang

Ater 60:
Locatelli for Ruiz - fresh legs in midfield and calmness on the ball he will bring
Jota for Alvarez - Fresh legs and another outlet coming on to do the damage.

If losing 75 - Aubameyang for Bruno G, Dybala #10, 4231.
If winning or drawing 75 - White for Hakimi - more defensive FB who is more inclined and skilled to help us keep the ball.

*If losing or drawing 75 - Aubameyang for Bruno G, Dybala #10, 4231.
If winning 75 - White for Hakimi - more defensive FB who is more inclined and skilled to help us keep the ball.

Watford League week 4: Away to Tottenham
Captain: Remiro
Vice Captain: Ibañez

------------------Remiro
Mário------Felipe---Ibañez----Angeliño
------------Palhinha---Alcaraz
-------------------Correa
Ocampos-------------------------González
--------------------Cabral

SUBS: Bursik, Matheuzinho, Morato, Vinicius, Alzate, Otávio, Evanilson

Goalkeeper: Remiro 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. One goes forward and one stays back. 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 into the stands. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: We will operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Palhinha). He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our gameplan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Alcaraz). He has a more conservative role this week and while being a little more constrained than normal he will still have the opportunity to bomb forward when the time is right. They will both have to put a defensive shift in and both are very strong in the tackle. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition. In front of them Correa will operate as the link between midfield and attack. He will be our creator and can find that magic pass to break open a defence and release one of our front three. This I feel will give us a better balanced midfield and while being absolutely defensively sound with 2 ‘sitting’, Alcaraz will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Correa and attack. I think this set-up lets us link up quickly with our attack while at the same time that little bit of extra cautiousness means it will be easier for us to close the door in midfield with all 3 players as comfortable sitting and breaking up attacks if necessary.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both González and Ocampos 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 Correa, Alcaraz and Cabral in to play. They can vary their attacks as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Alcaraz may sit a bit deeper allowing Correa 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.
Cabral starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great playing off the shoulder of the last man he is deadly in and around the box. A bag of energy and very strong we will also look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his size and strength 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: Correa, Ocampos or González with Felipe, Ibañez and Alcaraz to offer an aerial threat. Correa, Alcaraz and González may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Cabral, González, Palhinha
Substitutions: (80 mins) If winning then 3 like for like subs – Morato for Ibañez, Otávio for Ocampos and Evanilson for Cabral.
If losing (70 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Alcaraz with Otávio and Ocampos with Evanilson. Fresh legs and 2 dangerous attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.

----------------Palhinha
Otávio ------- Correa----------González
----------Evanilson---Cabral

------------------------ M.Neuer ------------------------
---------- Pavard ----- Tomori ----- Struijk ----------
Mazraoui ---- Bissouma --- Pellegrini ---- F. Mendy
------------------------ Maddison -----------------------
----------- Wilfried Zaha --- Lewandowski ----------

Alemdar, Okoli, Bentancur, Doucoure, Bowen, Greizmann, Mitrovic,

When we don't have the ball, we will press high up the pitch, conceding very little space, Maddison in a free role will look to steal the ball within the attacking third and hopefully, quickly get it to those ahead of him. We do not give them any time on the ball and our front 2 prevent their defense hanging on to it too long or trying to play form the back as we pressurize them all the time.

If they do get to our half then we have a strong back 3 and double pivot ahead to prevent play through the middle, meaning they will need to push wide, I want Maddison and Zaha to close them down in these wide areas and support the wingbacks, lots of pace in the front three to get at players.

When we have the ball it starts from the back moving the ball around between defense and center midfield until the moment arrives when a pass can be made through to the front line, there is no rush, if they come pressing we simply move it to the wide areas for them to bomb down the line and look to either cut it back or get a pass into the front three.

Pavard and Struijk, Cover the wingbacks when they have pushed forward and take the ball out of defense, use there positional sense well as they may be out paced., must do this with confidence, if they lose the ball then all numbers back to cover, if they are being pressurized then a simple pass even back to the keeper and start again, stay wide (depending on what side) to cover wingbacks if they are forward.
Tomori will press the opposition striker, when we lose the ball he needs to be on top of the CF very quickly, he must intercept everything, don't take any risks as the CF will also be on him so move it quickly when he gets it. Mazraoui and Ferland, must work very hard, they have great work rate but this must done for the whole game, get down the line, get the crosses in, two great forwards to aim for, don't worry so much about what's behind you as their is plenty cover, I don't mean forget your defense duties, just play with a bit of freedom, crosses, one-twos, cut backs and all with pace to hurt them.

Although Bissouma's primary role in front of the defense is to control possession and then start an attacking phase, he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defense 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 the No 10/SS is also a main focus, he will 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.

Pellegrini has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for the front 3, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running he is expected to do and he does a lot. 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..

Maddison is in a free role, give him the ball and he will produce, I want him to dictate proceedings in the final third, either playing the through ball to the front two or use the wingers, pass in between the lines and give them something to run onto as the drive passed the defender, making late runs into the box and look for any loose ball to have a pop at goal, Maddison is a great finisher, so look to make late runs into the area and latching onto crosses from wide areas, defending wise, I want him to harass who ever has the ball in that area, get it and move it forward as quickly as possible, also can draw players into him, therefore winning a lot of free kicks

Zaha I want to be making all the runs behind the defense, a tireless worker always making it hard for defenders, I want him to drift wide and pull defenders away, quick and skillful, look to move out to create an outlet for the wingbacks to use or indeed link with Maddison and Lewandowski to get in on goal, so while they aim for Schick, Zaha will be making the late runs into the danger area and with a head start look to get up early and attack the crosses coming in.

Lewandowski, is our out an out No.9, fox in the box, a bully and powerful striker, he is there to finish off chances created by other, I want him always on the last man, no defending required from him, always ready to pounce, if however he cant get in on goal he has plenty round him to lay it off to, or just a quick pass and look to get into space where he can get his shot off, end of, he is in to score goals and that is what he shall do.

Captain - Pavard
Penalties - Lewandowski
Free Kicks - Maddison
Corners - maddison

Losing -
70 Mins - Bowen for Mazraoui, Mitrovic for Ferland, Zaha goes LW, Bowen RW, Mitrovic up top 3412 attacking
76 Mins - Griezmann for Maddison

Winning -
80 Mins - Doucoure for Zaha, sit in midfield

Drawing -
70 Mins - Griezmann for Zaha, Bowen for Mazraoui
75 Mins - Bentancur for Bissouma

------------------------ D.Costa ------------------------
J.Cancelo ---- Kalidou ---- Romero ---- Robertson
------------ Bellingham ----- Declan Rice ------------
--------------------- B.Fernandes ----------------------
---- Gnabry ------------------------------- R. Leao ----
------------------------ Mbappe -------------------------

Woodman, Simakan, Kamara, Seko Fofana, J.David, G.Ramos, A.Gouiri

A nicely balanced side imo with plenty of experience and youth mixed, pace and power throughout and looking to cause some damage to their back line with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 with attacking fullbacks to boot.

Kalidou is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when they are driving forward, when defending I want a tight back 4 leaving no space for the attackers to exploit, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Romero the tough tackling no nonsense CB to take care of the main man, both stick to their jobs, give the striker a yard or two, dont sit right on him as if he is lost then the striker is away, giving them a wee bit of room allows them time to adjust to where he is going and gives them that extra second to manouver into position to stop the threat and stop the attack, dont dive in, just shimmy the player to give him second thoughts on what he is doing, allowing our boys to win the ball and get it away from danger, boot it away if you have too. Fullbacks sit in a flat four when we defend their fullbacks are obvs a danger as they are very attacking, so keep tight with help of our wingers, push the wingers and fullbacks wide and keep them away from the box and shooting areas, try and stop the cross coming in so be onto the early, when attacking they both go at the same time, with Rice sitting this allows them to do so, get on the outside of the wingers and pressure there defensive line with that extra man, forcing there attacking players back, use Bruno as the man in the middle to pass and sprint passed the wingers giving Mount that option of playing wide or more central to Haaland or the players moving inside.

Bellingham and Rice must be patient, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Rice doing the marking job on the AM/SS sometimes having to become a 3rd CB and Bellingham doing the running when others come forward, be onto them quickly stop the ball getting to the forwards and into danger areas, when attacking Rice still sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our two CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back. Bellingham will move up alongside Bruno to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.

Bruno is the link between midfield and attack, he can control the game form a number 8/10 position, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, he will orchestrate play and quite simply pull the strings, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play as we are definitely up against it, let the pass go as players come onto him, as this will take them out them game and less for our attackers to worry about, plenty options for him to aim for if he decides not to go for goal himself. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediete so will always help out Bellingham and Rice so will drop back to help and as we win the ball he will then look to start attacks very quickly.

Our wingers are extremely quick, young and full of energy, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack, make sure their fullbacks attacks are nulified, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, Gnabry and Leao will cause them problems drifting in an out, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Bellingham and Bruno more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Mbappe who can beat any defender with power/pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Mbappe, we must always make sure Mbappe is well supported, especially wingers who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside.

Captain - Koulibaly
Pens - Mbappe
Set Pieces - Bruno

Losing -
65 Mins - Cancelo to LCB, G.Ramos for Robertson go up top 3412
75 Mins - Gouiri for Leao

Winning -
75 Mins - Seko Fofana for Bruno, he is a powerful player who can both defende and attack get into there faces
80 Mins - Kamara for Bellingham

Drawing -
70 Mins - G.Ramos for Leao, switch with Mbappe, J.David for Gnabry, fresh legs/pace up top

Attacking 3-4-2-1

At home we go with an attacking team designed to control the tempo of the game, dominate possession and target Wolves in between the cbs and fbs and in between the lines.

Our wing backs giving the team great width and importantly this will stretch the game, creating space for our central players to dominate on the ball.

Our formation is fluid, we go with de Jong as a libero, a playmaking cb and third cm. Possession starts at the back, and so with our 3 ball playing cbs and possession based cms we look to control the game. When the opposition have spells of pressure de Jong drops to cb, to take the sting out of their attack giving us a back 5. When we are in possession and building, he can get forward from cb playing as an extra cm giving us control in midfield. Up top we have the pace to push them back, at wb and front 3, this pace will stretch them. Tonali the box to box option in cm giving us power and athleticism, Vitinha playing for his energy and creativity.

With the attacking strength of our wing backs and forwards, to outnumber them in attack, dragging players out of position and creating space.

Our cbs are all quick and top ball players, playing a high and line and we control possession. The 3 cbs stretched when in possession and narrow in defence. The wbs stretch the game wide, creating as much space as possible for our cms, to come deep for the ball. Importantly de Jong moves forward to midfield when we are in possession. The two remaining cbs then narrow.

With our cms and am looking to dominate on the ball, they will narrow to the side of play as we look to get our cms, and am linking with our wbs. de Jong will always remain in a more central position offering an option and dictating play from behind the rest of midfield, deeper than them but still advancing high when we are around their box. Pace to stretch them down the wings and in behind is key for possession. Both wing backs will have freedom to attack.

Create attacking overloads in certain areas of the park (in between cbs and fbs, and outside the dm today) and using movement of players to create half spaces for our quality in attack to make the difference. At home, this suits us perfectly, we deliberately have pacey ball playing cbs, the high line and their ability on the ball is key for us to dominate.

In control, we make the ball do the work, spreading the play from side to side, looking to move their defenders/mids out of position and create half spaces for our quality to tell. This will lead to more chances, as simply we’re getting more balls around the box so statistically it’s just more likely. Secondly, and importantly with us working the ball to move their defensive shape (players) this will knacker them, leading to more defensive mistakes and less effective counters.





—————————————— Alisson —————————————
——— Marquinhos —— F. de Jong —— Alaba —————
R.James ———— Tonali —— Vitinha —— Theo.H
————— R.Sterling ——————— Joao Felix —————
————————————— Osimhen —————————

Subs. Sanchez, Rodri, Thiago, Y.Pino, Cunha, Lautaro

Defence

When we lose the ball high up the park we always look to win it back straight away, we don’t even know if they play a high or deep defensive line, either way we press. The closest 2/3 players press. Allowing others to get back into position behind the ball.

In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us.

When Wolves get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation set out above. Our defence have fantastic pace up against their forwards, bide their time, not diving in.

Defending in a narrow formation, limiting the space for Wolves to play in. In a rigid defensive structure we make sure there is no space in between the lines, and with wingers that like to come inside they will run in to two deep defensive lines. The wingback on the opposite side of play will drop back into defence forming a back four. The wb on the side of play helps the cb on the side of play defend against the attacking winger and fb. Two strong defensive players to stop their wide men.

The defence and midfield press as a unit, ensuring there is no space between the lines for Wolves cms. When defending, Tonali plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area, Vitinha plays ball side of Tonali, pressing the passing lanes. Felix drops on to their dm, take him out the game.

Attack - all out attack. Play keep ball, with end product.


Subs.
If winning after 67 mins bring on Thiago for Vitinha. Fresh legs.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Rodri for Tonali. Shift wbs to fb. 433. De Jong to Cm.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Pino for Felix.

If drawing or losing after 60 mins bring on Pino for de Jong. 4-3-3. Sterling left, Pino right.
If drawing or losing after 72 mins bring on Lautaro for Theo. 3-5-2.
If drawing or losing after 80 mins bring on Rodri for Vitinha. Fresh legs, height for set pieces and loves a late goal.

BRENTFORD v Chelsea

Ødegaard, Guehi, Gatti, Lucca,


----------------------Simón
Dumfries, Andersen, Salisu, Grimaldo
-----------Koopmeiners, Laimer
Berardi--------Baumgartner—Szoboszlai
-----------------------Broja

Subs: Kelleher, Maehle, Lobotka, Höjbjerg, Skov Olsen, Damsgaard, Ibrahimovic

Captain: Andersen
Free Kicks: Koopmeiners/Szoboszlai
Penalties: Koopmeiners

Our defensive unit consists of Joachim Andersen & Mohammed Salisu paired up at centre-back, Denzel Dumfries at right-back and Álex Grimaldo at left-back, with Teun Koopmeiners and Konrad Laimer as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.

This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Koopmeiners and Laimer 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 Laimer can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Koopmeiners 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 Laimer's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.

With Laimer running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will be dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Teun Koopmeiners.

Koopmeiners 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 Koopmeiners such a talent.

The attacking unit consists of Domenico Berardi, Christoph Baumgartner and Dominik Szoboszlai as our band of three attacking midfielders with Armando Broja 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 Koopmeiners or Laimer, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.

Dumfries and Grimaldo can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Koopmeiners and Laimer can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Domenico Berardi and Dominik Szoboszlai, who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers, will cut inside or make runs into the box.

Christoph Baumgartner, our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders. Baumgartner is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer with his quick flicks and one-touch passing, will combine exceptionally well with Berardi, Szoboszlai & Broja to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other..

Upfront Broja is our classical style all round centre forward, a real number 9 who has the ability to be a bully, but also has the technical ability to be more than just a menace to our opponents defenders.

Whilst 6ft 3in tall he isn’t just about his height, he is a great ball player and has great positional awareness. He'll cause our opponents some big problems with his ability to play off the last man, draw defenders wide and drop in and link up with midfielders. But most of all, he is a lethal finisher and a natural goal poacher.

Subs on 75 mins

Skov Olsen on for Berardi and Ibrahimovic on for Broja

Double substitution - pace, vision and creativity from Skov Olsen, and a real focal point for the attacking midfielders in Ibrahimovic during the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line.

----------------------- J.Musso ------------------------

Trippier ----- Schuurs ----- Botman ----- A.Sandro

-------- Cristante -- Busquets -- Caqueret ---------

A.Gordon ----------- Ronaldo ------------ J.Grealish

Schmeical, Ait Nouri, N.Ake, JWP, Raspadori, Scamacca, Bergwijn

This may not be pretty but we have to begin as a solid outfit as we lanquish at the foot of the table, start out trying to be difficult to beat thenm the pretty stuff will come after. When we defend we do so as a team with a solid back 4 and midfield 3, with Ronaldo harassing their backline and really pressurizing them into quick, misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially our midfield 3 we are solid in the middle & the front 3 further up the pitch in the center as we try to nullify their midfield and fullbacks who will have to come inside to cover Gordon and Grealish, leaving space for our fullbacks to exploit and stop them creating chances for the forwards.

Trippier and A.Sandro have freedom to attack, both can fly at the same time as we have Cristante and Busquets holding when they do, when we attack, bomb down the line supporting the wingers on the outside, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support the forward. They look to play one twos with the midfield 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, remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Botman will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Schuurs alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, both powerful defenders, Both will dominate in the air and both good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defense and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Both cbs up for corners, fullbacks stay back and Busquets just sitting in front of them. 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 defense 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..

Busquets's primary role in front of the defense is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defense 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, he isn't the quickest so use his experience to know where to be and when to be there to stop the threat of the AM, great positionall sense, good in 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. A very disciplined performance is a must from Busquets today

Cristante and Caqueret have responsibility throughout the pitch, 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 and he does a lot. Both will do a lot of running as box to box mids, they have good passing range so look for the front three and fullbacks as they attack.

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, I want Gordon to drive on the outside beating his man and play as a natural winger not an inside forward unless he is supported by fullbacks, whereas Grealish can do his thing, usually can beat his man quite easily with pace and power and linking up closely with Ronaldo and Sandro, both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos. Use the midfield to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fullbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using the front two to get into danger areas. Both wingers have fantastic forward to aim for in Ronaldo so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack, we need goals, we need a win, he will get plenty chances and he is in very fine form, however he must put them away. I want him to bully the slower/weaker of the two/three. 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/weaker 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 even dropping back and from distance, with hopefully a few crosses coming in they can get up and above defenders for. Can both hold it up and look for runners, in particular the wingers, fullbacks and Caqueret will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side for each other if they cant go themselves.

We must defend as a team tho, 451 from the front, everyone hot on the tails of the opposition, we cant give away cheap goals, 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 - Ronaldo
Penalties - Ronaldo/Replacement
Set Plays - Grealish

Subs -
Losing/drawing - 65 Mins - Bergwijn for Cristante, he goes RW, Gordon to No.10
75 Mins - Raspadori for Gordon, Scamacca for Ronaldo, big guy little guy up fron 442/424

Winning -
75 Mins - JWP for Cristante fresh legs in the middle, Scamacca for Ronaldo, can hold up of needed and still good for a goal if required
83 Mins - Bergwijn for Gordon

Attacking 4-2-3-1

We go with an attacking team full of pace, playing with a high tempo in defence and attack. A fluid front four with real quality and pace, we direct our attacks down the wings. One fb bombing forward at a time.

We see the oppositions weakness is defensively, so we look to attack, push both fbs up and wide. A simple job of overlapping the wide players, giving them the freedom to go inside and create.

We think this should simply leave their fbs with two men to pick up, drawing out the cbs or cms, creating space for our wide players drifting in and for Nkunku,Verratti and Benzema to exploit.

Outnumber them in attack, and defend in a 4-2-3-1 formation, we have a very strong back 4 and Cm duo while the wingers and fbs will commit forwards they have great pace to get back into shape.

We look to win the midfield battle, with two cms that love playing two touch football and can control the game, both though capable of getting stuck in. We pile the pressure on, this gives us a huge advantage in seeking to create chances. Looking to work attacking overloads in wide areas of the park and using movement of players to create half spaces for our quality in attack to make the difference.

Up top Benzema is the in form player in world football. He has been playing at a level higher than anyone in the current season, more than evens his goal/assist tally suggests. His link up play with the wide men, and goal scoring will be key in the middle. Simply stick it near him in the box and his movement will somehow see the ball bounce off his head and into the net.

With the attacking fbs, Nkunku and a winger we look to work the play down the wings. The opposite fb will be slightly deeper but ahead of the cbs in a position to charge on to a ball played into space. Target the wings and get into positions to get down the outside for cut backs and crosses for Benzema.

Casemiro plays zonally in front of cbs, Verratti who presses the play. In attack, Nkunku had a free role to get the best out of him.

If we didn’t already make the point, we look to exploit their full backs and space out wide.

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

We have a cm duo who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid front four, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.

———————————— E.Martinez
Frimpong ——— Rudiger —— L.Martinez —— K.Tierney
————————— Casemiro —— Verratti
Raphinha —————-—— Nkunku ————— L.Sane
————————————— Benzema

Subs. Bazanu, Varane, R.Sanchez, Pogba, Terrier, Danjuma, Schick

Defending

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 gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and press them high up the park.

Rudiger the man marker next to Martinez who is free to use his pave to sweep up. In midfield, Casemiro plays zonally in front of cbs, with Verratti ball side. The wingers narrow in front to the side of play they are attacking, in spaces on either side of their cms. In a position to block passing lanes central or wide.

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

As they get into our half, the wide players drop deep to add protection in front of the fb and next to the two cms pressing (Verratti and Nkunku), Casemiro behind between the lines. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play.


Subs.

If winning after 70 mins bring on Pogba for Raphinha. Nkunku right.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Schick for Benzema. Fresh legs to bully tired legs.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Sanches for Verratti, fresh legs and power as game opens up.

If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Pogba for Frimpong. Nkunku up top. 3-5-2

If drawing or losing after 80 mins bring on Schick for Nkunku. Two big men in the box.

-------------------- Ederson --------------------
Carvajal --- De Ligt --- Torres --- N.Mendes
-------------------- R.Neves --------------------
---------- De Bruyne ---- Bernardo -----------
---- L.Messi ---------------------- Neymar ----
--------------------- H.Kane --------------------

Subs:
Ramsdale, Araujo, Tchouameni, Eriksen, Kulusevski, Dembele, G.Jesus

We go in search of another 3 points with an attacking lineup. Central to our success will be our midfield as we go with the perfectly balanced trio of De Bruyne, B.Silva & Neves. We want to control this area of the field and go with three supreme ball players, working as a trio they will help us retain possession, dictate the tempo and pick apart the opposition as we play on the front foot.

With a midfield bursting with creativity it is only right that we have an attack which can flourish from the world class service. Messi & Neymar will be on their element.

Out of possession we revert to a more traditional 4-3-3.

Ederson
Carvajal De Ligt Torres Mendes
De Bruyne Neves Bernardo
Messi Kane Neymar

With KDB & Bernardo dropping in alongside Neves they’ll provide support in behind our wingers. If the opposition get the ball out wide we want our outside CM’s to engage them, working in tandem with our FB’s to win back possession.

This tactic removes the responsibility of Messi & Neymar having to track back, instead with want them to play in the half spaces between their defence and midfield, cutting out the passing lanes from their CB’s to FB’s and forcing the opposition to go long. Increasing the chances of them losing possession and being perfectly placed for us to them hit them on the counter.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with pace and quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then De Ligt will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. P.Torres will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top. Both our CB’s are great ball players, allowing us to retain possession and play out from the back, taking away the possession game from the opposition.

Our fullbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have supporting cover in behind. When in possession both Carvajal and Mendes have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third. Look for the early crosses with Kane one of the best predators in the box. We look to draw the opposition onto us by sitting deep when they are in possession, limiting the space in behind and creating space for us to hit them on the counter.

Midfield:

Midfield is where we feel the game can be won. Neves will be our holding player in the middle operating as a DM. A fantastic reader of the game we want him to sit in front of our defence, breaking up the opposition play and also cutting out the passing lane to their CF, taking away one of their biggest weapons.

De Bruyne and B.Silva speak for themselves. When on it they are truly a top class pairing. Their range of passing is sublime and they'll be spraying round the ball round majestically all afternoon.

They’ll be our chief creators, picking apart the opposition and playing that killer pass in the final third. Both also possess a great strike from range, if the opposition drop off then both have license to go for goal. De Bruyne in particular has a fantastic strike from distance as we look to get the Belgian on the ball as much as possible.

Forwards:

Up front we have truly world class talents.

Messi and Neymar give us a dual threat on the flanks. They’ll be doing what they do best, going at the opposition with the freedom to create and cause havoc as they see fit. Two of the best dribblers in the business they are a nightmare match up for the opposition CB’s or FB’s. Both are world class finishers and will be looking for quick one two’s in and around the box to open up space for either to finish.

With a dream supply line around him Harry Kane will be in his element. A natural born goalscorer he’ll be surrounded by some of the best creators in the business. He also has incredible workrate which ties in the nicely with the freedom we look to give Messi & Neymar to express themselves.

Kane will be looking to do what he does best, get himself in the box and finish any chances that come his way. With De Bruyne, B.Silva, Messi & Neymar supplying him he’ll be presented with plenty of chances to make his mark. Always be on the shoulder of the last man ready to pounce and causing havoc for the opposition defence as they try to contain 3 of the best attackers in the world.

Subs:

If winning:
70 mins: B.Silva off, Tchouameni on. Extra protection alongside Neves.
80 mins: Kane off, Jesus on. Pace and energy up top as we look to pick them off on the break.

If drawing/losing:
65 mins: B.Silva off, Jesus on. 4-2-2-2 with Messi & Neymar on the flanks, Kane & Jesus up top. Goals.
80 mins: Neymar off, Kulusevski on.

Week 5

Watford: League week 5 (away to Chelsea)
Captain: Palhinha
Vice-Captain: Remiro

-----------------Remiro
Mário----Felipe----João Victor---Angeliño
----------Palhinha --Nunes
-------------------Otávio
Edwards-----------------------------González
------------------- Núñez

SUBS: Grabara, Matheuzinho, Morato, Vinicius, Alzate, Evanilson, Cabral


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

Substitutions: (80 mins) If winning, then 3 like for like subs – Morato for Felipe, Vinicius for Palhinha and Cabral for Núñez.
If losing (60 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Nunes with Cabral and Edwards with Evanilson. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
----------Palhinha
Evanilson---Otávio---González
-------Cabral --Núñez

Liverpool

------------------------- J.Musso --------------------------

K.Trippier ----- F.Schar ------ Botman ----- Guerreiro

--------- M.Merino --- Busquets --- Caqueret ---------

A.Gordon ------------ C.Ronaldo ------------- Bergwijn

Schmeichel, Chalobah, J.W-Prowse, Elanga, Raspadori, Scamacca, Zinchenko

Cant get any harder than Spurs, however we want to be difficult to beat then the pretty stuff will come after. When we defend we do so as a team with a solid back 4 and midfield 3, with Ronaldo harassing their backline and really pressurizing them into quick, misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially our midfield 3 we are solid in the middle & the front 3 further up the pitch in the center as we try to nullify their midfield and fullbacks who will have to come inside to cover Gordon and Bergwijn, leaving space for our fullbacks to exploit and stop them creating chances for the forwards.

Trippier and Guerreiro have freedom to attack, both can fly at the same time as we have Merino and Busquets holding when they do, when we attack, bomb down the line supporting the wingers on the outside, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support the forward. They look to play one twos with the midfield 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, remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Botman will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Schars alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, both powerful defenders, Both will dominate in the air and both good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defense and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Both cbs up for corners, fullbacks stay back and Busquets just sitting in front of them. 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 defense 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..

Busquets's primary role in front of the defense is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defense 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, he isn't the quickest so use his experience to know where to be and when to be there to stop the threat of the AM, great positionall sense, good in 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. A very disciplined performance is a must from Busquets today

Merino and Caqueret have responsibility throughout the pitch, 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 and they do a lot. Both will do a lot of running as box to box mids, they have good passing range so look for the front three and fullbacks as they attack.When defending, it is a solid 3 as Spurs are very formidable in the final 3rd, harray and harrass them all, not much else for it!

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, I want Gordon to drive on the outside beating his man and play as a natural winger not an inside forward unless he is supported by fullbacks, whereas Bergwijn can do his thing, usually can beat his man quite easily with pace and power and linking up closely with Ronaldo and Guerreiro, both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos. Use the midfield to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fullbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using the front two to get into danger areas. Both wingers have fantastic forward to aim for in Ronaldo so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack, we need goals, we need a win, he will get plenty chances and he is in very fine form, however he must put them away. I want him to bully the slower/weaker of the two/three. 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/weaker 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 even dropping back and from distance, with hopefully a few crosses coming in they can get up and above defenders for. Can both hold it up and look for runners, in particular the wingers, fullbacks and Caqueret will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side for each other if they cant go themselves.

We must defend as a team tho, 451 from the front, everyone hot on the tails of the opposition, we cant give away cheap goals, 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 - Ronaldo
Penalties - Ronaldo/Replacement
Free Kicks - Ronaldo
Corners - Wingers

Subs

Losing -
65 Mins - Raspadori for Caqueret, move to SS behind Ronaldo, Elanga for Gordon

Winning/drawing -
75 Mins - Zinchenko for Guerreiro, W-Prowse for Caqueret, fresh legs, 451 as the wingers make a flat 5 man mid
85 Mins - Scamacca for Ronaldo

------------------------ Neuer -------------------------
Pavard ------ Skriniar ------ Bremer ------ Thomas
-------------- Bissouma ---- Pellegrini --------------
W.Zaha --------------------------------------- Hazard
----------------------- Havertz ------------------------
-------------------- Lewandowski ---------------------

Meslier, Mazraoui, Tielemans, Maddison, Griezmann, Kudus, Mitrovic

I want fast, fluid passing to get around the opposition, use the experience we have to pick the right pass at the right time and when to move forward and when to stay back, be in control at all times even when defending

A solid back 4 with Bremer looking to pick up the main striker, he is quick and powerful so will look to bully the striker, be on his toes at all times looking to intercept and ball through to No.9 nip in ahead when he can but nothing rash so he doesnt lose out in possession. Powerful in the air so any high balls into the danger area he will hopefully win. Skriniar alongside, again a very robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Bremer if needed, can also switch roles with him if he struggles. Both can play it out so no need for rash punts up field unless tequired and no other option, will look to play it to the fullbacks or the midfielders ahead

Fullbacks will attack one at a time look for the one/two with the winger ahead, over lapping allowing Zaha/Hazard to come inside, can also use the CMs for quick passing to get them beyond the opposition fullbacks, defensively, stay strong, keep the wingers to the outside away from danger, try and keep them on there 'bad' foot so they find it difficult to get a cross in, I do not want to see my defenders dive in, so stay tall and use upper body strength to keep there chances to a minimum.

The two in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Bissouma is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes Phillips will be there snapping at his heals, Pellegrini is more B2B, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Bissouma making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, such a big man very difficult to knock off the ball, has four quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass and he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball.

Havertz in a No.10/free role, he has freedom of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Lewandowski up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal, in defence just hassle the midfield and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.

Wingers when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks at times they wiull have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground.

Lewandowski, is one of the very best strikers, give him the ball and 9/10 he will stick it in the back of the net, always on the last man, getting into dangerous positions waiting for the ball to come his way, he should get plenty supply, he doesnt defend, no need too, if he stays up top this will stop their defenders moving forward.

Captain - Skriniar
Penalties - Lewandowski
Free Kicks - Hazard
Corners - Wingers

Losing -
65 Mins - Pavard to RCB, Mitrovic for Thomas 3412 attacking
75 Mins - Griezmann for Havertz

Winning -
75 Mins - Tielemans for Havertz, 4141, Bissouma sitting
83 Mins - Mitrovic for Lewandowski, Mazraoui for Zaha

Drawing -
70 Mins - Griezmann for Havertz, Tielemans for Pellegrini
80 mins - Kudus for Zaha

--------------------------- Costa ---------------------------

N.Mukiele ----- Kalidou ----- Romero ----- Robertson

------------ E.Fernandez ----- Declan Rice -------------

-- Gnabry -------------- Mount -------------- Mbappe ---

------------------------- Haaland ---------------------------


A nicely balanced side imo with plenty of experience and youth mixed, pace and power throughout and looking to cause some damage to their back line with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 with attacking fullbacks to boot.

Kalidou is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when Watford are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Romero the tough tackling no nonsense CB to take care of the main man, both stick to their jobs, give the striker a yard or two, dont sit right on him as if he is lost then the striker is away, giving them a wee bit of room allows them time to adjust to where he is going and gives them that extra second to manouver into position to stop the threat and stop the attack, dont dive in, just shimmy the player to give him second thoughts on what he is doing, allowing our boys to win the ball and get it away from danger, boot it away if you have too. Fullbacks sit in a flat four when we defend their fullbacks are obvs a danger as they are very attacking, so keep tight with help of our wingers, push the wingers and fullbacks wide and keep them away from the box and shooting areas, try and stop the cross coming in so be onto the early, when attacking they both go at the same time, with Rice sitting this allows them to do so, get on the outside of the wingers and pressure there defensive line with that extra man, forcing there attacking players back, use Mount as the man in the middle to pass and sprint passed the wingers giving Mount that option of playing wide or more central to Haaland or the players moving inside.

Enzo Fernandez and Rice must be patient, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Rice doing the marking job on the AM/SS sometimes having to become a 3rd CB and Enzo doing the running when others come forward, be onto them quickly stop the ball getting to the forwards and into danger areas, when attacking Rice still sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our two CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back. Enzo will move up alongside Mount to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.

Mount is the link between midfield and attack, he can control the game form a number 8/10 position, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, he will orchestrate play and quite simply pull the strings, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play as we are definitely up against it, let the pass go as players come onto him, as this will take them out them game and less for our attackers to worry about, plenty options for him to aim for if he decides not to go for goal himself. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediete so will always help out Enzo and Rice so will drop back to help and as we win the ball he will then look to start attacks very quickly.

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

Captain - Kalidou
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Mount/Bruno

Losing -
65 Mins - G.Ramos for Robertson, we go 3412 very attacking
75 Mins - J.David for Gnabry

Winning -
75 Mins - Kamara for Mount he sits in midfield in a 3
83 Mins - J.David for Gnabry

Drawing -
70 Mins - Bruno for Mount, J.David for Gnabry, fresh legs new dangers for Watford

Slonina, Inacio, Kamara, Bruno, J.David, G.Ramos, A.Gouiri on the bench

Total football 4-3-3

At home, we go with an attacking team full of pace and width, stretch the game and target Arsenal out wide where they are defensively weakest. With this width stretching the game we look to create space for the trio of central players, Rodri and de Jong giving a solid double pivot offering freedom to the fbs to both get forward.

We feel the opposition will miss Lucas, and may then opt for a 352, or a weaker replacement at lb. We look to exploit this, and also look to ensure we are testing Hakimi’s defensive game, dominating and pushing them back away from areas he is most dangerous.

Both fbs bombing forward, Rodri offering cover in front of the cbs, de Jong with license to play box to box. Start as we mean to go on, frustrate their players by not letting them get a feel of the ball. As the game progresses we slow the tempo and seek to have one fb more reserved next to Rodri in a position to help switch and keep play, but still in position to get forward.

Possession is dominated by defenders and cbs, and so with our cm duo and our back four, all top ball playing defenders we are confident we can play possession football. Play around their attackers, and create gaps in their shapes. Possession starts at the back, with Cbs and Rodri dictating the tempo. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through Arsenal starting from the back, playing patiently.

Rodri and de Jong to link the defence and attack, with Barella being the key link between midfield and attack, looking to get in between the lines. We have a strong blend of power and energy in cm. Osimhen the striker, offering an outball with pure pace and power to match his high work rate.

The wingers stay wide in first two thirds of the park, stretch the game, and create spaces inside. In the final third they have license to move inside, we want them combining with the attacking fb, double up on them.

At the back, Gvardiol keeps his place for his height and set piece threat. We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line also allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having options to pass back to.

If they go long, we have a tall team and can dominate in the air at the back. We also carry a great set piece threat with Marquinhos, Gvardiol, Rodri and Osimhen all carrying a big threat.

Wingers play high and wide, stretching the game creating space in the middle of the park for our midfielders. Up top Osimhen is a player that can importantly link the play and get on the scoresheet, he also gives us the option of a ball or cross in behind for his pace, or a more direct ball to use his power to take in. Rodri is key as the defensive midfielder staying reserved when we break forward.

We also look to use the height of Osimhen, look to frustrate and create space in their defence by having him look to take on Kounde when there’s a cross or long ball looking likely, for a flick on or chance at a header on goal.

Outnumber them in attack, and defend high in a 4-3-3 formation, we have a very strong back 4 and a high energy Cm trio while the wingers and fbs will commit forwards they have great pace to get back into shape.

—————————————Alisson
R.James — Marquinhos —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
————————— de Jong —— Rodri
————————————- Barella
Sterling ——————————————————— Foden
———————————— Osimhen

Subs. Sanchez, Lukeba, Vitinha, Musiala, Sancho, Felix, Lautaro

Defending high

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 gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape, then press them high up the park.

Gvardiol the man marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his pace and intelligence to sweep up. If two up top both man mark, Rodri sits slightly deeper but not as 3rd cb, as gives them one less man to defend and betters our chances of finding space. In midfield, Rodri plays zonally in front of cbs, with de Jong next to and Barella just ahead pressing the play. The wingers narrow in front to the side of play Arsenal are attacking, in spaces on either side of their cms. In a position to block passing lanes central or wide.

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

As Arsenal get into our half, the wide players drop deep to add protection in front of the fb and next to the two cms. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play.

Attack

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

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


Subs.

If winning after 65 mins bring on Musiala for Barella. More pace and direct dribbling in cm as space opens against tired legs.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Sancho for Foden. Fresh pace.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Lautaro for Osimhen. Fresh energy and pace.

If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Lautaro for Theo. 3-5-2.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Felix for De Jong, Barella to cm. Felix AM.
If losing or drawing after 78 mins bring on Musiala for Barella. More attacking and direct cm.

Attacking 4-2-3-1

We go with an attacking team full of pace, playing with a high tempo in defence and attack. A fluid front four with real quality and pace, we direct our attacks down the wings. One fb bombing forward at a time. Martinez keeps his place over Laporte since he pocketed Salah.

We see the oppositions weakness is defensively, so we look to attack, push both fbs up and wide. A simple job of overlapping the wide players, giving them the freedom to go inside and create.

We think this should simply leave their fbs with two men to pick up, drawing out the cbs or cms, creating space for our wide players drifting in and for Nkunku,Verratti and Benzema to exploit.

Outnumber them in attack, and defend in a 4-2-3-1 formation, we have a very strong back 4 and Cm duo while the wingers and fbs will commit forwards they have great pace to get back into shape.

We look to win the midfield battle, with two cms that love playing two touch football and can control the game, both though capable of getting stuck in. We pile the pressure on, this gives us a huge advantage in seeking to create chances. Looking to work attacking overloads in wide areas of the park and using movement of players to create half spaces for our quality in attack to make the difference.

Up top Benzema is the in form player in world football. He has been playing at a level higher than anyone in the current season, more than evens his goal/assist tally suggests. His link up play with the wide men, and goal scoring will be key in the middle. Simply stick it near him in the box and his movement will somehow see the ball bounce off his head and into the net.

With the attacking fbs, Nkunku and a winger we look to work the play down the wings. The opposite fb will be slightly deeper but ahead of the cbs in a position to charge on to a ball played into space. Target the wings and get into positions to get down the outside for cut backs and crosses for Benzema.

Casemiro plays zonally in front of cbs, Verratti who presses the play. In attack, Nkunku had a free role to get the best out of him.

If we didn’t already make the point, we look to exploit their full backs and space out wide.

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

We have a cm duo who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid front four, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.

———————————— E.Martinez
K.Walker ——— Rudiger —— L.Martinez —— K.Tierney
————————— Casemiro —— Verratti
Raphinha —————-—— Nkunku ————— L.Sane
————————————— Benzema

Subs. Bazanu, Laporte, Kovacic, Pogba, Frattesi,, Danjuma, Isak

Defending

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 gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and press them high up the park.

Rudiger the man marker next to Martinez who is free to use his pave to sweep up. In midfield, Casemiro plays zonally in front of cbs, with Verratti ball side. The wingers narrow in front to the side of play they are attacking, in spaces on either side of their cms. In a position to block passing lanes central or wide.

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

As they get into our half, the wide players drop deep to add protection in front of the fb and next to the two cms pressing (Verratti and Nkunku), Casemiro behind between the lines. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play.


Subs.

If winning after 70 mins bring on Pogba for Raphinha. Nkunku right.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Isak for Benzema. Fresh legs to bully tired legs.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Kovacic for Verratti, fresh legs as game opens up.

If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Pogba for Frimpong. Nkunku up top. 3-5-2
If drawing or losing after 80 mins bring on Isak for Nkunku. Two big men in the box.

ARSENAL to face Leicester


------------------------ Maignan ------------------------
------- B. White ---- W. Saliba ---- Kounde --------
Hakimi ------ T. Partey --- Fabian. R —--- B. Saka
—------------- P. Dybala —-- Firmino -----------------
—-------------------- J. Alvarez —----------------------

A 3-4-2-1 today. Wing backs creating the width, Dybala in the role he is excelleing for Roma right now, one of two creators just off a striker. Technical qualities throughout a packed core. We know Leicester have lots of great ball players so need to disrupt that and bring our own footprint onto the game. Our shape should nullify their strengths and enable us to take our stamp on the game. Our box of four in the middle, coupled with 3 CBs who are great on the ball should see us take charge.

Leicester tend to play with a lone striker, so the wider CBs, who have experience playing at full back, will benefit from this and combining with the wing backs, work to nullify the threat of their wingers. We also anticipate to match them in the middle of the park. Our two AMs will contribute to the midfield battle, but also they have sides to allow for them to defend Leicester’s full backs. If we play with intensity and the right attitude we can close off their threats and outnumber them in attacking zones when we transition.

You can see the triangle patterns throughout our team and that is not a coincidence. We want to play in those triangles throughout, always offering the man on the ball a couple of short options and a longer outlet where the press from the opposition may present an opportunity to beat it. Alvarez is in the team today to have more pace on the break and he is a longer outlet where we see fit, we have great long passers at the back to find him.

Saliba the quarterback in the team. he will put his passing to great use to occasionally go long to Alvarez, Saka or Hakimi and mix up our attack. All three of our CBs have very high percentile passing stats across a variety of ranges so we will play with three playmakers at the back, mixing up their approach and ensuring we sit high and dominate, starve the opposition of the ball. Saliba is also a great carrier of the ball and as the middle CB should look to carry through the lines at times to break the shape of the opposition as they try and get a grips on us.


In possession shape 2-2-3-2-1

------------------------- Maignan ------------------------
------------- W. Saliba —------ Kounde ----------------
—---- B. White -------------------- Fabian. R —------
Hakimi -------------- T. Partey -------------- B. Saka
—----------- P. Dybala —----- R. Firmino ------------
—--------------------- J. Alvarez —---------------------


As we have good recovery pace across the pitch, we should look to move forward as a team and push the opposition back. Saliba and Kounde at the base, White and Fabian in the half spaces to plug the side of the build up, this frees Saka and Hakimi to stretch the game and give width to the side. Dybala and Firmino then have the space between the lines to cause real damage to Leicester, almost forming a midfield three in a 433 in possession, they are both on red hot form right now and combining with Alvarez who never rests, will be a constant threat. The front three will outnumber their CBs when attacking together so will cause huge problems for Leicester defensively.

White has been selected today as he has been in excellent form, he’s shown his ability to deal with top wingers as a right back this season and in possession this is the position he will vacate, he provides an athletic but technically sound base alongside Saliba and Kounde. Partey anchoring and acting as the hinge in the middle, when he uses his body to turn a man, that’s the trigger for Arsenal to go and build a break. Ruiz, the left footer in his home at LDM where he can dribble and dictate the tempo. Between him, Saka and Kounde he have both the bodies and mix of attributes to stop their threat on that side.

This formation allows Hakimi to get forward and do what he does best, stretching the pitch with his pace and staying wide. He has recovery pace to track his winger but in possession he will help to stretch the Leicester defence, creating room for others more centrally.

Dybala the attacking leader and heartbeat today - he will gravitate to where our possession is based, this will draw defenders out and allow the midfield and Alvarez to drive into the gaps and get into final ball territory. Firmino should be busy, pressing their players and setting traps, he is the press trigger for the rest of the team. One of Dybala / Firmino should look to get into the box and support Alvarez when the time is right.


When we are out of possession, we should look to win the ball back quickly with intense pressure from the fresher legs we will have after holding possession and making them run for so long. We then use the highlighted zones in order to break their shape and get back into attacking zones.
Saka is so talented and can play a number of roles, today he must revert to his left wing back position, he keeps the ball so well with his body and is positionally very aware. He should be more reserved today and focus on his ability to pick out players ahead of him, switching to Hakimi or feeding balls into the front three.

---

Raya, Stones, Gabriel, Bruno G, Mahrez, Jota, Aubameyang

After 60: Bruno G for Ruiz - fresh legs in midfield and intensity he will bring

If losing 75 - Jota for Firmino
If winning or drawing 75 - Mahrez for Dybala - more pace on the break and energy to defend from the front.
After 80 - Stones for White - freshness.

Cpt: Jules Kounde
PK & FK: Paulo Dybala

------------------- Ederson --------------------
Carvajal -- De Ligt --- Fofana -- N.Mendes
----------------- Tchouameni -----------------
--------- De Bruyne ---- B.Silva -------------
G.Jesus ---------- H.Kane --------- Neymar

Subs:
Ramsdale, P.Torres, Ndidi, Eriksen, Dembele, F.Torres, Broja

We go in search of another 3 points with an attacking lineup. Central to our success will be our midfield as we go with the perfectly balanced trio of De Bruyne, B.Silva & Tchouameni. We want to control this area of the field and go with three supreme ball players, working as a trio they will help us retain possession, dictate the tempo and pick apart the opposition as we play on the front foot.

With a midfield bursting with creativity it is only right that we have an attack which can flourish from the world class service. Jesus, Kane & Neymar will be on their element.

Out of possession we revert to a more traditional 4-3-3.

Ederson
Carvajal De Ligt Fofana N.Mendes
De Bruyne Tchouameni Bernardo
Jesus Kane Neymar

With KDB & Bernardo dropping in alongside Tchouameni they’ll provide support in behind our wingers. If the opposition get the ball out wide we want our outside CM’s to engage them, working in tandem with our FB’s to win back possession.

This tactic removes the responsibility of Jesus & Neymar having to track back, instead with want them to play in the half spaces between their defence and midfield, cutting out the passing lanes from their CB’s to FB’s and forcing the opposition to go long. Increasing the chances of them losing possession and being perfectly placed for us to them hit them on the counter.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with pace and quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then De Ligt will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Fofana will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top. Both our CB’s are great ball players, allowing us to retain possession and play out from the back, taking away the possession game from the opposition.

Our fullbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have supporting cover in behind. When in possession both Carvajal and Mendes have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third. Look for the early crosses with Kane one of the best predators in the box. We look to draw the opposition onto us by sitting deep when they are in possession, limiting the space in behind and creating space for us to hit them on the counter.

Midfield:

Midfield is where we feel the game can be won. Tchouameni will be our holding player in the middle operating as a DM. A fantastic reader of the game we want him to sit in front of our defence, breaking up the opposition play and also cutting out the passing lane to their CF, taking away one of their biggest weapons.

De Bruyne and B.Silva speak for themselves. When on it they are truly a top class pairing. Their range of passing is sublime and they'll be spraying round the ball round majestically all afternoon.

They’ll be our chief creators, picking apart the opposition and playing that killer pass in the final third. Both also possess a great strike from range, if the opposition drop off then both have license to go for goal. De Bruyne in particular has a fantastic strike from distance as we look to get the Belgian on the ball as much as possible.

Forwards:

Up front we have truly world class talents.

Jesus and Neymar give us a dual threat on the flanks. They’ll be doing what they do best, going at the opposition with the freedom to create and cause havoc as they see fit. Bringing their Samba magic they are a nightmare match up for the opposition FB’s. Both are class finishers and will be looking for quick one two’s in and around the box to open up space for either to finish.

With a dream supply line around him Harry Kane will be in his element. A natural born goalscorer he’ll be surrounded by some of the best creators in the business. He also has incredible workrate which ties in the nicely with the freedom we look to give Jesus & Neymar to express themselves.

Kane will be looking to do what he does best, get himself in the box and finish any chances that come his way. With De Bruyne, B.Silva, Jesus & Neymar supplying him he’ll be presented with plenty of chances to make his mark. Always be on the shoulder of the last man ready to pounce and causing havoc for the opposition defence as they try to contain 3 of the best attackers in the world.

Subs:

If winning:
75 mins: Jesus off, Ferran on.
80 mins: B.Silva off, Ndidi on. Dual DM’s as we see out the win.

If drawing/losing:
75 mins: B.Silva off, F.Torres on. 4-2-2-2 with Ferran & Neymar on the flanks, Kane & Jesus up top. Goals.
85 mins: Neymar off, Dembele on.

Wolves (H) - Aston Villa

------------------ Donnarumma -------------------

Tomiyasu —- Tomori --- N. Sule ---- Chilwell

------ T. Kroos --- F. Kessie ---- G. Xhaka ----

F. Chiesa —------- Vlahovic —--------- Trincao


A home game and a game we feel we need to win to get those important points on the board. We’ve gone for a 433, a team packed with technical quality throughout as well as lots of physical players to help us impose ourselves on the game.

Back four - Tomiyasu is an athletic two-footed defender, he will be perfectly equipped to deal with the threat that Villa post on the left side of their attack. He should utilise his two footedness to come infield on occasion and help in the interior, thus freeing up Kroos to move a little further forward (in possession) and focus on providing the final ball. In the heart of the defence we have a blend of Tomori’s pace and youthfullness coupled with Sule’s gigantic frame and physicality. Tomori should be the sweeper behind and Sule the aggressor looking to win the ball back and bite it off their forwards. Tomori as one of the quicker CBs around can put out any fires that creep through the cracks. With Tomiyasu being quite defensive as a full back, it will allow Chilwell to be more marauding on the left hand side, he should look to overlap Xhaka and provide a wide threat against the opposition, thus allowing Xhaka more room to do what he does best in the heart of the midfield.

Midfield trio - Xhaka playing in the box to box role he is flourishing in at Arsenal, as a more advanced player he can focus on his on the ball ability and physical qualities that help him take charge of a midfield. He has an early ball in him to find Vlahovic, but his neatness in possession will crucially allow us to retain the ball in the opposition half, stretching them and finding holes in which to work in. Kroos will do similar on the right side, with Kessie anchoring and acting as the shield for the defence. Such is the nature of these multi-skilled trio, though, if Kessie were to break forward, Kroos or Xhaka can seamlessly slip into the anchor role for individual moments. This rotation will cause further problems for Villa.

Attacking trio. Tricky Trincao has been reborn against in Lisbon and is excelling on the wing, we want him and Chiesa to switch throughout the game to cause confusion for the opposition. They are both players who can stretch defenders and go wide, whilst also tucking in to support the centre forward and make the difference in the box, working off of the physicality of Vlahovic and ultimately finding the final, magic touch. Vlahovic is a physical forward to power, he can win headers, stretch defenders using his strength to retain the ball, and also work a bit with his back to goal to bring in midfielders and wingers around him.

SUBS - Pickford, de Vrij, Jorginho, Zaniolo, Diaz, Daka, Kean
60 - Jorginho for Kessie
75 - Kean for Trincao
80 - Daka for Vlahovic

MAN UNITED VS Brentford

-----------------------------Lloris---------------------------------
--------Timber------Upamecano------Schlotterbeck-----------
------------------Camavinga-----Gallagher-------------------------
Spence-------------------------------------------------------------Sessegnon
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------Antony-----Adeyemi-----Martinelli---------------

Subs - Mamard., Badiashile, Skipp, Diaby, Kvaratskhelia, Sesko, De Ketelaere

CAPTAIN - LLORIS
CK'S - ANTONY
FK'S - ANTONY
PENALTIES - ADEYEMI

I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't 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
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. Timber and Schlotterbeck will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to stop any attacks that go down their wings. Upamecano in the middle will marshall the defence and look to snuff out any attacks from the oppo strikers. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.

WINGBACKS
Spence and Sessegnon are playing as wingbacks today. They will both have the freedom to bomb up and down their flanks. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM's will be helping you a lot aswell. Timber and Schlotterbeck will be ready as the outside CB's to help you clear up any loose balls etc. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. One of our DM's will come over to mark the oppo winger who has the ball incase they use the overlapping fullbacks. I want both wingbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..

Centre Mids
Gallagher + Camavinga
These 2 will be the main enforcers to protect the defence and to control the central midfield. Both of these have the engine to easily last the 90 minutes. Camavinga will be the more defensive of the two. He will help the wingbacks in defending against oppo wingers and will also look to put a lock on the oppo AM to stop him dictating play. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings and try and play some quick one two's as you are a good dribbler and passer. Gallagher will be allowed to stretch his legs and run with the ball from deep if there is space to do so in the centre of the pitch. When out of possession drop deep next to Camavinga and try and intercept the ball. Camavinga will look to use his technical ball playing ability to pass the ball forwards and to try and thread dangerous passes to unlock the oppo defence. I want the front three to be on the lookout for his passes. When out of possession drop deep and cover the central midfield space.

Wingers
Antony + Martinelli
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Martinelli will be looking to cut in from the left and Antony likewise who will cut in 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 into the centre of the pitch to one of our DM's or play quick one two's with our wingbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for Adeyemi to attack. 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. .

Striker
Karim Adeyemi
Adeyemi will be leading the line for us today. He has got the pace and killer instinct to play the role and he will have plenty of support in attack. Be vary of crosses into the box and try and get in front of your marker. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. Be vary of loose balls in the box so you can use your quick reactions to get to the ball before the oppo defenders.

Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on De Ketelaere, Sesko and Diaby for Gallagher, Adeyemi and Martinelli to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.

---------------------------------Lloris-----------------------
-----------Timber---------Upamecano--------Schlotterbeck----------
---------------------------------Camavinga--------------------------------------
Spence-------------------------------------------------------------Sessegnon
----------------------------------De Ket-----------------------------------
------------------Antony------Sesko--------Diaby----------

Subs if WINNING BY 75MINS
Take off Martinelli and put on Skipp in CM to offer more defensive protection and energy in the middle. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Put on De Ket for Adeyemi to offer a more physical presence up front. And Diaby for Antony so he can use his pace and freshness to hurt the oppo on the counter.

----------------------------------Lloris-----------------------
-----------Timber-------Upamecano-------Schlotterbeck--------
Spence----Gallagher---Camavinga----Skipp-----Sessegnon
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------Diaby------------------------------------
-----------------------------------De Ket-----------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
De Ketelaere on for Adeyemi
Kvara on for Martinelli
Diaby on for Antony

*RED CARD SCENARIO*
If Lloris is sent off take off Antony and put on Mamardashvili. Formation becomes 342 with Martinelli and Adeyemi playing as the strikers.
If any of our CB's are sent off go to a back four of
Spence CB CB Seseegnon. Wingers to play more defensively and help out in defensive duties.
If any of our CM's are sent off take off Antony and out on Skipp in CM. Martinelli and Adeyemi play as the strikers.
If any of our front 3 get sent off keep things how they are.