Man City
————————————— Raya
K.Walker —— Van Dijk —— Bastoni —— Robertson
———————————— Caicedo
—————— K.De Bruyne —— B.Fernandes
—— M.Salah ——————————————— Martinelli
———————————— D.Vlahovic
Subs:
Vandevoordt, Cancelo, Varane, Casemiro, Raphina, Ferran, Gnabry
First game as City manager we look to start life with a bang. Reunited with my general KDB we also have some world class talent in Salah & Van Dijk to kick off the new reign.
With a midfield bursting with creativity it is only right that we have an attack which can flourish from top class service. Salah, Dusan and Martinelli will be on their element.
Out of possession we revert to a more traditional 4-3-3.
Raya
Walker Van Dijk Bastoni Robertson
De Bruyne Caicedo Fernandes
Salah Vlahovic Martinelli
With KDB & Fernandes dropping in alongside Caicedo 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 Salah & Martinelli 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 Van Dijk will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Bastoni 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 Walker and Robbo both have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third. Look for the early crosses with Vlahovic who is lethal 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. Caicedo will be our anchor in the middle operating as our DM. A bundle of energy capable of covering every blade of grass he’ll be shielding 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 Fernandes 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:
Salah and Martinelli 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. Salah is a world class finisher and will be looking for quick one two’s in and around the box to open up space to get a shot off. We want Martinelli to play on the shoulder of their last man, ready to pounce on the through balls from KDB & Fernandes.
With a dream supply line around him Vlahvoic will be in his element. A real power forward he offers the dual threat of being deadly in the air and a natural born goalscorer with the ball at his feet.
Vlahovic will be looking to do what he does best, get himself in the box and finish any chances that come his way. Walker and Robertson are both fantastic crossers ready to whip the ball in from out with for Vlahovic to attack in the air and we want him to bully the opposition CB’s. With a big target man in the middle this will also create space for Salah and Martinelli who will be looking to make cutting runs in behind from out wide as we go in search for goals to start our new era with a bang!
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Fernandes off, Casemiro on. Dual DM’s as we tighten up defensively.
85 mins: Martinelli off, Ferran on. Fresh leg and pace as we look to pick them off on the counter as the game opens up.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Fernandes off, Gnabry on. 4-2-2-2 with Gnabry & Martinelli on the flanks and Salah & Vlahovic up top. Goals.
85 mins: Martinelli off, Ferran on.
Red card scenario:
In all scenario’s we revert to a 4-4-1 formation. Fernandes will be replaced with one of the below whilst our wingers drop back in a 4 man midfield. Little change from a tactical perspective as we form a tight unit and pick off the opposition on the break as they commit men forward.
Raya
Walker Van Dijk Bastoni Robertson
Salah KDB Caicedo Martinelli
Vlahovic
GK – Vandevoordt
FB – Cancelo
CB - Varane
CM - Casemiro
WG – Gnabry
CF - Ferran
Updated tactics - deal was done before I’d posted these so a couple changes
comment by RenegadeOF (U9457)
posted 1 hour, 53 minutes ago
4-3-3 possession
We go with a fluid attacking team full of pace and width, stretch the game and target the opposition in behind their midfield with our runners from midfield and two wide no.10s. With the width of fbs stretching the game we look to create space for the trio of central players and front three to drag their cms out of position, Rodri and Valverde a solid midfield pairing offering freedom to the fbs to get forward. Dominate possession and the game.
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 Rodri and Valverde 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 them starting from the back, playing patiently.
Rodri and Valverde to link the defence and attack, with Valverde being the key link between midfield and attack, bursting forward to get in between the lines. We have a strong blend of power and energy in cm. Osimhen the striker, Foden and Nkunku with freedom to come inside and get close in free roles. We want them to expose space and get the balls in dangerous positions so in these wide no.10 roles they have fluid roles with license to drift.
We want the fbs bombing forward to combine with the two wide 10s, fbs creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
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.
Using the high line we attack as a team, take the game to them ensuring we always have options in attack.
Wide no.10s play high, stretching the game creating space in the middle of the park for our midfielders. Up top Osimhen is a tireless player that can stretch their defence. 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.
———————————— Alisson
R.James ——— Militao —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
—————————- Rodri —— Valverde
———————————- Musiala
——— Nkunku —————————————— P.Foden ——
———————————- Osimhen
Subs. Sanchez, Scalvini, Sarr, Barella, Olise, Luis Diaz, Evanilson
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 Militao who is free to use his pace and intelligence to sweep up. Rodri plays as dm, Valverde and Musiala play zonally in front of him, pressing the play. The wide no.10s 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 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 they 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 70 mins bring on Evanilson for Osimhen
If winning after 75 mins bring on Luis Diaz for Nkunku.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Sarr for Valverde. Fresh legs.
If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Olise for Theo. 3-5-2. Nkunku up top.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Evanilson for Nkunku 3-5-2.
If losing or drawing after 80 mins bring on Luis Diaz for Valverde. Musiala deeper cm next to Rodri.
Watford: Week 3 Away to Man City
Captain: André
Vice-Captain: Verbruggen
-----------------Verbruggen
Fresneda--Collins--Quansah--Vázquez
---------------André----White
---------------------Enciso
Duarte-----------------------------Edwards
--------------------Gimenez
SUBS: Grando, Wesley, Kaiky, Perrone, Price, Martins, Ferguson
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, André, who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (White). In front of them Enciso 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’ White will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Enciso 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: Verbruggen 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, André. 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 (White). 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 Enciso 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 Duarte and Edwards will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Enciso, White and Gimenez 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 White may sit a bit deeper allowing Enciso 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.
Gimenez 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: Enciso, Edwards or Duarte with Collins, Quansah and Gimenez to offer an aerial threat. Enciso and Edwards (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 – Kaiky for Collins, Perrone for André and Ferguson for Gimenez.
If losing (60 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace White with Ferguson and Duarte with Martins. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
---------------André
Martins---Enciso---Edwards
-------Ferguson--Gimenez
Red Card Subs:
Keeper: Grando for Verbruggen and take off Enciso: 4-4-1
FB: Vázquez as direct replacement (LB/RB) and take off Enciso: 4-4-1
CB: Kaiky as direct replacement and take off Enciso: 4-4-1
CM: Price as direct replacement and take off Enciso: 4-4-1
LW/RW/AM: Move Enciso to LW/RW: 4-4-1
CF: Ferguson as direct replacement and take off Enciso: 4-4-1
*****If Enciso red carded then use Edwards
Arsenal
Today we want to focus our attacks down our left side. We believe we can harm our opponents by isolating the right side of their defence, pin back their right side especially if there’s minimal support from their wide players.
—————— Neuer
Trent - Saliba - Kim - Lucas
—————- de Jong
—— Curtis — Maddison
Griezzy ———————— Sane
—————— Lautaro
Subs: Maigan, Porro, Pavard, Rovella, Paqueta, Thuram, Diogoal
To be positive down our left side, Sane will be expected to hold the width while the left side eight situates himself inside their right defender. Our left back will move forward just enough to force their right attacker to recover but leave enough space not to crowd Sane for him to isolate their right defender. Sane’s dribbling at speed ability will cause problems.
On our right side our RCM will move inside to create a double pivot with our DM, while the LCM will join our RW (playing like a right sided second striker) and our striker to form a narrow front three. Again playing on the fact that their wide attackers won’t put much effort into tracking back, it will allow our right back significant space to push into.
——— Saliba —— Kim
——— Curtis - de Jong - Lucas
Trent ——————————————
——————————— Madders
—— Griezzy - Lautaro ————Sane
The LCM advancing through the left inside channel and ST pushing the oppositions last line deeper will give our RW space to receive and two key options to pass to and combine in central spaces. They will join forces with our double pivot to overload their midfield and lock them in their half. Plan is for the RW to receive and spread the ball to Sane who will also make runs in behind wide on the left. The ST must stretch the pitch from the centre supported by our LCM, suitably going wide to support Sane.
Midfield regains will be key to our success today, Sane taking up a high and wide position will prove to be an useful outlet as the ball transitions from them to us. We will be defending with a high line but with defenders rapid and a goalkeeper with incredible game reading skills we will be fine concentrating on the attack and making the most of transition phases / midfield regains.
Subs
60th min: Sane and Madders will tire from their roles, they will be replaced by Thuram and Porro. Thuram will join the ST and RW with central combinations to keep pressure while Porro playing at right back will move Trent into midfield to control the midfield, pushing Curtis further forward.
75th min: Rovella will come on for Alvarez to calm things and play line breaking passes from deep to make sure our front three are not isolated.
If we’re losing by the 70th min: Diogoal will go on for Griezzy, one of the most natural finishers on the planet will stay in and around the box to do what he does best, Rovella sub won’t happen.
NEWCASTLE UNITED v Tottenham
Injuries: Zinchenko, Konate, Mac Allister, Shaw
------------------ Donnarumma
Trippier - Gabriel - Rudiger - Livramento
--------------- Kroos - Palhinha
------‐-------------- Odegaard
Palmer ------------- Kane -------------- Son
Subs: Martinez, Kalulu, Hannibal, Goretzka, Mbuemo, Barcola, Toney
----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Tottenham, hopefully our back four will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Donnarumma in goal, Gabriel Magalhaes and Rudiger at centreback, Trippier and Robinson at fullback, Kroos and Palhinha as the double pivot in midfield, Odegaard as our AM, with Palmer and Son either side of Kane upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Spurs are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Donnarumma - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Kane.
Gabriel/Rudiger - Rudiger to mark their striker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Gabriel to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Trippier/Robinson - Both of you to force the Spurs wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Palmer and Son as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Kane and Odegaard, and link with Kroos and Palhinha. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Kroos/Palhinha - Working as a double pivot today, off the ball you both sit and protect the back four, offer easy options for the centrebacks to pass out from to avoid them being caught in possession. The triangle of you two and Odegaard will be vital to unlocking the Spurs defence, and when we are in attack, alternate so that one of you gets involved and one of you stays back. Alternating will make it harder for their midfield runners to track you arriving late into the penalty area or being free about 25/30 yards from goal to find a key pass.
Odegaard - Playing as our AM, without the ball drop in alongside Kroos and Palhinha to keep a tight midfield trio, but in possession get forward, make late runs into the area for crosses coming in and drag defenders away from Kane.
Palmer/Son - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Trippier and Robinson overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Kane and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Kroos, Palhinha and Odegaard will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Kane's presence will create for you. Drop back to form a midfield five either side of Kroos, Palhinha and Odegaard to make it hard for Spurs to break us down.
Kane - you will be expected to occupy the Spurs centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Palmer and Son on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you, and with Kroos, Palhinha and Odegaard behind you, to create opportunities.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: Odegaard and Palmer off, Goretzka and Mbuemo on. Change to 4-5-1, Odegaard slots into CM. Mbuemo to RW with pace to hit on the break.
If still winning at 80 mins: Kane off, Toney on. Same formation but pace for the counter attack upfront.
If drawing at 70 mins: Palmer and Son off, Mbuemo and Barcola on. Like for like, fresh legs, fresh ideas to try and win the game.
If still drawing at 80 mins: Kroos off, Toney on. Change to 4-1-3-2, look to force a winner, Palhinha the DM, Toney partners Kane up top.
If losing at 70 mins: Trippier and Livramento off, Kalulu and Toney on. Change to 3-2-3-2;
Donnarumma
Kalulu - Gabriel - Rudiger
Kroos - Palhinha
Palmer - Odegaard - Son
Toney - Kane
If still losing at 85 mins: Palhinha off, Mbuemo on. Change to 3-1-4-2. Blaze of glory, all out attack.
Donnarumma
Kalulu - Gabriel - Rudiger
Kroos
Mbuemo - Palmer - Odegaard - Son
Toney - Kane
Setpieces;
Left side freekicks and left wing corners: Toni Kroos or Kieran Trippier
Right side freekicks and right wing corners: Toni Kroos or Cole Palmer
Penalties: Ivan Toney or Harry Kane
---------------------- D.Costa ------------------------
A.Hakimi - Cr. Romero - Pau Torres - N.Mendes
---------- E.Fernandez --- Declan. Rice ----------
M.Diaby --------- J.Bellingham ---------- Mbappe
---------------------- Haaland -----------------------
Trafford, Kounde, Kamara, Grealish, Vermeeren, Mitoma, A.Isak
We have plenty pace, power and most importantyly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 with attacking fullbacks to boot. Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly. We beat them last week and now we aim to make it a double over them.
Today Pau Torres is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Romero to take care of the main man, 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 the middle men to pass and sprint passed the wingers giving Bellingham that option of playing wide or more central to Haaland or the players moving inside.
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 Rice 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. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. At times Enzo will push a further forward joining Bellingham, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Bellingham is the link between midfield and attack, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, Bellingham has to find him, he will find him, , 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 and he is always good for a goal or two. 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, Diaby and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Bellingham and Enzo 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, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Bellingham, 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 - D.Rice
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Losing -
65 Mins - Grealish for Enzo, Bellingham moves back a bit, Grealsih to LW, Mbappe up top 442/424
75 Mins - Kounde for Hakimi, Isak for Mendes
Kounde to RCB, Isak up top 343
Winning -
75 Mins - Kamara for Enzo, a bit more defensive in midfield, Mitoma for Haaland, Mbappe up top, Mitoma to LW
Drawing -
70 Mins - Vermeeren for Enzo look to break the lines with his passing and vision, Mitoma for Diaby and Switch with Mbappe
--------------------- N.Pope ----------------------
M.Kayode -- Skriniar -- Botman -- Estupinan
----------- Doug Luiz ---- Bissouma ------------
Chiesa ------------- B.Silva ------------ R.Leao
--------------------- Watkins ---------------------
Bazanu, Akanji, Gallagher, Goncalves, L.Bailey, J.David, Solanke
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 Botman looking to pick up the main striker, he is quick and powerful CB to come against, so will look to bully the striker, be on his toes at all times looking to intercept and ball through to No.9 nip in ahead when he can but nothing rash so he doesnt lose out in possession. Skriniar alongside, again a very robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Botman if needed or pick up a SS/AM, can also switch roles with him if he struggles with high balls, 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 Chiesa/Leao 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 3 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Bissouma is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes D.Luiz will be there snapping at his heals, D.Luiz is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Bissouma making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball.
B.Silva will be the one in midfield to push more forward, when attacking he moves into an AM/free role/SS, 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 Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence just hassle the midfield and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.
Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, 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 especially with B.Silva buzzing around, Watkins is a pain in the erse to defend against with his movement and pace.
Captain - D.Luiz
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - B.Silva
Corners - Wingers
Losing -
70 Mins - Akanji for Kayode to RCB, J.David for Estupinan up top 3412, L.Bailey for Leao
Winning -
70 Mins - Gallagher for B.Silva, Bailey for Leao, Solanke for Watkins
Drawing -
70 Mins - J.David for Watkins, Bailey for Leao
MAN UTD VS arsenal
----------------------------------------Kepa---------------------------------
Frimpong-------Upamecano----------Hincapie------Barco
--------------------------------------Camavinga--------------------------
-------------------------Elliott------------------------Wirtz--------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saka-----------------------------Boniface-------------------------Doku
Subs - Mamardashvilli, Inacio, Guler, Mudryk, Madueke, Holjund, Joao Pedro
CAPTAIN - WIRTZ
CK'S - WIRTZ
FK'S - WIRTZ
PENALTIES - BONIFACE
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 defence is well balanced. Upamecano and Hincapie bring a lot of strength and pace to the defence. Hincapie will marshal the defence and Upamecano will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you.
Frimpong and Barco are playing as fullbacks today. Start the game off with a conservative mindset and try not too attack too much, but as the game goes on you will have more freedom. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM will be helping you a lot aswell. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. I want both fullbacks 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.
Defence Mid
Camavinga
Camavinga will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or to the more creative players next to you. Also be on the lookout for the runs of Saka/Doku and thread dangerous through balls to them.
Centre Mids
Harvey Elliott + Florian Wirtz
Elliott has been given a lot of minutes by Klopp in CM this season and you can see why. He is a bundle of energy and he has the willingness to track back and help in defensive duties. That will be his role here but Elliott has the added bonus of being able to create from deep positions aswell as his passing range is top notch.
Wirtz will be the more attack minded player here. He will drop deep next to Elliott when we don't have possession of the ball and congest the midfield so it is harder for the oppo to break through but his real ability shines when he has the ball at his feet. Look for the runs of the front three and use your quick turn of pace to accelerate away from oppo players. Then when in a bit of free space use your hawk eyed vision to thread dangerous through ball for our attackers to run onto. When Boniface is holding the ball up in attack push up to support him.
Wingers
Saka + Doku
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. Doku will be looking to cut in from the left and Saka 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 CM's or play quick one two's with our fullbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some balls into the box for Boniface 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
Victor Boniface
Boniface will be leading the line for us today. He has got the strength and pace 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. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. Time your runs off of the oppo shoulders and use your pace to get away from them.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Hojlund and Mudryk for Elliott and Doku 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.
---------------------------------------------Kepa-----------------------
Frimpong----------Upamecano--------Hincapie-------Barco
---------------------------------------Camavinga--------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------Wirtz-----------------------------------
Saka------------------Hojlund---------Boniface-------------Mudryk
Subs if WINNING BY 75MINS
Take off Wirtz and put on Inacio in CB to offer more defensive protection Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Put on Mudryk and Madueke for our wingers to offer a more quicker threat on the counter.
-------------------------------------------Kepa-----------------------
Frimpong----Upamecano---Hincapie---Inacio---Barco
--------------------------Camavinga----------Elliott----------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Madueke--------------------------------------------------------------Mudryk
--------------------------------------Boniface-----------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS (fresh legs)
Hojlund on for Boniface
Mudryk on for Doku
Madueke on for Saka
BRENTFORD v Manchester City
🤕
Oscar Gloukh
Timo Werner
Konrad Laimer
Eljif Elmas
______________Vicario
Dedic, Yaakobishvili, Branthwaite, Maatsen
_________Lobotka, Koopmeiners
__________Szoboszlai, Simons
___________Openda, Sesko
Kelleher, Drăgușin, Kerkez, Frendrup, Baumgartner, Sancet, Zirkzee
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Koopmeiners
Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.
What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.
The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.
The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.
The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.
What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.
The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.
The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.
The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.
Substitution on 75 mins
Like for like - Kerkez and Zirkzee on for Maatsen and Sesko
Comment deleted by Article Creator
Remove Sancet from my bench 👍
4-3-3 High tempo
We go with a fluid attacking team full of pace and power, width to stretch the game and target the opposition full backs. Fbs attacking to create overloads, with Foden in a free role to link and find the space. With the width of fbs stretching the game, we look to create space for the trio of central players and front three to drag their defenders out of position, Rodri and Valverde a solid midfield pairing offering freedom to the fbs to get forward.
Set pieces will be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden and Timber (5’11) are over 6ft, we look to use the power in open play and set pieces to bully Villa.
Rodri offering cover in front of the cbs, Valverde plays box to box. Start as we mean to go on, frustrate their players by not letting them get a feel of the ball.
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 Rodri and Valverde 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 them starting from the back, playing patiently.
Rodri and Valverde to link the defence and attack, with Valverde being the key link between midfield and attack, bursting forward to get in between the lines. We have a strong blend of power and energy in cm. Osimhen the striker, Foden with freedom in a free role to find pockets of space in the final third.
We want the fbs bombing forward to combine with the wide forwards, fbs creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
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.
Using the high line we attack as a team, take the game to them ensuring we always have options in attack.
Wide forwards play high, stretching the game creating space in the middle of the park for our midfielders. Up top Osimhen is a tireless player that can stretch their defence. 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.
—————————————— Alisson
J.Timber —— Marquinhos —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
———————————- Rodri —— Valverde
—————————————— P.Foden
M.Olise ———————————————————— D.Nunez
—————————————— Osimhen
Subs. Sanchez, Couto, Lukeba, Sarr, Gundogan, Luis Diaz, Evanilson
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. Rodri plays as dm, Valverde and Foden play zonally in front of him, pressing the play. The wide forwards 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 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 they 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 70 mins bring on Luis Diaz for Nunuez. Pace to stretch tired Villa legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Gundogan for Olise. Foden wide. Look to give us more control.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Sarr for Valverde. Fresh legs.
If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Luis Diaz for Theo. 3-5-2. Nunez up top.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Gundogan for Olise. Foden right.
If losing or drawing after 80 mins bring on Felix for Valverde. Gundogan deeper cm next to Rodri.
Balanced 3-4-1-2
We go with a team full of pace out wide and up top, power and aggression through the middle with Messi as the creator in the middle of it all.
Importantly for a front two both have can contribute in the build up. A balanced team designed to control the tempo of the game, using the extra cb to allow the back 3 to step up and control the tempo of the game, wing backs stretching the game providing width and allowing the two forwards ahead of Messi to target the fbs, getting 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 control the ball.
Our formation is fluid, we go with Lisandro as a playmaking cb. Possession starts at the back, and so with our 3 ball playing cbs and cms we look to control the tempo, switching the play quickly from side to side, then seeking to switch and attack quickly down the wing when the space opens up.
Up top we have the pace to push them back and create space for Messi, at wb and front 2, this pace will stretch them. Tchouameni the box to box option in cm giving us power and athleticism, Bentancur for his aggression and creativity to complement that.
With the attacking strength of our wing backs and forwards, to outnumber them in attack, dragging players out of position and creating space.
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.
We attack with a high tempo down the wings, looking to move quickly to catch their defenders/mids out of position and create half spaces for our quality to tell.
With two forwards full of pace, Ederson’s long balls will also be important as we vary how we attack and go direct, in behind or looking to stretch toon down the channels.
—————————————— Ederson —————————————
—————— R.Araujo —— de Ligt —— Lisandro.M —————
M.Gusto —— R.Bentancur ——— Tchouameni —— Grimaldo
—————————————— L.Messi —————
—————————— M.Salah ——— Rashford—————————
Subs. Oblak, White, Chillwell, Onana, Kulusevski, Kang in Lee, Richarlison
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 they 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.
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 their cms. When defending, Tchouameni plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area, Bentancur plays ball side of Tchouameni, using his energy to press the passing lanes.
Attack - we try to play at a high tempo, get the ball out wide quick, counter when we can. When we need to though the cbs and cms will put their foot on the ball, slowly build momentum and confidence, easing any periods of pressure when we’ve been under the kosh.
Subs.
If winning after 67 mins bring on Onana for Bentancur. Fresh legs.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Kulu for Messi. 3421. Nunez left.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Richarlison for Rashford. Pace and power against tired legs.
If drawing or losing after 60 mins bring on Kulusevski for Araujo. 4-2-2-2. Kulu left
If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Onana for Bentancur. Fresh legs, height for set pieces and adds pace through the middle with Tchouameni.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Richarlison for Rashford. Fresh pace and power.
---------------------- D.Costa ------------------------
A.Hakimi - Ruben Dias - Cr. Romero - N.Mendes
----------- E.Fernandez - Declan. Rice -----------
M.Diaby ---------- Bellingham ----------- Mbappe
--------------------- E.Haaland ----------------------
Slonina, Kounde, Kamara, Vermeeren, Grealish, Alvarez, Gyökeres
We have plenty pace, power and most importantyly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 with attacking fullbacks to boot. Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly. We beat them last week and now we aim to make it a double over them.
Today R.Dias is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Romero to take care of the main man, 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 the middle men to pass and sprint passed the wingers giving Bellingham that option of playing wide or more central to Haaland or the players moving inside. Both Cbs up for corners, FBs stay back
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 Rice 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. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. At times Enzo will push a further forward joining Bellingham, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Bellingham is the link between midfield and attack, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, Bellingham has to find him, he will find him, , 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 and he is always good for a goal or two. 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, Diaby and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Bellingham and Enzo 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, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Bellingham, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.
Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Losing -
65 Mins - Grealish for Enzo, Jude in beside Rice, Mbappe up top, Grealish left
75 Mins - Alvarez for Haaland fresh legs, pace and finishing
Winning -
75 Mins - Kamara for Enzo fresh legs in the heart of the team, Grealish for Haaland, switch with Mbappe
83 Mins - Kounde for Hakimi
Drawing
70 Mins - Alvarez for Diaby, Vermeeren for Enzo
80 Mins - Grealish for Haaland switch with Mbappe
Dock a slot for using an injured player originally
------------------------- N.Pope -------------------------
D.Carvajal ---- Skriniar ---- Botman- --- Estupinan
------------- Doug Luiz -------- Bissouma -------------
------------------------- B.Silva -------------------------
Chiesa ------------------------------------------ Bailey
------------------------ Watkins -------------------------
Bazanu, Akanji, Tierney, Tielemans, J.Ramsey, J.David
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 Botman looking to pick up the main striker, he is quick and powerful CB to come against, so will look to bully the striker, be on his toes at all times looking to intercept and ball through to No.9 nip in ahead when he can but nothing rash so he doesnt lose out in possession. Skriniar alongside, again a very robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Botman if needed or pick up a SS/AM, can also switch roles with him if he struggles with high balls, 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 Chiesa/Bailey 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 3 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Bissouma is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes D.Luiz will be there snapping at his heals, D.Luiz is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Bissouma making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball.
B.Silva will be the one in midfield to push more forward, when attacking he moves into an AM/free role/SS, 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 Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence just hassle the midfield and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.
Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, 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 especially with B.Silva buzzing around, Watkins is a pain in the erse to defend against with his movement and pace.
Captain - D.Luiz
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - B.Silva
Corners - Wingers
Losing -
70 Mins - Carvajal and Estupinan off, Akanji on to RCB, J.David up front 3412 attacking
Winning/Drawing -
75 Mins - Tielemans for Bissouma fresh legs
80 Mins - J.David for Watkins
Red card
GK - Bazanu for Estupinan 351
RB - Akanji for Bailey, Chiesa go into a free role 4311
LB - Tierney for Bailey as above
CB - Akanji for Bailey as above
CM - Tielemans for Bailey " "
B.Silva - nothing
Winger - other goes to a free role
Watkins - Bailey up front then sub for J.David if not on already, Chiesa free role 4311
4311 as in B.Silva drops into a 3 man flat midfield
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Arsenal
Today we will go with a attacking 3-5-2 formation, allowing us to be more expressive with a solid base. Our midfield will boast a blend of experience and youthful energy. Our front two will be a duo of a playmaking forward and a proper striker.
———————— Neuer
——— Pavard - Saliba - Konate
Trent - Frankie - Stones - Madders - Cancelo
————— Griezzy - Lautaro
Subs: Maigan, Thuram, Palacios, Alvarez, Olmo, Shaw, Diogoal
Our centre CM will be the one that sits deeper and use his passing range to break the lines, while also allowing our wingbacks more freedom to advance. He will be ably supported by our more advanced RCB, who with his ball playing skills and reading of the game can help in transition. Our RST will be our playmaking forward, operating between the lines and linking with the midfield. With the RCB more advanced and our RCM and LCM operating a ‘one up one down’ strategy, we ensure there is always five players spread across midfield providing a structure for our players to play their natural game. Also allows numerical advantages in certain areas of the pitch during phases.
The off-the-ball structure is highly organized, making it challenging for opponents to find spaces between the lines. The defensive structure is adaptable, shifting between a back 5 and back 6 under pressure. In defensive phases, the 3-5-2 transitions into a 5-3-2. They focus on keeping their midfield and forwards narrow, safeguarding central areas to force opponents out wide. When defending the flanks, the team shifts over to maintain a compact and narrow shape, ensuring protection of the channels.
The build-up phase starts with three players, providing a numerical advantage in the first phase. This allows for more options and flexibility in possession. The wing-backs push high, stretching the opposition and creating space through the middle. The central defenders take on the responsibility of initiating the team's actions. Simultaneously, midfielders positioned between the lines strive to locate open spaces within the midfield. Opting for this formation alleviates the need for wing-backs to contribute to the buildup, as their counterparts generate an advantage in the midfield.
A midfielder often drops deep to aid in the build-up, creating passing angles and assisting in transitioning from defense to attack. The presence of a midfielder between the lines allows for dangerous passes through the middle.
Having high wing-backs stretches the opponent's defense, opening up more spaces through the middle. The wing-backs become viable options for long passes, offering a direct attacking option. The wing-backs operate in advanced positions, with our approach involving positioning them exceptionally wide, right along the touchlines. This strategic choice serves to stretch the opposing team, creating additional space in the midfield and providing ample room on the flanks.
Long balls in behind the opposition can surprise defenders, and this strategy contributes to the overall build-up, making opponents more hesitant to press.
Our LCM’s attacking movements from midfield, his runs in behind, and flexibility provide additional options for us. His ability to attack from deep adds dynamism to the team's play.
Subs:
70th min: tired legs out wide so we put Shaw on for Cancelo
75th min: Olmo for Lautaro tired legs and Olmo can help keep the ball
75th min: if we’re winning then Alvarez on for Frankie to solidify our hold on the game
In need of a goal 65th min: Thuram on for Griezzy and Diogoal on for Madders and change to a 3-4-3.
Man City
----------------------- Oblak -----------------------
K.Walker --- Van Dijk -- Bastoni --- Robertson
---------- Mac Allister --- M.Caicedo -----------
Pedro Neto -------- Nkunku ------ Ferran Torres
-------------------- D.Vlahovic --------------------
Subs:
Vandevoort, Porro, Varane, Casemiro, Gnabry, Martinelli, Jesus
We look to move the ball at speed as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim for the win.
Our DM & CM pivot will marshall the middle of the park allowing Nkunu free reign in the hole between midfield and striker where he can wreak havoc. He will be flanked by Neto and Ferran who both offer pace and energy out wide with the big man Dusan Vlahovic playing through the middle. Providing that blend of pace, power and trickery as we look to cause their defence plenty of problems.
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. Van Dijk will be the leader at the back. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Bastoni alongside him gives us two comfortable ball playing CB’s allowing us to build from the back, spraying the ball around picking the opposition apart as we look to implement our game plan of quick incisive passing as we look to carve through the opposition. Both CB’s are tall and powerful and have the quality to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions strikers.
Our fullbacks are strong defensively however it is going forward their offer a real threat. We know the opposition generally tend to play a narrow formation and therefore our FB’s could be real difference makers, the lack of wide threat from the opposition allows both Walker and Robertson to push forward, widening the pitch and whipping balls in from out wide for Dusan to attack. Their forward runs will pull our opponents central plays out of position as they are forward out wide to cover the threat of our FB’s opening up space centrally for the likes of Nkunk and Co to cause damage. When in possession both Walker and Robbo both have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third. Look for the early crosses with Vlahovic who is lethal in the box.
Midfield:
Caicedo will be our all action player in the middle. One of the most exciting youngsters around this lad has it all, pace, power, loves a tackle an absolute menace in the middle. He also has strong ball carrying abilities and can also strike a ball from distance.
He combines perfectly with the technical brilliance of Mac Allister. The two players have great chemistry from their time together at Brighton and both have showcased their talent at the very top level. Mac Allister is a delightful player and his passing ability will allow us to dictate the tempo of the game. Alongside Caicedo they give us a solid paring in the middle of the park with both players equally adept at breaking down the opposition as we look to dominate the middle of the park. They will protect the defence and get in the face of the opposition. We look to set the tempo and these two will be the catalyst, dispossess the opposition, get the ball to our playmakers and wreak havoc at the other end.
Forwards:
In attack we have the perfect blend of pace, power and technical excellence. Nkunku plays centrally, looking to drift between the lines making himself extremely difficult to be picked up and causing a mismatch in this area of the field. He’ll look to play off Vlahovic who excels at holding the ball up and will also allow Nkunku to feed off his knockdowns. Offering both goals and assists he’ll be presented with the freedom to get forward and attack the box with the security offered by Caicedo and Mac Allister behind him.
Pedro Neto and Ferran Torres give us great natural width out wide. They’ll look to exploit the space offered by the oppositions narrow formation allowing the Iberian duo time and space to attack their full backs. Neto is our chief creator, capable of wracking up chances for fun and offers the perfect supply line to our frontman. Ferran offers pace and a real goal threat on the left, he’ll look to stretch the opposition with his runs in behind and is an ice cold finisher when through on goal. Quick one two’s in the final third should open things up in the opposition box will open up chances for Neto and Ferran to fire at goal.
With a dream supply line around him Vlahovic will be in his element. A real power forward he offers the dual threat of being deadly in the air and a natural born goalscorer with the ball at his feet.
Vlahovic will be looking to do what he does best, get himself in the box and finish any chances that come his way. Walker and Robertson are both fantastic crossers ready to whip the ball in from out with for Vlahovic to attack in the air and we want him to bully the opposition CB’s. With a big target man in the middle this will also create space for Neto and Ferran who will be looking to make cutting runs in behind from out wide as we go in search for goals and bringing those 3 points home.
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Ferran off, Martinelli on. Fresh legs as we look to pick them off on the break.
85 mins: Nkunku off, Casemiro. Tighten up defensively with dual DMS in the middle of the park as Mac Allister moves to number 8.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Nkunku, Neto & Torres off. Jesus, Martinelli & Gnabry on. Triple sub as we move to an attacking 4-2-2-2. Mac & Caicedo at CM, with Gnabry & Martinelli on the flanks and Vlahovic & Jesus up top. Goals.
Watford: League Week 4 HOME to Newcastle.
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: André
Team:
------------------Verbruggen
Fresneda---Collins—Quansah---Vanderlan
---------------------André
--------------Alcaraz---Gibbs-White
Enciso---------------------------------------Magno
--------------------Gimenez
SUBS: Grando, Cuiabano, Morato, Perrone, Price, Rodríguez, Ferguson
We want to play a neat crisp passing game at high tempo using our obvious pace to punish the opponent. Our formation will be a 4-3-3 that will allow our full backs to join in the attack when necessary and also offer us the flexibility to fall back into a more standard 4-4-2 when under pressure. We need to boss the midfield from the start and control the game with our own tempo. When in possession use the ball well and try and bring our wide men in to play. When chasing the ball press the opponent with urgency and all over the park. Don’t take too many risks and hold onto the ball. With our creativity and pace we will be able to open teams up. Wait for the chances to arise and take them when they come.
Goalkeeper: Verbruggen 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: André 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. Alcaraz and Gibbs-White will play just in front of André. Alcaraz will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Gibbs-White will be the midfield magician. Clever, elusive and tricky we will look to him for creating the midfield openings with his eye for a pass. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Enciso and Magno 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 Gibbs-White, Alcaraz and Gimenez in to play. They can vary their attacks by going wide or cutting inside as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Alcaraz may sit a bit deeper allowing Gibbs-White to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF. As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Gimenez starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great big old fashioned centre forward. We will look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. An eye for a pass and not afraid to have a go from distance. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his power pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Alcaraz, Magno or Enciso with Collins, Quansah and Gimenez to offer an aerial threat. Gibbs-White and Magno (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Gimenez
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Morato for Quansah, Ferguson for Gimenez and Rodríguez for Enciso, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 70 minutes) Rodríguez for Alcaraz and Ferguson for Enciso. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Ferguson and Giovani offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
---------------André
Rodríguez--Gibbs-White--- Magno
------Gimenez---Ferguson
MAN UTD vs spurs
-----------------------------------------------Kepa---------------------------------
Frimpong----------Upamecano-------------Inacio----------Barco
------------------------------------------Camavinga--------------------------
---------------------Gravenberch------------------Elliott--------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saka---------------------------------Boniface-------------------------Doku
Subs - Mamardashvilli, Diomande, Guler, Mudryk, Madueke, Holjund, Joao Pedro
CK'S - SAKA
FK'S - SAKA
PENALTIES - BONIFACE
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 defence is well balanced. Upamecano and Inacio bring a lot of strength and pace to the defence. Inacio will marshal the defence and Upamecano will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you.
Frimpong and Barco are playing as fullbacks today. Start the game off with a conservative mindset and try not too attack too much, but as the game goes on you will have more freedom. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM will be helping you a lot aswell. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. I want both fullbacks 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.
Defence Mid
Camavinga
Camavinga will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or to the more creative players next to you. Also be on the lookout for the runs of Saka/Doku and thread dangerous through balls to them.
Centre Mids
Harvey Elliott + Gravenberch
Elliott has been given a lot of minutes by Klopp in CM this season and you can see why. He is a bundle of energy and he has the willingness to track back and help in defensive duties. That will be his role here but Elliott has the added bonus of being able to create from deep positions aswell as his passing range is top notch.
Gravenberch will be the more attack minded player here. He will drop deep next to Elliott when we don't have possession of the ball and congest the midfield so it is harder for the oppo to break through but his real ability shines when he has the ball at his feet. Look for the runs of the front three and use your quick turn of pace to accelerate away from oppo players. Then when in a bit of free space use your hawk eyed vision to thread dangerous through ball for our attackers to run onto. When Boniface is holding the ball up in attack push up to support him.
Wingers
Saka + Doku
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. Doku will be looking to cut in from the left and Saka 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 CM's or play quick one two's with our fullbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some balls into the box for Boniface 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
Victor Boniface
Boniface will be leading the line for us today. He has got the strength and pace 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. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. Time your runs off of the oppo shoulders and use your pace to get away from them.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Hojlund and Mudryk for Elliott and Doku to bring some more attacking impetus on. Gravenberch off for Joao Pedro aswell. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
---------------------------------------------Kepa-----------------------
Frimpong----------Upamecano--------Inacio-------Barco
---------------------------------------Camavinga--------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------Pedro-----------------------------------
Saka---------------------Hojlund---------Boniface-------------Mudryk
Subs if WINNING BY 75MINS
Take off Elliott and put on Diomande in CB to offer more defensive protection Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Put on Mudryk and Madueke for our wingers to offer a more quicker threat on the counter.
-------------------------------------------Kepa-----------------------
Frimpong----Upamecano---Diomande---Inacio---Barco
-----------------------Camavinga----------Gravenberch----------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Madueke--------------------------------------------------------------Mudryk
--------------------------------------Boniface-----------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS (fresh legs)
Hojlund on for Boniface
Mudryk on for Doku
Madueke on for Saka
Watford v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Palhinha, Johnson, Smith Rowe, Goretzka, Raphinha
------------------ Donnarumma
Trippier - Gabriel - Rudiger - Zinchenko
‐------------------- McTominay
--------- De Bruyne ------ Odegaard
Palmer ------------- Kane -------------- Son
Subs: Martinez, Kalulu, Hojbjerg, Kroos, Mbuemo, Sancho, Toney
----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Watford, hopefully our back four and DM will keep their attack at bay, while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Donnarumma in goal, Gabriel Magalhaes and Rudiger at centreback, Trippier and Zinchenko at fullback, McTominay the sole sitting DM, De Bruyne and Odegaard transitioning from midfield to attack, with Palmer and Son either side of Kane upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Watford are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Donnarumma - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Kane.
Gabriel/Rudiger - Rudiger to mark their striker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Gabriel to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Trippier/Zinchenko - Both of you to force the Watford wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of McTominay to give him passing options, in attack push forward and support Palmer and Son as they will try to run inside the fullback, and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Kane and Odegaard, and link with De Bruyne and Hojbjerg. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
McTominay - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Watford from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for Trippier and Zinchenko either side of you, and De Bruyne and Odegaard ahead of you. No need to get forward, apart for setpieces on occasion.
De Bruyne/Odegaard - Both playing in central midfield but both able to stray into the AM role when required, without the ball form a midfield trio either side of McTominay, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be match winners. De Bruyne to primarily work deeper, pick up the ball from Trippier/Zinchenko/McTominay and look for Odegaard/Son/Palmer/Kane making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Odegaard to be the one who tries to play in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for De Bruyne, or defenders out of position to create space for Palmer/Son/Kane to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Palmer/Son - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Trippier and Zinchenko overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Kane and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with De Bruyne and Odegaard will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Kane's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, McTominay and Odegaard to make it hard for Watford to break us down.
Kane - you will be expected to occupy the Watford centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Palmer and Son on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you, and with De Bruyne and Odegaard behind you, to create opportunities.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: Odegaard and Palmer off, Hojbjerg and Mbuemo on. Change to flat 4-5-1, De Bruyne and McTominay either side of Hojbjerg, focus on ball retention to see out the win, while having plenty of bodies back when we dont have the ball. Mbuemo to RW as fresh legs to hit on the break.
If still winning at 80 mins: Kane off, Toney on. Same formation but pace for the counter attack upfront.
If drawing at 70 mins: Palmer and Son off, Mbuemo and Sanchi on. Like for like, fresh legs, fresh ideas to try and win the game.
If still drawing at 80 mins: Odegaard off, Toney on. Change to 4-1-3-2, look to force a winner, McTominay the DM, De Bruyne to AM, Toney partners Kane up top.
If losing at 70 mins: Trippier and McTominay off, Kalulu and Toney on. Change to 3-2-3-2;
Donnarumma
Kalulu - Gabriel - Rudiger
De Bruyne - Zinchenko
Palmer - Odegaard - Son
Toney - Kane
If still losing at 85 mins: Zinchenko off, Mbuemo on. Change to 3-1-4-2. Blaze of glory, all out attack.
Donnarumma
Kalulu - Gabriel - Rudiger
De Bruyne
Mbuemo - Palmer - Odegaard - Son
Toney - Kane
Setpieces;
Left side freekicks and left wing corners: Kevin De Bruyne or Kieran Trippier
Right side freekicks and right wing corners: Oleksandr Zinchenko or Cole Palmer
Penalties: Ivan Toney or Harry Kane
BRENTFORD v Watford
🤕🤧🤒
Elmas
Branthwaite
Kelleher
Andersen
___________Vicario
Laimer, Simakan, Drăgușin, Maatsen
_____Lobotka, Koopmeiners
______Szoboszlai, Simons
________Openda, Sesko
Hermansen, Dedic, Kerkez, Seiwald, Baumgartner, Olmo, Zirkzee
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai/Koopmeiners
Pens - Koopmeiners
Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.
What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.
The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.
The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.
The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.
What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.
The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.
The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.
The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.
Substitution on 75 mins
Like for like - Dedic and Olmo on for Laimer and Simons
------------------------ N.Pope ------------------------
D.Carvajal --- Skriniar --- Botman --- N.Williams
------------- Doug Luiz ----- Bissouma --------------
Chiesa --------------- Dybala --------------- R.Leao
----------------------- Watkins ------------------------
D.Callai, Konsa, Zubimendi, Sterling, L.Bailey, J.David, Solanke
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 Botman looking to pick up the main striker, he is quick and powerful CB to come against, so will look to bully the striker, be on his toes at all times looking to intercept and ball through to No.9 nip in ahead when he can but nothing rash so he doesnt lose out in possession. Skriniar alongside, again a very robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Botman if needed or pick up a SS/AM, can also switch roles with him if he struggles with high balls, 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 the wingers 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 2 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Bissouma is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes D.Luiz will be there snapping at his heals, D.Luiz is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Bissouma making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball.
Dybala will push more forward, when attacking he moves into an AM/free role/SS, 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 Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence just hassle the midfield and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.
Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, 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 especially with Dybala buzzing around, Watkins is a pain in the erse to defend against with his movement and pace.
Captain - D.Luiz
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - B.Silva
Corners - Wingers
Losing -
65 Mins - Solanke for Dybala 442/424 a bit more direct, using Solankes strength
75 Mins - J.David for Watkins, Sterling for Leao
Winning
75 Mins - Zubimendi for Bissouma, some fresh legs in midfield, Sterling for Leao
83 Mins - J.David for Dybala
Drawing -
70 Mins - J.David for Dybala, Sterling for Leao, Solanke for Watkins like for like fresh legs
------------------- Emi Martinez --------------------
A.Hakimi ---- Romero --- P.Torres --- N.Mendes
------------ Fernandez ---- B. Kamara ------------
M.Diaby ---------- Bellingham ----------- Mbappe
--------------------- E.Haaland ----------------------
D.Costa, Colwill, Hickey, Vermeeren, Grealish, Alvarez, A.Isak
We have plenty pace, power and most importantyly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 with attacking fullbacks to boot. Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly. We beat them last week and now we aim to make it a double over them.
Today Pau Torres is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Romero to take care of the main man, 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 Kamara 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 the middle men to pass and sprint passed the wingers giving Bellingham that option of playing wide or more central to Haaland or the players moving inside. Both Cbs up for corners, FBs stay back
Fernandez and Kamara must be patient, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Kamara doing the marking job on the AM/SS sometimes having to become a 3rd CB and Kamara doing the running when others come forward, be onto them quickly stop the ball getting to the forwards and into danger areas, when attacking Kamara 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. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. At times Enzo will push a further forward joining Bellingham, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Bellingham is the link between midfield and attack, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, Bellingham has to find him, he will find him, 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 and he is always good for a goal or two. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediete so will always help out Enzo and Kamara 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, Diaby and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Bellingham and Enzo 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, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Bellingham, 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 - Romero
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Losing -
65 Mins - A.Isak for Enzo, Bellingham drop back into midfield, Isak up top 442/424, Mbappe to the right, Grealish on for Diaby and go left
Winning
75 Mins - Grealish for Haaland, he goes LM, Mbappe up top
83 Mins - Vermeeren for Enzo he and Bellingham go either side of Kamara
85 Mins - Hickey for Diaby
Drawing -
70 Mins - Grealish for Enzo, Bellingham drop into midfield, grealsih play as No.10, Alvarez for Diaby
80 Mins - A.Isak for Haaland
Red Card - We play 441
Emi - Costa on for Enzo
FB - Hickey for Enzo
CB - Colwill for Enzo
Kamara - Enzo takes on the DM role
Winger - Jude goes wide
Haaland - Mbappe up top Jude to the left
----------------------- Oblak ----------------------
K.Walker --- Van Dijk -- Bastoni ---- Ait-Nouri
---------- Mac Allister --- Caicedo --------------
--- Pedro Neto --- Nkunku --- Ferran Torres --
------------------ Gabriel Jesus ------------------
Subs:
Vandevoort, van de Ven, Tonali, Thiago, Barcola, Asensio, Gnabry
We look to move the ball at speed as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim for the win.
Our DM & CM pivot will marshall the middle of the park allowing Nkunu free rein in the hole between midfield and striker where he can wreak havoc. He will be flanked by Neto and Ferran who both offer pace and energy out wide with the big man Jesus playing through the middle. Plenty of pace and trickery in attack we look to cause all sorts of problems for their defences.
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. Van Dijk will be the leader at the back. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Bastoni alongside him gives us two comfortable ball playing CB’s allowing us to build from the back, spraying the ball around picking the opposition apart as we look to implement our game plan of quick incisive passing as we look to carve through the opposition. Both CB’s are tall and powerful and have the quality to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions strikers.
Our fullbacks are strong defensively however it is going forward their offer a real threat. With Neto and Ferran both looking to cut infield the overlapping runs of Walker & Ait-Nouri provide natural width and cause the opposition full backs a real headache as they are torn between tracking Neto & Ferran or abandoning their duties to engage our flying full backs creating an overload in our favour on the flanks.
Our DM’s also have an important role to play in this system with Mac & Caicedo shielding the defence when our fullbacks push forward.
Midfield:
Caicedo will be our all action player in the middle. One of the most exciting youngsters around this lad has it all, pace, power, loves a tackle an absolute menace in the middle. He also has strong ball carrying abilities and can also strike a ball from distance.
He combines perfectly with the technical brilliance of Mac Allister. The two players have great chemistry from their time together at Brighton and both have showcased their talent at the very top level. Mac Allister is a delightful player and his passing ability will allow us to dictate the tempo of the game. Alongside Caicedo they give us a solid paring in the middle of the park with both players equally adept at breaking down the opposition as we look to dominate the middle of the park. They will protect the defence and get in the face of the opposition. We look to set the tempo and these two will be the catalyst, dispossess the opposition, get the ball to our playmakers and wreak havoc at the other end.
Forwards:
In attack we have the perfect blend of pace, power and technical excellence. Nkunku plays centrally, looking to drift between the lines making himself extremely difficult to be picked up and causing a mismatch in this area of the field. He’ll look to play off Jesus whose movement is supreme. He’ll be looking to make runs in behind their backline, stretching their defence and by doing so creating a gap between their midfield and defence, creating plenty of space to Nkunku to exploit as a support striker. Offering both goals and assists Nkunku will be presented with the freedom to get forward and attack the box with the security offered by Caicedo and Mac Allister behind him.
Pedro Neto and Ferran give us plenty of pace on the flanks. Neto is our chief creator, capable of wracking up chances for fun and offers the perfect supply line to our frontman. Ferran offers blistering pace and a real goal threat on the left, he’ll look to stretch the opposition with his runs in behind and is an ice cold finisher when through on goal. Quick one two’s in the final third should open things up in the opposition box will open up chances for Neto and Ferran to fire at goal.
Gabriel Jesus oozes quality in attack, not only a great finisher but also a great link up man his presence up top will help those around him thrive. Nkunku in particular should excel off of Jesus’s link up play whilst the Brazilian will thrive off the service of the wide men. We look for Jesus to be a poacher, get in the 6 yard box and tuck away any chances that fall your way with our fullbacks Walker & Ait-Nouri whipping balls across the face of the goal from our wide and Neto producing real incisiveness in the final third. Jesus will also at times look to drop in deep to link up, drawing the CB’s with him and opening up space for Nkunku to run onto behind with the Frenchman equally adept at playing up top. We go with real fluidity in attack making it incredibly difficult for the opposition to employ any sort of man marking tactic and giving us goal threats from every angle.
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Ferran off, Gnabry on. Fresh legs as we look to pick them off on the break.
85 mins: Jesus off, Tonali on. Tighten up defensively with dual DMS in the middle of the park as Mac Allister moves to number 8. Nkunku moves up top.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Caicedo off, Tonali on. We move to an attacking 4-2-2-2. Mac Allister & Tonali at CM with Neto & Ferran on the flanks and Nkunku & Jesus up top. Goals.
80 mins: Neto off, Gnabry on. Fresh legs and an increased goal threat from out wide.
4-3-3 High tempo total football
At home we go with a fluid attacking team full of pace and power to play with a high tempo, width to stretch the game and target the opposition full backs and the space they leave when attacking. Ugarte provides cover to allow fbs to attack and create overloads, with Musiala in a free role to link and find the space. With the width of fbs stretching the game, we look to create space for the trio of central players and front three to drag their defenders out of position.
The Uruguayan warriors in cm are a solid midfield pairing annd set the tempo, offering freedom to the fbs to get forward. We have a pacey and powerful team, and set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden and Timber (5’11) are over 6ft, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully Arsenal.
Possession is dominated by defenders and cms, and so with our cm duo and our back four, all top ball playing defenders we are confident we can play fast flowing football. Play out and around their attackers, and create gaps in their shapes. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through them starting from the back, playing fast flowing football but varying the tempo when we need to slow down.
Ugarte and Valverde to link the defence and attack, with Valverde being the key link between midfield and attack, bursting forward to get in between the lines. Osimhen the striker, Foden, Musiala and Kvarat all given freedom in final third to find pockets of space and go beyond Osimhen.
We want the fbs bombing forward to combine with the wide forwards, fbs creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
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.
Lautaro is faking an injury to help out his old team, and without him they lack a quality striker. Ugarte is picked ahead of Gundogan as Griezzman is could be a threat dropping deeper.
Wide forwards play high, stretching the game creating space in the middle of the park for our midfielders. In the final third they have freedom to go central and not keep the width, as fbs will be overlapping. Up top Osimhen is a tireless player that can stretch their defence.
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.
————————————— Sanchez
J.Timber—— Marquinhos —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
————————— Valverde —— Ugarte
—————————————- Musiala
— P.Foden ———————————————— Kvaratskhelia
————————————— Osimhen
Subs. Henderson, Lukeba, P.Sarr, Gundogan, Savio, J.Felix, D.Nunez
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. Ugarte plays as dm, Valverde and Musiala play zonally in front of him, pressing the play. The wide forwards 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 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 they 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 70 mins bring on Nunez for Kvarat. Power to stretch tired Arsenal legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Gundogan for Valverde. Look to give us more control and dominate possession.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Felix for Foden. Fresh pace and creativity
If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Nunez for Theo. 3-5-2. Nunez up top.
If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Gundogan for Ugarte
If losing or drawing after 80 mins bring on Felix for Musiala
Sign in if you want to comment
Tactics
Page 65 of 77
66 | 67 | 68 | 69 | 70
posted on 22/1/24
Man City
————————————— Raya
K.Walker —— Van Dijk —— Bastoni —— Robertson
———————————— Caicedo
—————— K.De Bruyne —— B.Fernandes
—— M.Salah ——————————————— Martinelli
———————————— D.Vlahovic
Subs:
Vandevoordt, Cancelo, Varane, Casemiro, Raphina, Ferran, Gnabry
First game as City manager we look to start life with a bang. Reunited with my general KDB we also have some world class talent in Salah & Van Dijk to kick off the new reign.
With a midfield bursting with creativity it is only right that we have an attack which can flourish from top class service. Salah, Dusan and Martinelli will be on their element.
Out of possession we revert to a more traditional 4-3-3.
Raya
Walker Van Dijk Bastoni Robertson
De Bruyne Caicedo Fernandes
Salah Vlahovic Martinelli
With KDB & Fernandes dropping in alongside Caicedo 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 Salah & Martinelli 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 Van Dijk will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Bastoni 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 Walker and Robbo both have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third. Look for the early crosses with Vlahovic who is lethal 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. Caicedo will be our anchor in the middle operating as our DM. A bundle of energy capable of covering every blade of grass he’ll be shielding 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 Fernandes 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:
Salah and Martinelli 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. Salah is a world class finisher and will be looking for quick one two’s in and around the box to open up space to get a shot off. We want Martinelli to play on the shoulder of their last man, ready to pounce on the through balls from KDB & Fernandes.
With a dream supply line around him Vlahvoic will be in his element. A real power forward he offers the dual threat of being deadly in the air and a natural born goalscorer with the ball at his feet.
Vlahovic will be looking to do what he does best, get himself in the box and finish any chances that come his way. Walker and Robertson are both fantastic crossers ready to whip the ball in from out with for Vlahovic to attack in the air and we want him to bully the opposition CB’s. With a big target man in the middle this will also create space for Salah and Martinelli who will be looking to make cutting runs in behind from out wide as we go in search for goals to start our new era with a bang!
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Fernandes off, Casemiro on. Dual DM’s as we tighten up defensively.
85 mins: Martinelli off, Ferran on. Fresh leg and pace as we look to pick them off on the counter as the game opens up.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Fernandes off, Gnabry on. 4-2-2-2 with Gnabry & Martinelli on the flanks and Salah & Vlahovic up top. Goals.
85 mins: Martinelli off, Ferran on.
Red card scenario:
In all scenario’s we revert to a 4-4-1 formation. Fernandes will be replaced with one of the below whilst our wingers drop back in a 4 man midfield. Little change from a tactical perspective as we form a tight unit and pick off the opposition on the break as they commit men forward.
Raya
Walker Van Dijk Bastoni Robertson
Salah KDB Caicedo Martinelli
Vlahovic
GK – Vandevoordt
FB – Cancelo
CB - Varane
CM - Casemiro
WG – Gnabry
CF - Ferran
posted on 22/1/24
Updated tactics - deal was done before I’d posted these so a couple changes
comment by RenegadeOF (U9457)
posted 1 hour, 53 minutes ago
4-3-3 possession
We go with a fluid attacking team full of pace and width, stretch the game and target the opposition in behind their midfield with our runners from midfield and two wide no.10s. With the width of fbs stretching the game we look to create space for the trio of central players and front three to drag their cms out of position, Rodri and Valverde a solid midfield pairing offering freedom to the fbs to get forward. Dominate possession and the game.
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 Rodri and Valverde 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 them starting from the back, playing patiently.
Rodri and Valverde to link the defence and attack, with Valverde being the key link between midfield and attack, bursting forward to get in between the lines. We have a strong blend of power and energy in cm. Osimhen the striker, Foden and Nkunku with freedom to come inside and get close in free roles. We want them to expose space and get the balls in dangerous positions so in these wide no.10 roles they have fluid roles with license to drift.
We want the fbs bombing forward to combine with the two wide 10s, fbs creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
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.
Using the high line we attack as a team, take the game to them ensuring we always have options in attack.
Wide no.10s play high, stretching the game creating space in the middle of the park for our midfielders. Up top Osimhen is a tireless player that can stretch their defence. 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.
———————————— Alisson
R.James ——— Militao —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
—————————- Rodri —— Valverde
———————————- Musiala
——— Nkunku —————————————— P.Foden ——
———————————- Osimhen
Subs. Sanchez, Scalvini, Sarr, Barella, Olise, Luis Diaz, Evanilson
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 Militao who is free to use his pace and intelligence to sweep up. Rodri plays as dm, Valverde and Musiala play zonally in front of him, pressing the play. The wide no.10s 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 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 they 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 70 mins bring on Evanilson for Osimhen
If winning after 75 mins bring on Luis Diaz for Nkunku.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Sarr for Valverde. Fresh legs.
If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Olise for Theo. 3-5-2. Nkunku up top.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Evanilson for Nkunku 3-5-2.
If losing or drawing after 80 mins bring on Luis Diaz for Valverde. Musiala deeper cm next to Rodri.
posted on 22/1/24
Watford: Week 3 Away to Man City
Captain: André
Vice-Captain: Verbruggen
-----------------Verbruggen
Fresneda--Collins--Quansah--Vázquez
---------------André----White
---------------------Enciso
Duarte-----------------------------Edwards
--------------------Gimenez
SUBS: Grando, Wesley, Kaiky, Perrone, Price, Martins, Ferguson
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, André, who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (White). In front of them Enciso 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’ White will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Enciso 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: Verbruggen 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, André. 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 (White). 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 Enciso 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 Duarte and Edwards will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Enciso, White and Gimenez 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 White may sit a bit deeper allowing Enciso 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.
Gimenez 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: Enciso, Edwards or Duarte with Collins, Quansah and Gimenez to offer an aerial threat. Enciso and Edwards (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 – Kaiky for Collins, Perrone for André and Ferguson for Gimenez.
If losing (60 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace White with Ferguson and Duarte with Martins. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
---------------André
Martins---Enciso---Edwards
-------Ferguson--Gimenez
Red Card Subs:
Keeper: Grando for Verbruggen and take off Enciso: 4-4-1
FB: Vázquez as direct replacement (LB/RB) and take off Enciso: 4-4-1
CB: Kaiky as direct replacement and take off Enciso: 4-4-1
CM: Price as direct replacement and take off Enciso: 4-4-1
LW/RW/AM: Move Enciso to LW/RW: 4-4-1
CF: Ferguson as direct replacement and take off Enciso: 4-4-1
*****If Enciso red carded then use Edwards
posted on 22/1/24
Arsenal
Today we want to focus our attacks down our left side. We believe we can harm our opponents by isolating the right side of their defence, pin back their right side especially if there’s minimal support from their wide players.
—————— Neuer
Trent - Saliba - Kim - Lucas
—————- de Jong
—— Curtis — Maddison
Griezzy ———————— Sane
—————— Lautaro
Subs: Maigan, Porro, Pavard, Rovella, Paqueta, Thuram, Diogoal
To be positive down our left side, Sane will be expected to hold the width while the left side eight situates himself inside their right defender. Our left back will move forward just enough to force their right attacker to recover but leave enough space not to crowd Sane for him to isolate their right defender. Sane’s dribbling at speed ability will cause problems.
On our right side our RCM will move inside to create a double pivot with our DM, while the LCM will join our RW (playing like a right sided second striker) and our striker to form a narrow front three. Again playing on the fact that their wide attackers won’t put much effort into tracking back, it will allow our right back significant space to push into.
——— Saliba —— Kim
——— Curtis - de Jong - Lucas
Trent ——————————————
——————————— Madders
—— Griezzy - Lautaro ————Sane
The LCM advancing through the left inside channel and ST pushing the oppositions last line deeper will give our RW space to receive and two key options to pass to and combine in central spaces. They will join forces with our double pivot to overload their midfield and lock them in their half. Plan is for the RW to receive and spread the ball to Sane who will also make runs in behind wide on the left. The ST must stretch the pitch from the centre supported by our LCM, suitably going wide to support Sane.
Midfield regains will be key to our success today, Sane taking up a high and wide position will prove to be an useful outlet as the ball transitions from them to us. We will be defending with a high line but with defenders rapid and a goalkeeper with incredible game reading skills we will be fine concentrating on the attack and making the most of transition phases / midfield regains.
Subs
60th min: Sane and Madders will tire from their roles, they will be replaced by Thuram and Porro. Thuram will join the ST and RW with central combinations to keep pressure while Porro playing at right back will move Trent into midfield to control the midfield, pushing Curtis further forward.
75th min: Rovella will come on for Alvarez to calm things and play line breaking passes from deep to make sure our front three are not isolated.
If we’re losing by the 70th min: Diogoal will go on for Griezzy, one of the most natural finishers on the planet will stay in and around the box to do what he does best, Rovella sub won’t happen.
posted on 22/1/24
NEWCASTLE UNITED v Tottenham
Injuries: Zinchenko, Konate, Mac Allister, Shaw
------------------ Donnarumma
Trippier - Gabriel - Rudiger - Livramento
--------------- Kroos - Palhinha
------‐-------------- Odegaard
Palmer ------------- Kane -------------- Son
Subs: Martinez, Kalulu, Hannibal, Goretzka, Mbuemo, Barcola, Toney
----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Tottenham, hopefully our back four will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Donnarumma in goal, Gabriel Magalhaes and Rudiger at centreback, Trippier and Robinson at fullback, Kroos and Palhinha as the double pivot in midfield, Odegaard as our AM, with Palmer and Son either side of Kane upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Spurs are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Donnarumma - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Kane.
Gabriel/Rudiger - Rudiger to mark their striker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Gabriel to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Trippier/Robinson - Both of you to force the Spurs wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have possession, push forward and support Palmer and Son as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Kane and Odegaard, and link with Kroos and Palhinha. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Kroos/Palhinha - Working as a double pivot today, off the ball you both sit and protect the back four, offer easy options for the centrebacks to pass out from to avoid them being caught in possession. The triangle of you two and Odegaard will be vital to unlocking the Spurs defence, and when we are in attack, alternate so that one of you gets involved and one of you stays back. Alternating will make it harder for their midfield runners to track you arriving late into the penalty area or being free about 25/30 yards from goal to find a key pass.
Odegaard - Playing as our AM, without the ball drop in alongside Kroos and Palhinha to keep a tight midfield trio, but in possession get forward, make late runs into the area for crosses coming in and drag defenders away from Kane.
Palmer/Son - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Trippier and Robinson overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Kane and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Kroos, Palhinha and Odegaard will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Kane's presence will create for you. Drop back to form a midfield five either side of Kroos, Palhinha and Odegaard to make it hard for Spurs to break us down.
Kane - you will be expected to occupy the Spurs centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Palmer and Son on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you, and with Kroos, Palhinha and Odegaard behind you, to create opportunities.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: Odegaard and Palmer off, Goretzka and Mbuemo on. Change to 4-5-1, Odegaard slots into CM. Mbuemo to RW with pace to hit on the break.
If still winning at 80 mins: Kane off, Toney on. Same formation but pace for the counter attack upfront.
If drawing at 70 mins: Palmer and Son off, Mbuemo and Barcola on. Like for like, fresh legs, fresh ideas to try and win the game.
If still drawing at 80 mins: Kroos off, Toney on. Change to 4-1-3-2, look to force a winner, Palhinha the DM, Toney partners Kane up top.
If losing at 70 mins: Trippier and Livramento off, Kalulu and Toney on. Change to 3-2-3-2;
Donnarumma
Kalulu - Gabriel - Rudiger
Kroos - Palhinha
Palmer - Odegaard - Son
Toney - Kane
If still losing at 85 mins: Palhinha off, Mbuemo on. Change to 3-1-4-2. Blaze of glory, all out attack.
Donnarumma
Kalulu - Gabriel - Rudiger
Kroos
Mbuemo - Palmer - Odegaard - Son
Toney - Kane
Setpieces;
Left side freekicks and left wing corners: Toni Kroos or Kieran Trippier
Right side freekicks and right wing corners: Toni Kroos or Cole Palmer
Penalties: Ivan Toney or Harry Kane
posted on 23/1/24
---------------------- D.Costa ------------------------
A.Hakimi - Cr. Romero - Pau Torres - N.Mendes
---------- E.Fernandez --- Declan. Rice ----------
M.Diaby --------- J.Bellingham ---------- Mbappe
---------------------- Haaland -----------------------
Trafford, Kounde, Kamara, Grealish, Vermeeren, Mitoma, A.Isak
We have plenty pace, power and most importantyly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 with attacking fullbacks to boot. Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly. We beat them last week and now we aim to make it a double over them.
Today Pau Torres is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Romero to take care of the main man, 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 the middle men to pass and sprint passed the wingers giving Bellingham that option of playing wide or more central to Haaland or the players moving inside.
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 Rice 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. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. At times Enzo will push a further forward joining Bellingham, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Bellingham is the link between midfield and attack, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, Bellingham has to find him, he will find him, , 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 and he is always good for a goal or two. 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, Diaby and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Bellingham and Enzo 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, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Bellingham, 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 - D.Rice
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Losing -
65 Mins - Grealish for Enzo, Bellingham moves back a bit, Grealsih to LW, Mbappe up top 442/424
75 Mins - Kounde for Hakimi, Isak for Mendes
Kounde to RCB, Isak up top 343
Winning -
75 Mins - Kamara for Enzo, a bit more defensive in midfield, Mitoma for Haaland, Mbappe up top, Mitoma to LW
Drawing -
70 Mins - Vermeeren for Enzo look to break the lines with his passing and vision, Mitoma for Diaby and Switch with Mbappe
posted on 23/1/24
--------------------- N.Pope ----------------------
M.Kayode -- Skriniar -- Botman -- Estupinan
----------- Doug Luiz ---- Bissouma ------------
Chiesa ------------- B.Silva ------------ R.Leao
--------------------- Watkins ---------------------
Bazanu, Akanji, Gallagher, Goncalves, L.Bailey, J.David, Solanke
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 Botman looking to pick up the main striker, he is quick and powerful CB to come against, so will look to bully the striker, be on his toes at all times looking to intercept and ball through to No.9 nip in ahead when he can but nothing rash so he doesnt lose out in possession. Skriniar alongside, again a very robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Botman if needed or pick up a SS/AM, can also switch roles with him if he struggles with high balls, 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 Chiesa/Leao 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 3 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Bissouma is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes D.Luiz will be there snapping at his heals, D.Luiz is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Bissouma making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball.
B.Silva will be the one in midfield to push more forward, when attacking he moves into an AM/free role/SS, 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 Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence just hassle the midfield and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.
Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, 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 especially with B.Silva buzzing around, Watkins is a pain in the erse to defend against with his movement and pace.
Captain - D.Luiz
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - B.Silva
Corners - Wingers
Losing -
70 Mins - Akanji for Kayode to RCB, J.David for Estupinan up top 3412, L.Bailey for Leao
Winning -
70 Mins - Gallagher for B.Silva, Bailey for Leao, Solanke for Watkins
Drawing -
70 Mins - J.David for Watkins, Bailey for Leao
posted on 24/1/24
MAN UTD VS arsenal
----------------------------------------Kepa---------------------------------
Frimpong-------Upamecano----------Hincapie------Barco
--------------------------------------Camavinga--------------------------
-------------------------Elliott------------------------Wirtz--------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saka-----------------------------Boniface-------------------------Doku
Subs - Mamardashvilli, Inacio, Guler, Mudryk, Madueke, Holjund, Joao Pedro
CAPTAIN - WIRTZ
CK'S - WIRTZ
FK'S - WIRTZ
PENALTIES - BONIFACE
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 defence is well balanced. Upamecano and Hincapie bring a lot of strength and pace to the defence. Hincapie will marshal the defence and Upamecano will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you.
Frimpong and Barco are playing as fullbacks today. Start the game off with a conservative mindset and try not too attack too much, but as the game goes on you will have more freedom. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM will be helping you a lot aswell. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. I want both fullbacks 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.
Defence Mid
Camavinga
Camavinga will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or to the more creative players next to you. Also be on the lookout for the runs of Saka/Doku and thread dangerous through balls to them.
Centre Mids
Harvey Elliott + Florian Wirtz
Elliott has been given a lot of minutes by Klopp in CM this season and you can see why. He is a bundle of energy and he has the willingness to track back and help in defensive duties. That will be his role here but Elliott has the added bonus of being able to create from deep positions aswell as his passing range is top notch.
Wirtz will be the more attack minded player here. He will drop deep next to Elliott when we don't have possession of the ball and congest the midfield so it is harder for the oppo to break through but his real ability shines when he has the ball at his feet. Look for the runs of the front three and use your quick turn of pace to accelerate away from oppo players. Then when in a bit of free space use your hawk eyed vision to thread dangerous through ball for our attackers to run onto. When Boniface is holding the ball up in attack push up to support him.
Wingers
Saka + Doku
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. Doku will be looking to cut in from the left and Saka 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 CM's or play quick one two's with our fullbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some balls into the box for Boniface 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
Victor Boniface
Boniface will be leading the line for us today. He has got the strength and pace 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. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. Time your runs off of the oppo shoulders and use your pace to get away from them.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Hojlund and Mudryk for Elliott and Doku 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.
---------------------------------------------Kepa-----------------------
Frimpong----------Upamecano--------Hincapie-------Barco
---------------------------------------Camavinga--------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------Wirtz-----------------------------------
Saka------------------Hojlund---------Boniface-------------Mudryk
Subs if WINNING BY 75MINS
Take off Wirtz and put on Inacio in CB to offer more defensive protection Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Put on Mudryk and Madueke for our wingers to offer a more quicker threat on the counter.
-------------------------------------------Kepa-----------------------
Frimpong----Upamecano---Hincapie---Inacio---Barco
--------------------------Camavinga----------Elliott----------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Madueke--------------------------------------------------------------Mudryk
--------------------------------------Boniface-----------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS (fresh legs)
Hojlund on for Boniface
Mudryk on for Doku
Madueke on for Saka
posted on 24/1/24
BRENTFORD v Manchester City
🤕
Oscar Gloukh
Timo Werner
Konrad Laimer
Eljif Elmas
______________Vicario
Dedic, Yaakobishvili, Branthwaite, Maatsen
_________Lobotka, Koopmeiners
__________Szoboszlai, Simons
___________Openda, Sesko
Kelleher, Drăgușin, Kerkez, Frendrup, Baumgartner, Sancet, Zirkzee
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Koopmeiners
Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.
What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.
The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.
The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.
The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.
What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.
The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.
The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.
The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.
Substitution on 75 mins
Like for like - Kerkez and Zirkzee on for Maatsen and Sesko
posted on 26/1/24
Comment deleted by Article Creator
posted on 27/1/24
Remove Sancet from my bench 👍
posted on 28/1/24
4-3-3 High tempo
We go with a fluid attacking team full of pace and power, width to stretch the game and target the opposition full backs. Fbs attacking to create overloads, with Foden in a free role to link and find the space. With the width of fbs stretching the game, we look to create space for the trio of central players and front three to drag their defenders out of position, Rodri and Valverde a solid midfield pairing offering freedom to the fbs to get forward.
Set pieces will be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden and Timber (5’11) are over 6ft, we look to use the power in open play and set pieces to bully Villa.
Rodri offering cover in front of the cbs, Valverde plays box to box. Start as we mean to go on, frustrate their players by not letting them get a feel of the ball.
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 Rodri and Valverde 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 them starting from the back, playing patiently.
Rodri and Valverde to link the defence and attack, with Valverde being the key link between midfield and attack, bursting forward to get in between the lines. We have a strong blend of power and energy in cm. Osimhen the striker, Foden with freedom in a free role to find pockets of space in the final third.
We want the fbs bombing forward to combine with the wide forwards, fbs creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
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.
Using the high line we attack as a team, take the game to them ensuring we always have options in attack.
Wide forwards play high, stretching the game creating space in the middle of the park for our midfielders. Up top Osimhen is a tireless player that can stretch their defence. 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.
—————————————— Alisson
J.Timber —— Marquinhos —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
———————————- Rodri —— Valverde
—————————————— P.Foden
M.Olise ———————————————————— D.Nunez
—————————————— Osimhen
Subs. Sanchez, Couto, Lukeba, Sarr, Gundogan, Luis Diaz, Evanilson
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. Rodri plays as dm, Valverde and Foden play zonally in front of him, pressing the play. The wide forwards 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 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 they 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 70 mins bring on Luis Diaz for Nunuez. Pace to stretch tired Villa legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Gundogan for Olise. Foden wide. Look to give us more control.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Sarr for Valverde. Fresh legs.
If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Luis Diaz for Theo. 3-5-2. Nunez up top.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Gundogan for Olise. Foden right.
If losing or drawing after 80 mins bring on Felix for Valverde. Gundogan deeper cm next to Rodri.
posted on 28/1/24
Balanced 3-4-1-2
We go with a team full of pace out wide and up top, power and aggression through the middle with Messi as the creator in the middle of it all.
Importantly for a front two both have can contribute in the build up. A balanced team designed to control the tempo of the game, using the extra cb to allow the back 3 to step up and control the tempo of the game, wing backs stretching the game providing width and allowing the two forwards ahead of Messi to target the fbs, getting 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 control the ball.
Our formation is fluid, we go with Lisandro as a playmaking cb. Possession starts at the back, and so with our 3 ball playing cbs and cms we look to control the tempo, switching the play quickly from side to side, then seeking to switch and attack quickly down the wing when the space opens up.
Up top we have the pace to push them back and create space for Messi, at wb and front 2, this pace will stretch them. Tchouameni the box to box option in cm giving us power and athleticism, Bentancur for his aggression and creativity to complement that.
With the attacking strength of our wing backs and forwards, to outnumber them in attack, dragging players out of position and creating space.
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.
We attack with a high tempo down the wings, looking to move quickly to catch their defenders/mids out of position and create half spaces for our quality to tell.
With two forwards full of pace, Ederson’s long balls will also be important as we vary how we attack and go direct, in behind or looking to stretch toon down the channels.
—————————————— Ederson —————————————
—————— R.Araujo —— de Ligt —— Lisandro.M —————
M.Gusto —— R.Bentancur ——— Tchouameni —— Grimaldo
—————————————— L.Messi —————
—————————— M.Salah ——— Rashford—————————
Subs. Oblak, White, Chillwell, Onana, Kulusevski, Kang in Lee, Richarlison
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 they 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.
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 their cms. When defending, Tchouameni plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area, Bentancur plays ball side of Tchouameni, using his energy to press the passing lanes.
Attack - we try to play at a high tempo, get the ball out wide quick, counter when we can. When we need to though the cbs and cms will put their foot on the ball, slowly build momentum and confidence, easing any periods of pressure when we’ve been under the kosh.
Subs.
If winning after 67 mins bring on Onana for Bentancur. Fresh legs.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Kulu for Messi. 3421. Nunez left.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Richarlison for Rashford. Pace and power against tired legs.
If drawing or losing after 60 mins bring on Kulusevski for Araujo. 4-2-2-2. Kulu left
If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Onana for Bentancur. Fresh legs, height for set pieces and adds pace through the middle with Tchouameni.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Richarlison for Rashford. Fresh pace and power.
posted on 28/1/24
---------------------- D.Costa ------------------------
A.Hakimi - Ruben Dias - Cr. Romero - N.Mendes
----------- E.Fernandez - Declan. Rice -----------
M.Diaby ---------- Bellingham ----------- Mbappe
--------------------- E.Haaland ----------------------
Slonina, Kounde, Kamara, Vermeeren, Grealish, Alvarez, Gyökeres
We have plenty pace, power and most importantyly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 with attacking fullbacks to boot. Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly. We beat them last week and now we aim to make it a double over them.
Today R.Dias is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Romero to take care of the main man, 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 the middle men to pass and sprint passed the wingers giving Bellingham that option of playing wide or more central to Haaland or the players moving inside. Both Cbs up for corners, FBs stay back
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 Rice 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. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. At times Enzo will push a further forward joining Bellingham, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Bellingham is the link between midfield and attack, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, Bellingham has to find him, he will find him, , 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 and he is always good for a goal or two. 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, Diaby and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Bellingham and Enzo 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, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Bellingham, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.
Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Losing -
65 Mins - Grealish for Enzo, Jude in beside Rice, Mbappe up top, Grealish left
75 Mins - Alvarez for Haaland fresh legs, pace and finishing
Winning -
75 Mins - Kamara for Enzo fresh legs in the heart of the team, Grealish for Haaland, switch with Mbappe
83 Mins - Kounde for Hakimi
Drawing
70 Mins - Alvarez for Diaby, Vermeeren for Enzo
80 Mins - Grealish for Haaland switch with Mbappe
posted on 28/1/24
Dock a slot for using an injured player originally
------------------------- N.Pope -------------------------
D.Carvajal ---- Skriniar ---- Botman- --- Estupinan
------------- Doug Luiz -------- Bissouma -------------
------------------------- B.Silva -------------------------
Chiesa ------------------------------------------ Bailey
------------------------ Watkins -------------------------
Bazanu, Akanji, Tierney, Tielemans, J.Ramsey, J.David
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 Botman looking to pick up the main striker, he is quick and powerful CB to come against, so will look to bully the striker, be on his toes at all times looking to intercept and ball through to No.9 nip in ahead when he can but nothing rash so he doesnt lose out in possession. Skriniar alongside, again a very robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Botman if needed or pick up a SS/AM, can also switch roles with him if he struggles with high balls, 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 Chiesa/Bailey 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 3 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Bissouma is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes D.Luiz will be there snapping at his heals, D.Luiz is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Bissouma making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball.
B.Silva will be the one in midfield to push more forward, when attacking he moves into an AM/free role/SS, 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 Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence just hassle the midfield and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.
Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, 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 especially with B.Silva buzzing around, Watkins is a pain in the erse to defend against with his movement and pace.
Captain - D.Luiz
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - B.Silva
Corners - Wingers
Losing -
70 Mins - Carvajal and Estupinan off, Akanji on to RCB, J.David up front 3412 attacking
Winning/Drawing -
75 Mins - Tielemans for Bissouma fresh legs
80 Mins - J.David for Watkins
Red card
GK - Bazanu for Estupinan 351
RB - Akanji for Bailey, Chiesa go into a free role 4311
LB - Tierney for Bailey as above
CB - Akanji for Bailey as above
CM - Tielemans for Bailey " "
B.Silva - nothing
Winger - other goes to a free role
Watkins - Bailey up front then sub for J.David if not on already, Chiesa free role 4311
4311 as in B.Silva drops into a 3 man flat midfield
----------------------------------------------------------------------
posted on 29/1/24
Arsenal
Today we will go with a attacking 3-5-2 formation, allowing us to be more expressive with a solid base. Our midfield will boast a blend of experience and youthful energy. Our front two will be a duo of a playmaking forward and a proper striker.
———————— Neuer
——— Pavard - Saliba - Konate
Trent - Frankie - Stones - Madders - Cancelo
————— Griezzy - Lautaro
Subs: Maigan, Thuram, Palacios, Alvarez, Olmo, Shaw, Diogoal
Our centre CM will be the one that sits deeper and use his passing range to break the lines, while also allowing our wingbacks more freedom to advance. He will be ably supported by our more advanced RCB, who with his ball playing skills and reading of the game can help in transition. Our RST will be our playmaking forward, operating between the lines and linking with the midfield. With the RCB more advanced and our RCM and LCM operating a ‘one up one down’ strategy, we ensure there is always five players spread across midfield providing a structure for our players to play their natural game. Also allows numerical advantages in certain areas of the pitch during phases.
The off-the-ball structure is highly organized, making it challenging for opponents to find spaces between the lines. The defensive structure is adaptable, shifting between a back 5 and back 6 under pressure. In defensive phases, the 3-5-2 transitions into a 5-3-2. They focus on keeping their midfield and forwards narrow, safeguarding central areas to force opponents out wide. When defending the flanks, the team shifts over to maintain a compact and narrow shape, ensuring protection of the channels.
The build-up phase starts with three players, providing a numerical advantage in the first phase. This allows for more options and flexibility in possession. The wing-backs push high, stretching the opposition and creating space through the middle. The central defenders take on the responsibility of initiating the team's actions. Simultaneously, midfielders positioned between the lines strive to locate open spaces within the midfield. Opting for this formation alleviates the need for wing-backs to contribute to the buildup, as their counterparts generate an advantage in the midfield.
A midfielder often drops deep to aid in the build-up, creating passing angles and assisting in transitioning from defense to attack. The presence of a midfielder between the lines allows for dangerous passes through the middle.
Having high wing-backs stretches the opponent's defense, opening up more spaces through the middle. The wing-backs become viable options for long passes, offering a direct attacking option. The wing-backs operate in advanced positions, with our approach involving positioning them exceptionally wide, right along the touchlines. This strategic choice serves to stretch the opposing team, creating additional space in the midfield and providing ample room on the flanks.
Long balls in behind the opposition can surprise defenders, and this strategy contributes to the overall build-up, making opponents more hesitant to press.
Our LCM’s attacking movements from midfield, his runs in behind, and flexibility provide additional options for us. His ability to attack from deep adds dynamism to the team's play.
Subs:
70th min: tired legs out wide so we put Shaw on for Cancelo
75th min: Olmo for Lautaro tired legs and Olmo can help keep the ball
75th min: if we’re winning then Alvarez on for Frankie to solidify our hold on the game
In need of a goal 65th min: Thuram on for Griezzy and Diogoal on for Madders and change to a 3-4-3.
posted on 29/1/24
Man City
----------------------- Oblak -----------------------
K.Walker --- Van Dijk -- Bastoni --- Robertson
---------- Mac Allister --- M.Caicedo -----------
Pedro Neto -------- Nkunku ------ Ferran Torres
-------------------- D.Vlahovic --------------------
Subs:
Vandevoort, Porro, Varane, Casemiro, Gnabry, Martinelli, Jesus
We look to move the ball at speed as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim for the win.
Our DM & CM pivot will marshall the middle of the park allowing Nkunu free reign in the hole between midfield and striker where he can wreak havoc. He will be flanked by Neto and Ferran who both offer pace and energy out wide with the big man Dusan Vlahovic playing through the middle. Providing that blend of pace, power and trickery as we look to cause their defence plenty of problems.
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. Van Dijk will be the leader at the back. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Bastoni alongside him gives us two comfortable ball playing CB’s allowing us to build from the back, spraying the ball around picking the opposition apart as we look to implement our game plan of quick incisive passing as we look to carve through the opposition. Both CB’s are tall and powerful and have the quality to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions strikers.
Our fullbacks are strong defensively however it is going forward their offer a real threat. We know the opposition generally tend to play a narrow formation and therefore our FB’s could be real difference makers, the lack of wide threat from the opposition allows both Walker and Robertson to push forward, widening the pitch and whipping balls in from out wide for Dusan to attack. Their forward runs will pull our opponents central plays out of position as they are forward out wide to cover the threat of our FB’s opening up space centrally for the likes of Nkunk and Co to cause damage. When in possession both Walker and Robbo both have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third. Look for the early crosses with Vlahovic who is lethal in the box.
Midfield:
Caicedo will be our all action player in the middle. One of the most exciting youngsters around this lad has it all, pace, power, loves a tackle an absolute menace in the middle. He also has strong ball carrying abilities and can also strike a ball from distance.
He combines perfectly with the technical brilliance of Mac Allister. The two players have great chemistry from their time together at Brighton and both have showcased their talent at the very top level. Mac Allister is a delightful player and his passing ability will allow us to dictate the tempo of the game. Alongside Caicedo they give us a solid paring in the middle of the park with both players equally adept at breaking down the opposition as we look to dominate the middle of the park. They will protect the defence and get in the face of the opposition. We look to set the tempo and these two will be the catalyst, dispossess the opposition, get the ball to our playmakers and wreak havoc at the other end.
Forwards:
In attack we have the perfect blend of pace, power and technical excellence. Nkunku plays centrally, looking to drift between the lines making himself extremely difficult to be picked up and causing a mismatch in this area of the field. He’ll look to play off Vlahovic who excels at holding the ball up and will also allow Nkunku to feed off his knockdowns. Offering both goals and assists he’ll be presented with the freedom to get forward and attack the box with the security offered by Caicedo and Mac Allister behind him.
Pedro Neto and Ferran Torres give us great natural width out wide. They’ll look to exploit the space offered by the oppositions narrow formation allowing the Iberian duo time and space to attack their full backs. Neto is our chief creator, capable of wracking up chances for fun and offers the perfect supply line to our frontman. Ferran offers pace and a real goal threat on the left, he’ll look to stretch the opposition with his runs in behind and is an ice cold finisher when through on goal. Quick one two’s in the final third should open things up in the opposition box will open up chances for Neto and Ferran to fire at goal.
With a dream supply line around him Vlahovic will be in his element. A real power forward he offers the dual threat of being deadly in the air and a natural born goalscorer with the ball at his feet.
Vlahovic will be looking to do what he does best, get himself in the box and finish any chances that come his way. Walker and Robertson are both fantastic crossers ready to whip the ball in from out with for Vlahovic to attack in the air and we want him to bully the opposition CB’s. With a big target man in the middle this will also create space for Neto and Ferran who will be looking to make cutting runs in behind from out wide as we go in search for goals and bringing those 3 points home.
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Ferran off, Martinelli on. Fresh legs as we look to pick them off on the break.
85 mins: Nkunku off, Casemiro. Tighten up defensively with dual DMS in the middle of the park as Mac Allister moves to number 8.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Nkunku, Neto & Torres off. Jesus, Martinelli & Gnabry on. Triple sub as we move to an attacking 4-2-2-2. Mac & Caicedo at CM, with Gnabry & Martinelli on the flanks and Vlahovic & Jesus up top. Goals.
posted on 29/1/24
Watford: League Week 4 HOME to Newcastle.
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: André
Team:
------------------Verbruggen
Fresneda---Collins—Quansah---Vanderlan
---------------------André
--------------Alcaraz---Gibbs-White
Enciso---------------------------------------Magno
--------------------Gimenez
SUBS: Grando, Cuiabano, Morato, Perrone, Price, Rodríguez, Ferguson
We want to play a neat crisp passing game at high tempo using our obvious pace to punish the opponent. Our formation will be a 4-3-3 that will allow our full backs to join in the attack when necessary and also offer us the flexibility to fall back into a more standard 4-4-2 when under pressure. We need to boss the midfield from the start and control the game with our own tempo. When in possession use the ball well and try and bring our wide men in to play. When chasing the ball press the opponent with urgency and all over the park. Don’t take too many risks and hold onto the ball. With our creativity and pace we will be able to open teams up. Wait for the chances to arise and take them when they come.
Goalkeeper: Verbruggen 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: André 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. Alcaraz and Gibbs-White will play just in front of André. Alcaraz will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Gibbs-White will be the midfield magician. Clever, elusive and tricky we will look to him for creating the midfield openings with his eye for a pass. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Enciso and Magno 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 Gibbs-White, Alcaraz and Gimenez in to play. They can vary their attacks by going wide or cutting inside as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Alcaraz may sit a bit deeper allowing Gibbs-White to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF. As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Gimenez starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great big old fashioned centre forward. We will look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. An eye for a pass and not afraid to have a go from distance. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his power pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Alcaraz, Magno or Enciso with Collins, Quansah and Gimenez to offer an aerial threat. Gibbs-White and Magno (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Gimenez
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Morato for Quansah, Ferguson for Gimenez and Rodríguez for Enciso, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 70 minutes) Rodríguez for Alcaraz and Ferguson for Enciso. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Ferguson and Giovani offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
---------------André
Rodríguez--Gibbs-White--- Magno
------Gimenez---Ferguson
posted on 30/1/24
MAN UTD vs spurs
-----------------------------------------------Kepa---------------------------------
Frimpong----------Upamecano-------------Inacio----------Barco
------------------------------------------Camavinga--------------------------
---------------------Gravenberch------------------Elliott--------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saka---------------------------------Boniface-------------------------Doku
Subs - Mamardashvilli, Diomande, Guler, Mudryk, Madueke, Holjund, Joao Pedro
CK'S - SAKA
FK'S - SAKA
PENALTIES - BONIFACE
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 defence is well balanced. Upamecano and Inacio bring a lot of strength and pace to the defence. Inacio will marshal the defence and Upamecano will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you.
Frimpong and Barco are playing as fullbacks today. Start the game off with a conservative mindset and try not too attack too much, but as the game goes on you will have more freedom. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM will be helping you a lot aswell. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. I want both fullbacks 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.
Defence Mid
Camavinga
Camavinga will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or to the more creative players next to you. Also be on the lookout for the runs of Saka/Doku and thread dangerous through balls to them.
Centre Mids
Harvey Elliott + Gravenberch
Elliott has been given a lot of minutes by Klopp in CM this season and you can see why. He is a bundle of energy and he has the willingness to track back and help in defensive duties. That will be his role here but Elliott has the added bonus of being able to create from deep positions aswell as his passing range is top notch.
Gravenberch will be the more attack minded player here. He will drop deep next to Elliott when we don't have possession of the ball and congest the midfield so it is harder for the oppo to break through but his real ability shines when he has the ball at his feet. Look for the runs of the front three and use your quick turn of pace to accelerate away from oppo players. Then when in a bit of free space use your hawk eyed vision to thread dangerous through ball for our attackers to run onto. When Boniface is holding the ball up in attack push up to support him.
Wingers
Saka + Doku
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. Doku will be looking to cut in from the left and Saka 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 CM's or play quick one two's with our fullbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some balls into the box for Boniface 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
Victor Boniface
Boniface will be leading the line for us today. He has got the strength and pace 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. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. Time your runs off of the oppo shoulders and use your pace to get away from them.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Hojlund and Mudryk for Elliott and Doku to bring some more attacking impetus on. Gravenberch off for Joao Pedro aswell. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
---------------------------------------------Kepa-----------------------
Frimpong----------Upamecano--------Inacio-------Barco
---------------------------------------Camavinga--------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------Pedro-----------------------------------
Saka---------------------Hojlund---------Boniface-------------Mudryk
Subs if WINNING BY 75MINS
Take off Elliott and put on Diomande in CB to offer more defensive protection Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Put on Mudryk and Madueke for our wingers to offer a more quicker threat on the counter.
-------------------------------------------Kepa-----------------------
Frimpong----Upamecano---Diomande---Inacio---Barco
-----------------------Camavinga----------Gravenberch----------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Madueke--------------------------------------------------------------Mudryk
--------------------------------------Boniface-----------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS (fresh legs)
Hojlund on for Boniface
Mudryk on for Doku
Madueke on for Saka
posted on 30/1/24
Watford v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Palhinha, Johnson, Smith Rowe, Goretzka, Raphinha
------------------ Donnarumma
Trippier - Gabriel - Rudiger - Zinchenko
‐------------------- McTominay
--------- De Bruyne ------ Odegaard
Palmer ------------- Kane -------------- Son
Subs: Martinez, Kalulu, Hojbjerg, Kroos, Mbuemo, Sancho, Toney
----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Watford, hopefully our back four and DM will keep their attack at bay, while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Donnarumma in goal, Gabriel Magalhaes and Rudiger at centreback, Trippier and Zinchenko at fullback, McTominay the sole sitting DM, De Bruyne and Odegaard transitioning from midfield to attack, with Palmer and Son either side of Kane upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Watford are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Donnarumma - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Kane.
Gabriel/Rudiger - Rudiger to mark their striker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Gabriel to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Trippier/Zinchenko - Both of you to force the Watford wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of McTominay to give him passing options, in attack push forward and support Palmer and Son as they will try to run inside the fullback, and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Kane and Odegaard, and link with De Bruyne and Hojbjerg. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
McTominay - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Watford from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for Trippier and Zinchenko either side of you, and De Bruyne and Odegaard ahead of you. No need to get forward, apart for setpieces on occasion.
De Bruyne/Odegaard - Both playing in central midfield but both able to stray into the AM role when required, without the ball form a midfield trio either side of McTominay, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be match winners. De Bruyne to primarily work deeper, pick up the ball from Trippier/Zinchenko/McTominay and look for Odegaard/Son/Palmer/Kane making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Odegaard to be the one who tries to play in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for De Bruyne, or defenders out of position to create space for Palmer/Son/Kane to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Palmer/Son - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Trippier and Zinchenko overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Kane and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with De Bruyne and Odegaard will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Kane's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, McTominay and Odegaard to make it hard for Watford to break us down.
Kane - you will be expected to occupy the Watford centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Palmer and Son on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you, and with De Bruyne and Odegaard behind you, to create opportunities.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: Odegaard and Palmer off, Hojbjerg and Mbuemo on. Change to flat 4-5-1, De Bruyne and McTominay either side of Hojbjerg, focus on ball retention to see out the win, while having plenty of bodies back when we dont have the ball. Mbuemo to RW as fresh legs to hit on the break.
If still winning at 80 mins: Kane off, Toney on. Same formation but pace for the counter attack upfront.
If drawing at 70 mins: Palmer and Son off, Mbuemo and Sanchi on. Like for like, fresh legs, fresh ideas to try and win the game.
If still drawing at 80 mins: Odegaard off, Toney on. Change to 4-1-3-2, look to force a winner, McTominay the DM, De Bruyne to AM, Toney partners Kane up top.
If losing at 70 mins: Trippier and McTominay off, Kalulu and Toney on. Change to 3-2-3-2;
Donnarumma
Kalulu - Gabriel - Rudiger
De Bruyne - Zinchenko
Palmer - Odegaard - Son
Toney - Kane
If still losing at 85 mins: Zinchenko off, Mbuemo on. Change to 3-1-4-2. Blaze of glory, all out attack.
Donnarumma
Kalulu - Gabriel - Rudiger
De Bruyne
Mbuemo - Palmer - Odegaard - Son
Toney - Kane
Setpieces;
Left side freekicks and left wing corners: Kevin De Bruyne or Kieran Trippier
Right side freekicks and right wing corners: Oleksandr Zinchenko or Cole Palmer
Penalties: Ivan Toney or Harry Kane
posted on 2/2/24
BRENTFORD v Watford
🤕🤧🤒
Elmas
Branthwaite
Kelleher
Andersen
___________Vicario
Laimer, Simakan, Drăgușin, Maatsen
_____Lobotka, Koopmeiners
______Szoboszlai, Simons
________Openda, Sesko
Hermansen, Dedic, Kerkez, Seiwald, Baumgartner, Olmo, Zirkzee
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai/Koopmeiners
Pens - Koopmeiners
Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.
What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.
The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.
The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.
The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.
What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.
The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.
The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.
The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.
Substitution on 75 mins
Like for like - Dedic and Olmo on for Laimer and Simons
posted on 3/2/24
------------------------ N.Pope ------------------------
D.Carvajal --- Skriniar --- Botman --- N.Williams
------------- Doug Luiz ----- Bissouma --------------
Chiesa --------------- Dybala --------------- R.Leao
----------------------- Watkins ------------------------
D.Callai, Konsa, Zubimendi, Sterling, L.Bailey, J.David, Solanke
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 Botman looking to pick up the main striker, he is quick and powerful CB to come against, so will look to bully the striker, be on his toes at all times looking to intercept and ball through to No.9 nip in ahead when he can but nothing rash so he doesnt lose out in possession. Skriniar alongside, again a very robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Botman if needed or pick up a SS/AM, can also switch roles with him if he struggles with high balls, 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 the wingers 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 2 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Bissouma is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes D.Luiz will be there snapping at his heals, D.Luiz is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Bissouma making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball.
Dybala will push more forward, when attacking he moves into an AM/free role/SS, 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 Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence just hassle the midfield and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.
Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, 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 especially with Dybala buzzing around, Watkins is a pain in the erse to defend against with his movement and pace.
Captain - D.Luiz
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - B.Silva
Corners - Wingers
Losing -
65 Mins - Solanke for Dybala 442/424 a bit more direct, using Solankes strength
75 Mins - J.David for Watkins, Sterling for Leao
Winning
75 Mins - Zubimendi for Bissouma, some fresh legs in midfield, Sterling for Leao
83 Mins - J.David for Dybala
Drawing -
70 Mins - J.David for Dybala, Sterling for Leao, Solanke for Watkins like for like fresh legs
posted on 4/2/24
------------------- Emi Martinez --------------------
A.Hakimi ---- Romero --- P.Torres --- N.Mendes
------------ Fernandez ---- B. Kamara ------------
M.Diaby ---------- Bellingham ----------- Mbappe
--------------------- E.Haaland ----------------------
D.Costa, Colwill, Hickey, Vermeeren, Grealish, Alvarez, A.Isak
We have plenty pace, power and most importantyly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 with attacking fullbacks to boot. Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly. We beat them last week and now we aim to make it a double over them.
Today Pau Torres is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Romero to take care of the main man, 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 Kamara 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 the middle men to pass and sprint passed the wingers giving Bellingham that option of playing wide or more central to Haaland or the players moving inside. Both Cbs up for corners, FBs stay back
Fernandez and Kamara must be patient, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Kamara doing the marking job on the AM/SS sometimes having to become a 3rd CB and Kamara doing the running when others come forward, be onto them quickly stop the ball getting to the forwards and into danger areas, when attacking Kamara 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. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. At times Enzo will push a further forward joining Bellingham, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Bellingham is the link between midfield and attack, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, Bellingham has to find him, he will find him, 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 and he is always good for a goal or two. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediete so will always help out Enzo and Kamara 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, Diaby and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Bellingham and Enzo 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, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Bellingham, 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 - Romero
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Losing -
65 Mins - A.Isak for Enzo, Bellingham drop back into midfield, Isak up top 442/424, Mbappe to the right, Grealish on for Diaby and go left
Winning
75 Mins - Grealish for Haaland, he goes LM, Mbappe up top
83 Mins - Vermeeren for Enzo he and Bellingham go either side of Kamara
85 Mins - Hickey for Diaby
Drawing -
70 Mins - Grealish for Enzo, Bellingham drop into midfield, grealsih play as No.10, Alvarez for Diaby
80 Mins - A.Isak for Haaland
Red Card - We play 441
Emi - Costa on for Enzo
FB - Hickey for Enzo
CB - Colwill for Enzo
Kamara - Enzo takes on the DM role
Winger - Jude goes wide
Haaland - Mbappe up top Jude to the left
posted on 4/2/24
----------------------- Oblak ----------------------
K.Walker --- Van Dijk -- Bastoni ---- Ait-Nouri
---------- Mac Allister --- Caicedo --------------
--- Pedro Neto --- Nkunku --- Ferran Torres --
------------------ Gabriel Jesus ------------------
Subs:
Vandevoort, van de Ven, Tonali, Thiago, Barcola, Asensio, Gnabry
We look to move the ball at speed as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim for the win.
Our DM & CM pivot will marshall the middle of the park allowing Nkunu free rein in the hole between midfield and striker where he can wreak havoc. He will be flanked by Neto and Ferran who both offer pace and energy out wide with the big man Jesus playing through the middle. Plenty of pace and trickery in attack we look to cause all sorts of problems for their defences.
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. Van Dijk will be the leader at the back. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Bastoni alongside him gives us two comfortable ball playing CB’s allowing us to build from the back, spraying the ball around picking the opposition apart as we look to implement our game plan of quick incisive passing as we look to carve through the opposition. Both CB’s are tall and powerful and have the quality to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions strikers.
Our fullbacks are strong defensively however it is going forward their offer a real threat. With Neto and Ferran both looking to cut infield the overlapping runs of Walker & Ait-Nouri provide natural width and cause the opposition full backs a real headache as they are torn between tracking Neto & Ferran or abandoning their duties to engage our flying full backs creating an overload in our favour on the flanks.
Our DM’s also have an important role to play in this system with Mac & Caicedo shielding the defence when our fullbacks push forward.
Midfield:
Caicedo will be our all action player in the middle. One of the most exciting youngsters around this lad has it all, pace, power, loves a tackle an absolute menace in the middle. He also has strong ball carrying abilities and can also strike a ball from distance.
He combines perfectly with the technical brilliance of Mac Allister. The two players have great chemistry from their time together at Brighton and both have showcased their talent at the very top level. Mac Allister is a delightful player and his passing ability will allow us to dictate the tempo of the game. Alongside Caicedo they give us a solid paring in the middle of the park with both players equally adept at breaking down the opposition as we look to dominate the middle of the park. They will protect the defence and get in the face of the opposition. We look to set the tempo and these two will be the catalyst, dispossess the opposition, get the ball to our playmakers and wreak havoc at the other end.
Forwards:
In attack we have the perfect blend of pace, power and technical excellence. Nkunku plays centrally, looking to drift between the lines making himself extremely difficult to be picked up and causing a mismatch in this area of the field. He’ll look to play off Jesus whose movement is supreme. He’ll be looking to make runs in behind their backline, stretching their defence and by doing so creating a gap between their midfield and defence, creating plenty of space to Nkunku to exploit as a support striker. Offering both goals and assists Nkunku will be presented with the freedom to get forward and attack the box with the security offered by Caicedo and Mac Allister behind him.
Pedro Neto and Ferran give us plenty of pace on the flanks. Neto is our chief creator, capable of wracking up chances for fun and offers the perfect supply line to our frontman. Ferran offers blistering pace and a real goal threat on the left, he’ll look to stretch the opposition with his runs in behind and is an ice cold finisher when through on goal. Quick one two’s in the final third should open things up in the opposition box will open up chances for Neto and Ferran to fire at goal.
Gabriel Jesus oozes quality in attack, not only a great finisher but also a great link up man his presence up top will help those around him thrive. Nkunku in particular should excel off of Jesus’s link up play whilst the Brazilian will thrive off the service of the wide men. We look for Jesus to be a poacher, get in the 6 yard box and tuck away any chances that fall your way with our fullbacks Walker & Ait-Nouri whipping balls across the face of the goal from our wide and Neto producing real incisiveness in the final third. Jesus will also at times look to drop in deep to link up, drawing the CB’s with him and opening up space for Nkunku to run onto behind with the Frenchman equally adept at playing up top. We go with real fluidity in attack making it incredibly difficult for the opposition to employ any sort of man marking tactic and giving us goal threats from every angle.
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Ferran off, Gnabry on. Fresh legs as we look to pick them off on the break.
85 mins: Jesus off, Tonali on. Tighten up defensively with dual DMS in the middle of the park as Mac Allister moves to number 8. Nkunku moves up top.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Caicedo off, Tonali on. We move to an attacking 4-2-2-2. Mac Allister & Tonali at CM with Neto & Ferran on the flanks and Nkunku & Jesus up top. Goals.
80 mins: Neto off, Gnabry on. Fresh legs and an increased goal threat from out wide.
posted on 5/2/24
4-3-3 High tempo total football
At home we go with a fluid attacking team full of pace and power to play with a high tempo, width to stretch the game and target the opposition full backs and the space they leave when attacking. Ugarte provides cover to allow fbs to attack and create overloads, with Musiala in a free role to link and find the space. With the width of fbs stretching the game, we look to create space for the trio of central players and front three to drag their defenders out of position.
The Uruguayan warriors in cm are a solid midfield pairing annd set the tempo, offering freedom to the fbs to get forward. We have a pacey and powerful team, and set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden and Timber (5’11) are over 6ft, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully Arsenal.
Possession is dominated by defenders and cms, and so with our cm duo and our back four, all top ball playing defenders we are confident we can play fast flowing football. Play out and around their attackers, and create gaps in their shapes. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through them starting from the back, playing fast flowing football but varying the tempo when we need to slow down.
Ugarte and Valverde to link the defence and attack, with Valverde being the key link between midfield and attack, bursting forward to get in between the lines. Osimhen the striker, Foden, Musiala and Kvarat all given freedom in final third to find pockets of space and go beyond Osimhen.
We want the fbs bombing forward to combine with the wide forwards, fbs creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
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.
Lautaro is faking an injury to help out his old team, and without him they lack a quality striker. Ugarte is picked ahead of Gundogan as Griezzman is could be a threat dropping deeper.
Wide forwards play high, stretching the game creating space in the middle of the park for our midfielders. In the final third they have freedom to go central and not keep the width, as fbs will be overlapping. Up top Osimhen is a tireless player that can stretch their defence.
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.
————————————— Sanchez
J.Timber—— Marquinhos —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
————————— Valverde —— Ugarte
—————————————- Musiala
— P.Foden ———————————————— Kvaratskhelia
————————————— Osimhen
Subs. Henderson, Lukeba, P.Sarr, Gundogan, Savio, J.Felix, D.Nunez
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. Ugarte plays as dm, Valverde and Musiala play zonally in front of him, pressing the play. The wide forwards 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 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 they 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 70 mins bring on Nunez for Kvarat. Power to stretch tired Arsenal legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Gundogan for Valverde. Look to give us more control and dominate possession.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Felix for Foden. Fresh pace and creativity
If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Nunez for Theo. 3-5-2. Nunez up top.
If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Gundogan for Ugarte
If losing or drawing after 80 mins bring on Felix for Musiala
Page 65 of 77
66 | 67 | 68 | 69 | 70