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 de Ligt 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, Raya’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.


——————————————— D.Raya —————————————
—————— B.White —— R.Araujo —— de Ligt —————
M.Gusto —— R.Bentancur ——— Tchouameni —— Grimaldo
—————————————— L.Messi —————
—————————— M.Salah ——— Rashford —————————

Subs. Ramsdale, Bremer, Chillwell, Onana, Kang in Lee, Williams, 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 Williams for Messi. 3421.
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 Richarlison for Gusto. 4-2-2-2. Rashford left, White rb.
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 Kangin Lee for Rashford. More creativity

Manchester United v NEWCASTLE UNITED

Injuries: Johnson, Mbuemo, Toney, Kalulu

------------------ Donnarumma
Trippier - Rudiger - Gabriel - Zinchenko
‐--------------------- Palhinha
--------- De Bruyne ------ Odegaard
Palmer ------------- Kane -------------- Son

Subs: Trafford, Tomori, Florentino, Goretzka, Fernandes, Mitoma, Bowen

----------------

A tough but winnable game today against Man U, 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, Palhinha 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. Man U 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 Man U 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 Palhinha 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 Palhinha. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.

Palhinha - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Man U 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 Palhinha, 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/Palhinha 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, Palhinha and Odegaard to make it hard for Man U to break us down.

Kane - you will be expected to occupy the Man U 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, Goretzka and Bowen on. Change to flat 4-5-1, De Bruyne and Goretzka either side of Palhinha, focus on ball retention to see out the win, while having plenty of bodies back when we dont have the ball. Bowen to RW as fresh legs to hit on the break.

If still winning at 80 mins: Kane off, Mitoma on. Same formation but pace for the counter attack upfront. Mitoma to LW, Son to ST.

If drawing at 70 mins: Palmer and Son off, Bowen and Mitoma on. Like for like, fresh legs, fresh ideas to try and win the game.

If still drawing at 80 mins: Odegaard off, Fernandes on. Look to force a winner, more 4-1-4-1 with De Bruyne and Fernandes more advanced.

If losing at 70 mins: Trippier and Palhinha off, Tomori and Bowen on. Change to 3-2-3-2;
Donnarumma
Tomori - Rudiger - Gabriel
De Bruyne - Zinchenko
Bowen - Odegaard - Son
Palmer - Kane

If still losing at 85 mins: Zinchenko off, Fernandes on. Change to 3-1-4-2. Blaze of glory, all out attack.
Donnarumma
Tomori - Rudiger - Gabriel
De Bruyne
Bowen - Fernandes - Odegaard - Son
Palmer - 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: Harry Kane, Cole Palmer or Kevin De Bruyne

Watford: Week 5 Away to Brentford
Captain: André
Vice-Captain: Verbruggen

-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley--Collins--Murillo--Vanderlan
---------------André----White
---------------------Enciso
Martins-----------------------------Magno
--------------------Gimenez

SUBS: Grando, Fresneda, Beraldo, Redondo, Price, Duarte, Ferguson

SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with André as the holding/defensive midfielder who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (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 André as the one holding/defensive midfielder. He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (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 Martins 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 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, Magno or Martins with Collins, Murillo and Gimenez to offer an aerial threat. Enciso and Magno (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 – Beraldo for Collins, Redondo for André and Ferguson for Gimenez.
If losing (60 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace White with Ferguson and Martins with Duarte. 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
Duarte---Enciso---Magno
-----Ferguson--Gimenez

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
——— Konate - Stones - Kim M-J
Trent - Kroos - Frankie - Barella - Miguel
—————— Griezzy - Jota
Subs: Maigan, Thuram, Luis Diaz, Scalvini, Cancelo, Gakpo, Gilmour

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 Cancelo on for Miguel

75th min: Gakpo for Jota tired legs and Gakpo can help keep the ball

75th min: if we’re winning then Gilmour on for Kroos to solidify our hold on the game

In need of a goal 65th min: Thuram on for Griezzy and Diaz on for Barella and change to a 3-4-3.

UNITED vs Newcastle

--------------------------------------------Kepa---------------------------------
Frimpong----------Upamecano-------------Inacio----------Barco
----------------------Gravenberch---------------Lewis-----------------
----------------------------------------------Wirtz------------------------------------
Kudus---------------------------------Boniface-------------------------Doku

Subs - Mamardashvilli, Diomande, Guler, Mudryk, Madueke, Holjund, Joao Pedro

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 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's 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 Mids
Rico Lewis + Gravenberch
Lewis 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 Kudus/Doku and thread dangerous through balls to them.
Gravenberch will be the more attack minded player here. He will drop deep next to Lewis 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.

Wingers
Kudus + 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 Kudus 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.

Attack Mid
Florian Wirtz
Wirtz will be playing just behind Rashford and will look to help him out in attack. Be ready for passes into your feet and shoot if you see an opportunity. Mix up your attacking runs to throw off the oppo DM. I want him to dribble with the ball and play 1 2's with the rest of the team. Shoot if you see an opening.

Striker
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 Martinelli for Gravenberch 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--------Inacio-------Barco
---------------------------------------Lewis--------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------Wirtz-----------------------------------
Kudus---------------------Hojlund---------Boniface-------------Martinelli

Subs if WINNING BY 75MINS
Take off Wirtz 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 Martinelli and Madueke for our wingers to offer a more quicker threat on the counter.

-------------------------------------------Kepa-----------------------
Frimpong----Upamecano---Diomande---Inacio---Barco
-----------------------Lewis----------Gravenberch----------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Madueke--------------------------------------------------------------Martinelli
--------------------------------------Boniface-----------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS (fresh legs)
Hojlund on for Boniface
Martinelli on for Doku
Joao Pedro on for Wirtz

4-3-3 High tempo total football

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. Rodri 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.

Rodri and Valverde in cm are a solid midfield pairing, with the quality to dominate and set the tempo. We have a pacey and powerful team, and set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden and R.James (5’10) are over 6ft, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully Spurs.

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.

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. 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.

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.

———————————— Alisson
R.James ——— Militao —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
—————————- Rodri —— Valverde
———————————— Musiala
— P.Foden ——————————————— Kvaratskhelia
———————————— Osimhen

Subs. Sanchez, Saliba, Ugarte, P.Sarr, Olise, J.Felix, Gyokeres

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 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 Olise for Kvarat. Foden goes left.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Sarr for Valverde. Fresh power.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Felix for Musiala. Fresh pace and creativity

If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Gyokeres for Theo. 3-5-2. Gyokeres up top.
If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Felix for Musiala.
If losing or drawing after 80 mins bring on Olise for Kvarat

-------------------- Vandevoort ------------------
Pedro Porro -- Varane -- Bastoni --- Maatsen
---------- Mac Allister ---- Tonali --------------
--- Pedro Neto ---- Nkunku ---- Rafa Leao ---
------------------- Gabriel Jesus -----------------

Subs:
Gabriel, Livramento, Casemiro, Sancho, Gnabry, Asensio, Sesko

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 Leao 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. Varane 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 Leao both looking to cut infield the overlapping runs of Porro & Maatsen provide natural width and cause the opposition full backs a real headache as they are torn between tracking Neto & Leao abandoning their duties to engage our flying full backs creating an overload in our favour on the flanks. Assists galore our attacking fullbacks will be whipping balls in from out wide all afternoon for our frontmen to attack.

Our DM’s also have an important role to play in this system with Mac & Tonali shielding the defence when our fullbacks push forward.

Midfield:

Tonali will be our all action player in the middle. Strong in the tackle and superb passing ability he’ll be spraying the ball around from deep all afternoon. He also has strong ball carrying abilities and can strike a ball from distance.

He combines perfectly with the technical brilliance of Mac Allister. The Argentine Allister is a delightful player and his passing ability will allow us to dictate the tempo of the game. Alongside Tonali 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 Tonali and Mac Allister behind him.

Pedro Neto and Leao 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. Leao 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 Leao 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 Porro & Maatsen 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: Neto off, Gnabry on. Fresh legs as we look to pick them off on the break.
85 mins: Nkunku off, Casemiro on. Tighten up defensively with dual DMS in the middle of the park as Mac Allister moves to number 8.

If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Jesus off, Sesko on. We move to an attacking 4-2-2-2. Mac Allister & Tonali at CM with Neto & Leao on the flanks and Nkunku & Sesko up top giving the perfect big man/little man combo.
80 mins: Neto off, Gnabry on. Fresh legs and an increased goal threat from out wide.

Red card scenario:

In all scenario’s we revert to a 4-4-1 formation. Nkunku will be replaced with one of the below whilst our 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.

Vandevoordt
Porro Varane Bastoni Maatsen
Neto Mac Allister Tonali Leao
Jesus

FB – Livramento
CB - Varane
CM - Casemiro
WG – Gnabry
CF - Sesko

Watford: League Week 6 HOME to Man Utd.
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: André

Team:
------------------Verbruggen
Bradley---Collins—Murillo---Vanderlan
---------------------André
--------------Guerra---Gibbs-White
Enciso--------------------------------Prestianni
--------------------Gimenez

SUBS: Grando, Fresneda, Redondo, Price, Magno, 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. Guerra and Gibbs-White will play just in front of André. Guerra 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 Prestianni 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, Guerra 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 Guerra 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: Guerra, Prestianni or Enciso with Collins, Murillo and Gimenez to offer an aerial threat. Gibbs-White and Prestianni (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Gimenez

Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Ferguson for Gimenez and Rodríguez for Enciso, 2 like for like substitutions.

If losing (on 70 minutes) Rodríguez for Guerra 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--- Prestianni
---------Gimenez---Ferguson

NEWCASTLE UNITED v Chelsea

Injuries: Baleba, Mbuemo, Oblak, Trippier

--------------------- Chevalier
Walker - Rudiger - Van Dijk - F Mendy
‐-------------------- Palhinha
-------- De Bruyne ------ Odegaard
Palmer ------------ Kane -------------- Son

Subs: Trafford, Gomez, Goretzka, Fernandes, Bowen, Mitoma, Toney

----------------

A tough but winnable game today against Chelsea, who have Mbappe out injured and Manager Fan still hungover. Also he thinks we're sheite. (His words, not mine). Get out there and show him up. Without Mbappe and Alvarez, our back four and DM should keep their attack at bay, while causing problems of our own to their defence. Haaland is a beast but against Van Dijk and Rudiger, he'll be lucky to get a touch of the ball.

We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Chevalier in goal, Rudiger and Van Dijk at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Palhinha 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. Chelsea are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.

Chevalier - 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. Making your debut in a big game, but 12 clean sheets in Ligue 1 this season (15 in all competitions) is more than Donnarumma, so you'll be absolutely fine.

Rudiger/Van Dijk - Rudiger to mark Haaland, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Van Dijk to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to Bellingham 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.

Walker/Mendy - Both of you to force the Chelsea 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 Palhinha 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 Palhinha. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break. Walker to use his pace as the last man back whenever we have setpieces.

Palhinha - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Chelsea and specifically Bellingham 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 Walker and Mendy 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 Palhinha, 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 Walker/Mendy/Palhinha 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 Walker and Mendy 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, Palhinha and Odegaard to make it hard for Chelsea to break us down.

Kane - you will be expected to occupy the Chelsea 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 Son off, Goretzka and Mitoma on. Change to flat 4-5-1, De Bruyne and Goretzka either side of Palhinha, focus on ball retention to see out the win, while having plenty of bodies back when we dont have the ball. Mitoma 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: Son and Palmer off, Mitoma and Bowen on. Like for like, fresh legs, fresh ideas to try and win the game.

If still drawing at 80 mins: Odegaard off, Fernandes on. Look to force a winner, more 4-1-4-1 with De Bruyne and Fernandes more advanced.

If losing at 70 mins: Mendy and Palhinha off, Goretzka and Toney on. Change to 3-2-3-2;
Chevalier
Walker - Van Dijk - Rudiger
De Bruyne - Goretzka
Palmer - Odegaard - Son
Toney - Kane

If still losing at 85 mins: De Bruyne off, Fernandes on. Change to 3-1-4-2. Blaze of glory, all out attack.
Chevalier
Walker - Van Dijk - Rudiger
Goretzka
Palmer - Fernandes - Odegaard - Son
Toney - Kane

Setpieces;
Left side freekicks and left wing corners: Kevin De Bruyne or Martin Odegaard
Right side freekicks and right wing corners: Cole Palmer or Ferland Mendy
Penalties: Ivan Toney, Harry Kane or Cole Palmer

Aston Villa v BRENTFORD

🤧🤒🤕
Harwood-Bellis, Szoboszlai, Lobotka
Drăgușin (sold)


_____________Vicario
Simakan, Thiaw, Branthwaite, Robertson
_____________Laimer
________Simons, Koopmeiners
____Berardi_____________Barcola
_____________Openda

Subs: Kelleher, Dedic, Kerkez, Frendrup, Baumgartner Olmo, Zirkzee

Captain - Robertson
Pens, Free kicks - Koopmeiners

Our players' in-possession responsibilities in the 433

The main responsibility for our wingers is isolating our opponents full-backs and attacking in one-on-one situations – cutting inside to combine. The approach is common for wrong-footed wingers or inside forwards, who aim to come off the flank and shoot at goal. Berardi and Barcola moving infield, meanwhile, creates space on the outside for Simakan and Robertson to overlap into.

Openda, our lone centre-forward will move across the pitch as the attack builds, pinning the opposition’s ball-side centre-back. Openda can drop short to link and help create overloads in central midfield, or provide direct runs beyond the opposition. These runs are often to try and get on the end of through balls, and in the process push our opposition’s defence back into deeper territory. This will, in turn, create space centrally for our midfielders or wide forwards to move into.


Our midfield three provides passing options for both build-up and attacking play. The two more attack-minded midfielders - Simons and Koopmeiners are often positioned in the inside channels and provide forward runs between the winger and centre-forward to get into crossing positions. If deeper, they’ll connect the full-back and centre-back on their side to the winger and centre-forward. Laimer, our defensive midfielder is the primary link between the back line and midfield, though, and the main player through which switches of play are made to access the other side of the pitch.

The back line – especially the centre-backs – focus on accessing the central midfield unit during build-up, especially if they have an overload in that area. The centre-backs will also often reposition themselves to allow Laimer to drop into the back line during build-up. The full-backs then push forward, providing our team’s width as the wrong-footed wingers move inside. Then, the attacking midfielders may remain deeper, acting as cover should the move break down.

What are the players' out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-3-3?

Having three players in attack means our 4-3-3 is a good shape to press high up the pitch. The wingers can start narrow to block the central areas before pressing outwards to force the ball wide, with Openda aiming to block off any switch of play. It is also possible for our wingers to start wider and press inwards, should the aim be to force play into a midfield trap. Another option is that our wingers position themselves in line with the two outside central midfielders to form a 4-1-4-1 block.

The three central midfielders cover and protect central areas, and can quickly adapt to become two defensive midfielders (Laimer and Koopmeiners) and one advanced midfielder (Simons) if necessary. This will occur either when a block is formed or when pressing. When set in the more traditional 4-3-3 shape – with Laimer flanked by Koopmeiners and Simons – the advanced midfielders can individually press the wide areas behind the wingers, or jump to support the centre-forward.

The back four will remain compact for as long as possible when defending in a set block, protected by the midfield three. Our opponent may target spaces out wide, between the full-back and winger; here, the back line can move across the pitch aggressively. The full-backs may jump forward to support a higher press, especially if the winger on the same side is committed forwards. The back line will again slide across the pitch to support the full-back.

Subs - if winning or drawing on 75mins - Frendrup on for Laimer, Olmo on for Barcola

If losing on 75 mins - Dedic, Kerkez and Zirkzee on for Simakan, Robertson and Openda.

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. Onana the box to box option in cm giving us power and athleticism, Nunes 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 —— L.Martinez ———
M.Gusto ———— A.Onana ——— M.Nunes ——— Grimaldo
—————————————— L.Messi —————
—————————— M.Salah ——— Richarlison —————————

Subs. Raya, Chillwell, Vitinha, Mount, Williams, Rashford, Havertz

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, Onana plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area, Nunes plays ball side of Onana, 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 Mount for Onana. Fresh legs.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Havertz for Messi.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Rashford for Richarlison. Pace against tired legs.

If drawing or losing after 60 mins bring on Rashford for Lisandro. 4-2-2-2. Rashford left.
If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Mount for Onana.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Williams for Richarlison, Rashford up top. Fresh pace.

------------------------- N.Pope ------------------------
D.Carvajal --- E.Garcia --- Botman --- N.Williams
------------- Doug Luiz ------- Zubimendi ------------
------------------------- B.Silva -------------------------
--- F.Chiesa ------------------------------- F.Torres ---
------------------------ J.David -------------------------

Bazanu, Skriniar, Bissouma, Gallagher, L.Bailey, G.Reyna, Dybala

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. Garcia 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, Zubimendi 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 Zubimendi 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 push more forward, when attacking he moves into an AM/free role/SS, he has freedom of the pitchhe is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join J.David 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 J.David and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking

J.David, 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, Chiesa, Ferran buzzing around.


Captain - D.Luiz
Pens - J.David/Replacement
Free Kicks - B.Silva
Corners - Wingers

Losing/drawing -
65 Mins - Dybala for B.Silva up fron 442/424, L.Bailey for Ferran
75 Mins - G.Reyna for Chiesa

Winning -
75 Mins - Gallagher for B.Silva, Bailey for Ferran, Dybala for J.David

----------------------- E.Martinez -----------------------
A. Hakimi -- Ruben Dias -- Cr. Romero -- N.Mendes
------------ Declan Rice ------ E.Fernandez -----------
M.Diaby ------------- Bellingham ------------ Grealish
------------------------- Haaland -------------------------

D.Costa, L.Colwill, Guimaraes, E.Eze, Adingra, Odobert, A.Isak

Some nasty injuries this week but we crack on. We have plenty pace, power and most importantly 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 Dias is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Romero to take care of the main man, the CF in for a tough game, 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 be creative with his passing, 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 will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play 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 and tricky, 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 Grealish 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 - Enzo/Grealish

Losing -
65 Mins - Colwill for Enzo, Isak for Diaby, Colwill to LCB, Mendes/Hakimi to midfield, Grealish to No10, Isak up top 3412

Emi
Romero - Dias - Colwill
Hakimi - Jude - Rice - Mendes
Grealish
Haaland - Alex Isak

75 Mins - Adingra for Mendes

Drawing -
70 Mins - Adingra for Diaby, Odobert for Grealish, fresh pace and trickery out wide

Winning -
75 Mins - Adingra for Diaby, Guimaraes for Enzo

UNITED vs watford

-----------------------------Mamardashvili---------------------------------
Frimpong---------Diomande----------Inacio----------Barco
-----------------------------------Camavinga--------------------------
---------------Gravenberch--------------------Wirtz--------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saka-----------------------------Hojlund----------------------Martinelli

Subs - Kepa, Hincapie, Rico Lewis, K Thuram, Mudryk, Kudus, Boniface

CK'S - WIRTZ
FK'S - WIRTZ
PENALTIES - HOJLUND

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. Diomande and Inacio bring a lot of strength and pace to the defence. Inacio will marshal the defence and Diomande 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
Cama 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/Martinelli and thread dangerous through balls to them.

Centre Mids
Gravenberch + Florian Wirtz
Gravenberch will be playing as the B2B mid today. When our wingers have the ball in dangerous positions make runs into the box. Press the oppo midfield when they have the ball in the center of the pitch and just get stuck in both defensively and in attack.
Wirtz will be the more creative minded player here. He will drop deep 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.

Wingers
Saka + Martinelli
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Martinelli will be looking to cut in from the left and 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 Hojlund 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
Rasmus Hojlund
Hojlund will be leading the line for us today. On great form atm, he will have plenty of support in attack to score. 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 Boniface and Mudryk for Gravenberch and Martinelli to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.

-------------------------------------Mamardashvili-----------------------
Frimpong----------Diomande-----------Inacio----------Barco
-------------------------------------Camavinga---------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------Wirtz-----------------------------------
Saka-------------------Hojlund--------------Boniface----------Mudryk

Subs if WINNING BY 75MINS
Take off Wirtz and put on Hincapie in CB to offer more defensive protection. Put on Thuram for Gravenberch for more energy in the middle. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack.

----------------------------------Mamardashvili-----------------------
Frimpong-----Diomande----Hincapie----Inacio-----Barco
------------------------Camavinga----------Thuram----------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saka--------------------------------------------------------------Martinelli
--------------------------------------Hojlund-----------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 80MINS (fresh legs)
Boniface on for Hojlund
Mudryk on for Martinelli
Kudus on for Saka

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 - Konate - Upa - Ake
—————— Kroos
—— de Jong — Barella
Thuram ———————— Sane
—————— Lautaro
Subs: Maigan, Cancelo, Miguel G, Hakan, Curtis, Diaz, 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
——— de Jong - Kroos - Ake
Trent ——————————————
——————————— Barella
—— Thuram - 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 Barella will tire from their roles, they will be replaced by Diaz and Cancelo. Thuram will join the ST and RW with central combinations to keep pressure while Cancelo playing at right back will move Trent into midfield to control the midfield, pushing de Jong further forward.

75th min: Hakan will come on for Kroos 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 Thuram, one of the most natural finishers on the planet will stay in and around the box to do what he does best, Hakan sub won’t happen.

Saliba Kim in the middle should read konate Upa

Scalvino for Upa he’s injured

Week 7

Villa

------------------------ D. Raya -------------------------
D.Carvajal - Eric Garcia - M.Hermoso - S.Cardona
-------------- Zubimendi --- Doug. Luiz --------------
F.Chiesa ------------ Gallagher ------------- F.Torres
------------------------ Watkins -------------------------

Bazanu, Zubeldia, Bissouma, D.Olmo, Mayoral, L.Bailey, 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 Mario Hermoso 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. Garcia alongside, again a very robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Hermoso if needed or pick up a SS/AM, Both can play it out and very good on the ball so no need for rash punts up field unless tequired and no other option, will look to play it to the fullbacks or the midfielders ahead

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

The 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, Zubimendi 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 Zubimendi 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.

Gallagher will push more forward, when attacking he moves into an AM/free role/SS, he has freedom of the pitchhe is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence 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 Gallagher, Chiesa, Ferran buzzing around.

Captain - Carvajal
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - Douglas Luiz
Corners - Wingers

Subs -
Losing -
60 Mins - J.David for Gallagher, L.Bailey for Ferran, without a No.8/10 we will rely more on the wingers to whip sone crosses in
70 Mins - Mayoral for Watkins

Winning -
75 Mins - Bissouma for Gallagher, will sit in a midfield flat 3, L.Bailey for Ferran
83 Mins - J.David for Watkins

Drawing -
70 Mins - D.Olmo for Gallagher, L.Bailey for Ferran, J.David for Watkins

Comment deleted by Article Creator

BRENTFORD v Arsenal

🤧🤒🤕🤢
Branthwaite, Simons, Barcola, Openda

_________Vicario
Laimer, Stones, Guéhi, Kerkez
_________Lobotka
__Koopmeiners, Smith Rowe
Kubo_______________Werner
_________Zirkzee

Subs: Kelleher, Dedic, Harwood-Bellis, Frendrup, Berardi, Gloukh, Dybala

Captain - Stones
Pens, Free kicks - Koopmeiners

Our players' in-possession responsibilities in the 433

The main responsibility for our wingers is isolating our opponents full-backs and attacking in one-on-one situations – cutting inside to combine. The approach is common for wrong-footed wingers or inside forwards, who aim to come off the flank and shoot at goal. Kubo and Werner moving infield, meanwhile, creates space on the outside for Laimer and Kerkez to overlap into.

Zirkzee, our lone centre-forward will move across the pitch as the attack builds, pinning the opposition’s ball-side centre-back. Zirkzee can drop short to link and help create overloads in central midfield, or provide direct runs beyond the opposition. These runs are often to try and get on the end of through balls, and in the process push our opposition’s defence back into deeper territory. This will, in turn, create space centrally for our midfielders or wide forwards to move into.


Our midfield three provides passing options for both build-up and attacking play. The two more attack-minded midfielders - Smith Rowe and Koopmeiners are often positioned in the inside channels and provide forward runs between the winger and centre-forward to get into crossing positions. If deeper, they’ll connect the full-back and centre-back on their side to the winger and centre-forward. Lobotka, our defensive midfielder is the primary link between the back line and midfield, though, and the main player through which switches of play are made to access the other side of the pitch.

The back line – especially the centre-backs – focus on accessing the central midfield unit during build-up, especially if they have an overload in that area. The centre-backs will also often reposition themselves to allow Lobotka to drop into the back line during build-up. The full-backs then push forward, providing our team’s width as the wrong-footed wingers move inside. Then, the attacking midfielders may remain deeper, acting as cover should the move break down.

What are the players' out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-3-3?

Having three players in attack means our 4-3-3 is a good shape to press high up the pitch. The wingers can start narrow to block the central areas before pressing outwards to force the ball wide, with Zirkzee aiming to block off any switch of play. It is also possible for our wingers to start wider and press inwards, should the aim be to force play into a midfield trap. Another option is that our wingers position themselves in line with the two outside central midfielders to form a 4-1-4-1 block.

The three central midfielders cover and protect central areas, and can quickly adapt to become two defensive midfielders (Lobotka and Koopmeiners) and one advanced midfielder (Smith Rowe) if necessary. This will occur either when a block is formed or when pressing. When set in the more traditional 4-3-3 shape – with Lobotka flanked by Koopmeiners and Smith Rowe – the advanced midfielders can individually press the wide areas behind the wingers, or jump to support the centre-forward.

The back four will remain compact for as long as possible when defending in a set block, protected by the midfield three. Our opponent may target spaces out wide, between the full-back and winger; here, the back line can move across the pitch aggressively. The full-backs may jump forward to support a higher press, especially if the winger on the same side is committed forwards. The back line will again slide across the pitch to support the full-back.

Subs - if winning or drawing on 75mins - Frendrup on for Lobotka, Gloukh on for Smith Rowe

If losing on 75 mins - Dedic, Berardi and Dybala on for Laimer, Kubo and Zirkzee.

----------------------- Martinez ------------------------
A. Hakimi - Ruben Dias - Levi Colwill - N.Mendes
----------- Declan. Rice --- E.Fernandez -----------
M.Diaby ----------- Bellingham ------------ Mbappe
---------------------- E.Haaland -----------------------

D.Costa, B.White, Guimaraes, Echeverri, Odobert, Ramos, Grealish

We have plenty pace, power and most importantly 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 Colwill 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 Dias to take care of the main man, the CF in for a tough game despite how big and strong he is, Dias is equal to him, both stick to their jobs, give the striker a yard or two, dont sit right on him as if he is lost then the striker is away, giving them a wee bit of room allows them time to adjust to where he is going and gives them that extra second to manouver into position to stop the threat and stop the attack, dont dive in, just shimmy the player to give him second thoughts on what he is doing, allowing our boys to win the ball and get it away from danger, 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 be creative with his passing, 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 will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play 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 and tricky, 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 - Enzo

Losing -
65 Mins - Ramos for Enzo, Bellingham drop in beside Rice, Ramos up top 442/424
75 Mins - B.White for Hakimi, Grealish for Mendes
343, White to RCB, Grealish to LW, Mbappe up top

Winning -
75 Mins - B.White for Hakimi, better defensively as they bring on new attackers, Guimaraes for Enzo
83 Mins - Grealish for Haaland, he goes left, Mbappe up top

Drawing -
70 Mins - Mini Messi Echeverri for Enzo, he goes in beside Jude, with Rice sitting
80 Mins - Odobert for Diaby, lightening quick with a good cross on him
----------------------------------------------------------------------

4-3-3 High tempo

At home we go with a fluid attacking team full of pace and power to play with a high tempo, dominate possession with width to stretch the game and target the the space in behind their midfielders. Using our pace and power to tire their old legs.

Newcastle have an attacking midfield, but it’s cms that dominate games not ams and in Rodri and Valverde we have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and expose their midfield defensively. Musiala for us is strong defensively while Osimhen has fantastic work rate defensively too.

Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch the Newcastle defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate.

Rodri provides cover to allow fbs to attack and create overloads, with Musiala in an attacking centre-mid role, free to link and find space in attack. Valverde offering quality in the box to box role, bursting through the lines. 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 in cm are a solid midfield pairing, with the quality to dominate and set the tempo. We have a pacey and powerful team, and set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden and R.James (5’10) are over 6ft, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully the ageing Newcastle.

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.

Foden, Musiala and Olise 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.

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.

—————————————— Alisson
R.James —— Marquinhos —— Gvardiol —— Udogie
——————————— Rodri —— Valverde
—————————————- Musiala
— M.Olise —————————————————— P.Foden —
—————————————- Osimhen

Subs. Sanchez, Militao, Ugarte, P.Sarr, Gundogan, V.Roque, Gyokeres

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 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 Gundogan for Valverde. More control in the middle.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Sarr for Musiala. Fresh power. Gundogan more attacking cm.
If winning after 80 mins bring on V.Roque for Olise. Fresh pace and skill to beat a man.

If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Gyokeres for Udogie. 3-5-2. Gyokeres up top.
If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Gundogan for Valverde. More control.

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 - Konate - Upa - Ake
—————— Kroos
—— de Jong — Odegaard
Griezzy ———————— Gonzalez
—————— Lautaro
Subs: Chesney, Cancelo, Estupinan, Eze, Maddison, Diaz, Thuram

To be positive down our left side, Gonzalez 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 Gonzalez for him to isolate their right defender. Gonzalez’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.

——— Konate —— Upa
——— de Jong - Kroos - Ake
Trent ——————————————
——————————— Odegaard
—— Griezzy - Lautaro ———— Gonzalez

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 Gonzalez 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, Gonzalez 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: Gonzalez and Odegaard will tire from their roles, they will be replaced by Diaz and Cancelo. Diaz will join the ST and RW with central combinations to keep pressure while Cancelo playing at right back will move Trent into midfield to control the midfield, pushing de Jong further forward.

75th min: Eze will come on for Kroos 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: Thuram will go on for Griezzy, his natural game will cause havoc, Eze sub won’t happen.

Watford: Week 7 Away to Villa
Captain: André
Vice-Captain: Verbruggen

-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley--Collins--Quansah--Vanderlan
---------------André----White
---------------------Enciso
Martins-----------------------------Magno
--------------------Ferguson

SUBS: Grando, Fresneda, Beraldo, Redondo, Price, Rodríguez, Leonardo

SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with André as the holding/defensive midfielder who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (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 André as the one holding/defensive midfielder. He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (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 Martins 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 Enciso, White and Ferguson 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.
Ferguson 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, Magno or Martins with Collins, Quansah and Ferguson to offer an aerial threat. Enciso and Magno (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 – Beraldo for Collins, Redondo for André and Leonardo for Ferguson.
If losing (60 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace White with Leonardo and Martins with Rodríguez. 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
Rodríguez---Enciso---Magno
-----Leonardo--Ferguson

Red Card Subs:
Keeper: Grando for Verbruggen and take off Enciso: 4-4-1
FB: Fresneda as direct replacement (LB/RB) and take off Enciso: 4-4-1
CB: Beraldo 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: Leonardo as direct replacement and take off Enciso: 4-4-1
*****If Enciso red carded then use Magno