UNITED vs city
------------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
---------------De Ven-----------Scalvini----------Hincapie-----------
----------------------Gravenberch-----Thuram-------------------------
R Lewis-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------Saka--------------Hojlund----------------Doku---------------
Subs - Mamardashvili, Diomande, Palmer, Madueke, Tel, Wirtz, Sesko
CK'S - SAKA
FK'S - SAKA
PENALTIES - SAKA
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. De Ven and Hincapie will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to stop any attacks that go down their wings using their super human pace and tackling ability. Scalvini in the middle will marshall the defence and look to work together with his fellow CB's to stop the oppo attackers. Stay compact and not too far from each other so we can deal with any crosses into the area etc. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.
WINGBACKS
Lewis and Barco are playing as wingbacks today. They will both have the freedom to bomb up and down their flanks. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM's will be helping you a lot aswell. De Ven and Hincapie will be ready as the outside CB's to help you clear up any loose balls etc. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. One of our DM's will come over to mark the oppo winger who has the ball incase they use the overlapping fullbacks. I want both wingbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..
Centre Mids
Thuram + Gravenberch
These 2 will be the main enforcers to protect the defence and to control the central midfield. Both of these have the engine to easily last the 90 minutes. Thuram will be the more defensive of the two. He will help the wingbacks in defending against oppo wingers and will also look to put a lock on the oppo AM to stop him dictating play. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings and try and play some quick one two's as you are a good dribbler and passer. Gravenberch will be allowed to stretch his legs and run with the ball from deep if there is space to do so in the centre of the pitch. When out of possession drop deep next to Thuram and try and intercept the ball. Graven will look to use his technical ball playing ability to pass the ball forwards and to try and thread dangerous passes to unlock the oppo defence. I want the front three to be on the lookout for his passes. When out of possession drop deep and cover the central midfield space.
Wingers
Saka + Doku
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Saka will be looking to cut in from the left and Doku likewise who will cut in from the right. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back into the centre of the pitch to one of our DM's or play quick one two's with our wingbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for 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. He has got the pace and strength 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. Use your physical power to hold the ball up and to bring others into the game. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. Be vary of loose balls in the box so you can use your quick reactions to get to the ball before the oppo defenders.
Subs if LOSING BY 75MINS
Put on Tel and Wirtz for Doku and Gravenberch 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.
---------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
---------------De Ven--------Scalvini-------Hincapie----------
---------------------------------Thuram--------------------------------------
R Lewis-----------------------------------------------------------Barco
----------------------------------Wirtz-----------------------------------
------------------Saka------Hojlund------Tel----------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Saka and put on Diomande in DM to offer more defensive protection and energy in the middle. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Put on Palmer for Doku to offer a more attacking presence up front.
----------------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
------------------De Ven-----------Scalvini----------Hincapie--------
Lewis----Thuram---Diomande----Gravenberch-----Barco
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------Palmer------------------------------------
------------------------------------Hojlund-----------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Switch formation to 3412 to confuse the oppo. Bring on Wirtz and Sesko for Saka and Doku.
------------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
---------------De Ven-----------Scalvini----------Hincapie-----------
----------------------Gravenberch-----Thuram-------------------------
Lewis-----------------------------------------------------------------Barco
---------------------------------------Wirtz--------------------------------------
-------------------------Hojlund------------Sesko---------------------------
Brentford v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Rudiger, Bruno F, Roger, Baleba
---------------------- Oblak
Walker - Tapsoba - Min-Jae - Mendy
‐---------------- Tchouameni
------- De Bruyne ------ Gundogan
Sane ------------ Openda --------------- Son
Subs: Kelleher, Trippier, Palhinha, Anderson, Kubo, Mudryk, Toney
----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Brentford, our back four and DM should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Oblak in goal, Min-Jae and Tapsoba at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni the sole sitting DM, De Bruyne and Gundogan transitioning from midfield to attack, with Sane and Son either side of Openda upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Brentford are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - 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 Openda.
Min-Jae/Tapsoba - Min-Jae to mark their striker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Tapsoba to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to their runners 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 Brentford 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 Tchouameni to give him passing options, in attack push forward and support Sane 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 Openda and De Bruyne, and link with Gundogan and Tchouameni. 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.
Tchouameni - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Brentford 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 Gundogan ahead of you. No need to get forward, apart for setpieces on occasion.
De Bruyne/Gundogan - 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 Tchouameni, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be match winners. Gundogan to primarily work deeper, pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Tchouameni and look for De Bruyne/Son/Sane/Openda making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. De Bruyne 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 Gundogan, or defenders out of position to create space for Sane/Son/Openda to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Sane/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 Openda and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with De Bruyne and Gundogan will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Openda's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Tchouameni and Gundogan to make it hard for Brentford to break us down.
Openda - you will be expected to occupy the Brentford 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 Sane and Son on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you, and with De Bruyne and Gundogan behind you, to create opportunities.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: Openda and Sane off, Toney and Kubo on. Change to flat 4-5-1, De Bruyne and Gundogan either side of Tchouameni, focus on ball retention to see out the win, while having plenty of bodies back when we dont have the ball. Kubo to RM, and Son to LM. Kubo and Toney utilise fresh legs to hit on the break.
If still winning at 80 mins: De Bruyne off, Palhinha on. Stay in the 4-5-1 shape, Palhinha an extra DM, look to close the game out.
If drawing at 70 mins: Sane and Gundogan off, Kubo and Toney on. Change to a 4-1-3-2, fresh legs, fresh ideas to try and win the game. Kubo to RW, Toney upfront with Openda.
If still drawing at 80 mins: Tapsoba off, Mudryk on. Look to force a winner, back three of Walker - Min-Jae - Mendy. 3-1-4-2, Tchouameni the DM, with an AM quartet of Kubo, De Bruyne, Mudryk and Son.
If losing at 70 mins: Tapsoba and Gundogan off, Mudryk and Toney on. Change to 3-1-4-2;
Oblak
Walker - Min-Jae - Mendy
Tchouameni
Sane - De Bruyne - Mudryk - Son
Toney - Openda
If still losing at 85 mins: Tchouameni off, Kubo on. Change to 3-1-3-3. Blaze of glory, all out attack.
Oblak
Walker - Min-Jae - Mendy
De Bruyne
Sane - Mudryk - Son
Kubo - Toney - Openda
Setpieces;
Left side freekicks and left wing corners: Kevin De Bruyne or Ilkay Gundogan
Right side freekicks and right wing corners: Leroy Sane or Take Kubo
Penalties: Kevin De Bruyne or Ilkay Gundogan
Comment deleted by Article Creator
Comment deleted by Article Creator
------------------------- D. Raya -------------------------
Elias Jelert - M.Simakan - Buongiorno - Hernandez
------------- Douglas Luiz -- Mats Wieffer ------------
- F. Torres ------------ B. Silva ------------- Grealish -
----------------------- O. Watkins ------------------------
Butland, E.Garcia, Zubimendi, Tielemans, J.David, D.Fofana, M.Rogers
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 Simakan 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. Buongiorno alongside, again a very touch, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Simakan 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, Wieffer is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue not such a threat withotu de Bruyne, wherever he goes Wieffer 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 Wieffer 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 basically anywhere across the line where he will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence 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, Grealish comes inside alot, Ferran to the outside, at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, getting into dangerous positions waiting for the ball to come his way, he should get plenty supply, he doesnt defend, no need too, if he stays up top this will stop their defenders moving forward especially with B.Silva, Grealish and Ferran buzzing around.
Captain - Buongiorno
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - Douglas Luiz
Corners - Wingers
Losing -
70 Mins - J,David for Ferran, B.Silva to RW, David up top 442, Tielemans for Wieffer
80 Mins - Datro Fofana for Jelert, 343
Winning -
75 Mins - Tielemans for Ferran, B.Silva to the right, Tielemans centre
83 Mins - J.David for Watkins
Drawing -
70 Mins - J.David for Ferran, he goes to No.10, B.Silva to the right, Tielemans for Wieffer
comment by Fan Gillhaus 1903 (U3339)
posted 16 minutes ago
--------------------- Emi Martinez -------------------
A. Hakimi - Cr. Romero - Ruben Dias - F. Medina
----------- Declan. Rice --- E.Fernandez ----------
--------------------- Koopmeiners --------------------
---- Alvarez ----------------------------- Mbappe ----
---------------------- E. Haaland ----------------------
Carnesecchi, Mendes, Guimaraes, A.Varela, Echeverri, M.Diaby, N.Jackson
A few testing injuries but we move on in a top of the league match, we need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at City. 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 Romero 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, 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 Hakimi goes the most supporting Alvarez, leaving Facundo Medina in a back three to cover in case the ball is lost,if Medina has possession he tends to look for more of a long ball so play it over Mbappe or round him allowing Mbappe to use his pace to take on and beat his marker, when Hakimi goes, this allows Alvarez to move in more centrally, with Rice sitting this allows him to attack at will as he will cover the right hand side of central midfield, 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 Koopmeiners that option of playing wide or more central to Haaland or the players moving inside. Both Cbs up for corners, FBs stay back
Enzo 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 most advanced midfielder 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 Koopmeiners, 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.
Koopmeiners 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, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play 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 just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, Alvarez 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 Enzo and Koops 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 Koops, 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 - Koopmeiners
Losing -
65 Mins - M.Diaby for Hakimi, we go to a back 3, Diaby to LW, Mbappe up top, 3232
75 Mins - N.Jackson for Koopmeiners 343 all out attack, Bruno for Enzo for fresh legs in the middle
Winning -
75 Mins - Alan Varela for Koops, he goes into DM as a destroyer for the final 15
83 Mins - Mendes for Haaland, Mbappe up top, Mendes to LM
87 Mins - Diaby for Alvarez
Drawing -
70 Mins - Echeverri for Koops, young talent, fresh legs to get at a tiring DM, Diaby for Alvarez
----------------------------------------------------------------------
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 in the middle of it al in a free role.
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 Maddison 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 Maddison, at wb and front 2, this pace will stretch them. Casemiro the box to box option in cm giving us power and aggression, de Jong for his intelligence 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 —————————————
————— de Ligt —— L.Martinez —— N.Ake
J.Cancelo ——— Casemiro ——— F.De Jong —— Grimaldo
——————————————— Maddison
————————— M.Salah ——— Richarlison —————————
Subs. Ramsdale, Bremer, Gusto, Bentancur, Kulusevski, N.Williams, A.Broja
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, de Jong plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area, Casemiro plays ball side of de Jong, 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 70 mins bring on Bentancur for Casemiro. Fresh legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on N.Williams for Richarlison. Pace and power.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Gusto for Cancelo.
If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on N.Williams for Lisandro. 4-2-3-1. Williams left. 4-3-3.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Bentancur for for Casemiro.
4-3-3 High tempo possession
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 their fbs and young cbs.
Missing their first choice cms, so dominate possession, frustrate their fans and young players. Let their youthful exuberance get the best of them and tire them out by having them chase the ball.
Rodri and Mac Allister have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and expose their defence. 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 their 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. Mac Allister 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.
We have a pacey and powerful team, and set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden, Mac Allister 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 Watford kids.
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 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 ——— E.Militao —— Marquinhos —— Theo.H
——————————- Rodri —— Mac Allister
————————————— Musiala
— P.Foden ———————————————— Kvaratskhelia —
————————————— Osimhen
Subs. Sanchez, J.Timber, Udogie, Sarr, Olise, Martinelli, D.Nunez
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape, then press them high up the park.
Marquinhos the man marker next to Militao who is free to use his pace and intelligence to sweep up. Rodri plays as dm, Mac Allister 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 Martinelli for Kvaratskhelia. High energy impact.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Sarr for Musiala. High energy impact. Two players on who play at a very high tempo.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Nunez for Osimhen. Fresh pace and power against tired legs.
If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Nunez for Kvaratshkelia. 3-5-2. Theo left wing, Foden right wing. Nunez and Osimhen up top.
If losing or drawing after 72 mins bring on Olise for Musiala.
If a red card, cancel third sub. And instead take Musiala off, midfield 2 remaining would have the quality at cm to defend and attack
If Alisson, bring on Sanchez for Musiala.
If James or cb bring on Timber for Musiala.
If Theo bring on Udogie for Musiala.
If Rodri or Mac Allister bring on Sarr for Musiala. Power for a 2 man midfield.
If Foden or Kvaratskhelia move Musiala to wing, and bring on Olise/Martinelli later in game.
If Osimhen, bring on Nunez for Osimhen.
BRENTFORD v Manchester United
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Williams, Jørgensen, Svilar, Johnson
___________________Vicario
Livramento___Danso___Branthwaite___Kerkez
___________________Laimer
________Szoboszlai_________Gallagher
Bowen______________________________Gordon
__________________Gyökeres
Subs: Botman, Kadıoğlu, Lobotka, Willock, Jones, Jota
Captain - Szoboszlai
Pens, Free kicks - Szoboszlai
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. Bowen and Gordon moving infield, meanwhile, creates space on the outside for Livramento and Kerkez to overlap into.
Gyökeres, our lone centre-forward will move across the pitch as the attack builds, pinning the opposition’s ball-side centre-back. Gyökeres 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 - Szoboszlai and Gallagher 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 Gyökeres 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 Gallagher) and one advanced midfielder (Szoboszlai) 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 Gallagher and Szoboszlai – 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 on 75mins
If losing then..
Willock on for Bowen - Szoboszlai goes wide right and spams the box with crosses
Jones on for Gallagher
Jota on for Gordon
If winning or drawing then…
Lobotka (DM) on for Livramento - Laimer to RB
Willock on for Gallagher
Man City
———————— Donnarumma
——— B.Pavard — Kounde — Van Dijk
Porro —— Caicedo —— X.Simons —— Maatsen
——— P.Dybala ——————— F.Wirtz
————————— D.Vlahovic
Subs:
Johnstone, Ait-Nouri, Tonali, Gnabry, P.Neto, Nkunku, G.Jesus
Up against a top Chelsea side we look to take our fine form and home advantage as we go in search of another 3 points with a counter attacking 3-4-3.
The beauty of this set up is that it offers great flexibility, the perfect blend of attacking finesse and defensive strength it gives us all the tools required to get the better of our opponents.
The opposition are a strong side if not somewhat predictable, we know they are going to look to get the ball into their attacking front 3/4 and rely on their individual brilliance. We look to shut this down by playing a back 3 which turns into a back 5 when out of possession. We sit deep giving them no space in behind, in addition to this we have a DM shielding the defence, offering additional support as we look to blunt their attack. Their CF will be isolated by our back 3 whilst our wingbacks will work in tandem with our RCB & LCB to stifle their wingers.
With 3 CB’s, 2 wingbacks and a DM we have a solid defensive shield giving them little no room to operate in the final third and making them try and play through a brick wall.
When in possession our wingbacks have license to get forward. Given the lack of defensive workrate our opposition get by playing such attacking wingers often creates a weakness which we look to exploit. As soon as we win back possession we spring from our defensive set up. Porro and Maatsen push forward, working in tandem with Dybala and Wirtz we can create two on one’s against their fullbacks if their wingers don’t track back. Quick one two’s will pull them out of position as we cut through them in the final third. Our wingbacks will hug the touchline making the pitch as wide as possible, their fullbacks will be pulled out wide as they are forced to engage leaving Dybala and Wirtz free to push infield as they play between the lines making themselves incredibly difficult to be picked up.
As I alluded to above our set up enables us to have great flexibility ensuring we are no one trick ponies. If the opponents adjust their set up to stop us overwhelming them out wide by using their CM’s to support their wingers this opens up the middle of the field. The problem this will create for them is the little X factor we have in the middle, X by name X by nature Xavi Simons presence at CM creates the perfect little wrinkle for us to hit them from multiple angles. Out of possession Simons sits alongside Caicedo but in possession he has license to get forward. When he does our wingbacks will sit in, fresh from by bombarded down the flanks Chelsea will be expecting another flying attack out wide but instead we hit them through the middle. Dybala pushes up alongside Vlahovic, with Wirtz and Simons as dual AM’s.
------------- Donnarumma
----- Pavard -- Kounde -- Van Dijk
Porro --------- Caicedo -------- Maatsen
------ Simons ------------ Wirtz
---------- Vlahovic – Dybala
Simons and Wirtz drift between the lines, two of the brightest young playmakers in the game they excel in the final third whilst on the offensive Dybala has license to push up alongside Vlahovic, going one on one against their CB’s the two can cause them all sorts of problems.
Essentially we force the opposition to pick their poison, risk being overwhelmed out wide by our attacking wingbacks or get exploited through the middle when Simons advances and we go with twin AM’s and dual strikers. In all sequences we ensure we have sufficient defensive cover with Caicedo shielding our defence.
Defence:
We go with a perfectly balanced back three, strong defensively but also with great ball players which will allow us to retain possession and play out from the back. If they play one up top then Kounde will mark, Pavard and Van Dijk will act as cover and stay relatively centrally at all times. We keep the central area’s compact making it extremely difficult for the opposition to have any sniff at goal.
Our wingbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have cover with our 3 CB’s in behind. When in possession both Porro and Maatsen have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third.
Midfield:
Caicedo will provide a bundle of energy in the middle. An all action player we rely on his fantastic tenacity and high level work rate to break up the opposition play, winning back possession and setting us up on the counter as we look to get the ball into our creative players as quickly as possible. He’ll pick up their most advanced AM and cut out their supply line. He’s role will be purely defensive as he offers another layer of protection in front of back three.
Simons will start alongside Caicedo providing us with another body in the middle. Great workrate he’ll hustle and bustle when we’re out of possession but in possession he will get forward and has great quality in the final third, capable of creating and scoring he’ll link up perfectly with our attacking trio.
Forwards:
We go with a deadly attacking trident up top. Dybala and Wirtz play as inside forwards, both fantastic technicians capable of operating in tight spaces. They’ll look to play off the big man up top and both are deadly in and around the box.
With a dream supply line around him Vlahovic will be in his element. A real power forward he offers the dual threat of being deadly in the air and a natural born goalscorer with the ball at his feet.
He’ll be looking to do what he does best, get himself in the box and finish any chances that come his way.
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Simons off, Tonali on. Dual DM’s shielding our defence.
80 mins: Dybala & Maatsen off, Nkunku & Ait-Nouri on. Fresh legs in defence and attack as we see out the win and potentially pick them off on the break.
85 mins: Vlahovic off, Jesus on.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Wirtz off, Jesus on. Fresh legs and extra pace in attack.
80 mins: Pavard off, Nkunku on. We move to an attacking 4-2-2-2 with Nkunku & Dybala playing as AM’s supporting Vlahovic & Jesus up top. Goals.
Watford: League Week 10 HOME to Leicester
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: André
Team:
-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley---Collins—Murillo---Vanderlan
-------------------André
---------------Price---Edwards
Prestianni-------------------------Guilherme
--------------------Ferguson
SUBS: Grando, Wesley, Beraldo, Redondo, Magno, Rodríguez, Augusto
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. Price and Edwards will play just in front of André. Price will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Edwards 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 Prestianni and Guilherme 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 Edwards, Price and Ferguson 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 Price may sit a bit deeper allowing Edwards 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 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: Price, Guilherme or Prestianni with Collins, Murillo and Ferguson to offer an aerial threat. Edwards and Guilherme (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Ferguson
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Augusto for Ferguson and Rodríguez for Prestianni, 2 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 70 minutes) Rodríguez for Price and Augusto for Prestianni. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Augusto and Giovani offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
-------------------André
Rodríguez--Edwards--- Guilherme
---------Ferguson---Augusto
Red Card Subs:
Keeper: Grando for Verbruggen and take off Price: 4-4-1
FB: Vanderlan as direct replacement (LB/RB) and take off Price: 4-4-1
CB: Beraldo as direct replacement and take off Price: 4-4-1
CM: Price as direct replacement and take off Price: 4-4-1
LW/RW/AM: Move Gibbs-Edwards to LW/RW: 4-4-1
CF: Augusto as direct replacement and take off Price: 4-4-1
Aston Villa v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Goretzka, Anderson, Walker, De Bruyne
---------------------- Oblak
Trippier - Rudiger - Min-Jae - Mendy
‐---------------- Tchouameni
------- Gundogan ---- B.Fernandes
Sane ------------ Openda -------------- Son
Subs: Kelleher, Tapsoba, Palhinha, Kubo, Mudryk, Roger Fernandes, Toney
----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Villa, our back four and DM should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Oblak in goal, Min-Jae and Rudiger at centreback, Kieran Trippier and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni the sole sitting DM, Bruno Fernandes and Ilkay Gundogan transitioning from midfield to attack, with Sane and Son either side of Openda upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Villa are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - 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 Openda.
Min-Jae/Rudiger - Rudiger to mark their striker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Min-Jae to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to their runners 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/Mendy - Both of you to force the Villa 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 Tchouameni to give him passing options, in attack push forward and support Sane 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 Openda and Fernandes, and link with Gundogan and Tchouameni. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Tchouameni - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Villa 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 Mendy either side of you, and Fernandes and Gundogan ahead of you. No need to get forward, apart for setpieces on occasion.
Fernandes/Gundogan - 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 Tchouameni, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be match winners. Gundogan to primarily work deeper, pick up the ball from Trippier/Mendy/Tchouameni and look for Fernandes/Son/Sane/Openda making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Fernandes 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 Gundogan, or defenders out of position to create space for Sane/Son/Openda to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Sane/Son - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Trippier and Mendy overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Openda and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Fernandes and Gundogan will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Openda's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of Fernandes, Tchouameni and Gundogan to make it hard for Villa to break us down.
Openda - you will be expected to occupy the Villa 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 Sane and Son on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you, and with Fernandes and Gundogan behind you, to create opportunities.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: Openda and Sane off, Toney and Kubo on. Change to flat 4-5-1, Fernandes and Gundogan either side of Tchouameni, focus on ball retention to see out the win, while having plenty of bodies back when we dont have the ball. Kubo to RM, and Son to LM. Kubo and Toney utilise fresh legs to hit on the break.
If still winning at 80 mins: Fernandes off, Palhinha on. Stay in the 4-5-1 shape, Palhinha an extra DM, look to close the game out.
If drawing at 70 mins: Sane and Gundogan off, Kubo and Toney on. Change to a 4-1-3-2, fresh legs, fresh ideas to try and win the game. Kubo to RW, Toney upfront with Openda.
If still drawing at 80 mins: Trippier off, Mudryk on. Look to force a winner, back three of Rudiger - Min-Jae - Mendy. 3-1-4-2, Tchouameni the DM, with an AM quartet of Kubo, Fernandes, Mudryk and Son.
If losing at 70 mins: Trippier and Fernandes off, Mudryk and Toney on. Change to 3-1-4-2;
Oblak
Rudiger - Min-Jae - Mendy
Tchouameni
Sane - Gundogan - Mudryk - Son
Toney - Openda
If still losing at 85 mins: Tchouameni off, Kubo on. Change to 3-1-3-3. Blaze of glory, all out attack.
Oblak
Rudiger - Min-Jae - Mendy
Gundogan
Sane - Mudryk - Son
Kubo - Toney - Openda
Setpieces;
Left side freekicks and left wing corners: Kieran Trippier or Ilkay Gundogan
Right side freekicks and right wing corners: Leroy Sane or Take Kubo
Penalties: Ivan Toney, Bruno Fernandes or Ilkay Gundogan
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.
———————— Chesney
———— Stones - Saliba - Araujo
Trent - Barella - Hjulmand - Ode - Robbo
—————— Chiesa - Boniface
Subs: Restes, Gabriel, Brahim, Merino, Julian Araujo, Vitinha, Nunes
Our centre CM will be the one that sits deeper breaking up play 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 arriving late into the box into his ‘Øzone’ will be key, and flexibility provide additional options for us. His ability to attack from deep adds dynamism to the team's play.
Subs:
75th min: Nunes for Chiesa tired legs and Thuram can help keep the ball
75th min: if we’re winning then Merino on for Ode to solidify our hold on the game
In need of a goal 65th min: Brahim on for Ode and change to a 3-4-3, Brahim and Chiesa supporting Boniface narrow and wide. Merino sub won’t happen.
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
Fack me sideways gk should be costa if I’m allowed to change, too rush
MAN UNITED vs brentford
----------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
---------------De Ven-----------Inacio----------Hincapie-----------
---------------------------------Camavinga-----------------------------------
Frimpong-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
------------------------------------Palmer-------------------------------------------
-----------------Saka---------------Tel----------------Doku---------------
Subs - Mamardashvili, Diomande, Rico Lewis, Miley, Madueke, Guler, Savio
CK'S - SAKA
FK'S - SAKA
PENALTIES - SAKA
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. De Ven and Hincapie will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to stop any attacks that go down their wings using their super human pace and tackling ability. Inacio in the middle will marshall the defence and look to work together with his fellow CB's to stop the oppo attackers. Stay compact and not too far from each other so we can deal with any crosses into the area etc. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.
WINGBACKS
Frimpong and Barco are playing as wingbacks today. They will both have the freedom to bomb up and down their flanks. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM's will be helping you a lot aswell. De Ven and Hincapie will be ready as the outside CB's to help you clear up any loose balls etc. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. I want both wingbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..
Defence Mid
Camavinga
Cama will be the main enforcer to protect the defence and to control the central midfield. Just focus on defending as we have enough attacking talent. Cover the central areas in front of the defence and intercept/put in tackles when the oppo AM has the ball in a dangerois position. Play quick passes out to our attackers so we can launch a counter attack.
Wingers
Saka + Doku
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Saka will be looking to cut in from the left and Doku 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 the DM or play quick one two's with our wingbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for Tel 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
Cole Palmer
Palmer will be playing just behind Tel 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. Interchange with Saka from time to time to throw off the oppo.
Striker
Mathys Tel
Tel will be leading the line for us today. He has got the pace and strength 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. Use your physical power to hold the ball up and to bring others into the game. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. Be vary of loose balls in the box so you can use your quick reactions to get to the ball before the oppo defenders.
Subs if LOSING BY 75MINS
Put on Savio for 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.
---------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
---------------De Ven---------Inacio-------Hincapie----------
---------------------------------Camavinga--------------------------------------
Frimpong-----------------------------------------------------------Barco
-------------------------------------Palmer-----------------------------------
------------------Saka-------------Tel------------Savio----------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Saka and put on Rico Lewis in CM to offer more defensive protection and energy in the middle. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Put on Savio for Doku to offer a more attacking presence up front.
----------------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
------------------De Ven-----------Inacio----------Hincapie--------
Frimpong-------------Camavinga--------Lewis---------------Barco
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------Palmer-----------------Tel-------------------Savio------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Switch formation to 3412 to confuse the oppo. Bring on Savio and Guler for Saka and Doku.
------------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
---------------De Ven-----------Inacio----------Hincapie-----------
----------------------Camavinga-----Guler-------------------------
Frimpong-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
--------------------------------------Palmer--------------------------------------
--------------------------------Tel------------Savio---------------------------
Please delete original set was in a rush forgot to change keepers
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.
———————— Costa
———— Stones - Saliba - Araujo
Trent - Barella - Hjulmand - Ode - Robbo
—————— Chiesa - Boniface
Subs: Restes, Gabriel, Brahim, Merino, Julian Araujo, Vitinha, Nunes
Our centre CM will be the one that sits deeper breaking up play 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 arriving late into the box into his ‘Øzone’ will be key, and flexibility provide additional options for us. His ability to attack from deep adds dynamism to the team's play.
Subs:
75th min: Nunes for Chiesa tired legs and Thuram can help keep the ball
75th min: if we’re winning then Merino on for Ode to solidify our hold on the game
In need of a goal 65th min: Brahim on for Ode and change to a 3-4-3, Brahim and Chiesa supporting Boniface narrow and wide. Merino sub won’t happen.
------------------------- Butland --------------------------
Amar Dedic - M.Simakan - Buongiorno - Hernandez
---------------- Doug Luiz --- Bissouma -----------------
-- M.Salah ------------ Grealish ------------ L.Bailey --
------------------------ O.Watkins ------------------------
D.Raya, Elias Jelert, Tielemans, Luis Diaz, Denkey, Ndour, F.Torres
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 Simakan 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. Buongiorno alongside, again a very touch, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Simakan 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, Dedic will do this more than Lucas, 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, Bissouma is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes he will be there snapping at his heals, D.Luiz is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Bissouma making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball.
Grealish will push more forward, when attacking he moves into an AM/free role/SS basically anywhere across the line where he will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence 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 Salah, Grealish and Bailey buzzing around.
Captain - Buongiorno
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - Douglas Luiz
Corners - Wingers
Losing
65 Mins - Go to a back 3, Ferran on for Dedic, he goes to RW, Salah up top 3232, with Luis Diaz on for Bailey at the same time
75 Mins - Denkey for Salah
Winning -
75 Mins - Jelert for Salah, Tielemans for Bailey 451 with Grealish left, Jelert right and Tielemans in midfield with Bissouma just sitting back
Drawing -
70 Mins - Ferran for Salah, Luis Diaz for Bailey
80 Mins - C.Ndour for Grealish
------------------- M.Carnesecchi --------------------
A. Hakimi - Ruben Dias - Pau. Torres - F. Medina
----------- Alan. Varela ---- E.Fernandez ----------
-------------------- J.Bellingham ---------------------
----- Alvarez --------------------------- M.Diaby -----
----------------------- Mbappe -------------------------
Martinez, B.White, Mendes, Perrone, Echeverri, D.Malen, G.Ramos
we need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at Villa. 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 P.Torres is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving 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, 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 Hakimi goes the most supporting Alvarez, leaving Facundo Medina in a back three to cover in case the ball is lost,if Medina has possession he tends to look for more of a long ball so play it over Diaby or round him allowing Diaby to use his pace to take on and beat his marker, when Hakimi goes, this allows Alvarez to move in more centrally, with Varela sitting this allows him to attack at will as he will cover the right hand side of central midfield, 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 Jude that option of playing wide or more central to Mbappe or the players moving inside. Both Cbs up for corners, FBs stay back
Enzo and Varela must be patient, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Varela doing the marking job on the most advanced midfielder sometimes having to become a 3rd CB and Enzo doing the running when others come forward, be onto them quickly stop the ball getting to the forwards and into danger areas, when attacking Varela 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 Jude, and Mbappe 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 Mbappe, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Mbappe will be making runs to get himself into space, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play 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 Varela 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 just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, Alvarez and Diaby will cause them problems drifting in an out, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Enzo and Jude more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Mbappe who can beat any defender with power/pace, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Mbappe, we must always make sure Mbappe is well supported, especially wingers and Jude, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.
Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Mbappe
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Losing -
65 Mins - Malen for Hakimi, White for Medina, 3232, White to RCB, Malen to RW, Alvarez up top with Mbappe
75 Mins - Echeverri fo rEnzo, Bellingham drop back into midfield to ry and creat something, Echeverri to No.10
Winning -
75 Mins - White for Alvarez, he goes to RB, Hakimi to RM 4411
80 Mins - N.Mendes for Diaby
84 Mins - M.Perrone for Bellingham 4141, Varela behind Enzo and Perrone in midfield
Drawing -
70 Mins - Malen for Alvarez, G.Ramos for Diaby 4213, front 3 of
D.Malen - Ramos - Mbappe
80 Mins - M.Perrone for Enzo
Manchester City v BRENTFORD
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Williams, Dárdai, Gutiérrez, Lobotka
_________________Vicario
Martínez___Danso___Branthwaite___Kerkez
_________________Laimer
______Szoboszlai________Gallagher
Bowen_____________________________Gordon
_________________Zirkzee
Subs: Svilar, Pacho, Guerra, Willock, Jones, Johnson, Jota
Captain - Szoboszlai
Pens, Free kicks - Szoboszlai
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. Bowen and Gordon moving infield, meanwhile, creates space on the outside for Martínez 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 - Szoboszlai and Gallagher 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 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 (Laimer and Gallagher) and one advanced midfielder (Szoboszlai) 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 Gallagher and Szoboszlai – 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 losing any time from 60 mins onwards
If losing then..
Willock on for Bowen - Szoboszlai goes wide right and spams the box with crosses
Jones on for Gallagher
Johnson on for Gordon
If winning or drawing from 70 mins onwards
Guerra (DM) on for Martínez - Laimer to RB
Willock on for Gallagher
NEWCASTLE UNITED v Tottenham
Injuries: Estupinan, Anderson, Diallo, Trafford
--------------------- Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Min-Jae - Mendy
‐--------------- Tchouameni
------- De Bruyne ---- B.Fernandes
Kubo --------- Gimenez --------- Mudryk
Squad: Kelleher, Gomez, Palhinha, Gundogan, Sane, Son, Openda
----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Spurs, our back four and DM should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence. They also have Kane and Messi injured which should help with that.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Oblak in goal, Min-Jae and Rudiger at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni the sole sitting DM, Bruno Fernandes and Kevin De Bruyne transitioning from midfield to attack, with Kubo and Mudryk either side of Gimenez upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Spurs are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - 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 Gimenez.
Min-Jae/Rudiger - Rudiger to mark their striker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Min-Jae to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to their runners 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 Spurs wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Tchouameni to give him passing options, in attack push forward and support Kubo and Mudryk 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 Gimenez and Fernandes, and link with De Bruyne and Tchouameni. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Tchouameni - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Spurs 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 Fernandes and De Bruyne ahead of you. No need to get forward, apart for setpieces on occasion.
De Bruyne/Fernandes - 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 Tchouameni, 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/Tchouameni and look for Fernandes/Kubo/Mudryk/Gimenez making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Fernandes 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 Kubo/Mudryk/Gimenez to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Kubo/Mudryk - 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 Gimenez and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Fernandes and De Bruyne will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Gimenez's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of Fernandes, Tchouameni and De Bruyne to make it hard for Spurs to break us down.
Gimenez - you will be expected to occupy the Spurs centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Kubo and Mudryk on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you, and with Fernandes and De Bruyne behind you, to create opportunities.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: Gimenez, Fernandes and Mudryk off, Openda, Palhinha and Son on. Change to a 4-2-3-1 that is a 4-5-1 without the ball, Palhinha alongside Tchouameni in front of the defence, Kubo - De Bruyne - Son behind Openda. Openda and Son to utilise fresh legs against a tiring Spurs defence.
If drawing at 70 mins: Kubo, Gimenez and Mudryk off, Sane, Openda and Son on. Staying with the 4-3-3 but with fresh legs and new ideas in attack, get at the Spurs backline and force a winner.
If losing at 70 mins: Min-Jae, Mudryk and Kubo off, Sane, Son and Openda on. Change to a 3-1-4-2. Absolutely go for it, all guns blazing as we push for a leveller.
---------------------- Oblak
------- Walker - Rudiger - Mendy
----------------- Tchouameni
Sane - De Bruyne - Fernandes - Son
------------ Gimenez - Openda
Setpieces;
Freekicks and corners: Kevin De Bruyne
Penalties: Bruno Fernandes or Kevin De Bruyne
Attacking high press 3-5-2
We go with an attacking side built on a strong defence, to take the game to Arsenal with pace and trickery out wide and creativity through the middle. We go with a side with a high work rate, full of energy to press from the front. The defence starts with the front two.
We look to score more than them, attacking the areas outside their cbs(if 3 at back) or inside their fbs(if 4) to get in behind using our pace in attack and creativity from the middle.
Our formation allows us to play quick flowing football, with a ball playing back three, Rodri setting the tempo in Cm, pacey wingers and front two to stretch Arsenal defence. The front two set the tempo for the game with their all action styles. Both have the ability to drop deep or wide, drag players out of position and overload their defence. Valverde and Mac Allister plays with high intensity in the middle with Rodri sitting. We have three cms able to pick a pass, and with the ability to dictate the tempo of the game and control possession.
We play with a high line to allow us to dominate possession, they will offer a threat getting in behind but we’ll back our players to create more from dominating play, and be better at taking their chances.
The width is provided by the wingers, and by an over lapping cb. We allow one cb to get forward at a time, either offering an extra man in midfield to control possession when needed or overlapping the winger. This will see us always have two cbs and a deep midfielder in front when we attack offering cover. We stop this tactic if we take the lead.
We will direct our attacks down the wings. Both wide players will have absolute freedom to attack, bombing down the wings, crossing for the front two and coming inside to give us extra players in the box. The overlapping cb, wbs and with front two will give us an overload in attacking situations.
We defend in a narrow formation, limiting the space for Arsenal to play in. Defending in the 3-5-2 shape we look to defend high up the park, as they push up the park the team narrows to the side they are attacking. Rodri sitting zonally in front of defence as Valverde and Mac Allister press the ball and central passing lane. The wingers on side of play look to defend - against any attacking fbs on side of play or to pick up a dm if no fbs, we always leave both forwards up, plus winger opposite play. So if the opposition go with 3 at back or have a fb attacking a 3 vs 3 counter could be on for us.
The defence and midfield press as a unit, ensuring there is no space between the lines for their attacking mids.
When we win the ball we attack at pace. Use the pace of our wide players bombing forward linking with the forwards to create.
————————————— Alisson ————————————
————— Militao —— Marquinhos —— Gvardiol ————
—————————————— Rodri ———— ————
P.Foden ———- Valverde ——— Mac Allister —— Theo.H
—————————————————————————————
————————- Osimhen ——— D.Nunez————————
Subs. Sanchez, Livramento, Udogie, Ugarte, Musiala, Kvaratshkelia, Vitor Roque
Defence
When we lose the ball high up the park we always look to win it back straight away, don’t give the opposition a chance to counter. 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, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
When the opposition 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.
Marquinhos acts as sweeper, the other two cbs defend zonally going man for man when opposition forwards in their zone. If overloaded Rodri can drop to cb, also going man for man if needed. If opposition players drop deep or out wide to opposite side of play we let them run free, defend the goal and pressing the ball asa well drilled unit. If they’re too far away from goal they can’t hurt us.
Attack
We attack at pace down the wings, Valverde, Mac Allister and one of the forwards linking with the wingers to work through their defence. Overlapping cb offers another threat out wide to overload and help build attack in possession.
The back 3 are all comfortable on the ball and look to play out, helping us move the ball quickly having a strong base.
Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Musiala for Mac Allister. Pace and dribbling to get at tired legs and help us keep possession.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Livramento for Foden, and Vitor Roque for Nunez. Keeping the shape but with better defensive players and fresh legs.
If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Kvaratskhelia for Theo.
If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Musiala for Mac Allister.
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Tactics
Page 68 of 77
69 | 70 | 71 | 72 | 73
posted on 5/3/24
UNITED vs city
------------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
---------------De Ven-----------Scalvini----------Hincapie-----------
----------------------Gravenberch-----Thuram-------------------------
R Lewis-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------Saka--------------Hojlund----------------Doku---------------
Subs - Mamardashvili, Diomande, Palmer, Madueke, Tel, Wirtz, Sesko
CK'S - SAKA
FK'S - SAKA
PENALTIES - SAKA
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. De Ven and Hincapie will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to stop any attacks that go down their wings using their super human pace and tackling ability. Scalvini in the middle will marshall the defence and look to work together with his fellow CB's to stop the oppo attackers. Stay compact and not too far from each other so we can deal with any crosses into the area etc. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.
WINGBACKS
Lewis and Barco are playing as wingbacks today. They will both have the freedom to bomb up and down their flanks. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM's will be helping you a lot aswell. De Ven and Hincapie will be ready as the outside CB's to help you clear up any loose balls etc. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. One of our DM's will come over to mark the oppo winger who has the ball incase they use the overlapping fullbacks. I want both wingbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..
Centre Mids
Thuram + Gravenberch
These 2 will be the main enforcers to protect the defence and to control the central midfield. Both of these have the engine to easily last the 90 minutes. Thuram will be the more defensive of the two. He will help the wingbacks in defending against oppo wingers and will also look to put a lock on the oppo AM to stop him dictating play. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings and try and play some quick one two's as you are a good dribbler and passer. Gravenberch will be allowed to stretch his legs and run with the ball from deep if there is space to do so in the centre of the pitch. When out of possession drop deep next to Thuram and try and intercept the ball. Graven will look to use his technical ball playing ability to pass the ball forwards and to try and thread dangerous passes to unlock the oppo defence. I want the front three to be on the lookout for his passes. When out of possession drop deep and cover the central midfield space.
Wingers
Saka + Doku
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Saka will be looking to cut in from the left and Doku likewise who will cut in from the right. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back into the centre of the pitch to one of our DM's or play quick one two's with our wingbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for 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. He has got the pace and strength 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. Use your physical power to hold the ball up and to bring others into the game. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. Be vary of loose balls in the box so you can use your quick reactions to get to the ball before the oppo defenders.
Subs if LOSING BY 75MINS
Put on Tel and Wirtz for Doku and Gravenberch 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.
---------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
---------------De Ven--------Scalvini-------Hincapie----------
---------------------------------Thuram--------------------------------------
R Lewis-----------------------------------------------------------Barco
----------------------------------Wirtz-----------------------------------
------------------Saka------Hojlund------Tel----------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Saka and put on Diomande in DM to offer more defensive protection and energy in the middle. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Put on Palmer for Doku to offer a more attacking presence up front.
----------------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
------------------De Ven-----------Scalvini----------Hincapie--------
Lewis----Thuram---Diomande----Gravenberch-----Barco
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------Palmer------------------------------------
------------------------------------Hojlund-----------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Switch formation to 3412 to confuse the oppo. Bring on Wirtz and Sesko for Saka and Doku.
------------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
---------------De Ven-----------Scalvini----------Hincapie-----------
----------------------Gravenberch-----Thuram-------------------------
Lewis-----------------------------------------------------------------Barco
---------------------------------------Wirtz--------------------------------------
-------------------------Hojlund------------Sesko---------------------------
posted on 5/3/24
Brentford v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Rudiger, Bruno F, Roger, Baleba
---------------------- Oblak
Walker - Tapsoba - Min-Jae - Mendy
‐---------------- Tchouameni
------- De Bruyne ------ Gundogan
Sane ------------ Openda --------------- Son
Subs: Kelleher, Trippier, Palhinha, Anderson, Kubo, Mudryk, Toney
----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Brentford, our back four and DM should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Oblak in goal, Min-Jae and Tapsoba at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni the sole sitting DM, De Bruyne and Gundogan transitioning from midfield to attack, with Sane and Son either side of Openda upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Brentford are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - 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 Openda.
Min-Jae/Tapsoba - Min-Jae to mark their striker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Tapsoba to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to their runners 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 Brentford 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 Tchouameni to give him passing options, in attack push forward and support Sane 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 Openda and De Bruyne, and link with Gundogan and Tchouameni. 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.
Tchouameni - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Brentford 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 Gundogan ahead of you. No need to get forward, apart for setpieces on occasion.
De Bruyne/Gundogan - 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 Tchouameni, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be match winners. Gundogan to primarily work deeper, pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Tchouameni and look for De Bruyne/Son/Sane/Openda making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. De Bruyne 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 Gundogan, or defenders out of position to create space for Sane/Son/Openda to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Sane/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 Openda and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with De Bruyne and Gundogan will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Openda's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Tchouameni and Gundogan to make it hard for Brentford to break us down.
Openda - you will be expected to occupy the Brentford 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 Sane and Son on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you, and with De Bruyne and Gundogan behind you, to create opportunities.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: Openda and Sane off, Toney and Kubo on. Change to flat 4-5-1, De Bruyne and Gundogan either side of Tchouameni, focus on ball retention to see out the win, while having plenty of bodies back when we dont have the ball. Kubo to RM, and Son to LM. Kubo and Toney utilise fresh legs to hit on the break.
If still winning at 80 mins: De Bruyne off, Palhinha on. Stay in the 4-5-1 shape, Palhinha an extra DM, look to close the game out.
If drawing at 70 mins: Sane and Gundogan off, Kubo and Toney on. Change to a 4-1-3-2, fresh legs, fresh ideas to try and win the game. Kubo to RW, Toney upfront with Openda.
If still drawing at 80 mins: Tapsoba off, Mudryk on. Look to force a winner, back three of Walker - Min-Jae - Mendy. 3-1-4-2, Tchouameni the DM, with an AM quartet of Kubo, De Bruyne, Mudryk and Son.
If losing at 70 mins: Tapsoba and Gundogan off, Mudryk and Toney on. Change to 3-1-4-2;
Oblak
Walker - Min-Jae - Mendy
Tchouameni
Sane - De Bruyne - Mudryk - Son
Toney - Openda
If still losing at 85 mins: Tchouameni off, Kubo on. Change to 3-1-3-3. Blaze of glory, all out attack.
Oblak
Walker - Min-Jae - Mendy
De Bruyne
Sane - Mudryk - Son
Kubo - Toney - Openda
Setpieces;
Left side freekicks and left wing corners: Kevin De Bruyne or Ilkay Gundogan
Right side freekicks and right wing corners: Leroy Sane or Take Kubo
Penalties: Kevin De Bruyne or Ilkay Gundogan
posted on 10/3/24
Week 10
posted on 10/3/24
Comment deleted by Article Creator
posted on 10/3/24
Comment deleted by Article Creator
posted on 10/3/24
thats Lucas Hernandez
posted on 10/3/24
------------------------- D. Raya -------------------------
Elias Jelert - M.Simakan - Buongiorno - Hernandez
------------- Douglas Luiz -- Mats Wieffer ------------
- F. Torres ------------ B. Silva ------------- Grealish -
----------------------- O. Watkins ------------------------
Butland, E.Garcia, Zubimendi, Tielemans, J.David, D.Fofana, M.Rogers
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 Simakan 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. Buongiorno alongside, again a very touch, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Simakan 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, Wieffer is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue not such a threat withotu de Bruyne, wherever he goes Wieffer 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 Wieffer 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 basically anywhere across the line where he will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence 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, Grealish comes inside alot, Ferran to the outside, at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, getting into dangerous positions waiting for the ball to come his way, he should get plenty supply, he doesnt defend, no need too, if he stays up top this will stop their defenders moving forward especially with B.Silva, Grealish and Ferran buzzing around.
Captain - Buongiorno
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - Douglas Luiz
Corners - Wingers
Losing -
70 Mins - J,David for Ferran, B.Silva to RW, David up top 442, Tielemans for Wieffer
80 Mins - Datro Fofana for Jelert, 343
Winning -
75 Mins - Tielemans for Ferran, B.Silva to the right, Tielemans centre
83 Mins - J.David for Watkins
Drawing -
70 Mins - J.David for Ferran, he goes to No.10, B.Silva to the right, Tielemans for Wieffer
posted on 10/3/24
comment by Fan Gillhaus 1903 (U3339)
posted 16 minutes ago
--------------------- Emi Martinez -------------------
A. Hakimi - Cr. Romero - Ruben Dias - F. Medina
----------- Declan. Rice --- E.Fernandez ----------
--------------------- Koopmeiners --------------------
---- Alvarez ----------------------------- Mbappe ----
---------------------- E. Haaland ----------------------
Carnesecchi, Mendes, Guimaraes, A.Varela, Echeverri, M.Diaby, N.Jackson
A few testing injuries but we move on in a top of the league match, we need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at City. 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 Romero 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, 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 Hakimi goes the most supporting Alvarez, leaving Facundo Medina in a back three to cover in case the ball is lost,if Medina has possession he tends to look for more of a long ball so play it over Mbappe or round him allowing Mbappe to use his pace to take on and beat his marker, when Hakimi goes, this allows Alvarez to move in more centrally, with Rice sitting this allows him to attack at will as he will cover the right hand side of central midfield, 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 Koopmeiners that option of playing wide or more central to Haaland or the players moving inside. Both Cbs up for corners, FBs stay back
Enzo 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 most advanced midfielder 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 Koopmeiners, 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.
Koopmeiners 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, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play 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 just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, Alvarez 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 Enzo and Koops 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 Koops, 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 - Koopmeiners
Losing -
65 Mins - M.Diaby for Hakimi, we go to a back 3, Diaby to LW, Mbappe up top, 3232
75 Mins - N.Jackson for Koopmeiners 343 all out attack, Bruno for Enzo for fresh legs in the middle
Winning -
75 Mins - Alan Varela for Koops, he goes into DM as a destroyer for the final 15
83 Mins - Mendes for Haaland, Mbappe up top, Mendes to LM
87 Mins - Diaby for Alvarez
Drawing -
70 Mins - Echeverri for Koops, young talent, fresh legs to get at a tiring DM, Diaby for Alvarez
----------------------------------------------------------------------
posted on 10/3/24
Balanced 3-4-1-2
We go with a team full of pace out wide and up top, power and aggression through the middle with Messi in the middle of it al in a free role.
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 Maddison 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 Maddison, at wb and front 2, this pace will stretch them. Casemiro the box to box option in cm giving us power and aggression, de Jong for his intelligence 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 —————————————
————— de Ligt —— L.Martinez —— N.Ake
J.Cancelo ——— Casemiro ——— F.De Jong —— Grimaldo
——————————————— Maddison
————————— M.Salah ——— Richarlison —————————
Subs. Ramsdale, Bremer, Gusto, Bentancur, Kulusevski, N.Williams, A.Broja
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, de Jong plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area, Casemiro plays ball side of de Jong, 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 70 mins bring on Bentancur for Casemiro. Fresh legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on N.Williams for Richarlison. Pace and power.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Gusto for Cancelo.
If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on N.Williams for Lisandro. 4-2-3-1. Williams left. 4-3-3.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Bentancur for for Casemiro.
posted on 10/3/24
4-3-3 High tempo possession
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 their fbs and young cbs.
Missing their first choice cms, so dominate possession, frustrate their fans and young players. Let their youthful exuberance get the best of them and tire them out by having them chase the ball.
Rodri and Mac Allister have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and expose their defence. 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 their 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. Mac Allister 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.
We have a pacey and powerful team, and set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden, Mac Allister 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 Watford kids.
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 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 ——— E.Militao —— Marquinhos —— Theo.H
——————————- Rodri —— Mac Allister
————————————— Musiala
— P.Foden ———————————————— Kvaratskhelia —
————————————— Osimhen
Subs. Sanchez, J.Timber, Udogie, Sarr, Olise, Martinelli, D.Nunez
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape, then press them high up the park.
Marquinhos the man marker next to Militao who is free to use his pace and intelligence to sweep up. Rodri plays as dm, Mac Allister 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 Martinelli for Kvaratskhelia. High energy impact.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Sarr for Musiala. High energy impact. Two players on who play at a very high tempo.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Nunez for Osimhen. Fresh pace and power against tired legs.
If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Nunez for Kvaratshkelia. 3-5-2. Theo left wing, Foden right wing. Nunez and Osimhen up top.
If losing or drawing after 72 mins bring on Olise for Musiala.
If a red card, cancel third sub. And instead take Musiala off, midfield 2 remaining would have the quality at cm to defend and attack
If Alisson, bring on Sanchez for Musiala.
If James or cb bring on Timber for Musiala.
If Theo bring on Udogie for Musiala.
If Rodri or Mac Allister bring on Sarr for Musiala. Power for a 2 man midfield.
If Foden or Kvaratskhelia move Musiala to wing, and bring on Olise/Martinelli later in game.
If Osimhen, bring on Nunez for Osimhen.
posted on 11/3/24
BRENTFORD v Manchester United
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Williams, Jørgensen, Svilar, Johnson
___________________Vicario
Livramento___Danso___Branthwaite___Kerkez
___________________Laimer
________Szoboszlai_________Gallagher
Bowen______________________________Gordon
__________________Gyökeres
Subs: Botman, Kadıoğlu, Lobotka, Willock, Jones, Jota
Captain - Szoboszlai
Pens, Free kicks - Szoboszlai
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. Bowen and Gordon moving infield, meanwhile, creates space on the outside for Livramento and Kerkez to overlap into.
Gyökeres, our lone centre-forward will move across the pitch as the attack builds, pinning the opposition’s ball-side centre-back. Gyökeres 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 - Szoboszlai and Gallagher 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 Gyökeres 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 Gallagher) and one advanced midfielder (Szoboszlai) 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 Gallagher and Szoboszlai – 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 on 75mins
If losing then..
Willock on for Bowen - Szoboszlai goes wide right and spams the box with crosses
Jones on for Gallagher
Jota on for Gordon
If winning or drawing then…
Lobotka (DM) on for Livramento - Laimer to RB
Willock on for Gallagher
posted on 11/3/24
Man City
———————— Donnarumma
——— B.Pavard — Kounde — Van Dijk
Porro —— Caicedo —— X.Simons —— Maatsen
——— P.Dybala ——————— F.Wirtz
————————— D.Vlahovic
Subs:
Johnstone, Ait-Nouri, Tonali, Gnabry, P.Neto, Nkunku, G.Jesus
Up against a top Chelsea side we look to take our fine form and home advantage as we go in search of another 3 points with a counter attacking 3-4-3.
The beauty of this set up is that it offers great flexibility, the perfect blend of attacking finesse and defensive strength it gives us all the tools required to get the better of our opponents.
The opposition are a strong side if not somewhat predictable, we know they are going to look to get the ball into their attacking front 3/4 and rely on their individual brilliance. We look to shut this down by playing a back 3 which turns into a back 5 when out of possession. We sit deep giving them no space in behind, in addition to this we have a DM shielding the defence, offering additional support as we look to blunt their attack. Their CF will be isolated by our back 3 whilst our wingbacks will work in tandem with our RCB & LCB to stifle their wingers.
With 3 CB’s, 2 wingbacks and a DM we have a solid defensive shield giving them little no room to operate in the final third and making them try and play through a brick wall.
When in possession our wingbacks have license to get forward. Given the lack of defensive workrate our opposition get by playing such attacking wingers often creates a weakness which we look to exploit. As soon as we win back possession we spring from our defensive set up. Porro and Maatsen push forward, working in tandem with Dybala and Wirtz we can create two on one’s against their fullbacks if their wingers don’t track back. Quick one two’s will pull them out of position as we cut through them in the final third. Our wingbacks will hug the touchline making the pitch as wide as possible, their fullbacks will be pulled out wide as they are forced to engage leaving Dybala and Wirtz free to push infield as they play between the lines making themselves incredibly difficult to be picked up.
As I alluded to above our set up enables us to have great flexibility ensuring we are no one trick ponies. If the opponents adjust their set up to stop us overwhelming them out wide by using their CM’s to support their wingers this opens up the middle of the field. The problem this will create for them is the little X factor we have in the middle, X by name X by nature Xavi Simons presence at CM creates the perfect little wrinkle for us to hit them from multiple angles. Out of possession Simons sits alongside Caicedo but in possession he has license to get forward. When he does our wingbacks will sit in, fresh from by bombarded down the flanks Chelsea will be expecting another flying attack out wide but instead we hit them through the middle. Dybala pushes up alongside Vlahovic, with Wirtz and Simons as dual AM’s.
------------- Donnarumma
----- Pavard -- Kounde -- Van Dijk
Porro --------- Caicedo -------- Maatsen
------ Simons ------------ Wirtz
---------- Vlahovic – Dybala
Simons and Wirtz drift between the lines, two of the brightest young playmakers in the game they excel in the final third whilst on the offensive Dybala has license to push up alongside Vlahovic, going one on one against their CB’s the two can cause them all sorts of problems.
Essentially we force the opposition to pick their poison, risk being overwhelmed out wide by our attacking wingbacks or get exploited through the middle when Simons advances and we go with twin AM’s and dual strikers. In all sequences we ensure we have sufficient defensive cover with Caicedo shielding our defence.
Defence:
We go with a perfectly balanced back three, strong defensively but also with great ball players which will allow us to retain possession and play out from the back. If they play one up top then Kounde will mark, Pavard and Van Dijk will act as cover and stay relatively centrally at all times. We keep the central area’s compact making it extremely difficult for the opposition to have any sniff at goal.
Our wingbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have cover with our 3 CB’s in behind. When in possession both Porro and Maatsen have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third.
Midfield:
Caicedo will provide a bundle of energy in the middle. An all action player we rely on his fantastic tenacity and high level work rate to break up the opposition play, winning back possession and setting us up on the counter as we look to get the ball into our creative players as quickly as possible. He’ll pick up their most advanced AM and cut out their supply line. He’s role will be purely defensive as he offers another layer of protection in front of back three.
Simons will start alongside Caicedo providing us with another body in the middle. Great workrate he’ll hustle and bustle when we’re out of possession but in possession he will get forward and has great quality in the final third, capable of creating and scoring he’ll link up perfectly with our attacking trio.
Forwards:
We go with a deadly attacking trident up top. Dybala and Wirtz play as inside forwards, both fantastic technicians capable of operating in tight spaces. They’ll look to play off the big man up top and both are deadly in and around the box.
With a dream supply line around him Vlahovic will be in his element. A real power forward he offers the dual threat of being deadly in the air and a natural born goalscorer with the ball at his feet.
He’ll be looking to do what he does best, get himself in the box and finish any chances that come his way.
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Simons off, Tonali on. Dual DM’s shielding our defence.
80 mins: Dybala & Maatsen off, Nkunku & Ait-Nouri on. Fresh legs in defence and attack as we see out the win and potentially pick them off on the break.
85 mins: Vlahovic off, Jesus on.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Wirtz off, Jesus on. Fresh legs and extra pace in attack.
80 mins: Pavard off, Nkunku on. We move to an attacking 4-2-2-2 with Nkunku & Dybala playing as AM’s supporting Vlahovic & Jesus up top. Goals.
posted on 11/3/24
Watford: League Week 10 HOME to Leicester
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: André
Team:
-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley---Collins—Murillo---Vanderlan
-------------------André
---------------Price---Edwards
Prestianni-------------------------Guilherme
--------------------Ferguson
SUBS: Grando, Wesley, Beraldo, Redondo, Magno, Rodríguez, Augusto
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. Price and Edwards will play just in front of André. Price will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Edwards 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 Prestianni and Guilherme 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 Edwards, Price and Ferguson 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 Price may sit a bit deeper allowing Edwards 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 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: Price, Guilherme or Prestianni with Collins, Murillo and Ferguson to offer an aerial threat. Edwards and Guilherme (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Ferguson
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Augusto for Ferguson and Rodríguez for Prestianni, 2 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 70 minutes) Rodríguez for Price and Augusto for Prestianni. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Augusto and Giovani offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
-------------------André
Rodríguez--Edwards--- Guilherme
---------Ferguson---Augusto
Red Card Subs:
Keeper: Grando for Verbruggen and take off Price: 4-4-1
FB: Vanderlan as direct replacement (LB/RB) and take off Price: 4-4-1
CB: Beraldo as direct replacement and take off Price: 4-4-1
CM: Price as direct replacement and take off Price: 4-4-1
LW/RW/AM: Move Gibbs-Edwards to LW/RW: 4-4-1
CF: Augusto as direct replacement and take off Price: 4-4-1
posted on 11/3/24
Aston Villa v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Goretzka, Anderson, Walker, De Bruyne
---------------------- Oblak
Trippier - Rudiger - Min-Jae - Mendy
‐---------------- Tchouameni
------- Gundogan ---- B.Fernandes
Sane ------------ Openda -------------- Son
Subs: Kelleher, Tapsoba, Palhinha, Kubo, Mudryk, Roger Fernandes, Toney
----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Villa, our back four and DM should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Oblak in goal, Min-Jae and Rudiger at centreback, Kieran Trippier and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni the sole sitting DM, Bruno Fernandes and Ilkay Gundogan transitioning from midfield to attack, with Sane and Son either side of Openda upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Villa are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - 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 Openda.
Min-Jae/Rudiger - Rudiger to mark their striker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Min-Jae to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to their runners 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/Mendy - Both of you to force the Villa 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 Tchouameni to give him passing options, in attack push forward and support Sane 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 Openda and Fernandes, and link with Gundogan and Tchouameni. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Tchouameni - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Villa 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 Mendy either side of you, and Fernandes and Gundogan ahead of you. No need to get forward, apart for setpieces on occasion.
Fernandes/Gundogan - 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 Tchouameni, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be match winners. Gundogan to primarily work deeper, pick up the ball from Trippier/Mendy/Tchouameni and look for Fernandes/Son/Sane/Openda making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Fernandes 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 Gundogan, or defenders out of position to create space for Sane/Son/Openda to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Sane/Son - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Trippier and Mendy overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Openda and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Fernandes and Gundogan will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Openda's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of Fernandes, Tchouameni and Gundogan to make it hard for Villa to break us down.
Openda - you will be expected to occupy the Villa 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 Sane and Son on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you, and with Fernandes and Gundogan behind you, to create opportunities.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: Openda and Sane off, Toney and Kubo on. Change to flat 4-5-1, Fernandes and Gundogan either side of Tchouameni, focus on ball retention to see out the win, while having plenty of bodies back when we dont have the ball. Kubo to RM, and Son to LM. Kubo and Toney utilise fresh legs to hit on the break.
If still winning at 80 mins: Fernandes off, Palhinha on. Stay in the 4-5-1 shape, Palhinha an extra DM, look to close the game out.
If drawing at 70 mins: Sane and Gundogan off, Kubo and Toney on. Change to a 4-1-3-2, fresh legs, fresh ideas to try and win the game. Kubo to RW, Toney upfront with Openda.
If still drawing at 80 mins: Trippier off, Mudryk on. Look to force a winner, back three of Rudiger - Min-Jae - Mendy. 3-1-4-2, Tchouameni the DM, with an AM quartet of Kubo, Fernandes, Mudryk and Son.
If losing at 70 mins: Trippier and Fernandes off, Mudryk and Toney on. Change to 3-1-4-2;
Oblak
Rudiger - Min-Jae - Mendy
Tchouameni
Sane - Gundogan - Mudryk - Son
Toney - Openda
If still losing at 85 mins: Tchouameni off, Kubo on. Change to 3-1-3-3. Blaze of glory, all out attack.
Oblak
Rudiger - Min-Jae - Mendy
Gundogan
Sane - Mudryk - Son
Kubo - Toney - Openda
Setpieces;
Left side freekicks and left wing corners: Kieran Trippier or Ilkay Gundogan
Right side freekicks and right wing corners: Leroy Sane or Take Kubo
Penalties: Ivan Toney, Bruno Fernandes or Ilkay Gundogan
posted on 12/3/24
Arsenal
Today we will go with a attacking 3-5-2 formation, allowing us to be more expressive with a solid base. Our midfield will boast a blend of experience and youthful energy. Our front two will be a duo of a playmaking forward and a proper striker.
———————— Chesney
———— Stones - Saliba - Araujo
Trent - Barella - Hjulmand - Ode - Robbo
—————— Chiesa - Boniface
Subs: Restes, Gabriel, Brahim, Merino, Julian Araujo, Vitinha, Nunes
Our centre CM will be the one that sits deeper breaking up play 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 arriving late into the box into his ‘Øzone’ will be key, and flexibility provide additional options for us. His ability to attack from deep adds dynamism to the team's play.
Subs:
75th min: Nunes for Chiesa tired legs and Thuram can help keep the ball
75th min: if we’re winning then Merino on for Ode to solidify our hold on the game
In need of a goal 65th min: Brahim on for Ode and change to a 3-4-3, Brahim and Chiesa supporting Boniface narrow and wide. Merino sub won’t happen.
posted on 12/3/24
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
posted on 12/3/24
Fack me sideways gk should be costa if I’m allowed to change, too rush
posted on 12/3/24
MAN UNITED vs brentford
----------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
---------------De Ven-----------Inacio----------Hincapie-----------
---------------------------------Camavinga-----------------------------------
Frimpong-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
------------------------------------Palmer-------------------------------------------
-----------------Saka---------------Tel----------------Doku---------------
Subs - Mamardashvili, Diomande, Rico Lewis, Miley, Madueke, Guler, Savio
CK'S - SAKA
FK'S - SAKA
PENALTIES - SAKA
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. De Ven and Hincapie will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to stop any attacks that go down their wings using their super human pace and tackling ability. Inacio in the middle will marshall the defence and look to work together with his fellow CB's to stop the oppo attackers. Stay compact and not too far from each other so we can deal with any crosses into the area etc. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.
WINGBACKS
Frimpong and Barco are playing as wingbacks today. They will both have the freedom to bomb up and down their flanks. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM's will be helping you a lot aswell. De Ven and Hincapie will be ready as the outside CB's to help you clear up any loose balls etc. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. I want both wingbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..
Defence Mid
Camavinga
Cama will be the main enforcer to protect the defence and to control the central midfield. Just focus on defending as we have enough attacking talent. Cover the central areas in front of the defence and intercept/put in tackles when the oppo AM has the ball in a dangerois position. Play quick passes out to our attackers so we can launch a counter attack.
Wingers
Saka + Doku
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Saka will be looking to cut in from the left and Doku 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 the DM or play quick one two's with our wingbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for Tel 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
Cole Palmer
Palmer will be playing just behind Tel 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. Interchange with Saka from time to time to throw off the oppo.
Striker
Mathys Tel
Tel will be leading the line for us today. He has got the pace and strength 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. Use your physical power to hold the ball up and to bring others into the game. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. Be vary of loose balls in the box so you can use your quick reactions to get to the ball before the oppo defenders.
Subs if LOSING BY 75MINS
Put on Savio for 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.
---------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
---------------De Ven---------Inacio-------Hincapie----------
---------------------------------Camavinga--------------------------------------
Frimpong-----------------------------------------------------------Barco
-------------------------------------Palmer-----------------------------------
------------------Saka-------------Tel------------Savio----------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Saka and put on Rico Lewis in CM to offer more defensive protection and energy in the middle. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Put on Savio for Doku to offer a more attacking presence up front.
----------------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
------------------De Ven-----------Inacio----------Hincapie--------
Frimpong-------------Camavinga--------Lewis---------------Barco
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------Palmer-----------------Tel-------------------Savio------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Switch formation to 3412 to confuse the oppo. Bring on Savio and Guler for Saka and Doku.
------------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
---------------De Ven-----------Inacio----------Hincapie-----------
----------------------Camavinga-----Guler-------------------------
Frimpong-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
--------------------------------------Palmer--------------------------------------
--------------------------------Tel------------Savio---------------------------
posted on 12/3/24
Please delete original set was in a rush forgot to change keepers
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.
———————— Costa
———— Stones - Saliba - Araujo
Trent - Barella - Hjulmand - Ode - Robbo
—————— Chiesa - Boniface
Subs: Restes, Gabriel, Brahim, Merino, Julian Araujo, Vitinha, Nunes
Our centre CM will be the one that sits deeper breaking up play 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 arriving late into the box into his ‘Øzone’ will be key, and flexibility provide additional options for us. His ability to attack from deep adds dynamism to the team's play.
Subs:
75th min: Nunes for Chiesa tired legs and Thuram can help keep the ball
75th min: if we’re winning then Merino on for Ode to solidify our hold on the game
In need of a goal 65th min: Brahim on for Ode and change to a 3-4-3, Brahim and Chiesa supporting Boniface narrow and wide. Merino sub won’t happen.
posted on 13/3/24
Cup Games
posted on 14/3/24
------------------------- Butland --------------------------
Amar Dedic - M.Simakan - Buongiorno - Hernandez
---------------- Doug Luiz --- Bissouma -----------------
-- M.Salah ------------ Grealish ------------ L.Bailey --
------------------------ O.Watkins ------------------------
D.Raya, Elias Jelert, Tielemans, Luis Diaz, Denkey, Ndour, F.Torres
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 Simakan 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. Buongiorno alongside, again a very touch, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Simakan 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, Dedic will do this more than Lucas, 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, Bissouma is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes he will be there snapping at his heals, D.Luiz is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Bissouma making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball.
Grealish will push more forward, when attacking he moves into an AM/free role/SS basically anywhere across the line where he will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence 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 Salah, Grealish and Bailey buzzing around.
Captain - Buongiorno
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - Douglas Luiz
Corners - Wingers
Losing
65 Mins - Go to a back 3, Ferran on for Dedic, he goes to RW, Salah up top 3232, with Luis Diaz on for Bailey at the same time
75 Mins - Denkey for Salah
Winning -
75 Mins - Jelert for Salah, Tielemans for Bailey 451 with Grealish left, Jelert right and Tielemans in midfield with Bissouma just sitting back
Drawing -
70 Mins - Ferran for Salah, Luis Diaz for Bailey
80 Mins - C.Ndour for Grealish
posted on 14/3/24
------------------- M.Carnesecchi --------------------
A. Hakimi - Ruben Dias - Pau. Torres - F. Medina
----------- Alan. Varela ---- E.Fernandez ----------
-------------------- J.Bellingham ---------------------
----- Alvarez --------------------------- M.Diaby -----
----------------------- Mbappe -------------------------
Martinez, B.White, Mendes, Perrone, Echeverri, D.Malen, G.Ramos
we need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at Villa. 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 P.Torres is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving 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, 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 Hakimi goes the most supporting Alvarez, leaving Facundo Medina in a back three to cover in case the ball is lost,if Medina has possession he tends to look for more of a long ball so play it over Diaby or round him allowing Diaby to use his pace to take on and beat his marker, when Hakimi goes, this allows Alvarez to move in more centrally, with Varela sitting this allows him to attack at will as he will cover the right hand side of central midfield, 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 Jude that option of playing wide or more central to Mbappe or the players moving inside. Both Cbs up for corners, FBs stay back
Enzo and Varela must be patient, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Varela doing the marking job on the most advanced midfielder sometimes having to become a 3rd CB and Enzo doing the running when others come forward, be onto them quickly stop the ball getting to the forwards and into danger areas, when attacking Varela 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 Jude, and Mbappe 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 Mbappe, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Mbappe will be making runs to get himself into space, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play 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 Varela 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 just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, Alvarez and Diaby will cause them problems drifting in an out, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Enzo and Jude more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Mbappe who can beat any defender with power/pace, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Mbappe, we must always make sure Mbappe is well supported, especially wingers and Jude, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.
Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Mbappe
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Losing -
65 Mins - Malen for Hakimi, White for Medina, 3232, White to RCB, Malen to RW, Alvarez up top with Mbappe
75 Mins - Echeverri fo rEnzo, Bellingham drop back into midfield to ry and creat something, Echeverri to No.10
Winning -
75 Mins - White for Alvarez, he goes to RB, Hakimi to RM 4411
80 Mins - N.Mendes for Diaby
84 Mins - M.Perrone for Bellingham 4141, Varela behind Enzo and Perrone in midfield
Drawing -
70 Mins - Malen for Alvarez, G.Ramos for Diaby 4213, front 3 of
D.Malen - Ramos - Mbappe
80 Mins - M.Perrone for Enzo
posted on 17/3/24
Manchester City v BRENTFORD
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Williams, Dárdai, Gutiérrez, Lobotka
_________________Vicario
Martínez___Danso___Branthwaite___Kerkez
_________________Laimer
______Szoboszlai________Gallagher
Bowen_____________________________Gordon
_________________Zirkzee
Subs: Svilar, Pacho, Guerra, Willock, Jones, Johnson, Jota
Captain - Szoboszlai
Pens, Free kicks - Szoboszlai
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. Bowen and Gordon moving infield, meanwhile, creates space on the outside for Martínez 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 - Szoboszlai and Gallagher 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 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 (Laimer and Gallagher) and one advanced midfielder (Szoboszlai) 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 Gallagher and Szoboszlai – 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 losing any time from 60 mins onwards
If losing then..
Willock on for Bowen - Szoboszlai goes wide right and spams the box with crosses
Jones on for Gallagher
Johnson on for Gordon
If winning or drawing from 70 mins onwards
Guerra (DM) on for Martínez - Laimer to RB
Willock on for Gallagher
posted on 18/3/24
NEWCASTLE UNITED v Tottenham
Injuries: Estupinan, Anderson, Diallo, Trafford
--------------------- Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Min-Jae - Mendy
‐--------------- Tchouameni
------- De Bruyne ---- B.Fernandes
Kubo --------- Gimenez --------- Mudryk
Squad: Kelleher, Gomez, Palhinha, Gundogan, Sane, Son, Openda
----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Spurs, our back four and DM should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence. They also have Kane and Messi injured which should help with that.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Oblak in goal, Min-Jae and Rudiger at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni the sole sitting DM, Bruno Fernandes and Kevin De Bruyne transitioning from midfield to attack, with Kubo and Mudryk either side of Gimenez upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Spurs are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - 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 Gimenez.
Min-Jae/Rudiger - Rudiger to mark their striker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Min-Jae to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to their runners 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 Spurs wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Tchouameni to give him passing options, in attack push forward and support Kubo and Mudryk 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 Gimenez and Fernandes, and link with De Bruyne and Tchouameni. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Tchouameni - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Spurs 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 Fernandes and De Bruyne ahead of you. No need to get forward, apart for setpieces on occasion.
De Bruyne/Fernandes - 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 Tchouameni, 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/Tchouameni and look for Fernandes/Kubo/Mudryk/Gimenez making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Fernandes 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 Kubo/Mudryk/Gimenez to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Kubo/Mudryk - 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 Gimenez and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Fernandes and De Bruyne will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Gimenez's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of Fernandes, Tchouameni and De Bruyne to make it hard for Spurs to break us down.
Gimenez - you will be expected to occupy the Spurs centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Kubo and Mudryk on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you, and with Fernandes and De Bruyne behind you, to create opportunities.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: Gimenez, Fernandes and Mudryk off, Openda, Palhinha and Son on. Change to a 4-2-3-1 that is a 4-5-1 without the ball, Palhinha alongside Tchouameni in front of the defence, Kubo - De Bruyne - Son behind Openda. Openda and Son to utilise fresh legs against a tiring Spurs defence.
If drawing at 70 mins: Kubo, Gimenez and Mudryk off, Sane, Openda and Son on. Staying with the 4-3-3 but with fresh legs and new ideas in attack, get at the Spurs backline and force a winner.
If losing at 70 mins: Min-Jae, Mudryk and Kubo off, Sane, Son and Openda on. Change to a 3-1-4-2. Absolutely go for it, all guns blazing as we push for a leveller.
---------------------- Oblak
------- Walker - Rudiger - Mendy
----------------- Tchouameni
Sane - De Bruyne - Fernandes - Son
------------ Gimenez - Openda
Setpieces;
Freekicks and corners: Kevin De Bruyne
Penalties: Bruno Fernandes or Kevin De Bruyne
posted on 18/3/24
Attacking high press 3-5-2
We go with an attacking side built on a strong defence, to take the game to Arsenal with pace and trickery out wide and creativity through the middle. We go with a side with a high work rate, full of energy to press from the front. The defence starts with the front two.
We look to score more than them, attacking the areas outside their cbs(if 3 at back) or inside their fbs(if 4) to get in behind using our pace in attack and creativity from the middle.
Our formation allows us to play quick flowing football, with a ball playing back three, Rodri setting the tempo in Cm, pacey wingers and front two to stretch Arsenal defence. The front two set the tempo for the game with their all action styles. Both have the ability to drop deep or wide, drag players out of position and overload their defence. Valverde and Mac Allister plays with high intensity in the middle with Rodri sitting. We have three cms able to pick a pass, and with the ability to dictate the tempo of the game and control possession.
We play with a high line to allow us to dominate possession, they will offer a threat getting in behind but we’ll back our players to create more from dominating play, and be better at taking their chances.
The width is provided by the wingers, and by an over lapping cb. We allow one cb to get forward at a time, either offering an extra man in midfield to control possession when needed or overlapping the winger. This will see us always have two cbs and a deep midfielder in front when we attack offering cover. We stop this tactic if we take the lead.
We will direct our attacks down the wings. Both wide players will have absolute freedom to attack, bombing down the wings, crossing for the front two and coming inside to give us extra players in the box. The overlapping cb, wbs and with front two will give us an overload in attacking situations.
We defend in a narrow formation, limiting the space for Arsenal to play in. Defending in the 3-5-2 shape we look to defend high up the park, as they push up the park the team narrows to the side they are attacking. Rodri sitting zonally in front of defence as Valverde and Mac Allister press the ball and central passing lane. The wingers on side of play look to defend - against any attacking fbs on side of play or to pick up a dm if no fbs, we always leave both forwards up, plus winger opposite play. So if the opposition go with 3 at back or have a fb attacking a 3 vs 3 counter could be on for us.
The defence and midfield press as a unit, ensuring there is no space between the lines for their attacking mids.
When we win the ball we attack at pace. Use the pace of our wide players bombing forward linking with the forwards to create.
————————————— Alisson ————————————
————— Militao —— Marquinhos —— Gvardiol ————
—————————————— Rodri ———— ————
P.Foden ———- Valverde ——— Mac Allister —— Theo.H
—————————————————————————————
————————- Osimhen ——— D.Nunez————————
Subs. Sanchez, Livramento, Udogie, Ugarte, Musiala, Kvaratshkelia, Vitor Roque
Defence
When we lose the ball high up the park we always look to win it back straight away, don’t give the opposition a chance to counter. 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, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
When the opposition 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.
Marquinhos acts as sweeper, the other two cbs defend zonally going man for man when opposition forwards in their zone. If overloaded Rodri can drop to cb, also going man for man if needed. If opposition players drop deep or out wide to opposite side of play we let them run free, defend the goal and pressing the ball asa well drilled unit. If they’re too far away from goal they can’t hurt us.
Attack
We attack at pace down the wings, Valverde, Mac Allister and one of the forwards linking with the wingers to work through their defence. Overlapping cb offers another threat out wide to overload and help build attack in possession.
The back 3 are all comfortable on the ball and look to play out, helping us move the ball quickly having a strong base.
Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Musiala for Mac Allister. Pace and dribbling to get at tired legs and help us keep possession.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Livramento for Foden, and Vitor Roque for Nunez. Keeping the shape but with better defensive players and fresh legs.
If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Kvaratskhelia for Theo.
If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Musiala for Mac Allister.
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