Balanced 3-4-2-1

We go with a team full of pace out wide and up top, with possession players through the middle to dominate.

Importantly for a fluid front three all 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 forward ahead of Silva and 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 Silva and Maddison, at wb, this pace will stretch them. Bentancur 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 —— Bentancur —— F.De Jong —— Grimaldo
——————— B.Silva ———————— Maddison
————————————— Rashford —————————

Subs. Pope, Cambiasso, Zubimendi, Mount, 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, Bentancur 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 Zubimendi for Bentancur. Fresh legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on N.Williams for Maddison. Pace and power.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Cambiasso 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 Zubimendi for for Bentancur.

Arsenal

Today we want to focus our attacks down our left side. We believe we can harm our opponents by isolating the right side of their defence, pin back their right side especially if there’s minimal support from their wide players.

—————— Costa
Trent - Stones - Araujo - Robbo
—————— Vitinha
—— Barella — Odegaard
Kudus ———————— R Leao
—————— Lautaro
Subs: Restes, Saliba, J. Araujo, Sancho, Hjulmand, Havertz, Gyokeres

To be positive down our left side, Leao will be expected to hold the width while the left side eight situates himself inside their right defender. Our left back will move forward just enough to force their right attacker to recover but leave enough space not to crowd Leao for him to isolate their right defender. Leao’s dribbling at speed ability will cause problems.

On our right side our RCM will move inside to create a double pivot with our DM, while the LCM will join our RW (playing like a right sided second striker) and our striker to form a narrow front three. Again playing on the fact that their wide attackers won’t put much effort into tracking back, it will allow our right back significant space to push into.

——— Stones —— Araujo
——— Barella - Vitinha - Robbo
Trent ——————————————
——————————— Odegaard
—— Kudus - Lautaro ———— Leao

The LCM advancing through the left inside channel and ST pushing the oppositions last line deeper will give our RW space to receive and two key options to pass to and combine in central spaces. They will join forces with our double pivot to overload their midfield and lock them in their half. Plan is for the RW to receive and spread the ball to Leao who will also make runs in behind wide on the left. The ST must stretch the pitch from the centre supported by our LCM, suitably going wide to support Leao.

Midfield regains will be key to our success today, Leao taking up a high and wide position will prove to be an useful outlet as the ball transitions from them to us. We will be defending with a high line but with defenders rapid and a goalkeeper with incredible game reading skills we will be fine concentrating on the attack and making the most of transition phases / midfield regains.

Subs
60th min: Leao and Odegaard will tire from their roles, they will be replaced by Sancho and Saliba. Leao will join the ST and RW narrow with central combinations to keep pressure while Stones playing at right back will move Trent into midfield to control the midfield, pushing Barella further forward.

75th min: Hjulmand will come on for Vitinha to calm things and solidify our midfield.

If we’re losing by the 70th min: Guokeres will go on for Kudus, his natural game will cause havoc.

Man City

———————— Donnarumma
——— Kounde — Van Dijk — Bastoni
Porro —— Caicedo —— Paqueta — Maatsen
——— P.Dybala ——————— F.Wirtz
————————— D.Vlahovic

Subs:
Johnstone, Pavard, Tonali, Gnabry, P.Neto, Nkunku, G.Jesus

Up against a top side we go in search of another victory 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.

We look to blunt the oppositions attack 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. We look to isolate their CF with 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. 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. Paqueta at CM creates the perfect little wrinkle for us to hit them from multiple angles. Out of possession Paqueta 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 The opposition will be expecting another flying attack out wide but instead we hit them through the middle. Dybala pushes up alongside Vlahovic, with Wirtz and Paqueta as dual AM’s.

------------- Donnarumma
---- Kounde -- Van Dijk -- Bastoni
Porro --------- Caicedo -------- Maatsen
---- Paqueta ------------- Wirtz
---------- Vlahovic – Dybala

Paqueta 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 Paqueta 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 Van Dijk will mark, Kounde and Bastoni 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.

Paqueta 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: Paqueta off, Tonali on. Dual DM’s shielding our defence.
80 mins: Dybala off, Nkunku on.

If drawing/losing:
75 mins: Wirtz off, Nkunku on. Fresh legs and extra pace in attack.
80 mins: Kounde off, Jesus on. We move to an attacking 4-2-2-2 with Nkunku & Dybala playing as AM’s supporting Vlahovic & Jesus up top. Goals.

Round 2

Watford: League Cup Round 2 Vs Newcastle
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: André

Team:
-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley---Collins—Murillo---Vanderlan
-------------------André
---------------Price---White
Prestianni-------------------------Edwards
--------------------Ferguson

SUBS: Bento, Wesley, Beraldo, Redondo, Magno, Rodríguez, Leonardo

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 White 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. White will be the midfield magician. Clever, elusive and tricky we will look to him for creating the midfield openings with his eye for a pass. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition.

Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Prestianni and Edwards will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring White, 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 White to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF. As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.

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, Edwards or Prestianni with Collins, Murillo and Ferguson to offer an aerial threat. White and Edwards (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Ferguson

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

If losing (on 70 minutes) Rodríguez for Price and Leonardo for Prestianni. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Leonardo and Giovani offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.

-------------------André
Rodríguez--White--- Edwards
---------Ferguson---Leonardo

-------------------------- A.Lunin ---------------------------

B. Henrichs - Buongiorno - Branthwaite - Hernandez

-------- Doug Luiz --- B.Kamara --- J. McGinn ---------

- M. Salah ----------- O. Watkins ------------ Grealish -

Bazanu, Mittlestadt, Simakan, Tielemans, Ferran, Bailey, D.Fofana

We need to be patient, we have an experienced line up today, we have 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 Branthwaite 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 Branthwaite 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 more likey Henrichs than Lucas creating a 343 formation when we do attack, look for the one/two with the winger ahead or the midfielder inside, 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 3 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Kamara is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes he will be there snapping at his heals, he doesnt venture very far from hwere he need to be thus giving support to the back line. D.Luiz is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Kamara 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. McGinn 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 in the trio with Kamara and Luiz it is very solid, 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, McGinn and Bailey buzzing around.

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

Losing -
65 Mins - Leon Bailey for McGinn, he goes to LW, Grealish to No.10
75 Mins - Ferran for Henrichs he goes to RW, Salah up top, 3232

Winning -
75 Mins - Tielemans for McGinn fresh legs, Bailey for Grealish
83 Mins - Simakan for Henrichs

Drawing -
70 Mins - Bailey for Grealish, Ferran for Salah, Tielemans for McGinn

Comment deleted by Article Creator

comment by Fan Gillhaus 1903 (U3339)
posted 1 hour, 1 minute ago
------------------- M.Carnesecchi -------------------
A. Hakimi - Ruben Dias - Pau Torres - F. Medina
--------- Declan. Rice ------ E.Fernandez ---------
-------------------- Koopmeiners --------------------
----- Alvarez -------------------------- Mbappe -----
--------------------- E. Haaland ----------------------

E.Martinez, B.White, A.Varela, N.Mendes, D.Malen, M.Diaby, N.Jackson

we need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at Utd, they obvs pose a threat out wide. 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 Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly. Utd are a young vulnerable side there to be got at.

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 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 Mbappe 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 Enzo doing the running when others come forward, be onto them quickly stop the ball getting to the forwards and into danger areas, when attacking Rice still sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our two CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back. 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 Koops, 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.

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 - D.Rice

Losing -
65 Mins - B.White for Hakimi, he goes to RCB, 3 at the back, Diaby for Medina, he goes to LM, Mbappe up top, Malen for Koopmeiners, Alvarez up top, Malen to RM, 343

B.White - R. Dias - P.Torres
Malen - Rice - Enzo - Diaby
Alvarez - Haaland - Mbappe

Winning -
75 Mins - Varela for Koopmeiners, he gos between defence at midfield ass the enforcer, will nail anything so ive heard

80 Mins - B.White for Alvarez, he goes to RB, Hakimi just ahead of him, Mendes for Haaland, he goes to RM, Mbappe up top 4141lets see it out, but still a threat if need be, if we concede then Enzo will push to No.10

Drawing -
70 Mins - Malen for Alvarez, Diaby for Koopmeiners, they go RW & LW, Mbappe up top 442/424

80 Mins - N.Jackson for Haaland

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

——————————- Donnarumma -—————————
B.Pavard —— J.Kounde —— Van Dijk —— Bastoni
———————————- M.Caicedo ——————————
———————— X.Simons —— F.Wirtz -———————
—— P.Dybala ————————————— C.Nkunku —
———————————- D.Vlahovic ——————————

Subs:
Johnstone, Porro, Lavia, Paqueta, Neto, Gnabry, Jesus

We look to have a bit of fun and go with an attacking 4-3-3 in today’s match up.

Built on a solid back 4 we go with a young midfield trio full of energy supplying our front 3 as we go in search of goals.

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

Donnarumma
Pavard Kounde Van Dijk Bastoni
Simons Caicedo Wirtz
Dybala Vlahovic Nkunku

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

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

Stationed up top on the right Dybala has license to cut inside, when he does Simons will drift to the right opening up space for Dybala in the middle of the field whilst a switch pass back to Simons on the flank allows the youngsters to whip in a delicious ball for Vlahovic to attack. Similarly Nkunku has license to do the same on the other flank with the Wirtz drifting wide, with the German currently in scintillating form in the final third.

Due to the abundance of attacking quality it's important that have a solid defence and rely on our watertight CB duo of Kounde and Van Dijk, flanked by two solid defensive fullbacks around in Pavard & Bastoni. A Pep special we have 4 CB’s at the back giving us towering height as we look to bully the oppositions forwards.

We sit deep taking away any space in behind our defence which will limit the pace of their attack. It will also draw the opposition onto us higher up the pitch creating plenty of space for us to exploit on our devastating counter attacks.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Kounde will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. He won’t however need to do it singlehandedly with the classy Van Dijk next to him to act and cover and sweeping up any balls in behind.

Our fullbacks will sit in, no need to bomb on with the quality with have further up the field. Instead we want them to focus on their defensive duties, give the wingers no room to operate. When they're in possession see them down the line, keep them on their weaker foot and don't let them cut inside.

Midfield:

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

In Xavi Simons and Florian Wirtz we have two of the most exciting youngsters in the world in the middle. Twin AM’s they provide a bundle of energy with both capable of cutting through the opposition. Goals, assists these boys can do it all as we give them the freedom to showcase their ability.

They’ll be our chief creators, picking apart the opposition and playing that killer pass in the final third. Both also possess a great strike from range, if the opposition drop off then both have license to go for goal.

Forwards:

We go with a deadly attacking trident up top. Dybala and Nkunku 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, Lavia on. Caicedo & Lavia as dual DM’s. Wirtz moves to 10.
75 mins: Dybala & Nkunku off, Neto & Gnabry on. Fresh legs and extra pace out wide as we look to pick them off on the break.

If drawing/losing:
60 mins: Pavard off, Porro on. More attacking RB.
75 mins: Nkunku & Simons off, Gnabry & Paqueta on. Attacking 4-2-2-2. Caicedo & Paqueta in CM with Gnabry & Wirtz playing as AM’s and Dybala & Vlahovic up top. Goals.

Arsenal

Today we want to focus our attacks down our left side. We believe we can harm our opponents by isolating the right side of their defence, pin back their right side especially if there’s minimal support from their wide players.

—————— Costa
Trent - Stones - Araujo - Robbo
—————— Vitinha
—— Barella — Odegaard
Havertz ———————— R Leao
—————— Lautaro
Subs:, Saliba, J. Araujo, Sancho, Hjulmand, Kudus, Gyokeres

To be positive down our left side, Leao will be expected to hold the width while the left side eight situates himself inside their right defender. Our left back will move forward just enough to force their right attacker to recover but leave enough space not to crowd Leao for him to isolate their right defender. Leao’s dribbling at speed ability will cause problems.

On our right side our RCM will move inside to create a double pivot with our DM, while the LCM will join our RW (playing like a right sided second striker) and our striker to form a narrow front three. Again playing on the fact that their wide attackers won’t put much effort into tracking back, it will allow our right back significant space to push into.

——— Stones —— Araujo
——— Barella - Vitinha - Robbo
Trent ——————————————
——————————— Odegaard
—— Havertz - Lautaro ———— Leao

The LCM advancing through the left inside channel and ST pushing the oppositions last line deeper will give our RW space to receive and two key options to pass to and combine in central spaces. They will join forces with our double pivot to overload their midfield and lock them in their half. Plan is for the RW to receive and spread the ball to Leao who will also make runs in behind wide on the left. The ST must stretch the pitch from the centre supported by our LCM, suitably going wide to support Leao.

Midfield regains will be key to our success today, Leao taking up a high and wide position will prove to be an useful outlet as the ball transitions from them to us. We will be defending with a high line but with defenders rapid and a goalkeeper with incredible game reading skills we will be fine concentrating on the attack and making the most of transition phases / midfield regains.

Subs
60th min: Leao and Odegaard will tire from their roles, they will be replaced by Sancho and Saliba. Leao will join the ST and RW narrow with central combinations to keep pressure while Stones playing at right back will move Trent into midfield to control the midfield, pushing Barella further forward.

75th min: Hjulmand will come on for Vitinha to calm things and solidify our midfield.

If we’re losing by the 70th min: Gyokeres will go on for Havertz, his natural game will cause havoc.

Watford v NEWCASTLE UNITED

Injuries: Diallo, Tapsoba, Son, Mendy

--------------------- Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Min-Jae - Estupinan
‐--------------- Tchouameni
------- De Bruyne ---- B.Fernandes
Kubo --------- Gimenez --------- Mudryk

Squad: Kelleher, Gomez, Palhinha, Gundogan, Sane, Toney, Openda

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

A tough but winnable game today against Watford, 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, Kyle Walker and Pervis Estupinan 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. Watford 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 Evan Ferguson, 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/Estupinan - Both of you to force the Watford wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of 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 Watford from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for Walker and Estupinan 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/Estupinan/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 Estupinan 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 Watford to break us down.

Gimenez - you will be expected to occupy the Watford centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with 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 Kubo off, Openda, Palhinha and Sane 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, Sane - De Bruyne - Mudryk behind Openda. Openda and Sane to utilise fresh legs against a tiring Watford defence.

If drawing at 70 mins: Kubo, Gimenez and Mudryk off, Sane, Openda and Toney on. Staying with the 4-3-3 (Openda to LW) but with fresh legs and new ideas in attack, get at the Watford backline and force a winner.

If losing at 70 mins: Estupinan, Gimenez and Kubo off, Sane, Toney 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 - Min-Jae
----------------- Tchouameni
Sane - De Bruyne - Fernandes - Mudryk
--------------- Toney - Openda

Setpieces;
Freekicks and corners: Kevin De Bruyne
Penalties: Bruno Fernandes or Ivan Toney

Balanced 3-4-2-1

We go with a team full of pace out wide and up top, with possession players through the middle to dominate.

Importantly for a fluid front three all 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 forward ahead of Richarlison to almost play as a second striker, getting in between the cbs and fbs and in between the lines and Maddison being the creator and still following up to get in the goalscoring positions just later.

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. Stepping up to midfield, dictating the tempo and spreading the play. 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 Richarlison and Maddison, at wb, 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 Richarlison almost giving two forwards, 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 ——————————
————— Skriniar —— L.Martinez —— N.Ake
J.Cancelo —— Casemiro —— De Jong —— Grimaldo
————— Maddison ———————— Richarlison
————————————— H.Kane —————————

Subs. Pope, Cambiasso, Onana, Mount, 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 direct 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 Onana for Casemiro. Fresh legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Kulusevski for Maddison. Pace and power.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Cambiasso for Cancelo.

If drawing or losing after 65 mins bring on Kulusevski for Lisandro. 4-2-3-1. Kulusevski right. 4-3-3.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Mount for Casemiro.
If drawing or losing after 80 mins bring on Onana for de Jong, power in cm to allow Mount and Maddison more freedom to get forward.

Round 3

Aston Villa v BRENTFORD

🤧🤒🤕🤢
Simón, Jota, Gordon, McKennie (sold)

_________________🇮🇹Vicario
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿Williams__🇦🇹Danso__🇪🇨Pacho__🇪🇸Gutiérrez
_________________🇸🇰Lobotka
______🇭🇺Szoboszlai_________🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Gallagher
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Bowen___________________________🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿Johnson
__________________🇳🇱Zirkzee


Subs: Svilar, Dedic, Kerkez, Laimer, Jones, Zhegrova, Retegui

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 Johnson moving infield, meanwhile, creates space on the outside for Williams and Gutiérrez 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. Lobotka, our defensive midfielder is the primary link between the back line and midfield, though, and the main player through which switches of play are made to access the other side of the pitch.

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

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

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

The three central midfielders cover and protect central areas, and can quickly adapt to become two defensive midfielders (Lobotka and 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 Lobotka 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
Jones on for Bowen - Szoboszlai goes wide right and spams the box with crosses
Kerkez on for Johnson and guess what.. spams the box with crosses 🙈😂
Jones takes Szoboszlai’s place in the midfield trio
Retegui on for Zirkzee. Pure number 9 who will be a handful for our opponents centre backs and get on the end of these crosses.

If winning or drawing from 70 mins onwards
Laimer on for Williams - offers defensive strength
Zhegrova on for Bowen - 1 v 1 specialist who will be a real livewire as the game enters it's final miniutes.

-------------------------- D.Raya --------------------------

B. Henrichs - Boungiorno - Branthwaite - Robertson

-------- Tielemans -- B. Kamara -- J. McGinn --------

- M.Salah ------------ O. Watkins ----------- Grealish -

Bazanu, A.Martinez, M.Wieffer, M.Kudus, Ferran, Bailey, J.David

We need to be patient, we have an experienced line up today, we have 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 Branthwaite 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 Branthwaite 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 can attack at the same time like creating a 343 formation when we do attack with Kamara sitting, look for the one/two with the winger ahead or the midfielder inside, 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 3 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Kamara is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes he will be there snapping at his heals, he doesnt venture very far from hwere he need to be thus giving support to the back line. Tielemans is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Kamara 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. McGinn 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 in the trio with Kamara and Tielemans it is very solid, 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, McGinn and Grealish buzzing around.

Captain - Buongiorno
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - Grealish - Left /Salah - Right
Corners - Wingers

Losing -
65 Mins - J.David for Tielemans 442/424, Bailey for Grealish
75 Mins - Ferran for Henrichs he goes to RW, Salah up top 343

Winning -
75 Mins - Mats Wieffer for Tielemans
83 Mins - J.David for Watkins
85 Mins - Matt O'Riley for McGinn
all to freshen it up up


Drawing -
70 Mins - A..Martinez for Henrichs, Bailey for Grealish, J.David for Tielemans 4231, J.David as a SS

4-3-3 High tempo possession

At home we go with a fluid attacking team full of pace and power to play with a high tempo, dominate possession with width to stretch the game and target their fbs and young cbs.

Rodri and Valverde we have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and expose their defence. Mac Allister for us is strong defensively while Osimhen has fantastic work rate defensively too. Total football.

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 Mac Allister in an attacking centre-mid role, free to link and find space in attack. Valverde offering quality in the box to box role, bursting through the lines. With the width of fbs stretching the game, we look to create space for the trio of central players and front three to drag their defenders out of position.

We have a pacey and powerful team, and set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden, Mac and Trent (5’11) are over 6ft, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully the South American 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, Mac Allister and Musiala 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.

————————————— Sanchez
Trent.A —— Marquinhos —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
——————————- Rodri —— Valverde
———————————— Mac Allister
— P.Foden ————————————————— Musiala —
————————————— Osimhen

Subs. Henderson, R.James, Sarr, Olise, J.Felix, L.Diaz, A.Isak

Defending high

When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape, then press them high up the park.

Gvardiol the man marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his pace and intelligence to sweep up. Rodri plays as dm, Valverde and Mac Allister 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 Diaz for Musiala. Pace to burn against tired legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Sarr for Valverde. High energy impact.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Isak for Osimhen. Fresh pace and power against tired legs

If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on James and Isak for Musiala and Foden. 3-5-2. FBs to wide midfield. Both have the power and ability on ball to attack.
If losing or drawing after 72 mins bring on Luis Diaz for Theo.

Watford – Cup Round 3 vs Leicester
Captain – André
Vice Captain – Murillo

-------------------Bento
Bradley--Murillo--Beraldo--Esquerdinha
---------------André--Price
Prestianni--------White-------Edwards
-------------------Ferguson


SUBS – Verbruggen, Redondo, Morato, Fernández, Hugo, Enciso, Leonardo


Today we will concentrate on doing what we do best and playing to our strengths – keeping hold of the ball and working it simply around the park. Nothing flash or risky – just possession football. Patience could be the key and if we keep it tight we have the personnel to get us a goal. We have pace to move the ball forward very quickly and enough pace to regain our shape if the opposition turn it around and try and counter us. This is a formation that can slot into a number of systems. We can easily slip into a 4-3-3, 4-5-1 or a 4-4-2 depending on how the match pans out. When defending it will be more of a defensive 4-4-2 with Price and André holding in the middle with White just in front pressing the opposition and making a nuisance of himself. The whole team will sit that wee bit deeper but always ready for any possible counter.
With the ability of our team to change formation depending on the circumstances I think we have enough in midfield and out wide to starve them from the ball. We will be looking to get bodies in the box. With fast and fluid attacking play Ferguson will always have support in this area and our wide men will always have a target to get the ball in to. With the trickery of White, Prestianni and Edwards, the opposition can always expect the unexpected when we are on the attack. We will not be afraid to hit them on the counter as with our full backs and wingers we have enough speed and skill to beat most teams. We will also be very respectful of what the opposition can do and will look to press them with urgency when we are looking the ball. We will take the risks we need to open them up ONLY when the correct chance arises. In saying that we will have a measured approach and if they try to play with a high tempo we will match that. We are not here to let them dictate the game. We will play it how we want to play and we will have a right go at them.
We will use André and Price to dictate the tempo of the play to suit our moment. I think with our mobility and physicality we can really stamp our authority on this area right from the off. The wingers will be asked to vary the attack between taking the full backs on the outside, or cutting inside. Whatever seems right at the moment – in order to carve up their defence. The pace of the wingers will cause a lot of headaches and the ability of both wingers and the AM to interchange positions will be something we will use to add to the confusion in the opposition ranks. We will look for our midfield to make it very difficult for them to link up play between their midfield and the front men – hopefully meaning their attack will not see a whole lot of the ball.
Without the ball we will look to White and the wingers/CF to press and give the opposition no space at all to work in. When in possession we will take our time and keep our passing neat and simple. We will be looking for White (supported by Price) to orchestrate our attacks. He will be the main man in creating the openings. We will look to our speed outside and on the overlap as well as the cleverness of White in playing the ball through and behind the defenders giving our attacking widemen and CF plenty of ammunition to get on the end of.
Free Kicks/Corners - White, Edwards and Prestianni with Beraldo, Murillo and Ferguson expected to go up for attacking set plays.

Penalties - Ferguson or Edwards

SUBS

If Winning (on 75 mins) – Morato for Beraldo and Enciso for Prestianni – (Straight Swap)
If losing (on 70 mins) – Leonardo for André, and Enciso for Prestianni (Switch to attacking 4-1-3-2):
-------------Price
Enciso----White------Edwards
--Ferguson --Leonardo

Man City

------------------ Donnarumma ------------------
J.Kounde -- Van Dijk --- Bastoni --- Ait-Nouri
-------------- Caicedo --- Paqueta ---------------
---- Pedro Neto --- F.Wirtz --- Gabriel Jesus --
-------------------- D.Vlahovic --------------------

Subs:
Johnstone, Pavard, Tonali, Adeyemi, Gnabry, Nkunku, J.Pedro

We look to move the ball at speed as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim for the win.

Our DM & CM pivot will marshall the middle of the park allowing Wirtz free rein in the hole between midfield and striker where he can wreak havoc. He will be flanked by Neto and Jesus who both offer pace and energy out wide with the big man Dusan playing through the middle. Plenty of pace and trickery in attack we look to cause all sorts of problems for their defences.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with pace and quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Van Dijk will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Bastoni will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top. Both CB’s are tall and powerful and have the quality to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions forwards.

Our fullbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have supporting cover in behind. Ait-Nouri has license to push forward and whip balls in from the left. When he does Kounde will play RCB in a back three as Van Dijk sits in the middle and Bastoni drifts across to LCB covering the space vacated by Ait-Nouri.

Midfield:

Our midfield dup will be key to our success. Caicedo will be our anchor in the middle operating as our DM. A bundle of energy capable of covering every blade of grass he’ll be shielding our defence, breaking up the opposition play, disrupting them AM and cutting out the passing lane to their CF, taking away one of their biggest weapons.

He combines perfectly with the technical brilliance of Paqueta. The Brazilian is a delightful player and his passing and dribbling ability will allow us to dictate the tempo of the game.

Caicedo provides the steel whilst Paqueta provides the flamboyance. Together they will protect the defence and get in the face of the opposition. We look to set the tempo and these two will be the catalyst, dispossess the opposition, get the ball to our forwards wreak havoc at the other end.

Forwards:

In attack we have the perfect blend of pace, power and technical excellence.

Neto and Jesus give us a dual threat on the flanks. They’ll be doing what they do best, going at the opposition with the freedom to create and cause havoc as they see fit.

Play on the break ready to pounce at any moment. Neto is our chief creator, capable of wracking up chances for fun and offers the perfect supply line to our frontman. Jesus offers pace and a real goal threat on the left, he’ll look to stretch the opposition with his runs in behind and is an ice cold finisher when through on goal.

Wirtz plays centrally, looking to drift between the lines making himself extremely difficult to be picked up and causing a mismatch in this area of the field. With Vlahovic occupying their CB’s Wirtz could find himself in one on one match ups against their DM. He’ll be looking to exploit this match up.

Vlahovic will be looking to do what he does best, get himself in the box and finish any chances that come his way. He'll be a physical match up and occupy both of their CB’s, allowing our three attackers behind him to isolate their other defensive players.

He will also mix up his play, sometimes pushing high other times dropping deep. In doing so he’ll pull their CB’s with him creating space for Neto and Jesus to break in behind their defence.

Subs:

If winning:
70 mins: Neto off, Adeyemi on. Fresh legs as we look to pick them off on the break.
80 mins: Paqueta off, Tonali on. Tighten up defensively with dual DMS in the middle of the park.

If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Neto & Jesus off, Gnabry & Nkunku on. We move to an attacking 4-2-2-2. Gnabry & Wirtz as dual AM’s with Vlahovic & Nkunku up top.
80 mins: Paqueta off, Adeyemi on. Wirtz moves to CM with Adeyemi offering extra pace in attack.

Arsenal 4-3-3

_____________Restes
R Araujo__Saliba__Gabriel__Lucas H
____________Bruno G
_______Odegaard___Vitinha
Havertz______Lautaro_____Martinelli

SUBS: Konate, Matheus Nunez, J Araujo, Eze, Malen, Darwin, Chiesa

The formation deployed today is so that we regain as much possession as possible higher up the pitch. We expect to have a fair portion of the ball so patience is key. Today we have pace all across the pitch. We also expect the four behind the striker to drift around a bit, getting into positions where their natural play can cause damage. The striker up front presses when we don’t have the ball and the entire team will support him cut passing lanes to help win the ball higher up. The quality of our players will allow us to break through the oppositions press. When we have the ball we will want to attract the press and use the spaces that they open up to attack.

Full backs will get forward when the opportunity arises. Our full backs are good at feeding our forward line with their ability on the ball. They are ultimately defensive first. We also need our full backs to widen the pitch for us. Our centre halves are good on the ball, and a long punt every now and then to utilize our pace out wide is encouraged. Both fullbacks will just keep the ball ticking along.

The DM will be tactically astute in his positioning acting as a base and be in charge of driving our midfield forward. Our midfield will be flexible, if one of their midfielders steps forward, one of ours will move into the space they vacated. The DM will be the link between our defence, midfield, and forwards and because of the way he plays, he will draw the opponents forward towards him to attack the ball, pulling their team’s lines apart. This will create more spaces between the lines for our midfield and forward lines to move into. The left centre mid will be the more attacking one in his box to box role, closing down space and cutting passing lanes with his incredible energy and also driving the team forward. Playing alongside the DM will give him less areas of the pitch to cover, and shorter distance needed to win the ball back to start the next attack. Both centre mids will float between the lines during the attacking phase just behind our forwards.

Our wide forwards are out main goal threat. Drift into the crentre often to get into goal scoring positions.

If short passing options aren’t available the passing range and accuracy of our keeper will safely transfer the ball forwards via our full backs. The keeper can also dink the ball into space for the striker or wide forward to control taking out 6 or 7 opposition players in the process.

Striker will play his natural game.

When we don’t have the ball we will expect our four behind the striker to drop into a 4-5-1 in support of our midfield. We will also create triangles to trap the opposition players that have the ball, cutting the passing lanes and others putting pressure on players that might receive the ball. We stop the oppositions rhythm and force them into mistakes with our pressure. To stop their counter attacks after we lose the ball, three players will swarm the ball carrier before he can get his head up to play. If they beat the immediate press when the team’s main goal is to push their play wide where they can do the least damage. Our midfielders are an integral part to our play, when we win the ball back we will create space and time for them with our team shape. There will be times when we are under the cosh and will have the option of deploying a bowl shaped 5 at the back, with the right centre mid dropping in to make closing down the opponents very effective.

Subs

70 mins: Nunes comes on for Odegaard, our legs will start to tire, so will theirs, Nunes will add some finesse late in the game.

75 mins: Malen comes on for Martinelli, a different style of forward play for the opposition to think about.

If winning 80 mins: Ese comes on for Barella to close out the game.

If losing/drawing 80 mins: Darwin comes on for Barella and play 2 up front.

Arsenal v NEWCASTLE UNITED

Injuries: Son, Palhinha, Rudiger, Sane

----------------------- Oblak
Walker - Tapsoba - Min-Jae - Mendy
------------------ Tchouameni
---------- De Bruyne - Gundogan
----------------- B.Fernandes
--------------- Openda - Toney

Subs: Kelleher, Gomez, Trippier, Baleba, Mudryk, Kubo, Gimenez

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

A tough but winnable game today against Arsenal, our back four and DM should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.

We are playing a 4-4-2 Diamond today, Oblak in goal, Min-Jae and Tapsoba at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni the sole sitting DM, Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin De Bruyne transitioning from midfield to attack, with Bruno Fernandes behind Toney and Openda upfront.

This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Arsenal 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 stiker, 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 Arsenal 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 overlap De Bruyne/Gundogan as they will try to drag the fullback infield, and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Openda and Toney, and link with De Bruyne/Gundogan/Fernandes. 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 Arsenal 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 Gundogan/De Bruyne/Fernandes 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. Both of you to primarily work deeper, pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Tchouameni and look for Fernandes/Toney/Openda making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Gundogan 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 Fernandes/Toney/Openda to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.

Fernandes - Playing as the #10, play between their midfield and defence, utilise the space made by De Bruyne and Gundogan dragging their midfielders out of position, and look to supply Toney and Openda with chances. Less defensive responsibility but without the ball look to close down their DM, to limit their build up from deep. Utilise Walker and Mendy pushing up from fullback, their presence should either leave space out wide or make spaces centrally for you to exploit.

Openda/Toney - you will be expected to occupy the Arsenal 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. Try to link up and if one of you can drag the centre backs apart, the other to utilise pace to get in behind, expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/Gundogan/Fernandes, and don't be afraid to take chances first time to limit their defence being able to recover and block attempts.

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

Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: Fernandes, Gundogan and Toney off, Baleba, Kubo and Mudryk on. Change to a 4-2-3-1 that is a 4-5-1 without the ball, Baleba alongside Tchouameni in front of the defence, Kubo - De Bruyne - Mudryk behind Openda.

If drawing at 70 mins: Gundogan off, Kubo on. Change to 4-3-3, Kubo to RW, Openda to LW, De Bruyne and Fernandes in their usual CM/AM roles, but with fresh legs and new ideas in attack, get at the Arsenal backline and force a winner.

If losing at 70 mins: Tapsoba and Gundogan off, Kubo and Mudryk on. Change to a 3-1-4-2. Absolutely go for it, all guns blazing as we push for a leveller.
----------------------- Oblak
-------- Walker - Min-Jae - Mendy
----------------- Tchouameni
Kubo - De Bruyne - Fernandes - Mudryk
--------------- Toney - Openda

Setpieces;
Freekicks and corners: Kevin De Bruyne
Penalties: Bruno Fernandes or Ivan Toney

Round 4

--------------------- Carnesecchi ----------------------
Ben White - Ruben Dias - Pau. Torres - N. Mendes
----------- E.Fernandez ---- Declan. Rice -----------
---------------------- Bellingham -----------------------
---- M.Diaby ------------------------------ R. Leao ----
----------------------- K.Mbappe ------------------------

L.Brey, Hakimi, Varela, Koopmeiners, Alvarez, N.Jackson, Can Uzun

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 Mendes goes the most Supporting the midfield and Leao, leaving White in a back three to cover in case the ball is lost, they will drift across to cover the area left if mendes doesnt get back, if White 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 Mendes goes, this allows Leao to move in more centrally, with Rice sitting this allows him to attack at will as he will cover the left hand side of central midfield with Torres behind him in the 3, get on the outside of the wingers and pressure there defensive line with that extra man, forcing there attacking players back, use the middle men to pass and sprint passed the wingers giving Bellingham that option of playing wide or more central to Mbappe 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 Enzo doing the running when others come forward, be onto them quickly stop the ball getting to the forwards and into danger areas, when attacking Rice still sits in as the Mendes attacks as said above, he will be there to give our two CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back, White also being there. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. At times
Enzo will push a further forward joining Bellingham, and 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 to find his man in open spaces, 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 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 and like the spectacular goal or two, 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, Diaby and Leao will cause them problems drifting in an out, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Enzo and Bellingham 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 Bellingham, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.

Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Mbappe
Set Pieces - D.Rice

Losing -
65 Mins - N.Jackson for Mendes, we go 3232, with Jackson up top with Mbappe
75 Mins - Koopmeiners for Enzo, look to create from midfield, Alvarez for Diaby looks like 334 attacking

Winning -
75 Mins - Alan Varela for Bellingham, he will drop in behind Rice and Enzo
83 Mins - Alvarez for Mbappe

Drawing -
70 Mins - Koopmeiners for Enzo, Alvarez for Diaby
80 Mins - Jackson for Leao, Mbappe to the left, Jackson up top

Watford: League Cup Round 4 Vs Arsenal
Captain: Quansah
Vice Captain: André

Team:
-----------------Verbruggen
Wesley---Quansah—Murillo---Vanderlan
-------------------André
---------------Price---White
Prestianni-------------------------Edwards
--------------------Ferguson

SUBS: Bento, Esquerdinha, Beraldo, Fernández, Hugo, Guilherme, Leonardo

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 White 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. White will be the midfield magician. Clever, elusive and tricky we will look to him for creating the midfield openings with his eye for a pass. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition.

Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Prestianni and Edwards will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring White, 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 White to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF. As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.

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, Edwards or Prestianni with Quansah, Murillo and Ferguson to offer an aerial threat. White and Edwards (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Ferguson

Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Leonardo for Ferguson and Guilherme for Prestianni, 2 like for like substitutions.

If losing (on 70 minutes) Guilherme for Price and Leonardo for Prestianni. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Leonardo and Giovani offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.

-------------------André
Guilherme--White--- Edwards
---------Ferguson---Leonardo

BRENTFORD v Manchester United

🤧🤒🤕🤢
Dedic, Guerra, Gutiérrez, Laimer


_______________🇷🇸Svilar
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿Williams__🇦🇹Danso__🇦🇹Alaba__🇭🇺Kerkez
________🇸🇰Lobotka_____🇺🇦Brazhko
______🇭🇺Szoboszlai_____🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Gallagher
________🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿Johnson_____🇳🇱Zirkzee


Subs:
🇺🇦 Lunin
🇸🇰 Hancko
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Jones
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Bowen
🇺🇦 Sudakov
🇺🇦 Mudryk
🇮🇹 Retegui


Captain - Alaba
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Zirkzee

Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.

What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?

The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.

The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.

The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.

The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.


What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?

The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.

The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.

The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.

The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.

Subs on 70 mins Sudakov on for Gallagher and Bowen on for Johnson

Man City

--------------------- 🇮🇹 Donnarumma -----------------------
🇫🇷 Kounde -- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni -- 🇳🇱 Maatsen
------------------------- 🇮🇹 Tonali ----------------------------
🇵🇹 P.Neto -- 🇳🇱 X.Simons --- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz -- 🇩🇪 Adeyemi
--------------------- 🇧🇷 Gabriel Jesus -----------------------

Subs:
Johnstone, Porro, Caicedo, Paqueta, Barcola, Joao Pedro, Vlahovic

We look to have a bit of fun and go with an attacking 4-1-4-1 in today’s match up.

A few tweaks to our normal line up as we look to keep things fresh. A solid back 4 which can evolve into a back 3 to enable Maatsen to push forward down the left with him already having great chemistry with his teammate Adeyemi. When he does Kounde will play RCB in a back three as Van Dijk sits in the middle and Bastoni drifts across to LCB covering the space vacated by Maatsen.

Tonali comes into the side at DM due to his top class ball retention. In Wirtz and Simons we have two of the next gen’s finest, real technicians on the ball we want them to work in tandem with Tonali to retain the ball, keep recycling as we draw the opposition out, move them out of position creating gaps in their defence with all three of Tonali, Wirtz & Simons capable of threading the ball through the eye of needle with that killer pass in the final third.

Neto and Adeyemi flank the young AM duo, real pace and positivity as we go at them from the off, they’ll look to stretch the field and test the opposition players appetite to track back. We push forward in numbers, confident in the ball retention ability of our midfield technicians and always ready to pounce on an opening in their backline.

Up top we go with the Brazilian Jesus. At first it might appear madness to start him over our usual number 9 but the Brazilian offers something a little bit different and presents a nice little tactic which could see us take three points. First off he has tremendous workrate to hassle their defence but more importantly he has fantastic link up play. This ties in perfectly with the technical ability of our central midfield trio, he look to interlink with quick one two’s as we look to move the ball at pace.

Jesus will also look to make runs in behind their defence as we stretch the field, he also has the ability to drop in deep as we play quick triangle passes with Simons & Wirtz. When Jesus drops deep he’ll likely bring a CB with him, in doing so he’ll open up space in their back line for the rapid Neto & Adeyemi to exploit with runs in behind their defence and in Wirtz & Simons we have two perfect players to thread those through balls to put our pacy wingers through on goal.

Jesus is also a big game player with 4 goals & 3 assist in 7 CL appearances this season, this game is the perfect setting for the Brazilian to shine.

Our change up top also provides the perfect tactical oppportunity to get the victory over our rivals. As the game opens up and subs start happening we’ll be bringing our main goalscorer on for the final 30. Whilst the opposition are likely to weaken with their subs as they take our main players we will actually strengthen as we bring on a more clinical goalscorer. With the game inevitably opening up in the final 30 mins this will present the perfect opportunity for Vlahovic to fill his boots by the space afforded to him by the tiring legs of the opposition. Jesus will do the hard graft in wearing them down and Vlahovic will do the damage by putting them to the sword.

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

Donnarumma
Kounde Van Dijk Bastoni Maatsen
Simons Tonali Wirtz
Neto Jesus Adeyemi

With our midfielders dropping slightly deeper as we look to win back possession and hit them on the counter.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Van Dijk will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. He won’t however need to do it singlehandedly with the classy Bastoni next to him to act as cover.

Our fullbacks have slightly different roles. The opposition tend to be stronger down the left and therefore we go with the defensively superior Kounde. Strong and more importantly quick he’s the perfect player to eliminate the pace of their winger. On the opposite flank we have the more attacking Maatsen, with a wand of a left foot he’ll have license to push forward more and whip balls in from the left for our strikers to bury.

Midfield:

Tonali will be our key holding player in the middle operating as a DM. A fantastic reader of the game we want him to sit in front of our defence, breaking up the opposition play and also cutting out the passing lane to their CF, taking away one of their biggest weapons. He’ll be our shield in the middle of the park.

In Xavi Simons and Florian Wirtz we have two of the most exciting youngsters in the world in the middle. Twin AM’s they provide a bundle of energy with both capable of cutting through the opposition. Goals, assists these boys can do it all as we give them the freedom to showcase their ability.

Forwards:

We go with real pace in attack. We want Neto and Adeyemi to be direct. Both are great dribblers and rapid in their transition from defence to attack. They’ll be doing what they do best, going at the opposition with the freedom to create and cause havoc as they see fit.

With a dream supply line around him Jesus will be in his element. He’ll be looking to do what he does best, get himself in and around the box linking up with our other attackers and finish any chances that come his way.

Subs:

If winning:
65 mins: Jesus off, Vlahovic on.
75 mins: Simons off, Caicedo on. Tonali & Caicedo as dual DM’s. Wirtz at 10.
85 mins: Adeyemi off, Barcola on. Fresh legs as we keep the threat of hitting them on the counter.

If drawing/losing:
60 mins: Jesus off, Vlahovic on. Enter the main man to win us the game.
70 mins: Neto & Adeyemi off, Paqueta & Joao Pedro on. Attacking 4-2-2-2. Tonali & Paqueta in CM with X.Simons & Wirtz as AM’s and Joao Pedro & Vlahovic up top. Goals.