4-3-1-2 High tempo
We play a fluid attacking team full of pace and power and a high tempo, dominate possession in cm with pace up top and width from fbs to stretch the game.
Foden in a free role in attack, we look to expose the United midfield, hit by injuries to their best cms we take control of midfield and let Foden find space.
Two forwards occupy their cbs giving Foden, Musiala, Trent, Mac and Theo space to expose.
United start deep, we accept the invitation to pile the pressure on them from the start with our fans behind us.
Musiala, Rodri and Mac have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Mac and Musiala have the power and energy on the ball and off it to help our fbs driving down the wings, and support them defensively. When attacking down the right Musiala comes inside next to Rodri, giving Mac freedom to attack and link with Trent, Foden and Osimhen. Vice versa happens on the other side.
In attack the other cm comes across and a dm in Rodri, provide a duo to control midfield and keep possession, defensively providing great cover for the attacking fbs. The fbs bombing forward to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden Mac and Trent (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully United.
Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. 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 and regain control.
Foden given complete freedom in the opposition half to find pockets of space and go beyond Isak or Osimhen.
We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.
————————————— Alisson
Trent.A ——- Marquinhos —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
———— Mac Allister —— Rodri —— Musiala
————————————— P.Foden ——————
————————— Osimhen ——— Isak
Subs. Stones, Udogie, Ugarte, Olise, Eze, Gordon, Gyokeres
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else 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. Isak drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the 3 cms narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Foden is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.
Gvardiol the man-marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Mac and Musiala either side of him, and just slightly ahead of him pressing the play in line of 3 cms. Foden zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Isak marks their deepest cm. Isak and Foden giving our cms ability to press and narrow to the side opposition are attacking. In zones to stop their attacking midfielders and allowing Rodri to cover or step in if one cm needs to step out to press or to help the fb.
In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Stop them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
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 three, 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 68 mins bring on Olise for Isak. Pace and power against tired legs. 4-3-2-1
If winning after 75 mins bring on Eze for Musiala.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Gyokeres for Osimhen.
If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Olise for Trent. 3-5-2. Theo lcb. Olise right, Musiala left. Foden CAM, Mac cm next to Rodri.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Eze for Mac Allister, more attacking threat on ball.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Gordon for Foden. Musiala cm, Eze CAM, Gordon left
UNITED vs leicester
------------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
Gusto------Diomande-------Inacio-------De Ven------Gutierrez
------------------------------Scalvini-----Thuram-------------------------
Frimpong-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------Jackson---------------------------------
Subs - Mamardashvili, Yoro, Kossonou, Doku, Saka, Sesko
CK'S - BARCO
FK'S - BARCO
PENALTIES - JACKSON
Injuries have hit us hard this week but we move. Up against Leicester away from home in arguably the hardest fixture of the season but like I said, we move. The gameplan is to stop Leicester scoring. All the outfield players bar Jackson are defensive minded and will look to use that to stop the oppo from creating chances.
I want us to hold a very deep defensive line. The 3 CB's will focus on blocking shots and winning duels. When we have the ball I want the team to hoof it up to Jackson, who will be trying to beat the offside trap, so he can use his pace to get away from the defenders. Rinse and Repeat.
Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. Diomande and De Ven will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to stop any attacks that go down their wings using their super human pace and tackling ability. Inacio in the middle will marshall the defence and look to work together with his fellow CB's to stop the oppo attackers. Stay compact and not too far from each other so we can deal with any crosses into the area etc. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence and play lofted through balls for Jackson to run onto.
FULLBACKS
Gusto + Gutierrez
These 2 will only focus on defensive duties. Lock your wings down and stay strong against the oppo wingers. Stop crosses from getting into the box and if you have possession of the ball look to play lofted through balls for Jackson to run onto.
WINGBACKS
Frimpong and Barco are playing as wingbacks today. I say wingbacks but their only job will be to help Gusto and Gutierrez in defensive duties annd double up againsr oppo wingers.
Defence Mids
Scalvini + Thuram
These 2 will be vital for the team. While the defence will sit deep we are gonna need these 2 to cover the space infront of them so the Leicester players don't have time and space to shoot from central areas. Both are tall strong players so I'm expecting them to win their fair share of duels. Play lofted through balls for Jackson to run onto.
Striker
Nicolas Jackson
Jackson will have a difficult job today. Occupy the space between the oppo CB's. He will look to use his pace to break the offside trap. All his teammates will be looking to play lofted through balls to him. It will be up to him to time his runs but I believe in him. Stay in strike don't come deep.
Subs if LOSING BY 1 GOAL BY 85MINS
Put on Saka, Doku and Sesko for Gusto, Gutirrez and Scalvini to bring some more attacking impetus on. .
---------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
-----------Diomande---------Inacio-------De Ven----------
-------------------------------------Thuram--------------------------------------
Frimpong-----------------------------------------------------------Barco
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------Saka---------Sesko----Jackson-------Doku------
Subs IF DRAWING BY 80MINS
Jackson off Sesko on
Brentford v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Injuries: Richarlison, Lewis, Skriniar, Ake
------------------ Ederson
Cancelo - De Ligt - Bremer - Grimaldo
------------ De Jong - Onana
---- O Dembele - B Silva - N Williams
-------------------- Kane
Subs: Ramsdale, L Martinez, Bentancur, Maddison, Messi, Gnabry, Rashford
A tough game against Brentford, but with a solid back four and goalkeeper, and plenty of attacking prowess, we can get a result today.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 in possession and a 4-5-1 out of possession, Ederson in goal, De Ligt and Bremer at centreback, Cancelo and Grimaldo at fullback, Amadou Onana and Frenkie De Jong as a double pivot with Bernardo Silva ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Dembele and Nico Williams either side of Harry Kane upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Brentford are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Ederson - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Kane.
De Ligt/Bremer - De Ligt to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Bremer 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.
Cancelo/Grimaldo - Both of you to force the Brentford wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Onana and De Jong to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Dembele and Williams 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 Kane, and link with Bernardo Silva. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Onana/De Jong - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Brentford from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for Cancelo and Grimaldo either side of you, and Bernardo ahead of you. Onana to stay back, De Jong in more of a box to box role, join in with attacks but get back quickly.
Bernardo Silva - Playing as our main AM when in possession, without the ball form a midfield trio with Onana and De Jong, but in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Cancelo/Grimaldo/Onana/De Jong, and look for Dembele/Williams/Kane making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Utilise De Jong playing in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for De Jong, or defenders out of position to create space for Dembele/Williams/Kane to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Dembele/Williams - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Cancelo and Grimaldo overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Kane and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Jong and Bernardo will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Kane's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Jong, Onana and Bernardo to make it hard for Brentford to break us down.
Kane - You will be expected to occupy the Brentford centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Try and swap with Dembele and Williams on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Jong/Bernardo to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from De Jong/Bernardo, and don't be afraid to take chances first time to limit their defence being able to recover and block attempts.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning or drawing at 70 mins: Dembele, Bernardo and Williams off, L Martinez, Messi and Bentancur on. Change to a 5-3-2/5-3-1-1, with Bentancur a second DM alongside Onana and De Jong, Martinez a third CB to the left of Bremer, and Messi behind Kane upfront. Absorb pressure, look to run the clock down by retaining possession, and utilise the control Messi brings.
If losing at 70 mins: Cancelo, Grimaldo and Onana off, Messi, L Martinez and Rashford on. Change to 3-1-4-2, De Jong in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
-------------------- Ederson
-------- De Ligt - Bremer - Martinez
-------------------- De Jong
Dembele - Messi - Bernardo - Williams
-------------- Kane - Rashford
Setpieces:
Corners: Bernardo or Messi
Penalties: Kane
Man City v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Gomez, Mainoo, Trafford, Son
---------------------- Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Min-Jae - Mendy
----------------- Tchouameni
------- De Bruyne ---- Fernandes
Sane ------------------------------------- Diaz
-------------------- Openda
Subs: Kelleher, Tapsoba, Palhinha, Dewsbury-Hall, Salah, Barnes, Lewandowski
----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Man City, 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 in possession and a 4-5-1 out of possession, Oblak in goal, Rudiger and Min-Jae at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni the sole sitting DM, Kevin De Bruyne and Bruno Fernandes transitioning from midfield to attack, with Leroy Sane and Luis Diaz either side of Lois Openda upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Man City 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.
Rudiger/Min-Jae - Min-Jae to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Rudiger 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 Man City 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 Sane/Diaz 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 link with De Bruyne and 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 Man City from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for Walker and Mendy either side of you, and De Bruyne and Fernandes 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. Both of you to primarily work deeper, pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Tchouameni and look for Sane/Diaz/Openda making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Fernandes to be the one who tries to play in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for De Bruyne, or defenders out of position to create space for Sane/Diaz/Openda to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Sane/Diaz - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Walker and Mendy overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Openda and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Bruyne and Fernandes will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Openda's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Tchouameni and Fernandes to make it hard for Man City to break us down.
Openda - You will be expected to occupy the Man City 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 and swap with Sane and Diaz on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne/Fernandes to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/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: De Bruyne, Sane and Fernandes off, Dewsbury-Hall, Salah and Palhinha on. Change to a 4-5-1/4-2-3-1, with Palhinha a second DM alongside Tchouameni, Dewsbury-Hall just ahead of the pair, Salah to RM and Diaz to LM. Absorb pressure, look to run the clock down by retaining possession, and utilise the fresh legs out wide and the pace of Openda down the middle to counter attack.
If drawing at 70 mins: Sane and Fernandes off, Lewandowski and Salah on. Change to a 4-1-3-2, Tchouameni the DM, Salah - De Bruyne - Diaz behind a front two of Lewandowski and Openda, try to create a winner and utilise your skills against a tiring Man City defence.
If losing at 70 mins: Tchouameni and Min-Jae off, Lewandowski and Salah on. Change to 3-1-3-3, De Bruyne in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
------------------ Oblak
--- Walker - Rudiger - Mendy
--------------- De Bruyne
---- Sane - Fernandes - Diaz
Salah - Lewandowski - Openda
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne
Penalties: Lewandowski or Openda (in that order depending on who's on the pitch)
Round 18
Newcastle United v BRENTFORD
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Omari Hutchinson
Milos Kerkez
Georgiy Sudakov
Ivan Ilić
_________________🇺🇦Trubin
🇧🇦Dedic__🇷🇴Drăgușin___🇯🇵Ito__🇩🇰Kristiansen
__________🇦🇹Seiwald______🇦🇹Laimer
_________🇭🇺Szoboszlai_____🇺🇦Mudryk
________🇺🇦Dovbyk_________🇬🇪Mikautadze
🇷🇸 Mile Svilar
🏴 Neco Williams
🏴 Ethan Ampadu
🇦🇹 Christoph Baumgartner
🏴 Brennan Johnson
🇳🇱 Brian Brobbey
🇲🇽 Santiago Gimenez
Captain - Laimer
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai
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
Baumgartner on for Mudryk
Gimenez on for Dovbyk
----------------------- P.Andreev ------------------------
Vanderson - Adarabioyo - Marc Guehi - Mittlestadt
--------------- B.Kamara --- F. de Jong ----------------
F.Torres -------------- J.David --------------- Williams
------------------------ Watkins --------------------------
Bazanu, Okoli, L.Sucic, Mount, Bailey, Lorran, Strand Larsen
A solid back 4 with Guehi 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. Tosin alongside, again a very tough, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Guehi 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 at the same time look for the one/two with the winger ahead but will time these and not bomb forward willy nilly, over lapping allowing the wingers to come inside, or just play the winger in with a nice pass through, can also use the CMs for quick passing to get the wingers passed the opposition fullbacks, defensively, stay strong, keep the wingers to the outside away from danger, try and keep them on there 'bad' foot so they find it difficult to get a cross in, I do not want to see my defenders dive in, so stay tall and use upper body strength to keep there chances to a minimum. This is a solid back 4 who will be difficult to attack, must stay focussed.
The 2 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Kamara is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, Kamara will be there snapping at his heals, de Jong 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.
Jonathon David in an AM/free role/SS basically anywhere across the line where he will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence just hassle the midfield/defenders and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.
Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks, Ferran comes inside alot, Nico Williams to the outside, at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, always dragging players away to make space for himself and others, getting into dangerous positions waiting for the ball to come his way, he makes runs other forwards dont he has the intelligence find the space for others to find, 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 the 3 behind buzzing around.
Captain - Kamara
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - de Jong
Corners - de Jong
Losing/drawing -
after 65 mins - Strand larsen for J.David go up top, Bailey for Williams, Lorran for Ferran, fresh legs push for a goal
Winning -
After 75 Mins - Strand Larsen for Watkins, L.Sucic for J.David(he drops into midfield), Bailey for Williams
------------------------ 🇮🇪 Kelleher -------------------------
🇲🇦 Hakimi -- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni -- 🇮🇹 Calafiori
------------------------ 🇪🇨 Caicedo -------------------------
🇵🇹 P.Neto -- 🇳🇱 X.Simons --- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz -- 🇫🇷 Barcola
----------------------- 🇷🇸 D.Vlahovic -----------------------
Subs:
Rushworth, Kounde, Ait-Nouri, Tonali, Nkunku, G.Jesus, Zirkzee
Captain: Van Dijk
Free Kicks: Wirtz
Penalties: Vlahovic
Corners: Wirtz/Simons
We look to have a bit of fun and go with an attacking 4-1-4-1 in today’s match up.
A solid back 4 which can evolve into a back 3 to enable Hakimi to push forward down the right. When he does Calafiori will play LCB in a back three as Bastoni sits in the middle and Van Dijk drifts across to RCB covering the space vacated by Hakimi.
Caicedo comes into the side at DM due to his top class ball winning ability. 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 Caicedo to retain the ball, keep recycling as we draw the opposition out, move them out of position creating gaps in their defence with both Wirtz & Simons capable of threading the ball through the eye of needle with that killer pass in the final third.
Neto and Barcola 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.
We look to this attacking quartet to take us to the victory with the big man up top Vlahovic likely to be in heaven with the service around him and a man in fine form we fancy him to thrive.
Out of possession we revert to a more traditional 4-3-3.
Keller
Hakimi Van Dijk Bastoni Calafiori
Simons Caicedo Wirtz
Neto Vlahovic Barcola
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 right and therefore we go with the defensively superior Calafiori. 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 Hakimi, he’ll have license to push forward more and whip balls in from the right for our striker to bury.
Midfield:
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. 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:
In attack we have the perfect blend of pace, power and creativity in abundance.
Neto on the right has license to cut inside and will thrive linking up with our AM’s in the middle. Quick one two’s should open up space on the edge of the box with the wideman lethal when presented with half a chance. He also has license to drift as our AM's are interchangeable, making them almost impossible to man mark with each as deadly as the other when finding themselves in pockets of space with the ball at their feet. Handbrake is taken off as they are given the freedom to show off their attacking prowess with our DM sitting back offering a protective shield in front of our defence.
On the opposite flank Barcola offers a bundle of pace and energy, he’ll look to be direct and take on his man down the byline before whipping in a cross for Vlahovic to attack. His rapid pace also makes him a threat in behind as he’ll look to stretch their defence with Simon’s and Wirtz capable of cutting open their backline with their through balls for Barcola to run onto.
Vlahovic is the perfect target man, big and strong he’s capable of holding the ball up allowing our attacking quartet to get up and support. We want him to pin back their CB’s opening up space on the edge of the box for the likes of Wirtz and Simons to get off a shot at goal.
In the area we want him to attack the 6 yard box with crosses being whipped in from out wide and slide rule balls from our AM’s ensuring our number 9 will get plenty of service as he looks to continue his fine goalscoring form.
Subs:
If winning:
65 mins: Neto off, Tonali on. 4-2-3-1
75 mins: Barcola off, Nkunku on. Fresh legs.
85 mins: Vlahovic off, Zirkzee on.
If drawing/losing:
60 mins: Calafiori off, Ait-Nouri on. More attacking LB.
65 mins: Barcola off, Nkunku on.
75 mins: Neto off, Zirkzee on. Attacking 4-2-2-2. Caicedo & Simons in CM with Wirtz & Nkunku as AM’s and Vlahovic & Zirkzee up top. Goals
3-4-1-2 High tempo
We play a fluid attacking team full of pace, power and a high tempo, dominate possession with pace up top and width from wbs to stretch the game.
What is a defensive change in shape, is only a small change to our a tactics which remain attacking, Stones coming in as the extra cb designed to give us more control. With all the cbs strong on the ball and Stones comfortable stepping into midfield, they help the cms dominate possession, and give the wbs freedom to attack without leaving us exposed against Chelsea’s attack.
We believe we have two of the best attacking fbs in the world, so we look to get the best from them and let them attack, they ptovide the width that will stretch the game and create space for our attackers (their wide players almost always come inside so the extra cb here is important and better than two cbs + attacking fb would be defensively).
We target Chelsea’s lb, likely with Mbappe ahead of him, they are weaker defensively here. Kvaratskhelia brought in for the forward role on the right, with Trent bombing forward will see us target this area. Foden free to drift right and link or get beyond. Theo will be bombing down the other side of the pitch staying wide, stretching the game, for Osimhen and Foden, while Theo can also pop up at the back post for any crosses.
The cbs, Rodri and Mac have the quality to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Both cms have the energy and creativity on the ball to help our attacks going forward, while staying strong defensively. In possession, Stones steps forward slightly, giving one of Rodri or Mac more freedom to support the attack.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden, Mac and Trent (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully Chelsea.
Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. 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 and regain control.
Foden given complete freedom in the opposition half to find pockets of space and go beyond Kvarat or Osimhen.
We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.
————————————— Alisson
———Marquinhos —— J.Stones —— Gvardiol
Trent.A ——- Mac Allister —— Rodri ———- Theo.H
————————————— P.Foden ——————
—————- Kvaratskhelia ——— Osimhen
Subs. Sanchez, Ugarte, Musiala, Olise, Eze, A.Gordon, Isak
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else 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. Kvarat drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the wb on side of play drops to fb, and the cms and opposite wb narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Foden is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.
Stones the man-marker next to Marquinhos and Gvardiol who are free to use their intelligence and pace to sweep up. With a wb dropping to fb, the cbs also narrow to the side they are attacking. Rodri as dm, Mac Allister and opposite wb either side of him, and just slightly ahead of him pressing the play in line of 3 midfielders. Foden zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Kvarat marks their deepest cm. Kvarat and Foden giving our midfield ability to press and narrow to the side opposition are attacking. In zones to stop their attacking midfielders and allowing Rodri to cover or step in if one cm needs to step out to press or to help the fb.
In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Stop them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
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 three, 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 68 mins bring on Musiala for Foden. Pace and trickery against tired legs.
If winning after 78 mins bring on Ugarte for Mac Allister, fresh legs in cm. Injects high energy and work rate.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Gordon for Kvaratskhelia. Pure pace against tired legs as Chelsea push more forward, in a free role support Osimhen.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Musiala and Eze for Foden and Mac Allister. Eze cm, with Musiala more advanced but both can be fluid.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Isak for Kvaratskhelia. 3-5-2 with more control in cm, an extra out and out striker to bully their cbs.
If losing after 68 mins bring on Musiala and Isak for Stones and Kvaratskhelia. 4-3-1-2. Musiala lcm.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Olise for Mac Allister
Watford: League Week 18: HOME vs Arsenal
Captain: Beraldo
Vice Captain: Fernández
Team:
-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley----Beraldo--Murillo----Vanderlan
-------------------Fernández
----------------Jones---Gómez
Prestianni------------------------------Edwards
--------------------Ferguson
SUBS: Bento, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Redondo, Price, 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: Fernández 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. Jones and Gómez will play just in front of Fernández. Jones will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Gómez 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 Gómez, Jones 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 Jones may sit a bit deeper allowing Gómez 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: Jones, Edwards or Prestianni with Beraldo, Murillo and Ferguson to offer an aerial threat. Gómez 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 Jones 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.
----------------Fernández
Guilherme--Gómez--- Edwards
------Ferguson---Leonardo
NEWCASTLE UNITED v Brentford
Injuries: Diaz, Lima, Min-Jae, Kudus, Pickford
------------------------ Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Branthwaite - Mendy
------------ Mainoo - Tchouameni
Salah ----------- De Bruyne -------------- Son
---------------------- Openda
Subs: Trafford, Gomez, Palhinha, Fernandes, Sane, Kolo Muani, Toney
----------------
A must win game today against Brentford if we want to finish third, Brentford are in form but our back four and midfield two should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 today, Oblak in goal, Rudiger and Branthwaite at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni and Mainoo the double pivot in midfield, with Kevin De Bruyne ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Mo Salah and Heung-Min Son either side of Lois Openda upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Brentford are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Openda.
Rudiger/Branthwaite - Rudiger to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Branthwaite to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to their runners from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Walker/Mendy - Both of you to force the Brentford attacking midfielders 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. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Tchouameni and Mainoo to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Salah/Son 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 link with De Bruyne. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Tchouameni/Mainoo - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Brentford's two AM's 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 each other, Walker and Mendy either side of you, and De Bruyne ahead of you. Alternate joining the attack but ensuring one of you stays back at all times.
De Bruyne - Playing as the AM today, look to bridge the gap between midfield and attack. Without the ball form a midfield trio alongside Mainoo and Tchouameni, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Tchouameni/Mainoo and look for Salah/Son/Openda making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Play in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Mainoo/Tchouameni, or defenders out of position to create space for Salah/Son/Openda to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Salah/Son - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Walker and Mendy overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Openda and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Bruyne will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Openda's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Tchouameni and Mainoo to make it hard for Brentford to break us down.
Openda - You will be expected to occupy the Brentford centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Try and swap with Salah and Son on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/Mainoo, 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: De Bruyne, Salah and Son off, Palhinha, Sane, and Kolo Muani on. Change to a flat 4-5-1, Palhinha the DM inbetween Mainoo and Tchouameni, Sane to RW, Openda to LW, Kolo Muani down the middle. Absorb pressure, look to counter a Brentford side chasing the game with our pace and fresh legs, ball retention is key to closing down the game.
If drawing or losing at 70 mins: Mainoo, Tchouameni and Branthwaite off, Fernandes, Kolo Muani and Toney on. Change to 3-1-3-3, De Bruyne in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
--------------- Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Mendy
----------- De Bruyne
-- Salah - Fernandes - Son
Kolo Muani - Toney - Openda
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne or Sane in that order
Penalties: Toney, Salah or Openda in that order
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR v Aston Villa
Injuries: Lewis, L Martinez
--------------------- Ederson
Porro - De Ligt - Skriniar - Grimaldo
------------- D Luiz - Gallagher
Dembele ------- B Silva -------- Gnabry
‐---------------------- Kane
Subs: Ramsdale, Ake, Zubimendi, Maddison, Kulusevski, Rashford, Guirassy
A very important game in our quest to avoid relegation, against a Villa side with nothing to play for. We are going to be bold and attacking, utilising our strengths and creating chances.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 in possession and a 4-5-1 out of possession, Ederson in goal, De Ligt and Skriniar at centreback, Porro and Grimaldo at fullback, Douglas Luiz and Conor Gallagher as a double pivot with Bernardo Silva ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Dembele and Gnabry either side of Harry Kane upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Villa are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Ederson - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Kane.
De Ligt/Skriniar - De Ligt to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Skriniar 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.
Porro/Grimaldo - Both of you to force the Villa wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Luiz and Gallagher to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Dembele and Gnabry 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 Kane, and link with Bernardo Silva. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Luiz/Gallagher - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Villa from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for Porro and Grimaldo either side of you, and Bernardo ahead of you. Both playing in a box to box role, join in with attacks but one of you to always stay back, the other to get back quickly.
Bernardo Silva - Playing as our main AM when in possession, without the ball form a midfield trio with Luiz and Gallagher, but in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Porro/Grimaldo/Luiz/Gallagher, and look for Dembele/Gnabry/Kane making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Utilise Luiz/Gallagher playing in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Luiz/Gallagher, or defenders out of position to create space for Dembele/Gnabry/Kane to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Dembele/Gnabry - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Porro and Grimaldo overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Kane and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Luiz, Gallagher and Bernardo will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Kane's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of Luiz, Gallagher and Bernardo to make it hard for Villa to break us down.
Kane - You will be expected to occupy the Villa centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Try and swap with Dembele and Gnabry on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for Luiz/Gallagher/Bernardo to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from Luiz/Gallagher/Bernardo, 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: Bernardo, Kane and Gnabry off, Zubimendi, Rashford and Guirassy on. Flat 4-5-1, Zubimendi at DM between Luiz and Gallagher, Rashford to LW, Guirassy upfront. Absorb pressure and strike on the break with the pace and fresh legs of Dembele/Rashford/Guirassy.
If drawing at 70 mins: Dembele, Gnabry and Kane off, Kulusevski, Rashford and Guirassy on. Same system, but a fresh front three with Kulusevski RW, Rashford LW and Guirassy upfront, to get at the tiring Villa backline.
If losing at 70 mins: Gallagher, Porro and Grimaldo off, Ake, Maddison and Guirassy on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, push for goals and save our season
------------------------ Ederson
----------- De Ligt - Skriniar - Ake
-------------------------- D Luiz
Dembele - Bernardo - Maddison - Gnabry
-------------------- Kane - Guirassy
Setpieces:
Corners: Bernardo or Luiz in that order
Penalties: Kane or Guirassy in that order
General Formation:
---------------------- E.Martinez ----------------------
Ben White - Ruben Dias - Pau Torres - N. Mendes
------------ E.Fernandez -- Declan Rice ------------
--- Alvarez ------- J.Bellingham ------- Mbappe ---
------------------------ Haaland ------------------------
Carnessechi, Y.Couto, A.Varela, Koopmeiners, A.Guler, R.Leao, G.Ramos
Formation when Leicester have possession:
---------------------- E.Martinez -----------------------
-------------- Ruben Dias -- Pau Torres ---------------
---- Ben White ---- Declan Rice ---- N. Mendes ----
------------ E.Fernandez -- J.Bellingham ------------
----- Alvarez ---------------------------- Mbappe -----
------------------------ Haaland ------------------------
we need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. Yes they are a top side but they are vulnerable at right fullback where we look to expose them with Mbappe. 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.
They dont play with a lot of width so as above our fullback will come inside to help with the extra man advantage they have in midfield, I want Rice taking care of Foden, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Thaty leaves us in a 3 v 2 problem, so our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the likes of Rice and Enzo with that extra midfielder so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what side Leicester are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 strikers, attacking then the fbs attacki one at time, mendes and Mbappe obvs ahave an understanding so Mendes look to push wide allowing Mbappe to cut inside, one twos which will either get Mendes out wide to cross in or Mbappe to get into the box with a nice slide rule pass, White will likely look for more of a long ball over to utilise Alvarez pace to beat the defenders.
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 opposition (Foden) may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, he sometimes becomes a 3rd CB, when under attack with Jude dropping back also beside Enzo, when attacking Rice 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. Enzo will push a further forward joining Jude, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area be creative with his passing, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Bellingham is the link between midfield and attack, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, 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 immediate 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, especially Mbappe as Trent isnt very good, certainly a weak link, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Enzo and Jude more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power/pace/movement, 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 Jude, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.
Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Subs:-
Losing
After 65 Mins - A.Guler for E.Fernandez, Jude drops into midfield, Guler RW, Alvarez up top 442/424
After 75 Mins - R.Leao for Haaland, Mbappe up top, Leao left, lots of pace to hurt a tiring defence
Winning -
After 75 Mins - Alan Varela for Enzo, fresh legs and more bite, I want him to play behind Rice and Jude and become the DM
After 80 Mins - Leao for Haaland, Guler for Alvarez, Leao left, Guler right, Mbappe up top, fresh legs wide to help out defensively v new players from them
Drawing
Afte 70 Mins - Guler for Alvarez, Leao for Haaland, swpa tih Haaland, Koopmeiners for Enzo, more creativity in the centre
FA Cup Quarter Final
BRENTFORD v Manchester United
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Santiago Gimenez
Morten Frendrup
Jacob Greaves
Brennan Johnson
_______________🇺🇦Trubin
🇦🇹Laimer__🇷🇴Drăgușin__🇯🇵Ito___🇭🇺Kerkez
________🇦🇹Seiwald______🇷🇸Ilić
_______🇭🇺Szoboszlai_____🇦🇹Baumgartner
______🇺🇦Dovbyk__________🇬🇪Mikautadze
🇷🇸 Svilar
🇧🇦 Dedic
🏴 Harwood-Bellis
🇩🇰 O'Riley
🇺🇦 Mudryk
🇺🇦 Sudakov
🇳🇱 Brobbey
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai
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
Dedic on for Laimer
Mudryk on for Baumgartner
4-3-3 High tempo
We play a fluid attacking team full of pace and power and a high tempo, dominate possession in cm with pace up top and width from fbs to stretch the game.
Foden and Kvaratskhelia starting high and wide on the wings, but with complete freedom in the final third.
Valverde, Rodri and Mac have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Mac and Valverde have the power and energy on the ball and off it to help our fbs driving down the wings, and support them defensively. When attacking down the right Mac comes inside next to Rodri, giving Valverde freedom to attack and link with Trent, Foden and Gyokeres. Theo still bombs down the other wing in a high wide position, allowing Kvarat freedom to come inside. Vice versa happens on the other side. Rodri and the opposite cm staying central up at the midway point of opposition half to allow us to keep control, high up the pitch, while also providing cover for the attacking fbs.
The fbs bombing forward to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden Mac and Trent (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully the Watford kids.
Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. 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 and regain control.
Foden given complete freedom in the opposition half to find pockets of space and go beyond Isak or Osimhen.
We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.
———————————— Alisson
Trent.A ——— J.Stones —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
————————————— Rodri ———————
———————— Valverde —— Mac Allister
— P.Foden ————————————— Kvaratskhelia —
———————————— Gyokeres
Subs. Sanchez, Militao, Udogie, Sarr, Olise, Gordon, Roque
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else 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. Foden drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the 3 cms narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Kvarat is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.
Gvardiol the man-marker next to Stones who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Mac and Valverde either side of him, and just slightly ahead of him pressing the play in line of 3 cms. Foden zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Isak marks their deepest cm. Kvarat and Foden giving our cms ability to press and narrow to the side opposition are attacking. In zones to stop their attacking midfielders and allowing Rodri to cover or step in if one cm needs to step out to press or to help the fb.
In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Stop them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
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 three, 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 68 mins bring on Olise for Foden. Pace and power against tired legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Sarr for Mac Allister. Power and pace to stretch tired Watford legs.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Gordon for Kvaratskhelia.
If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Olise for Trent and Gordon for Mac Allister. 3-5-2.
Theo lcb. Olise right, Gordon left. Foden CAM, Kvarat cf with Gyokeres.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Roque for Foden. Kvarat to AM.
Arsenal
.........Costa...
.......simakan... Gabriel... saliba
Jmea....... vitinha.....barella........tripier
Martinelli......... Martinez...........chiesa
Subs
Restes Hernandez guimares Nunez Sancho havertz baldazini
First game back, not had a lot of time to work with the lads so nothing fancy today just a nice fluid 3-4-3 with a solid back line and pace in attack
Defensively we go man to man, never a fan of zonal marking this team will take ownership and deal with their opposite number, all of our defence is comfortable on the ball so we'll look to use nice passing triangles to play ourselves out of trouble
Wing backs will be given free licence to get forward in tandem and stretch the play, we continue the short crisp passing game but by having these two high and wide we keep the counter press option of the cross field ball alive.
Vitinha and Barella are perfect in our ball retention system pass move pass move it's like playing chess. Nether of these are prolific enforcers but a five man defence doesn't need babysitting, these two are here to keep us on the front foot. Open the passing lanes and take the energy out of the opposition legs.
The trident
We have three very willing runners and with our wing backs pushed high and wide, martinelli and chiesa will come inside to attack the spaces between CB and FB creating some overloads... Martinez has improved his finishing and given a couple of chances you'd expect him to hit the target
------------------------ 🇮🇹 Donnarumma ------------------------
🇲🇦 A.Hakimi --- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni -- 🇮🇹 Calafiori
------------------- 🇧🇷 J.Gomes --- 🇮🇹 Tonali -------------------
------ 🇦🇷 Garnacho ---- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz ---- 🇳🇱 X.Simons -------
------------------------- 🇷🇸 D.Vlahovic --------------------------
Subs:
Kelleher, Kounde, Lavia, Barcola, Neto, Nkunku, Zirkzee
Captain: Van Dijk
Free Kicks: Wirtz
Penalties: Vlahovic
Corners: Wirtz/Simons
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 our exciting attacking young AM trio the freedom to push forward and wreak havoc in support of the big man up top. The technical brilliance and creativity of Garnacho, Wirtz & Simons gives us the capability of carving through our opponents at will in the final third with each of them capable of picking that killer pass. Danger from all angles all 3 are capable of finding the back of the net at any opportunity.
We look to this attacking young trio to take us to the final with the big man up top Vlahovic likely to be in heaven with the service around him and a man in fine form we fancy him to thrive.
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 absolutely rapid 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. Hakimi has license to push forward down the wing whipping balls in for our frontman to attack whilst Calafiori will play more of a steady defensive role.
A solid back 4 which can evolve into a back 3 to enable Hakimi to push forward down the right. When he does Calafiori will play LCB in a back three as Bastoni sits in the middle and Van Dijk drifts across to RCB covering the space vacated by Hakimi.
Midfield:
Our midfield duo will be key to our success. Tonali and Joao Gomes will be anchoring in our midfield. Offering bundles of energy and capable of covering every blade of grass they’ll be shielding our defence, breaking up the opposition play, disrupting their AM and cutting out the passing lane to their CF, taking away one of their biggest weapons.
The young duo give us plenty of steel in the middle of the park. Both very capable passers they are also diligent in their defensive duties, offering plenty of energy and real steel in the middle of the park. They will protect the defence and get in the face of the opposition. We look to set the tempo and these two will be the catalyst, dispossess the opposition, get the ball to our forwards wreak havoc at the other end.
Forwards:
In attack we have the perfect blend of pace, power and creativity in abundance.
Our trio of AM’s have the freedom to cause havoc as they see fit. Garnacho on the right will look to be direct, use his pace to go at his man, with Hakimi in support we will look to overwhelm down the right hand side. Quick one two’s with Wirtz will also open up space on the edge of the box with the young Argentine lethal when presented with half a chance.
On the opposite flank Simons offers a bundle of energy and creativity, again the interplay between the 3 AM’s will be a joy to behold as we look to build patiently, draw the opposition of our position creating space for us to go at goal. Technical brilliance and eye for goal for distance the young Dutchman offers a different threat down the left.
Wirtz plays centrally and has license to go for goal at any opportunity. He can also drift wide to avoid being man marked as the quick interplay between the trio should cause plenty of problems in the final third.
With a dream supply line around him Vlahovic will be in his element. He’ll be looking to do what he does best, get himself in and around the box and finish any chances that come his way. His strength and hold up play will ensure the balls sticks up top and he offers that important physical threat enabling our three magicians behind him to work their magic.
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Simons off, Barcola on. No let off we bring on fresh legs and extra pace out wide.
80 mins: Hakimi off, Kounde on. Strengthen defensively at RB.
88 mins: Vlahovic off, Zirkzee on. Tons of workrate for the final few minutes as we pray on their tired legs.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Gomes & Simons off, Nkunku & Neto on. Tonali lone DM. Neto on the right, Garnacho left and Wirtz centrally behind a front two of Vlahovic & Nkunku.
80 mins: Garnacho off, Barcola on. Fresh legs as we continue high energy and go for the win.
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR v Man City
Injuries: L Martinez, Cancelo, Diao, Guirassy
------------------ Ederson
Porro - De Ligt - Skriniar - Grimaldo
----------- D Luiz - Zubimendi
O Dembele --- B Silva ---- Gnabry
------------------- Kane
Subs: Ramsdale, Ake, Gallagher, Maddison, Kulusevski, Grealish, Rashford
A tough game against Man City, but with a solid back four and goalkeeper, and plenty of attacking prowess, we can get a result today.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 in possession and a 4-5-1 out of possession, Ederson in goal, De Ligt and Skriniar at centreback, Porro and Grimaldo at fullback, Douglas Luiz and Martin Zubimendi as a double pivot with Bernardo Silva ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Dembele and Gnabry either side of Harry Kane upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. City are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Ederson - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Kane.
De Ligt/Skriniar - Skriniar to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and De Ligt 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.
Porro/Grimaldo - Both of you to force the City 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 Luiz and Zubimendi to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Dembele and Gnabry 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 Kane, and link with Bernardo Silva. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Luiz/Zubimendi - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent City 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 Porro and Grimaldo either side of you, and Bernardo ahead of you. Zubimendi to stay back, Luiz in more of a box to box role, join in with attacks but get back quickly.
Bernardo Silva - Playing as our main AM when in possession, without the ball form a midfield trio with Zubimendi and Luiz, but in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Porro/Grimaldo/Luiz/Zubimendi, and look for Dembele/Gnabry/Kane making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Utilise Luiz playing in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Luiz, or defenders out of position to create space for Dembele/Gnabry/Kane to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Dembele/Gnabry - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Porro and Grimaldo overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Kane and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Luiz and Bernardo will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Kane's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of Luiz, Zubimendi and Bernardo to make it hard for City to break us down.
Kane - You will be expected to occupy the City 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 and swap with Dembele and Gnabry on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for Luiz/Bernardo to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from Luiz/Bernardo, and don't be afraid to take chances first time to limit their defence being able to recover and block attempts.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning or drawing at 70 mins: Dembele, Bernardo and Gnabry off, Kulusevski, Grealish and Gallagher on. Change to a 4-5-1, fresh legs out wide and an extra body in midfield. Absorb pressure, look to run the clock down by retaining possession, and hitting on the counter attack whenever they overcommit.
If losing at 70 mins: Porro, Grimaldo and Zubimendi off, Ake, Maddison and Rashford on. Change to 3-1-4-2, Douglas Luiz in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
-------------------- Ederson
-------- De Ligt - Skriniar - Ake
---------------------- Luiz
Dembele - Bernardo - Maddison - Gnabry
-------------- Kane - Rashford
Setpieces:
Corners: Bernardo or Grealish
Penalties: Kane
Arsenal v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Dorgu, Paqueta, Palhinha, Toney
-------------------- Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Branthwaite - Mendy
------------ Mainoo - Tchouameni
Salah ---------- De Bruyne ---------- Diaz
------------------- Openda
Subs: Pickford, Gomez, Dewsbury-Hall, Fernandes, Sane, Son, Kolo Muani
----------------
A must win game today against Arsenal if we want a cup run, Arsenal may have a new manager bounce, but our back four and midfield two should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 today, Oblak in goal, Rudiger and Branthwaite at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni and Mainoo the double pivot in midfield, with Kevin De Bruyne ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Mo Salah and Luis Diaz either side of Lois 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.
Rudiger/Branthwaite - Rudiger to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Branthwaite 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 attacking midfielders 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. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Tchouameni and Mainoo to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Salah/Diaz 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 link with De Bruyne. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Tchouameni/Mainoo - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Arsenal's midfield from being able to play in the gaps between our midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for each other, Walker and Mendy either side of you, and De Bruyne ahead of you. Alternate joining the attack but ensuring one of you stays back at all times.
De Bruyne - Playing as the AM today, look to bridge the gap between midfield and attack. Without the ball form a midfield trio alongside Mainoo and Tchouameni, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Tchouameni/Mainoo and look for Salah/Diaz/Openda making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Play in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Mainoo/Tchouameni, or defenders out of position to create space for Salah/Diaz/Openda to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Salah/Diaz - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Walker and Mendy overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Openda and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Bruyne will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Openda's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Tchouameni and Mainoo to make it hard for Arsenal to break us down.
Openda - 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 and swap with Salah and Diaz on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/Mainoo, 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: De Bruyne, Salah and Diaz off, Dewsbury-Hall, Sane, and Kolo Muani on. Change to a flat 4-5-1, Dewsbury-Hall an extra CM alongside Mainoo and Tchouameni, Sane to RW, Openda to LW, Kolo Muani down the middle. Absorb pressure, look to counter an Arsenal side chasing the game with our pace and fresh legs, ball retention is key to closing down the game.
If drawing at 70 mins: Salah, Openda and De Bruyne off, Sane, Kolo Muani and Fernandes on. Like for like, same system, Fernandes to AM, Sane to RW, Kolo Muani upfront. Push for a winner.
If losing at 70 mins: Mainoo, Diaz and Branthwaite off, Fernandes, Kolo Muani and Sane on. Change to 3-1-3-3, Tchouameni in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
------------- Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Mendy
--------- Tchouameni
Sane - De Bruyne - Fernandes
Salah - Kolo Muani - Openda
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne or Sane in that order
Penalties: Salah, Fernandes or Openda in that order
Watford – Cup Round 1 vs Leicester
Captain – André
Vice Captain – Murillo
-------------------Bento
Bradley--Murillo--Beraldo--Esquerdinha
--------------André--Gómez
Prestianni--------White-------Edwards
-------------------Augusto
SUBS – Verbruggen, Redondo, Morato, Price, 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 Gómez 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 Augusto 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 Gómez 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 Gómez) 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 Augusto expected to go up for attacking set plays.
Penalties - Augusto 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):
-------------Gómez
Enciso----White------Edwards
--Augusto --Leonardo
FA Cup Semi Final
BRENTFORD v Manchester City
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Matt O'Riley
Christoph Baumgartner
Jacob Greaves
Artem Dovbyk
________________🇺🇦Trubin
🇯🇵Sugawara__🇰🇷Kim__🇯🇵Ito____🇭🇺Kerkez
_________🇦🇹Seiwald_____🇦🇹Laimer
________🇭🇺Szoboszlai____🏴Johnson
________🇲🇽Gimenez_____🇬🇪Mikautadze
🇩🇰 Filip Jørgensen
🇧🇦 Amar Dedic
🇷🇴 Radu Drăgușin
🇩🇰 Victor Kristiansen
🇷🇸 Ivan Ilić
🏴 Mason Mount
🇳🇱 Thijs Dallinga
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai
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
Dedic on for Sugawara
Ilić on for Laimer
Dallinga on for Gimenez
NEWCASTLE UNITED v Leicester City
Injuries: Salah, Walker, Pickford, Son
------------------------- Oblak
Henrichs - Rudiger - Branthwaite - Mendy
------------- Mainoo - Tchouameni
Kudus ----------- De Bruyne ----------- Diaz
------------------------ Openda
Subs: Trafford, Gomez, Palhinha, Paqueta, Fernandes, Sane, Kolo Muani
----------------
A huge FA Cup semi final, Leicester will be tough to beat, but our back four and midfield two should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 today, Oblak in goal, Rudiger and Branthwaite at centreback, Benjamin Henrichs and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni and Mainoo the double pivot in midfield, with Kevin De Bruyne ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Mo Kudus and Luis Diaz either side of Lois Openda upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Leicester 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.
Rudiger/Branthwaite - Rudiger to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Branthwaite 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.
Henrichs/Mendy - Both of you to force the Leicester attacking midfielders 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. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Tchouameni and Mainoo to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Kudus/Diaz 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 link with De Bruyne. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Tchouameni/Mainoo - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Leicester's AM (most likely Foden unless they play a midfield trio, in which case the most advanced CM) 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 each other, Henrichs and Mendy either side of you, and De Bruyne ahead of you. Alternate joining the attack but ensuring one of you stays back at all times.
De Bruyne - Playing as the AM today, look to bridge the gap between midfield and attack. Without the ball form a midfield trio alongside Mainoo and Tchouameni, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Henrichs/Mendy/Tchouameni/Mainoo and look for Kudus/Diaz/Openda making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Play in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Mainoo/Tchouameni, or defenders out of position to create space for Kudus/Diaz/Openda to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Kudus/Diaz - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Henrichs and Mendy overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Openda and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Bruyne will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Openda's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Tchouameni and Mainoo to make it hard for Leicester to break us down.
Openda - You will be expected to occupy the Leicester 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 and swap with Kudus and Diaz on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/Mainoo, 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: De Bruyne, Mainoo and Diaz off, Palhinha, Paqueta and Kolo Muani on. Change to a flat 4-5-1, Palhinha the DM inbetween Paqueta and Tchouameni, Openda to LW, Kolo Muani down the middle. Absorb pressure, look to counter a Leicester side chasing the game with our pace and fresh legs, ball retention is key to closing down the game.
If drawing at 70 mins: De Bruyne, Mainoo and Diaz off, Fernandes, Paqueta and Kolo Muani on. More of a 4-3-3, Fernandes and Paqueta either side of Tchouameni, with Kudus RW, Openda LW and Kolo Muani upfront. Look to force a winner and get us into the final.
If losing at 70 mins: Mainoo, Tchouameni and Branthwaite off, Fernandes, Kolo Muani and Sane on. Change to 3-1-3-3, De Bruyne in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
---------------- Oblak
Henrichs - Rudiger - Mendy
------------- De Bruyne
-- Sane - Fernandes - Diaz
Kudus - Kolo Muani - Openda
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne, Fernandes or Sane in that order
Penalties: De Bruyne, Fernandes or Openda in that order
Penalty shootout takers (based on "if drawing" scenario)
1. Fernandes
2. Openda
3. Rudiger
4. Tchouameni
5. Kolo Muani
6. Paqueta
7. Kudus
8. Henrichs
9. Mendy
10. Branthwaite
11. Oblak
--------------------- 🇮🇹 Donnarumma -----------------------
🇲🇦 Hakimi --- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk -- 🇳🇱 V.de Ven -- 🇮🇹 Calafiori
------------------------ 🇪🇨 Caicedo --------------------------
--------------- 🇳🇴 Ødegaard --- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz ----------------
-- 🇫🇷 Nkunku --------------------------------- 🇦🇷 Garnacho
----------------------- 🇷🇸 D.Vlahovic ------------------------
Subs:
Kelleher, Kounde, Lavia, Barcola, Adeyemi, Zirkzee, G.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
Hakimi Van Dijk Van de Ven Calafiori
Odegaard Caicedo Wirtz
Nkunku Vlahovic Garnacho
With Odegaard & 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.
We want Nkunku and Garnacho 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 on the right Nkunku has license to cut inside, play between the lines making himself difficult to pick up. The marauding Hakimi will look to make overlapping runs down the right giving us natural width as we cause a headache for their fullback having to decide between picking up Nkunk’s drifting run infield or Hakimi’s overlapping run down the wing. On the other flank Garnacho will be looking to make runs in behind, utilising his pace and offering the perfect outlet for Odegaard and Wirtz’s through balls as we stretch their defence. Calafiori plays a more defensive fullback role ensuring we are well covered when Hakimi and Garnacho break down the lines.
Our twin AM’s will be the hub of everything we do well as we look to control the midfield, dominating possession and dictating the tempo of the play. Their technical brilliance and creativity gives us the capability of carving through our opponents at will in the final third with each of them capable of picking that killer pass. Danger from all angles all as we goal at the opposition and pose the danger of goal threats from multiple angles.
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 speedy Van de Ven next to him as they form a solid CB pairing.
Our fullbacks have slightly different roles. Hakimi has license to push forward down the wing whipping balls in for our frontman to attack whilst Calafiori will play more of a steady defensive role.
A solid back 4 which can evolve into a back 3 when Hakimi’s pushes forward down the right. When he does Calafiori will play LCB in a back three as Van de Ven sits in the middle and Van Dijk drifts across to RCB covering the space vacated by Hakimi.
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 Odegaard and Wirtz we have two of the most creative AM’s in the game. 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 an attacking trio up top. Nkunku and Garnacho play on the flanks, 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. Garnacho will be direct, using his pace to beat his man and go for goal or lay off for one of our forwards to finish. Nkunku can drift, linking up with our midfielders or pushing up top alongside Vlahovic.
With a dream supply line around him Vlahovic will be in his element. His strength and hold up play will ensure the balls sticks up top and he offers that important physical threat enabling our three magicians behind him to work their magic. 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:
70 mins: Hakimi off, Kounde on. Strengthen defensively at RB.
75 mins: Garnacho off, Lavia on. Caicedo & Lavia as dual DM’s. Wirtz moves to the left.
85 mins: Nkunku off, Adeyemi on. No let off we bring on fresh legs and extra pace out wide.
If drawing/losing:
65 mins: Garnacho off, G.Jesus on. We move to an attacking 4-2-2-2. Caicedo & Odegaard at CM, Nkunku & Wirtz AM’s with Vlahovic & Jesus up top.
75 mins: Nkunku off, Barcola on. More pace and directness out wide.
80 mins: Hakimi off, Lavia on. Pep Guardiola inspired 3-2-3-2 as we go for the win.
----------- Donnarumma
Van Dijk - Van de Ven - Calafiori
-------- Caicedo –-- Lavia
Barcola --- Odegaard --- Wirtz
-------- Vlahovic -- Jesus
4-3-3 High tempo
We play a fluid attacking team full of pace and power and a high tempo, dominate possession in cm with pace up top and width from fbs to stretch the game.
Foden and Kvaratskhelia starting high and wide on the wings, but with complete freedom in the final third.
Valverde, Rodri and Mac have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Mac and Valverde have the power and energy on the ball and off it to help our fbs driving down the wings, and support them defensively. When attacking down the right Mac comes inside next to Rodri, giving Valverde freedom to attack and link with Trent, Foden and Osimhen. Udogie still bombs down the other wing in a high wide position, allowing Kvarat freedom to come inside. Vice versa happens on the other side. Rodri and the opposite cm staying central up at the midway point of opposition half to allow us to keep control, high up the pitch, while also providing cover for the attacking fbs.
The fbs bombing forward to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden Mac and Trent (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully Newcastle.
Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. 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 and regain control.
We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.
———————————— Alisson
Trent.A —— Marquinhos —— J.Stones —— Udogie
————————————— Rodri ———————
———————— Valverde —— Mac Allister
— P.Foden —————————————— Kvaratskhelia —
———————————— Osimhen
Subs. Sanchez, Militao, Maatsen, Sarr, Eze, Olise, Gyokeres
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else 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. Foden drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the 3 cms narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Kvarat is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.
Stones the man-marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his pace and intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Mac and Valverde either side of him, and just slightly ahead of him pressing the play in line of 3 cms. Foden zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Isak marks their deepest cm. Kvarat and Foden giving our cms ability to press and narrow to the side opposition are attacking. In zones to stop their attacking midfielders and allowing Rodri to cover or step in if one cm needs to step out to press or to help the fb.
In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Stop them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
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 three, 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 68 mins bring on Olise for Foden. Pace and power against tired legs.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Eze for Mac Allister. Legs and trickery as space opens up in midfield.
If winning after after 75 mins bring on Ugarte for Kvarat. Eze to LAM.
If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Olise for Trent and Eze for Mac Allister. 3-5-2. Foden up top in a free role. Udogie lcb. Olise right.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Gyokeres for Foden. Two out and out strikers.
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Tactics
Page 73 of 77
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posted on 7/7/24
4-3-1-2 High tempo
We play a fluid attacking team full of pace and power and a high tempo, dominate possession in cm with pace up top and width from fbs to stretch the game.
Foden in a free role in attack, we look to expose the United midfield, hit by injuries to their best cms we take control of midfield and let Foden find space.
Two forwards occupy their cbs giving Foden, Musiala, Trent, Mac and Theo space to expose.
United start deep, we accept the invitation to pile the pressure on them from the start with our fans behind us.
Musiala, Rodri and Mac have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Mac and Musiala have the power and energy on the ball and off it to help our fbs driving down the wings, and support them defensively. When attacking down the right Musiala comes inside next to Rodri, giving Mac freedom to attack and link with Trent, Foden and Osimhen. Vice versa happens on the other side.
In attack the other cm comes across and a dm in Rodri, provide a duo to control midfield and keep possession, defensively providing great cover for the attacking fbs. The fbs bombing forward to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden Mac and Trent (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully United.
Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. 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 and regain control.
Foden given complete freedom in the opposition half to find pockets of space and go beyond Isak or Osimhen.
We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.
————————————— Alisson
Trent.A ——- Marquinhos —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
———— Mac Allister —— Rodri —— Musiala
————————————— P.Foden ——————
————————— Osimhen ——— Isak
Subs. Stones, Udogie, Ugarte, Olise, Eze, Gordon, Gyokeres
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else 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. Isak drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the 3 cms narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Foden is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.
Gvardiol the man-marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Mac and Musiala either side of him, and just slightly ahead of him pressing the play in line of 3 cms. Foden zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Isak marks their deepest cm. Isak and Foden giving our cms ability to press and narrow to the side opposition are attacking. In zones to stop their attacking midfielders and allowing Rodri to cover or step in if one cm needs to step out to press or to help the fb.
In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Stop them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
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 three, 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 68 mins bring on Olise for Isak. Pace and power against tired legs. 4-3-2-1
If winning after 75 mins bring on Eze for Musiala.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Gyokeres for Osimhen.
If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Olise for Trent. 3-5-2. Theo lcb. Olise right, Musiala left. Foden CAM, Mac cm next to Rodri.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Eze for Mac Allister, more attacking threat on ball.
If losing after 80 mins bring on Gordon for Foden. Musiala cm, Eze CAM, Gordon left
posted on 8/7/24
UNITED vs leicester
------------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
Gusto------Diomande-------Inacio-------De Ven------Gutierrez
------------------------------Scalvini-----Thuram-------------------------
Frimpong-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------Jackson---------------------------------
Subs - Mamardashvili, Yoro, Kossonou, Doku, Saka, Sesko
CK'S - BARCO
FK'S - BARCO
PENALTIES - JACKSON
Injuries have hit us hard this week but we move. Up against Leicester away from home in arguably the hardest fixture of the season but like I said, we move. The gameplan is to stop Leicester scoring. All the outfield players bar Jackson are defensive minded and will look to use that to stop the oppo from creating chances.
I want us to hold a very deep defensive line. The 3 CB's will focus on blocking shots and winning duels. When we have the ball I want the team to hoof it up to Jackson, who will be trying to beat the offside trap, so he can use his pace to get away from the defenders. Rinse and Repeat.
Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. Diomande and De Ven will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to stop any attacks that go down their wings using their super human pace and tackling ability. Inacio in the middle will marshall the defence and look to work together with his fellow CB's to stop the oppo attackers. Stay compact and not too far from each other so we can deal with any crosses into the area etc. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence and play lofted through balls for Jackson to run onto.
FULLBACKS
Gusto + Gutierrez
These 2 will only focus on defensive duties. Lock your wings down and stay strong against the oppo wingers. Stop crosses from getting into the box and if you have possession of the ball look to play lofted through balls for Jackson to run onto.
WINGBACKS
Frimpong and Barco are playing as wingbacks today. I say wingbacks but their only job will be to help Gusto and Gutierrez in defensive duties annd double up againsr oppo wingers.
Defence Mids
Scalvini + Thuram
These 2 will be vital for the team. While the defence will sit deep we are gonna need these 2 to cover the space infront of them so the Leicester players don't have time and space to shoot from central areas. Both are tall strong players so I'm expecting them to win their fair share of duels. Play lofted through balls for Jackson to run onto.
Striker
Nicolas Jackson
Jackson will have a difficult job today. Occupy the space between the oppo CB's. He will look to use his pace to break the offside trap. All his teammates will be looking to play lofted through balls to him. It will be up to him to time his runs but I believe in him. Stay in strike don't come deep.
Subs if LOSING BY 1 GOAL BY 85MINS
Put on Saka, Doku and Sesko for Gusto, Gutirrez and Scalvini to bring some more attacking impetus on. .
---------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
-----------Diomande---------Inacio-------De Ven----------
-------------------------------------Thuram--------------------------------------
Frimpong-----------------------------------------------------------Barco
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------Saka---------Sesko----Jackson-------Doku------
Subs IF DRAWING BY 80MINS
Jackson off Sesko on
posted on 8/7/24
Brentford v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Injuries: Richarlison, Lewis, Skriniar, Ake
------------------ Ederson
Cancelo - De Ligt - Bremer - Grimaldo
------------ De Jong - Onana
---- O Dembele - B Silva - N Williams
-------------------- Kane
Subs: Ramsdale, L Martinez, Bentancur, Maddison, Messi, Gnabry, Rashford
A tough game against Brentford, but with a solid back four and goalkeeper, and plenty of attacking prowess, we can get a result today.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 in possession and a 4-5-1 out of possession, Ederson in goal, De Ligt and Bremer at centreback, Cancelo and Grimaldo at fullback, Amadou Onana and Frenkie De Jong as a double pivot with Bernardo Silva ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Dembele and Nico Williams either side of Harry Kane upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Brentford are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Ederson - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Kane.
De Ligt/Bremer - De Ligt to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Bremer 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.
Cancelo/Grimaldo - Both of you to force the Brentford wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Onana and De Jong to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Dembele and Williams 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 Kane, and link with Bernardo Silva. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Onana/De Jong - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Brentford from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for Cancelo and Grimaldo either side of you, and Bernardo ahead of you. Onana to stay back, De Jong in more of a box to box role, join in with attacks but get back quickly.
Bernardo Silva - Playing as our main AM when in possession, without the ball form a midfield trio with Onana and De Jong, but in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Cancelo/Grimaldo/Onana/De Jong, and look for Dembele/Williams/Kane making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Utilise De Jong playing in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for De Jong, or defenders out of position to create space for Dembele/Williams/Kane to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Dembele/Williams - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Cancelo and Grimaldo overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Kane and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Jong and Bernardo will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Kane's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Jong, Onana and Bernardo to make it hard for Brentford to break us down.
Kane - You will be expected to occupy the Brentford centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Try and swap with Dembele and Williams on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Jong/Bernardo to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from De Jong/Bernardo, and don't be afraid to take chances first time to limit their defence being able to recover and block attempts.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning or drawing at 70 mins: Dembele, Bernardo and Williams off, L Martinez, Messi and Bentancur on. Change to a 5-3-2/5-3-1-1, with Bentancur a second DM alongside Onana and De Jong, Martinez a third CB to the left of Bremer, and Messi behind Kane upfront. Absorb pressure, look to run the clock down by retaining possession, and utilise the control Messi brings.
If losing at 70 mins: Cancelo, Grimaldo and Onana off, Messi, L Martinez and Rashford on. Change to 3-1-4-2, De Jong in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
-------------------- Ederson
-------- De Ligt - Bremer - Martinez
-------------------- De Jong
Dembele - Messi - Bernardo - Williams
-------------- Kane - Rashford
Setpieces:
Corners: Bernardo or Messi
Penalties: Kane
posted on 8/7/24
Man City v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Gomez, Mainoo, Trafford, Son
---------------------- Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Min-Jae - Mendy
----------------- Tchouameni
------- De Bruyne ---- Fernandes
Sane ------------------------------------- Diaz
-------------------- Openda
Subs: Kelleher, Tapsoba, Palhinha, Dewsbury-Hall, Salah, Barnes, Lewandowski
----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Man City, 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 in possession and a 4-5-1 out of possession, Oblak in goal, Rudiger and Min-Jae at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni the sole sitting DM, Kevin De Bruyne and Bruno Fernandes transitioning from midfield to attack, with Leroy Sane and Luis Diaz either side of Lois Openda upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Man City 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.
Rudiger/Min-Jae - Min-Jae to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Rudiger 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 Man City 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 Sane/Diaz 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 link with De Bruyne and 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 Man City from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for Walker and Mendy either side of you, and De Bruyne and Fernandes 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. Both of you to primarily work deeper, pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Tchouameni and look for Sane/Diaz/Openda making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Fernandes to be the one who tries to play in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for De Bruyne, or defenders out of position to create space for Sane/Diaz/Openda to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Sane/Diaz - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Walker and Mendy overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Openda and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Bruyne and Fernandes will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Openda's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Tchouameni and Fernandes to make it hard for Man City to break us down.
Openda - You will be expected to occupy the Man City 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 and swap with Sane and Diaz on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne/Fernandes to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/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: De Bruyne, Sane and Fernandes off, Dewsbury-Hall, Salah and Palhinha on. Change to a 4-5-1/4-2-3-1, with Palhinha a second DM alongside Tchouameni, Dewsbury-Hall just ahead of the pair, Salah to RM and Diaz to LM. Absorb pressure, look to run the clock down by retaining possession, and utilise the fresh legs out wide and the pace of Openda down the middle to counter attack.
If drawing at 70 mins: Sane and Fernandes off, Lewandowski and Salah on. Change to a 4-1-3-2, Tchouameni the DM, Salah - De Bruyne - Diaz behind a front two of Lewandowski and Openda, try to create a winner and utilise your skills against a tiring Man City defence.
If losing at 70 mins: Tchouameni and Min-Jae off, Lewandowski and Salah on. Change to 3-1-3-3, De Bruyne in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
------------------ Oblak
--- Walker - Rudiger - Mendy
--------------- De Bruyne
---- Sane - Fernandes - Diaz
Salah - Lewandowski - Openda
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne
Penalties: Lewandowski or Openda (in that order depending on who's on the pitch)
posted on 9/7/24
Round 18
Newcastle United v BRENTFORD
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Omari Hutchinson
Milos Kerkez
Georgiy Sudakov
Ivan Ilić
_________________🇺🇦Trubin
🇧🇦Dedic__🇷🇴Drăgușin___🇯🇵Ito__🇩🇰Kristiansen
__________🇦🇹Seiwald______🇦🇹Laimer
_________🇭🇺Szoboszlai_____🇺🇦Mudryk
________🇺🇦Dovbyk_________🇬🇪Mikautadze
🇷🇸 Mile Svilar
🏴 Neco Williams
🏴 Ethan Ampadu
🇦🇹 Christoph Baumgartner
🏴 Brennan Johnson
🇳🇱 Brian Brobbey
🇲🇽 Santiago Gimenez
Captain - Laimer
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai
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
Baumgartner on for Mudryk
Gimenez on for Dovbyk
posted on 10/7/24
Ampadu removed from subs
posted on 11/7/24
----------------------- P.Andreev ------------------------
Vanderson - Adarabioyo - Marc Guehi - Mittlestadt
--------------- B.Kamara --- F. de Jong ----------------
F.Torres -------------- J.David --------------- Williams
------------------------ Watkins --------------------------
Bazanu, Okoli, L.Sucic, Mount, Bailey, Lorran, Strand Larsen
A solid back 4 with Guehi 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. Tosin alongside, again a very tough, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Guehi 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 at the same time look for the one/two with the winger ahead but will time these and not bomb forward willy nilly, over lapping allowing the wingers to come inside, or just play the winger in with a nice pass through, can also use the CMs for quick passing to get the wingers passed the opposition fullbacks, defensively, stay strong, keep the wingers to the outside away from danger, try and keep them on there 'bad' foot so they find it difficult to get a cross in, I do not want to see my defenders dive in, so stay tall and use upper body strength to keep there chances to a minimum. This is a solid back 4 who will be difficult to attack, must stay focussed.
The 2 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Kamara is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, Kamara will be there snapping at his heals, de Jong 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.
Jonathon David in an AM/free role/SS basically anywhere across the line where he will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence just hassle the midfield/defenders and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.
Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks, Ferran comes inside alot, Nico Williams to the outside, at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, always dragging players away to make space for himself and others, getting into dangerous positions waiting for the ball to come his way, he makes runs other forwards dont he has the intelligence find the space for others to find, 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 the 3 behind buzzing around.
Captain - Kamara
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - de Jong
Corners - de Jong
Losing/drawing -
after 65 mins - Strand larsen for J.David go up top, Bailey for Williams, Lorran for Ferran, fresh legs push for a goal
Winning -
After 75 Mins - Strand Larsen for Watkins, L.Sucic for J.David(he drops into midfield), Bailey for Williams
posted on 11/7/24
------------------------ 🇮🇪 Kelleher -------------------------
🇲🇦 Hakimi -- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni -- 🇮🇹 Calafiori
------------------------ 🇪🇨 Caicedo -------------------------
🇵🇹 P.Neto -- 🇳🇱 X.Simons --- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz -- 🇫🇷 Barcola
----------------------- 🇷🇸 D.Vlahovic -----------------------
Subs:
Rushworth, Kounde, Ait-Nouri, Tonali, Nkunku, G.Jesus, Zirkzee
Captain: Van Dijk
Free Kicks: Wirtz
Penalties: Vlahovic
Corners: Wirtz/Simons
We look to have a bit of fun and go with an attacking 4-1-4-1 in today’s match up.
A solid back 4 which can evolve into a back 3 to enable Hakimi to push forward down the right. When he does Calafiori will play LCB in a back three as Bastoni sits in the middle and Van Dijk drifts across to RCB covering the space vacated by Hakimi.
Caicedo comes into the side at DM due to his top class ball winning ability. 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 Caicedo to retain the ball, keep recycling as we draw the opposition out, move them out of position creating gaps in their defence with both Wirtz & Simons capable of threading the ball through the eye of needle with that killer pass in the final third.
Neto and Barcola 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.
We look to this attacking quartet to take us to the victory with the big man up top Vlahovic likely to be in heaven with the service around him and a man in fine form we fancy him to thrive.
Out of possession we revert to a more traditional 4-3-3.
Keller
Hakimi Van Dijk Bastoni Calafiori
Simons Caicedo Wirtz
Neto Vlahovic Barcola
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 right and therefore we go with the defensively superior Calafiori. 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 Hakimi, he’ll have license to push forward more and whip balls in from the right for our striker to bury.
Midfield:
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. 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:
In attack we have the perfect blend of pace, power and creativity in abundance.
Neto on the right has license to cut inside and will thrive linking up with our AM’s in the middle. Quick one two’s should open up space on the edge of the box with the wideman lethal when presented with half a chance. He also has license to drift as our AM's are interchangeable, making them almost impossible to man mark with each as deadly as the other when finding themselves in pockets of space with the ball at their feet. Handbrake is taken off as they are given the freedom to show off their attacking prowess with our DM sitting back offering a protective shield in front of our defence.
On the opposite flank Barcola offers a bundle of pace and energy, he’ll look to be direct and take on his man down the byline before whipping in a cross for Vlahovic to attack. His rapid pace also makes him a threat in behind as he’ll look to stretch their defence with Simon’s and Wirtz capable of cutting open their backline with their through balls for Barcola to run onto.
Vlahovic is the perfect target man, big and strong he’s capable of holding the ball up allowing our attacking quartet to get up and support. We want him to pin back their CB’s opening up space on the edge of the box for the likes of Wirtz and Simons to get off a shot at goal.
In the area we want him to attack the 6 yard box with crosses being whipped in from out wide and slide rule balls from our AM’s ensuring our number 9 will get plenty of service as he looks to continue his fine goalscoring form.
Subs:
If winning:
65 mins: Neto off, Tonali on. 4-2-3-1
75 mins: Barcola off, Nkunku on. Fresh legs.
85 mins: Vlahovic off, Zirkzee on.
If drawing/losing:
60 mins: Calafiori off, Ait-Nouri on. More attacking LB.
65 mins: Barcola off, Nkunku on.
75 mins: Neto off, Zirkzee on. Attacking 4-2-2-2. Caicedo & Simons in CM with Wirtz & Nkunku as AM’s and Vlahovic & Zirkzee up top. Goals
posted on 11/7/24
3-4-1-2 High tempo
We play a fluid attacking team full of pace, power and a high tempo, dominate possession with pace up top and width from wbs to stretch the game.
What is a defensive change in shape, is only a small change to our a tactics which remain attacking, Stones coming in as the extra cb designed to give us more control. With all the cbs strong on the ball and Stones comfortable stepping into midfield, they help the cms dominate possession, and give the wbs freedom to attack without leaving us exposed against Chelsea’s attack.
We believe we have two of the best attacking fbs in the world, so we look to get the best from them and let them attack, they ptovide the width that will stretch the game and create space for our attackers (their wide players almost always come inside so the extra cb here is important and better than two cbs + attacking fb would be defensively).
We target Chelsea’s lb, likely with Mbappe ahead of him, they are weaker defensively here. Kvaratskhelia brought in for the forward role on the right, with Trent bombing forward will see us target this area. Foden free to drift right and link or get beyond. Theo will be bombing down the other side of the pitch staying wide, stretching the game, for Osimhen and Foden, while Theo can also pop up at the back post for any crosses.
The cbs, Rodri and Mac have the quality to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Both cms have the energy and creativity on the ball to help our attacks going forward, while staying strong defensively. In possession, Stones steps forward slightly, giving one of Rodri or Mac more freedom to support the attack.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden, Mac and Trent (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully Chelsea.
Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. 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 and regain control.
Foden given complete freedom in the opposition half to find pockets of space and go beyond Kvarat or Osimhen.
We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.
————————————— Alisson
———Marquinhos —— J.Stones —— Gvardiol
Trent.A ——- Mac Allister —— Rodri ———- Theo.H
————————————— P.Foden ——————
—————- Kvaratskhelia ——— Osimhen
Subs. Sanchez, Ugarte, Musiala, Olise, Eze, A.Gordon, Isak
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else 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. Kvarat drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the wb on side of play drops to fb, and the cms and opposite wb narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Foden is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.
Stones the man-marker next to Marquinhos and Gvardiol who are free to use their intelligence and pace to sweep up. With a wb dropping to fb, the cbs also narrow to the side they are attacking. Rodri as dm, Mac Allister and opposite wb either side of him, and just slightly ahead of him pressing the play in line of 3 midfielders. Foden zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Kvarat marks their deepest cm. Kvarat and Foden giving our midfield ability to press and narrow to the side opposition are attacking. In zones to stop their attacking midfielders and allowing Rodri to cover or step in if one cm needs to step out to press or to help the fb.
In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Stop them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
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 three, 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 68 mins bring on Musiala for Foden. Pace and trickery against tired legs.
If winning after 78 mins bring on Ugarte for Mac Allister, fresh legs in cm. Injects high energy and work rate.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Gordon for Kvaratskhelia. Pure pace against tired legs as Chelsea push more forward, in a free role support Osimhen.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Musiala and Eze for Foden and Mac Allister. Eze cm, with Musiala more advanced but both can be fluid.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Isak for Kvaratskhelia. 3-5-2 with more control in cm, an extra out and out striker to bully their cbs.
If losing after 68 mins bring on Musiala and Isak for Stones and Kvaratskhelia. 4-3-1-2. Musiala lcm.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Olise for Mac Allister
posted on 11/7/24
Watford: League Week 18: HOME vs Arsenal
Captain: Beraldo
Vice Captain: Fernández
Team:
-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley----Beraldo--Murillo----Vanderlan
-------------------Fernández
----------------Jones---Gómez
Prestianni------------------------------Edwards
--------------------Ferguson
SUBS: Bento, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Redondo, Price, 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: Fernández 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. Jones and Gómez will play just in front of Fernández. Jones will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Gómez 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 Gómez, Jones 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 Jones may sit a bit deeper allowing Gómez 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: Jones, Edwards or Prestianni with Beraldo, Murillo and Ferguson to offer an aerial threat. Gómez 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 Jones 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.
----------------Fernández
Guilherme--Gómez--- Edwards
------Ferguson---Leonardo
posted on 11/7/24
NEWCASTLE UNITED v Brentford
Injuries: Diaz, Lima, Min-Jae, Kudus, Pickford
------------------------ Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Branthwaite - Mendy
------------ Mainoo - Tchouameni
Salah ----------- De Bruyne -------------- Son
---------------------- Openda
Subs: Trafford, Gomez, Palhinha, Fernandes, Sane, Kolo Muani, Toney
----------------
A must win game today against Brentford if we want to finish third, Brentford are in form but our back four and midfield two should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 today, Oblak in goal, Rudiger and Branthwaite at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni and Mainoo the double pivot in midfield, with Kevin De Bruyne ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Mo Salah and Heung-Min Son either side of Lois Openda upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Brentford are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Openda.
Rudiger/Branthwaite - Rudiger to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Branthwaite to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to their runners from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Walker/Mendy - Both of you to force the Brentford attacking midfielders 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. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Tchouameni and Mainoo to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Salah/Son 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 link with De Bruyne. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Tchouameni/Mainoo - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Brentford's two AM's 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 each other, Walker and Mendy either side of you, and De Bruyne ahead of you. Alternate joining the attack but ensuring one of you stays back at all times.
De Bruyne - Playing as the AM today, look to bridge the gap between midfield and attack. Without the ball form a midfield trio alongside Mainoo and Tchouameni, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Tchouameni/Mainoo and look for Salah/Son/Openda making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Play in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Mainoo/Tchouameni, or defenders out of position to create space for Salah/Son/Openda to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Salah/Son - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Walker and Mendy overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Openda and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Bruyne will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Openda's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Tchouameni and Mainoo to make it hard for Brentford to break us down.
Openda - You will be expected to occupy the Brentford centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Try and swap with Salah and Son on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/Mainoo, 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: De Bruyne, Salah and Son off, Palhinha, Sane, and Kolo Muani on. Change to a flat 4-5-1, Palhinha the DM inbetween Mainoo and Tchouameni, Sane to RW, Openda to LW, Kolo Muani down the middle. Absorb pressure, look to counter a Brentford side chasing the game with our pace and fresh legs, ball retention is key to closing down the game.
If drawing or losing at 70 mins: Mainoo, Tchouameni and Branthwaite off, Fernandes, Kolo Muani and Toney on. Change to 3-1-3-3, De Bruyne in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
--------------- Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Mendy
----------- De Bruyne
-- Salah - Fernandes - Son
Kolo Muani - Toney - Openda
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne or Sane in that order
Penalties: Toney, Salah or Openda in that order
posted on 11/7/24
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR v Aston Villa
Injuries: Lewis, L Martinez
--------------------- Ederson
Porro - De Ligt - Skriniar - Grimaldo
------------- D Luiz - Gallagher
Dembele ------- B Silva -------- Gnabry
‐---------------------- Kane
Subs: Ramsdale, Ake, Zubimendi, Maddison, Kulusevski, Rashford, Guirassy
A very important game in our quest to avoid relegation, against a Villa side with nothing to play for. We are going to be bold and attacking, utilising our strengths and creating chances.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 in possession and a 4-5-1 out of possession, Ederson in goal, De Ligt and Skriniar at centreback, Porro and Grimaldo at fullback, Douglas Luiz and Conor Gallagher as a double pivot with Bernardo Silva ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Dembele and Gnabry either side of Harry Kane upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Villa are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Ederson - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Kane.
De Ligt/Skriniar - De Ligt to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Skriniar 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.
Porro/Grimaldo - Both of you to force the Villa wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Luiz and Gallagher to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Dembele and Gnabry 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 Kane, and link with Bernardo Silva. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Luiz/Gallagher - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Villa from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for Porro and Grimaldo either side of you, and Bernardo ahead of you. Both playing in a box to box role, join in with attacks but one of you to always stay back, the other to get back quickly.
Bernardo Silva - Playing as our main AM when in possession, without the ball form a midfield trio with Luiz and Gallagher, but in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Porro/Grimaldo/Luiz/Gallagher, and look for Dembele/Gnabry/Kane making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Utilise Luiz/Gallagher playing in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Luiz/Gallagher, or defenders out of position to create space for Dembele/Gnabry/Kane to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Dembele/Gnabry - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Porro and Grimaldo overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Kane and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Luiz, Gallagher and Bernardo will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Kane's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of Luiz, Gallagher and Bernardo to make it hard for Villa to break us down.
Kane - You will be expected to occupy the Villa centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Try and swap with Dembele and Gnabry on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for Luiz/Gallagher/Bernardo to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from Luiz/Gallagher/Bernardo, 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: Bernardo, Kane and Gnabry off, Zubimendi, Rashford and Guirassy on. Flat 4-5-1, Zubimendi at DM between Luiz and Gallagher, Rashford to LW, Guirassy upfront. Absorb pressure and strike on the break with the pace and fresh legs of Dembele/Rashford/Guirassy.
If drawing at 70 mins: Dembele, Gnabry and Kane off, Kulusevski, Rashford and Guirassy on. Same system, but a fresh front three with Kulusevski RW, Rashford LW and Guirassy upfront, to get at the tiring Villa backline.
If losing at 70 mins: Gallagher, Porro and Grimaldo off, Ake, Maddison and Guirassy on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, push for goals and save our season
------------------------ Ederson
----------- De Ligt - Skriniar - Ake
-------------------------- D Luiz
Dembele - Bernardo - Maddison - Gnabry
-------------------- Kane - Guirassy
Setpieces:
Corners: Bernardo or Luiz in that order
Penalties: Kane or Guirassy in that order
posted on 13/7/24
General Formation:
---------------------- E.Martinez ----------------------
Ben White - Ruben Dias - Pau Torres - N. Mendes
------------ E.Fernandez -- Declan Rice ------------
--- Alvarez ------- J.Bellingham ------- Mbappe ---
------------------------ Haaland ------------------------
Carnessechi, Y.Couto, A.Varela, Koopmeiners, A.Guler, R.Leao, G.Ramos
Formation when Leicester have possession:
---------------------- E.Martinez -----------------------
-------------- Ruben Dias -- Pau Torres ---------------
---- Ben White ---- Declan Rice ---- N. Mendes ----
------------ E.Fernandez -- J.Bellingham ------------
----- Alvarez ---------------------------- Mbappe -----
------------------------ Haaland ------------------------
we need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. Yes they are a top side but they are vulnerable at right fullback where we look to expose them with Mbappe. 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.
They dont play with a lot of width so as above our fullback will come inside to help with the extra man advantage they have in midfield, I want Rice taking care of Foden, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Thaty leaves us in a 3 v 2 problem, so our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the likes of Rice and Enzo with that extra midfielder so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what side Leicester are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 strikers, attacking then the fbs attacki one at time, mendes and Mbappe obvs ahave an understanding so Mendes look to push wide allowing Mbappe to cut inside, one twos which will either get Mendes out wide to cross in or Mbappe to get into the box with a nice slide rule pass, White will likely look for more of a long ball over to utilise Alvarez pace to beat the defenders.
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 opposition (Foden) may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, he sometimes becomes a 3rd CB, when under attack with Jude dropping back also beside Enzo, when attacking Rice 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. Enzo will push a further forward joining Jude, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area be creative with his passing, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Bellingham is the link between midfield and attack, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, 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 immediate 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, especially Mbappe as Trent isnt very good, certainly a weak link, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Enzo and Jude more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power/pace/movement, 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 Jude, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.
Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Subs:-
Losing
After 65 Mins - A.Guler for E.Fernandez, Jude drops into midfield, Guler RW, Alvarez up top 442/424
After 75 Mins - R.Leao for Haaland, Mbappe up top, Leao left, lots of pace to hurt a tiring defence
Winning -
After 75 Mins - Alan Varela for Enzo, fresh legs and more bite, I want him to play behind Rice and Jude and become the DM
After 80 Mins - Leao for Haaland, Guler for Alvarez, Leao left, Guler right, Mbappe up top, fresh legs wide to help out defensively v new players from them
Drawing
Afte 70 Mins - Guler for Alvarez, Leao for Haaland, swpa tih Haaland, Koopmeiners for Enzo, more creativity in the centre
posted on 18/7/24
FA Cup Quarter Final
BRENTFORD v Manchester United
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Santiago Gimenez
Morten Frendrup
Jacob Greaves
Brennan Johnson
_______________🇺🇦Trubin
🇦🇹Laimer__🇷🇴Drăgușin__🇯🇵Ito___🇭🇺Kerkez
________🇦🇹Seiwald______🇷🇸Ilić
_______🇭🇺Szoboszlai_____🇦🇹Baumgartner
______🇺🇦Dovbyk__________🇬🇪Mikautadze
🇷🇸 Svilar
🇧🇦 Dedic
🏴 Harwood-Bellis
🇩🇰 O'Riley
🇺🇦 Mudryk
🇺🇦 Sudakov
🇳🇱 Brobbey
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai
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
Dedic on for Laimer
Mudryk on for Baumgartner
posted on 19/7/24
Remove Sudakov from subs
posted on 21/7/24
4-3-3 High tempo
We play a fluid attacking team full of pace and power and a high tempo, dominate possession in cm with pace up top and width from fbs to stretch the game.
Foden and Kvaratskhelia starting high and wide on the wings, but with complete freedom in the final third.
Valverde, Rodri and Mac have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Mac and Valverde have the power and energy on the ball and off it to help our fbs driving down the wings, and support them defensively. When attacking down the right Mac comes inside next to Rodri, giving Valverde freedom to attack and link with Trent, Foden and Gyokeres. Theo still bombs down the other wing in a high wide position, allowing Kvarat freedom to come inside. Vice versa happens on the other side. Rodri and the opposite cm staying central up at the midway point of opposition half to allow us to keep control, high up the pitch, while also providing cover for the attacking fbs.
The fbs bombing forward to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden Mac and Trent (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully the Watford kids.
Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. 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 and regain control.
Foden given complete freedom in the opposition half to find pockets of space and go beyond Isak or Osimhen.
We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.
———————————— Alisson
Trent.A ——— J.Stones —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
————————————— Rodri ———————
———————— Valverde —— Mac Allister
— P.Foden ————————————— Kvaratskhelia —
———————————— Gyokeres
Subs. Sanchez, Militao, Udogie, Sarr, Olise, Gordon, Roque
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else 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. Foden drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the 3 cms narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Kvarat is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.
Gvardiol the man-marker next to Stones who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Mac and Valverde either side of him, and just slightly ahead of him pressing the play in line of 3 cms. Foden zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Isak marks their deepest cm. Kvarat and Foden giving our cms ability to press and narrow to the side opposition are attacking. In zones to stop their attacking midfielders and allowing Rodri to cover or step in if one cm needs to step out to press or to help the fb.
In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Stop them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
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 three, 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 68 mins bring on Olise for Foden. Pace and power against tired legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Sarr for Mac Allister. Power and pace to stretch tired Watford legs.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Gordon for Kvaratskhelia.
If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Olise for Trent and Gordon for Mac Allister. 3-5-2.
Theo lcb. Olise right, Gordon left. Foden CAM, Kvarat cf with Gyokeres.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Roque for Foden. Kvarat to AM.
posted on 21/7/24
Arsenal
.........Costa...
.......simakan... Gabriel... saliba
Jmea....... vitinha.....barella........tripier
Martinelli......... Martinez...........chiesa
Subs
Restes Hernandez guimares Nunez Sancho havertz baldazini
First game back, not had a lot of time to work with the lads so nothing fancy today just a nice fluid 3-4-3 with a solid back line and pace in attack
Defensively we go man to man, never a fan of zonal marking this team will take ownership and deal with their opposite number, all of our defence is comfortable on the ball so we'll look to use nice passing triangles to play ourselves out of trouble
Wing backs will be given free licence to get forward in tandem and stretch the play, we continue the short crisp passing game but by having these two high and wide we keep the counter press option of the cross field ball alive.
Vitinha and Barella are perfect in our ball retention system pass move pass move it's like playing chess. Nether of these are prolific enforcers but a five man defence doesn't need babysitting, these two are here to keep us on the front foot. Open the passing lanes and take the energy out of the opposition legs.
The trident
We have three very willing runners and with our wing backs pushed high and wide, martinelli and chiesa will come inside to attack the spaces between CB and FB creating some overloads... Martinez has improved his finishing and given a couple of chances you'd expect him to hit the target
posted on 21/7/24
------------------------ 🇮🇹 Donnarumma ------------------------
🇲🇦 A.Hakimi --- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni -- 🇮🇹 Calafiori
------------------- 🇧🇷 J.Gomes --- 🇮🇹 Tonali -------------------
------ 🇦🇷 Garnacho ---- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz ---- 🇳🇱 X.Simons -------
------------------------- 🇷🇸 D.Vlahovic --------------------------
Subs:
Kelleher, Kounde, Lavia, Barcola, Neto, Nkunku, Zirkzee
Captain: Van Dijk
Free Kicks: Wirtz
Penalties: Vlahovic
Corners: Wirtz/Simons
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 our exciting attacking young AM trio the freedom to push forward and wreak havoc in support of the big man up top. The technical brilliance and creativity of Garnacho, Wirtz & Simons gives us the capability of carving through our opponents at will in the final third with each of them capable of picking that killer pass. Danger from all angles all 3 are capable of finding the back of the net at any opportunity.
We look to this attacking young trio to take us to the final with the big man up top Vlahovic likely to be in heaven with the service around him and a man in fine form we fancy him to thrive.
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 absolutely rapid 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. Hakimi has license to push forward down the wing whipping balls in for our frontman to attack whilst Calafiori will play more of a steady defensive role.
A solid back 4 which can evolve into a back 3 to enable Hakimi to push forward down the right. When he does Calafiori will play LCB in a back three as Bastoni sits in the middle and Van Dijk drifts across to RCB covering the space vacated by Hakimi.
Midfield:
Our midfield duo will be key to our success. Tonali and Joao Gomes will be anchoring in our midfield. Offering bundles of energy and capable of covering every blade of grass they’ll be shielding our defence, breaking up the opposition play, disrupting their AM and cutting out the passing lane to their CF, taking away one of their biggest weapons.
The young duo give us plenty of steel in the middle of the park. Both very capable passers they are also diligent in their defensive duties, offering plenty of energy and real steel in the middle of the park. They will protect the defence and get in the face of the opposition. We look to set the tempo and these two will be the catalyst, dispossess the opposition, get the ball to our forwards wreak havoc at the other end.
Forwards:
In attack we have the perfect blend of pace, power and creativity in abundance.
Our trio of AM’s have the freedom to cause havoc as they see fit. Garnacho on the right will look to be direct, use his pace to go at his man, with Hakimi in support we will look to overwhelm down the right hand side. Quick one two’s with Wirtz will also open up space on the edge of the box with the young Argentine lethal when presented with half a chance.
On the opposite flank Simons offers a bundle of energy and creativity, again the interplay between the 3 AM’s will be a joy to behold as we look to build patiently, draw the opposition of our position creating space for us to go at goal. Technical brilliance and eye for goal for distance the young Dutchman offers a different threat down the left.
Wirtz plays centrally and has license to go for goal at any opportunity. He can also drift wide to avoid being man marked as the quick interplay between the trio should cause plenty of problems in the final third.
With a dream supply line around him Vlahovic will be in his element. He’ll be looking to do what he does best, get himself in and around the box and finish any chances that come his way. His strength and hold up play will ensure the balls sticks up top and he offers that important physical threat enabling our three magicians behind him to work their magic.
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Simons off, Barcola on. No let off we bring on fresh legs and extra pace out wide.
80 mins: Hakimi off, Kounde on. Strengthen defensively at RB.
88 mins: Vlahovic off, Zirkzee on. Tons of workrate for the final few minutes as we pray on their tired legs.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Gomes & Simons off, Nkunku & Neto on. Tonali lone DM. Neto on the right, Garnacho left and Wirtz centrally behind a front two of Vlahovic & Nkunku.
80 mins: Garnacho off, Barcola on. Fresh legs as we continue high energy and go for the win.
posted on 22/7/24
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR v Man City
Injuries: L Martinez, Cancelo, Diao, Guirassy
------------------ Ederson
Porro - De Ligt - Skriniar - Grimaldo
----------- D Luiz - Zubimendi
O Dembele --- B Silva ---- Gnabry
------------------- Kane
Subs: Ramsdale, Ake, Gallagher, Maddison, Kulusevski, Grealish, Rashford
A tough game against Man City, but with a solid back four and goalkeeper, and plenty of attacking prowess, we can get a result today.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 in possession and a 4-5-1 out of possession, Ederson in goal, De Ligt and Skriniar at centreback, Porro and Grimaldo at fullback, Douglas Luiz and Martin Zubimendi as a double pivot with Bernardo Silva ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Dembele and Gnabry either side of Harry Kane upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. City are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Ederson - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Kane.
De Ligt/Skriniar - Skriniar to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and De Ligt 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.
Porro/Grimaldo - Both of you to force the City 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 Luiz and Zubimendi to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Dembele and Gnabry 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 Kane, and link with Bernardo Silva. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Luiz/Zubimendi - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent City 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 Porro and Grimaldo either side of you, and Bernardo ahead of you. Zubimendi to stay back, Luiz in more of a box to box role, join in with attacks but get back quickly.
Bernardo Silva - Playing as our main AM when in possession, without the ball form a midfield trio with Zubimendi and Luiz, but in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Porro/Grimaldo/Luiz/Zubimendi, and look for Dembele/Gnabry/Kane making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Utilise Luiz playing in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Luiz, or defenders out of position to create space for Dembele/Gnabry/Kane to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Dembele/Gnabry - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Porro and Grimaldo overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Kane and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Luiz and Bernardo will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Kane's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of Luiz, Zubimendi and Bernardo to make it hard for City to break us down.
Kane - You will be expected to occupy the City 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 and swap with Dembele and Gnabry on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for Luiz/Bernardo to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from Luiz/Bernardo, and don't be afraid to take chances first time to limit their defence being able to recover and block attempts.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning or drawing at 70 mins: Dembele, Bernardo and Gnabry off, Kulusevski, Grealish and Gallagher on. Change to a 4-5-1, fresh legs out wide and an extra body in midfield. Absorb pressure, look to run the clock down by retaining possession, and hitting on the counter attack whenever they overcommit.
If losing at 70 mins: Porro, Grimaldo and Zubimendi off, Ake, Maddison and Rashford on. Change to 3-1-4-2, Douglas Luiz in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
-------------------- Ederson
-------- De Ligt - Skriniar - Ake
---------------------- Luiz
Dembele - Bernardo - Maddison - Gnabry
-------------- Kane - Rashford
Setpieces:
Corners: Bernardo or Grealish
Penalties: Kane
posted on 22/7/24
Arsenal v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Dorgu, Paqueta, Palhinha, Toney
-------------------- Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Branthwaite - Mendy
------------ Mainoo - Tchouameni
Salah ---------- De Bruyne ---------- Diaz
------------------- Openda
Subs: Pickford, Gomez, Dewsbury-Hall, Fernandes, Sane, Son, Kolo Muani
----------------
A must win game today against Arsenal if we want a cup run, Arsenal may have a new manager bounce, but our back four and midfield two should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 today, Oblak in goal, Rudiger and Branthwaite at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni and Mainoo the double pivot in midfield, with Kevin De Bruyne ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Mo Salah and Luis Diaz either side of Lois 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.
Rudiger/Branthwaite - Rudiger to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Branthwaite 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 attacking midfielders 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. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Tchouameni and Mainoo to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Salah/Diaz 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 link with De Bruyne. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Tchouameni/Mainoo - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Arsenal's midfield from being able to play in the gaps between our midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for each other, Walker and Mendy either side of you, and De Bruyne ahead of you. Alternate joining the attack but ensuring one of you stays back at all times.
De Bruyne - Playing as the AM today, look to bridge the gap between midfield and attack. Without the ball form a midfield trio alongside Mainoo and Tchouameni, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Tchouameni/Mainoo and look for Salah/Diaz/Openda making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Play in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Mainoo/Tchouameni, or defenders out of position to create space for Salah/Diaz/Openda to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Salah/Diaz - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Walker and Mendy overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Openda and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Bruyne will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Openda's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Tchouameni and Mainoo to make it hard for Arsenal to break us down.
Openda - 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 and swap with Salah and Diaz on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/Mainoo, 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: De Bruyne, Salah and Diaz off, Dewsbury-Hall, Sane, and Kolo Muani on. Change to a flat 4-5-1, Dewsbury-Hall an extra CM alongside Mainoo and Tchouameni, Sane to RW, Openda to LW, Kolo Muani down the middle. Absorb pressure, look to counter an Arsenal side chasing the game with our pace and fresh legs, ball retention is key to closing down the game.
If drawing at 70 mins: Salah, Openda and De Bruyne off, Sane, Kolo Muani and Fernandes on. Like for like, same system, Fernandes to AM, Sane to RW, Kolo Muani upfront. Push for a winner.
If losing at 70 mins: Mainoo, Diaz and Branthwaite off, Fernandes, Kolo Muani and Sane on. Change to 3-1-3-3, Tchouameni in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
------------- Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Mendy
--------- Tchouameni
Sane - De Bruyne - Fernandes
Salah - Kolo Muani - Openda
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne or Sane in that order
Penalties: Salah, Fernandes or Openda in that order
posted on 22/7/24
Watford – Cup Round 1 vs Leicester
Captain – André
Vice Captain – Murillo
-------------------Bento
Bradley--Murillo--Beraldo--Esquerdinha
--------------André--Gómez
Prestianni--------White-------Edwards
-------------------Augusto
SUBS – Verbruggen, Redondo, Morato, Price, 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 Gómez 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 Augusto 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 Gómez 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 Gómez) 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 Augusto expected to go up for attacking set plays.
Penalties - Augusto 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):
-------------Gómez
Enciso----White------Edwards
--Augusto --Leonardo
posted on 25/7/24
FA Cup Semi Final
BRENTFORD v Manchester City
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Matt O'Riley
Christoph Baumgartner
Jacob Greaves
Artem Dovbyk
________________🇺🇦Trubin
🇯🇵Sugawara__🇰🇷Kim__🇯🇵Ito____🇭🇺Kerkez
_________🇦🇹Seiwald_____🇦🇹Laimer
________🇭🇺Szoboszlai____🏴Johnson
________🇲🇽Gimenez_____🇬🇪Mikautadze
🇩🇰 Filip Jørgensen
🇧🇦 Amar Dedic
🇷🇴 Radu Drăgușin
🇩🇰 Victor Kristiansen
🇷🇸 Ivan Ilić
🏴 Mason Mount
🇳🇱 Thijs Dallinga
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai
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
Dedic on for Sugawara
Ilić on for Laimer
Dallinga on for Gimenez
posted on 26/7/24
NEWCASTLE UNITED v Leicester City
Injuries: Salah, Walker, Pickford, Son
------------------------- Oblak
Henrichs - Rudiger - Branthwaite - Mendy
------------- Mainoo - Tchouameni
Kudus ----------- De Bruyne ----------- Diaz
------------------------ Openda
Subs: Trafford, Gomez, Palhinha, Paqueta, Fernandes, Sane, Kolo Muani
----------------
A huge FA Cup semi final, Leicester will be tough to beat, but our back four and midfield two should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 today, Oblak in goal, Rudiger and Branthwaite at centreback, Benjamin Henrichs and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Tchouameni and Mainoo the double pivot in midfield, with Kevin De Bruyne ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Mo Kudus and Luis Diaz either side of Lois Openda upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Leicester 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.
Rudiger/Branthwaite - Rudiger to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Branthwaite 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.
Henrichs/Mendy - Both of you to force the Leicester attacking midfielders 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. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Tchouameni and Mainoo to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Kudus/Diaz 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 link with De Bruyne. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Tchouameni/Mainoo - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Leicester's AM (most likely Foden unless they play a midfield trio, in which case the most advanced CM) 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 each other, Henrichs and Mendy either side of you, and De Bruyne ahead of you. Alternate joining the attack but ensuring one of you stays back at all times.
De Bruyne - Playing as the AM today, look to bridge the gap between midfield and attack. Without the ball form a midfield trio alongside Mainoo and Tchouameni, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Henrichs/Mendy/Tchouameni/Mainoo and look for Kudus/Diaz/Openda making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Play in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Mainoo/Tchouameni, or defenders out of position to create space for Kudus/Diaz/Openda to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Kudus/Diaz - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Henrichs and Mendy overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Openda and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Bruyne will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Openda's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Tchouameni and Mainoo to make it hard for Leicester to break us down.
Openda - You will be expected to occupy the Leicester 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 and swap with Kudus and Diaz on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/Mainoo, 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: De Bruyne, Mainoo and Diaz off, Palhinha, Paqueta and Kolo Muani on. Change to a flat 4-5-1, Palhinha the DM inbetween Paqueta and Tchouameni, Openda to LW, Kolo Muani down the middle. Absorb pressure, look to counter a Leicester side chasing the game with our pace and fresh legs, ball retention is key to closing down the game.
If drawing at 70 mins: De Bruyne, Mainoo and Diaz off, Fernandes, Paqueta and Kolo Muani on. More of a 4-3-3, Fernandes and Paqueta either side of Tchouameni, with Kudus RW, Openda LW and Kolo Muani upfront. Look to force a winner and get us into the final.
If losing at 70 mins: Mainoo, Tchouameni and Branthwaite off, Fernandes, Kolo Muani and Sane on. Change to 3-1-3-3, De Bruyne in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
---------------- Oblak
Henrichs - Rudiger - Mendy
------------- De Bruyne
-- Sane - Fernandes - Diaz
Kudus - Kolo Muani - Openda
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne, Fernandes or Sane in that order
Penalties: De Bruyne, Fernandes or Openda in that order
Penalty shootout takers (based on "if drawing" scenario)
1. Fernandes
2. Openda
3. Rudiger
4. Tchouameni
5. Kolo Muani
6. Paqueta
7. Kudus
8. Henrichs
9. Mendy
10. Branthwaite
11. Oblak
posted on 26/7/24
--------------------- 🇮🇹 Donnarumma -----------------------
🇲🇦 Hakimi --- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk -- 🇳🇱 V.de Ven -- 🇮🇹 Calafiori
------------------------ 🇪🇨 Caicedo --------------------------
--------------- 🇳🇴 Ødegaard --- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz ----------------
-- 🇫🇷 Nkunku --------------------------------- 🇦🇷 Garnacho
----------------------- 🇷🇸 D.Vlahovic ------------------------
Subs:
Kelleher, Kounde, Lavia, Barcola, Adeyemi, Zirkzee, G.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
Hakimi Van Dijk Van de Ven Calafiori
Odegaard Caicedo Wirtz
Nkunku Vlahovic Garnacho
With Odegaard & 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.
We want Nkunku and Garnacho 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 on the right Nkunku has license to cut inside, play between the lines making himself difficult to pick up. The marauding Hakimi will look to make overlapping runs down the right giving us natural width as we cause a headache for their fullback having to decide between picking up Nkunk’s drifting run infield or Hakimi’s overlapping run down the wing. On the other flank Garnacho will be looking to make runs in behind, utilising his pace and offering the perfect outlet for Odegaard and Wirtz’s through balls as we stretch their defence. Calafiori plays a more defensive fullback role ensuring we are well covered when Hakimi and Garnacho break down the lines.
Our twin AM’s will be the hub of everything we do well as we look to control the midfield, dominating possession and dictating the tempo of the play. Their technical brilliance and creativity gives us the capability of carving through our opponents at will in the final third with each of them capable of picking that killer pass. Danger from all angles all as we goal at the opposition and pose the danger of goal threats from multiple angles.
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 speedy Van de Ven next to him as they form a solid CB pairing.
Our fullbacks have slightly different roles. Hakimi has license to push forward down the wing whipping balls in for our frontman to attack whilst Calafiori will play more of a steady defensive role.
A solid back 4 which can evolve into a back 3 when Hakimi’s pushes forward down the right. When he does Calafiori will play LCB in a back three as Van de Ven sits in the middle and Van Dijk drifts across to RCB covering the space vacated by Hakimi.
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 Odegaard and Wirtz we have two of the most creative AM’s in the game. 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 an attacking trio up top. Nkunku and Garnacho play on the flanks, 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. Garnacho will be direct, using his pace to beat his man and go for goal or lay off for one of our forwards to finish. Nkunku can drift, linking up with our midfielders or pushing up top alongside Vlahovic.
With a dream supply line around him Vlahovic will be in his element. His strength and hold up play will ensure the balls sticks up top and he offers that important physical threat enabling our three magicians behind him to work their magic. 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:
70 mins: Hakimi off, Kounde on. Strengthen defensively at RB.
75 mins: Garnacho off, Lavia on. Caicedo & Lavia as dual DM’s. Wirtz moves to the left.
85 mins: Nkunku off, Adeyemi on. No let off we bring on fresh legs and extra pace out wide.
If drawing/losing:
65 mins: Garnacho off, G.Jesus on. We move to an attacking 4-2-2-2. Caicedo & Odegaard at CM, Nkunku & Wirtz AM’s with Vlahovic & Jesus up top.
75 mins: Nkunku off, Barcola on. More pace and directness out wide.
80 mins: Hakimi off, Lavia on. Pep Guardiola inspired 3-2-3-2 as we go for the win.
----------- Donnarumma
Van Dijk - Van de Ven - Calafiori
-------- Caicedo –-- Lavia
Barcola --- Odegaard --- Wirtz
-------- Vlahovic -- Jesus
posted on 29/7/24
4-3-3 High tempo
We play a fluid attacking team full of pace and power and a high tempo, dominate possession in cm with pace up top and width from fbs to stretch the game.
Foden and Kvaratskhelia starting high and wide on the wings, but with complete freedom in the final third.
Valverde, Rodri and Mac have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Mac and Valverde have the power and energy on the ball and off it to help our fbs driving down the wings, and support them defensively. When attacking down the right Mac comes inside next to Rodri, giving Valverde freedom to attack and link with Trent, Foden and Osimhen. Udogie still bombs down the other wing in a high wide position, allowing Kvarat freedom to come inside. Vice versa happens on the other side. Rodri and the opposite cm staying central up at the midway point of opposition half to allow us to keep control, high up the pitch, while also providing cover for the attacking fbs.
The fbs bombing forward to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden Mac and Trent (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully Newcastle.
Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. 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 and regain control.
We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.
———————————— Alisson
Trent.A —— Marquinhos —— J.Stones —— Udogie
————————————— Rodri ———————
———————— Valverde —— Mac Allister
— P.Foden —————————————— Kvaratskhelia —
———————————— Osimhen
Subs. Sanchez, Militao, Maatsen, Sarr, Eze, Olise, Gyokeres
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else 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. Foden drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the 3 cms narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Kvarat is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.
Stones the man-marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his pace and intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Mac and Valverde either side of him, and just slightly ahead of him pressing the play in line of 3 cms. Foden zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Isak marks their deepest cm. Kvarat and Foden giving our cms ability to press and narrow to the side opposition are attacking. In zones to stop their attacking midfielders and allowing Rodri to cover or step in if one cm needs to step out to press or to help the fb.
In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Stop them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
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 three, 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 68 mins bring on Olise for Foden. Pace and power against tired legs.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Eze for Mac Allister. Legs and trickery as space opens up in midfield.
If winning after after 75 mins bring on Ugarte for Kvarat. Eze to LAM.
If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Olise for Trent and Eze for Mac Allister. 3-5-2. Foden up top in a free role. Udogie lcb. Olise right.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Gyokeres for Foden. Two out and out strikers.
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