------------------------ G.Bazanu -----------------------
J.Kimmich - John Stones - Adarabioyo - Robertson
---------------- B.Kamara --- F. de Jong --------------
L.Bailey -------------- M.Rogers ------------- Grealish
------------------------ O.Watkins -----------------------
Andreev, Mittlestadt, Vanderson, Wieffer, Goncalves, Moukoko, Lorran
A solid back 4 with Adarabioyo 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. Stones alongside, again a very tough, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Tosin 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, Robertson over lapping allowing Grealish to come inside, or just play him, can also use the CMs for quick passing to get the winger passed the opposition fullbacks, Kimmich will come inside alot to make up a midfield 3 to push on centrally. 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.
Morgan Rogers 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, with the ball close to their feet, they use their ability to dribble round defenders. Grealish comes inside alot, Bailey 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 - Kimmich
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - de Jong
Corners - de Jong
Losing -
60 Mins - Mittlestadt for Robertson, Vanderson for Kamara, tow attacking fullbacks who will attack at the same time, Kimmich moves into the DM role
70 Mins - Moukoko for Rogers, he joins Watkins up top 442/424
Winning -
75 Mins - Wieffer for Rogers, he goes into a 3 man midfield
83 Mins - Moukoko for Watkins
Drawing -
70 Mins - Mittlestadt for Robertson, Goncalves for Rogers will try and open it up for Watkins
80 Mins - Lorran for Bailey give the exciting young man some minutes
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. Control the midfield and bully City’s kids, in open play and set pieces.
Foden in a free role in attack, we look to expose the space between their defence and midfield. A midfield 3 that are very strong defensively providing great cover for our attacking fbs. Kvaratskhelia has also been picked for his ability to drop deep and expose this space, complimenting Isak who has therefore more freedom in attack. City’s rb is the defender we believe is weakest and with Isak naturally drifting left, he will naturally target space on the left which may be left by the attacking rb. Or even better if up against a back 3.
Musiala, Rodri and Valverde have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Valverde and Musiala have the power, energy and quality on the ball to play box to box roles, Rodri as the sitting cm providing cover and controlling the tempo of the game. When attacking down the right Musiala comes inside next to Rodri, giving Valverde freedom to attack and link with Trent, Foden and Kvarat. Vice versa happens on the other side.
The cm coming across next to 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. Foden with complete freedom to come deep, wide or go beyond the cfs.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden 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 City.
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 ——— E.Militao —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
—————- Valverde ——Rodri —— Musiala
—————————————P.Foden ——————
————— Kvaratskhelia ——— Isak
Subs. Sanchez, Lukeba, Ugarte, Mac Allister, Olise, Nico.W, Osimhen
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 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 Militao who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Valverde 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. 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.
Attack
Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.
We play a fluid front three, who switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This will help the players to get away from their markers, and create space.
Subs.
If winning after 68 mins bring on Nico W for Kvarat and Osimhen for Isak. Pace, power, trickery against tired legs who will leave space chasing a goal.
If winning after 74 mins bring on Ugarte for Musiala. Adds athleticism and energy to shore up midfield.
If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Olise for Trent. 3-5-2. Theo lcb. Olise right, Musiala left. Foden CAM, Valverde cm next to Rodri.
If losing or drawing after 74 mins bring on Osimhen and and Nico for Kvarat and Foden. Musiala central.
--------------------- 🇮🇹 Donnarumma
🇲🇦 Hakimi -- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni -- 🇮🇹 Calafiori
---------------------- 🇵🇹 João Neves
----- 🇳🇱 X.Simons --------------------- 🇳🇴 Ødegaard
------------------------- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz
----------------- 🇧🇷 J.Pedro --- 🇫🇷 Nkunku
Sub:
Kounde, Van de Ven, Caicedo, Barcola, Garnacho, Duran, Zirkzee
New season new set up as we roll out the 4-1-2-1-2 Dynamic Diamond. Our strength in having 4 midfield technicians allows us to dictate the game, playing to our strengths we go with a young dynamic team playing with a fluid interchangeable system. Total football at its best.
The diamond is a snapshot of our team in transition. Neves playing in a quarterback role allows us to dictate the game from deep and gives him a multitude of options in possession. If we’re hitting them on the counter he’ll be looking for a quick ball either side to Simons or Ødegaard, a ball through the middle to Wirtz or a direct defence splitting pass up to the front two.
In possession our twin 8’s have the option to travel with the ball or continue the quick ascent into the final third as we play at pace cutting apart the opposition.
Out of possession Simons & Ødegaard in drop in alongside Neves giving us a midfield three. Plenty of bodies in the middle will make it extremely congested and difficult for the opposition to play through us. We want to force them wide with a CM’s working in tandem with our FB’s to rob them of possession and hit them quickly on the break.
--------------- Donnarumma
Hakimi -- Van Dijk -- Bastoni -- Calafiori
--- X.Simons -- J.Neves -- Ødegaard
------------------ F.Wirtz
------------ J.Pedro -- Nkunku
With Wirtz, Pedro & Nkunku staying forward we’ll have the numbers to pick them apart on the counter as we turn defence into attack in the blink of an eye.
Now a savvy manager might decide the best tactic to survive the onslaught might be to sit deep in a low block, however this would be a periless mistake…
--------------- Donnarumma
Hakimi -- Van Dijk -- Bastoni -- Calafiori
----------------- Joao Neves
---- X.Simons -- F.Wirtz -- Ødegaard
------------- J.Pedro -- Nkunku
In the final third is where we really look to turn the screw. Simons & Ødegaard push forward alongside Wirtz in a AM trio. If they sit deep we pin them in and look to dissect their defence with surgical precision. Press resistant our AM trio are excellent technicians who thrive in tight spaces. This set up gives us a multitude of options. For example when Ødegaard is in possession one of their players will be forced to engage, as soon as they do we look to exploit the space they’ve vacated, he’ll have the option of playing the ball into the hole for Wirtz, a cross field ball to Simons, a through ball in behind for Nkunku or a defensive splitting diagonal ball into the path of Joao Pedro to run onto and finish.
Similarly Wirtz & Simons will have at least 4 different defence splitting options when in possession making it a tactical nightmare for their defence to cope. As if that wasn’t enough Hakimi’s bursting overlapping runs down the right present yet another danger with opposition forced to contend with being hit from every angle.
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 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 frontmen 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 Bastoni 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. Neves 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. In possession he plays as quarterback hitting balls from deep setting us up on the counter.
Simons & Odegaard will see plenty of the ball with both capable of turning a game. Quick interchanging passing should open up space, if the opposition back off both can travel with the ball and with goals & assists in their locker we give them the freedom to showcase their ability.
Forwards:
Wirtz plays at the tip of the attacking diamond. Playing in the hole he’ll look to unlock their defence and is a real goalscoring threat anywhere around the edge of the box.
Up top Joao Pedro & Nkunku should thrive. The Brazilian will look to stretch the field with runs in behind and will be our penalty box poacher attacking any balls into the box.
Nkunku optimises the fluidity to our game. He’ll link up with our midfield 4 whilst also be an incredibly dangerous player in and around their box. He’ll be on his toes ready to pounce at any moment as goals, goals, goals will be the order of the day!
Subs:
If winning:
65 mins: Hakimi off, Kounde on. Strengthen defensively at RB.
75 mins: Nkunku off, Caicedo on. Neves & Caicedo as dual DM’s. 4-2-3-1.
80 mins: J.Pedro off, Duran on. Fresh legs up top as we look to pick them off on the counter.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Simons & J.Pedro off, Barcola & Garnacho on. Injection of pace as we go attacking 4-3-3. Wirtz & Ødegaard twin AM’s with Barcola & Garnacho either side of Nkunku.
80 mins: Hakimi off, Duran on. Pep Guardiola inspired 3-2-3-2 as we go for the win.
----------- Donnarumma
-- Van Dijk - Bastoni - Calafiori
-------- J.Neves -- Odegaard
Garnacho -- F.Wirtz -- Barcola
---------- Duran -- Nkunku
Watford v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Mendy, Fernandes, Tapsoba
------------------------- Oblak
Walker - Le Normand - Rudiger - Chilwell
--------------- Mainoo - Palhinha
Kudus ---------- De Bruyne ---------- Mitoma
----------------------- Alvarez
Subs: Pickford, Gomez, Gomes, Paqueta, Diaz, Minteh, Jota
-------------------
Opening game of the season, tough test away at Watford but I believe we have the strength in depth to get the points.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 today, Oblak in goal, Rudiger and Le Normand at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ben Chilwell at fullback, Palhinha and Mainoo the two holding in midfield, Kevin De Bruyne with Kudus and Mitoma either side of him, and Julian Alvarez upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Watford are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Alvarez.
Rudiger/Le Normand - Rudiger to mark their striker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Le Normand 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/Chilwell - Both of you to force the Watford wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Palhinha and Mainoo to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Kudus/Mitoma 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 Alvarez. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Palhinha/Mainoo - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Watford's midfielders 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 Chilwell 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 three alongside Mainoo and Palhinha, 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/Chilwell/Palhinha/Mainoo and look for Alvarez/Kudus/Mitoma 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/Palhinha, or for each other, or drag defenders out of position to create space for Alvarez/Kudus/Mitoma to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Kudus/Mitoma - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Walker and Chilwell overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Alvarez 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 Alvarez's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Palhinha and Mainoo to make it hard for Watford to break us down.
Alvarez - You will be expected to occupy and stretch the Watford centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep and for each other. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to make alternate runs to keep their defence guessing, occasionally drop wide to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne/Kudus/Mitoma to get forward into and more space for your strike partner. 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, Kudus and Mitoma off, Angel Gomes, Luis Diaz and Minteh on. Change to a flat 4-5-1, Gomes alongside Palhinha and Mainoo in midfield, Minteh and Diaz to RM and LM, and Alvarez down the middle. Absorb pressure, look to counter a Watford 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 and Mainoo off, Paqueta and Angel Gomes on. Like for like, same formation but with fresh legs and fresh ideas to force a goal. Paqueta at AM, Gomes alongside Palhinha at CM.
If losing at 70 mins: Le Normand, Mainoo and Mitoma off, Paqueta, Diaz and Jota on. Change to a 3-2-3-2, push for goals.
--------------- Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Chilwell
--- Palhinha - De Bruyne
- Kudus - Paqueta - Diaz
-------- Alvarez - Jota
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne or Paqueta in that order
Penalties: Alvarez
Brentford v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Injuries: Maddison, Guirassy, Gravenberch, Bremer
--------------------- Ederson
Mazraoui - De Ligt - Skriniar - Grimaldo
------------- Gallagher - D Luiz
Dembele ------- B Silva -------- Gordon
‐---------------------- Kane
Subs: Ramsdale, Ake, Porro, Zubimendi, Gnabry, Adeyemi, Rashford
---------------
Opening game of the season, tough test away at Brentford but I believe we have the strength in depth to get the points.
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, Mazraoui 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 Anthony Gordon 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/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.
Mazraoui/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 Luiz and Gallagher to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Dembele and Gordon 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 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 Mazraoui 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 Mazraoui/Grimaldo/Luiz/Gallagher, and look for Dembele/Gordon/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/Gordon/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/Gordon - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Mazraoui 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 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 Gordon 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, Gordon and Kane off, Zubimendi, Gnabry and Adeyemi on. Flat 4-5-1, Zubimendi, Luiz and Gallagher the midfield wall, Gnabry to LW, Adeyemi upfront. Absorb pressure and strike on the break with the pace and fresh legs of Gnabry and Adeyemi.
If drawing at 70 mins: Mazraoui, Gordon and Kane off, Porro, Gnabry and Rashford on. Same system, more attacking right back in Porro, and fresh legs and pace with Gnabry at LW and Rashford upfront. Push for a winner against the tiring Brentford backline.
If losing at 70 mins: Mazraoui, Grimaldo and Luiz off, Ake, Gnabry and Rashford on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, push for goals.
-------------------- Ederson
-------- De Ligt - Skriniar - Ake
------------------- Gallagher
Dembele - Silva - Gordon - Gnabry
------------- Kane - Rashford
Setpieces:
Corners: Bernardo or Luiz in that order
Penalties: Kane or Rashford in that order
------------------- E.Martinez --------------------
B.White - Cr. Romero - Ruben Dias - Mendes
---------- Tchouameni -- Declan Rice ----------
-- A.Guler ----- Eberechi Eze ------ Mbappe --
--------------------- Haaland ----------------------
Setford, Mitchell, E.Fernandez, K.Yildiz, Omorodion, R.Leao, M.Soule
We need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. 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.
Today Dias is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Romero to take care of the main man, the CF in for a tough game despite how big and strong he is, Romero is equal to him, both stick to their jobs, give the striker a yard or two, dont sit right on him as if he is lost then the striker is away, giving them a wee bit of room allows them time to adjust to where he is going and gives them that extra second to manouver into position to stop the threat and stop the attack, dont dive in, just shimmy the player to give him second thoughts on what he is doing, allowing our boys to win the ball and get it away from danger, Dias in particular is very good and coming out from the back with the ball and wil look to set uip attacks from the back, if under pressure boot it away if you have too.
Our fullbacks will come inside to help with the extra man advantage in midfield, I want Rice taking care of the AM, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the likes of Rice and Tchouameni with that extra midfielder so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, Mendes and Mbappe obvs have 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 Guler pace to beat the defenders.
Tchouameni and Rice must be patient, as solid a midfield two as you will see in the league, 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 may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, when attacking Rice sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our 2/3 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. Tchouameni will push a further forward sitting just behind Eze, 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.
Eze 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 the midfield by closing down any runners from deep and look to block the ball/player from advancing, 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, Guler and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I want Guler especially cutting inside and onto his stronger left foot. 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 Eze and the midfield 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 Eze, 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 - Mbappe
Losing -
60 Mins - Enzo for Tchouameni, Leao for Eze, Leao go to LW, Mbappe up top 442/424
70 Mins - Yildiz for Mendes, he goes to No.10, 3 at the back, 3412
Winning -
75 Mins - Enzo for Eze, go to the left of Rice in a 3 man midfield
83 Mins - Omorodion for Haaland, Mitchell for Mendes
Drawing -
70 Mins - Yildiz for Eze, Enzo for Tchouameni
75 Mins - Leao for Haaland, switch with Mbappe
Comment deleted by Article Creator
comment by Fan Gillhaus 1903 (U3339)
posted 12 hours ago
------------------------- D. Raya ------------------------
J.Kimmich - John Stones - Adarabioyo - Robertson
-------- Goncalves --- Kamara --- F. de Jong --------
--- Mbeumo ---------- Watkins ---------- Grealish ---
Bazanu, Vanderson, Wieffer, Alex Scott, L.Bailey, J.David, M.Rogers
A solid back 4 with Adarabioyo 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. Stones alongside, again a very tough, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Tosin 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, Robertson over lapping allowing Grealish to come inside, or just play him, can also use the CMs for quick passing to get the winger passed the opposition fullbacks, Kimmich will come inside alot to make up a midfield 3 to push on centrally. defensively, stay strong, keep the wingers to the outside away from danger, try and keep them on there 'bad' foot so they find it difficult to get a cross in, I do not want to see my defenders dive in, so stay tall and use upper body strength to keep there chances to a minimum. This is a solid back 4 who will be difficult to attack, must stay focussed.
The 3 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Kamara is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes he will be there snapping at his heals, he doesnt venture very far from hwere he need to be thus giving support to the back line. 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. Goncalves will push more forward, when attacking he moves into an AM/free role/SS basically anywhere across the line where he will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence in the trio with Kamara and de Jong it is very solid, just hassle the midfield and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.
Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks, at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, 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 - Kimmich
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - de Jong
Corners - de Jong
Losing -
60 Mins - M.Rogers for Grealish, J.David for Goncalves, David to SS to support Watkins, Rogers a very dynamic forward
70 Mins - L.Bailey for Mbuemo
Winning -
75 mins - Wieffer for Goncalves more defensive to see it out, Rogers for Grealish
83 Mins - J.David for Watkins
drawing -
70 Mins - Alex Scott for Goncalves, youngster will get stuck in and look to get on the ball to feed the forwards, M.Rogers for Grealish
80 Mins - J.David for Watkins
----------------------------------------------------------------------
BRENTFORD v Leicester
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Fábio Carvalho
Jonathan Tah
Koni De Winter
Loïs Openda
________________🇩🇰Hermansen
🇯🇵Sugawara__🇩🇪Süle__🇩🇪Schlotterbeck_🇭🇺Kerkez
_____________🇦🇹Seiwald____🇦🇹Laimer
____________🇩🇪Sané______🇭🇺Szoboszlai
___________🇮🇹Retegui______🇫🇷Griezmann
Subs
🇮🇹 Alex Meret
🇧🇦 Amar Dedic
🏴 Luke Shaw
🇮🇹 Samuele Ricci
🇳🇱 Tijjani Reijnders
🇨🇴 James Rodríguez
🏴 Jarrod Bowen
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
Shaw on for Kerkez
Sub on 80 mins
Bowen on for Retegui
Watford: League Week 2 AWAY to Spurs
Captain: André
Vice-Captain: Verbruggen
----------------Verbruggen
Bradley---Collins---Murillo--Vanderlan
--------------André--Jones
-------------------Ensico
Alisson-----------------------------Prestianni
-----------------Evanilson
SUBS: Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Price, Gómez, Guilherme, Ferguson
SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with André as the holding/defensive midfielder who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (Jones). In front of them Ensico will operate as the link between midfield and attack. This I feel will give us a better balanced midfield and while being absolutely defensively sound with 2 ‘sitting’ Jones will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Ensico and attack. I think this set-up lets us link up quickly with our attack while at the same time that little bit of extra cautiousness means it will be easy for us to close the door in midfield with all 3 players as comfortable sitting and breaking up attacks if necessary.
We want to play a nice tidy and crisp passing game. Our aim is to move the ball forward as quickly and as effectively as possible. When we have the ball we will use it wisely and when we don’t have the ball then we will press our opponents all over the park with high urgency to win it back. We want to keep the ball on the deck and attack as a team and equally as important defend as a team. This team is bursting with pace. We will utilise that to our advantage and make the pitch wide and use our flying wingers to cause all sorts of mayhem. It will also be a tool that we use to hit opponents on the counter where we know we can out pace any team.
Goalkeeper: Verbruggen is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: We will operate with André as the one holding/defensive midfielder. He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Jones). He has a more conservative role this week and while being a little more constrained than normal he will still have the opportunity to bomb forward when the time is right. They will both have to put a defensive shift in and both are very strong in the tackle. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition. In front of them Ensico will operate as the link between midfield and attack. He will be our creator and can find that magic pass to break open a defence and release one of our front three.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Alisson and Prestianni will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Ensico, Jones and Evanilson in to play. They can vary their attacks as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Jones may sit a bit deeper allowing Ensico 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.
Evanilson starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great playing off the shoulder of the last man he is deadly in and around the box. A bag of energy and very strong we will also look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his lightning pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Ensico, Prestianni or Alisson with Collins, Murillo and Evanilson to offer an aerial threat. Ensico and Prestianni (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Substitutions: (80 mins) If winning, then 3 like for like subs – Quansah for Collins, Price for André and Ferguson for Evanilson.
If losing (60 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Jones with Ferguson and Alisson with Guilherme. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
--------------André
Guilherme---Ensico---Prestianni
--------Ferguson--Evanilson
Brentford vs Leicester
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 attacking fbs to stretch the game. Fbs playing high and wide, stretching the game to allow us to control the midfield.
Foden in a free role in attack, with Kvartskhelia in a false 9 role next to Osimhen. A fluid front three where Foden will drift right and Kvaratskhelia will drift left. Dragging players both out of position, creating space for others, and also doubling up on their fbs to target them as a weak link.
Musiala, Rodri and Valverde have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Valverde and Musiala have the power, energy and quality on the ball to play box to box roles, Rodri as the sitting cm providing cover and controlling the tempo of the game. When attacking down the right Musiala comes inside next to Rodri, giving Valverde freedom to attack and link with Trent, Foden and Kvarat. Vice versa happens on the other side.
The cm coming across next to 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. Foden with complete freedom to come deep, wide or go beyond the cfs.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden 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 Brentford.
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 —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
—————- Valverde ——Rodri —— Musiala
—————————————P.Foden ——————
———————— Osimhen ——- Kvaratskhelia
Subs. Sanchez, Lukeba, Maatsen, Mac Allister, Koopmeiners, Olise, 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 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 Militao who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Valverde 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. 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.
Attack
Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.
We play a fluid front three, who switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This will help the players to get away from their markers, and create space.
Subs.
If winning after 68 mins bring on Olise for Foden and Isak for Osimhen. Pace, power, trickery against tired legs who will leave space chasing a goal.
If winning after 74 mins bring on Koopmeiners for Musiala. Energy to shore up midfield.
If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Olise for Foden and Isak for Kvarat. 3-5-2. Theo lcb. Trent right, Musiala left. Olise CAM, Valverde cm next to Rodri.
If losing or drawing after 77 mins bring on Maatsen for Valverde, Musiala to cm. Natural width on left get all the crosses in, going direct.
NEWCASTLE UNITED v Aston Villa
Injuries: Pickford, Paqueta, Fernandes, Rudiger
--------------------- Oblak
Walker - Le Normand - Tapsoba - Mendy
-------------- Mainoo - Palhinha
Kudus ---------- De Bruyne -------- Mitoma
-------------------- Alvarez
Subs: Trafford, Gomez, Gomes, Ben Seghir, Diaz, Minteh, Jota
-------------------
Tough game at home to Villa but I believe we have enough to get the three points.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 today, Oblak in goal, Tapsoba and Le Normand at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Palhinha and Mainoo the two holding in midfield, Kevin De Bruyne with Kudus and Mitoma either side of him, and Julian Alvarez upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Villa are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Alvarez.
Tapsoba/Le Normand - Tapsoba to mark their striker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Le Normand 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 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. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Palhinha and Mainoo to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Kudus/Mitoma 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 Alvarez. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Palhinha/Mainoo - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Villa's midfielders 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 three alongside Mainoo and Palhinha, 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/Palhinha/Mainoo and look for Alvarez/Kudus/Mitoma 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/Palhinha, or for each other, or drag defenders out of position to create space for Alvarez/Kudus/Mitoma to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Kudus/Mitoma - 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 Alvarez 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 Alvarez's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Palhinha and Mainoo to make it hard for Villa to break us down.
Alvarez - You will be expected to occupy and stretch 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 and for each other. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to make alternate runs to keep their defence guessing, occasionally drop wide to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne/Kudus/Mitoma 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, Kudus and Mitoma off, Angel Gomes, Luis Diaz and Minteh on. Change to a flat 4-5-1, Gomes alongside Palhinha and Mainoo in midfield, Minteh and Diaz to RM and LM, and Alvarez down the middle. Absorb pressure, look to counter a Villa 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 and Mainoo off, Ben Seghir and Angel Gomes on. Like for like, same formation but with fresh legs and fresh ideas to force a goal. Ben Seghir at AM, Gomes alongside Palhinha at CM.
If losing at 70 mins: Tapsoba, Mainoo and Mitoma off, Ben Seghir, Diaz and Jota on. Change to a 3-2-3-2, push for goals.
--------------- Oblak
Walker - Le Normand - Mendy
--- Palhinha - De Bruyne
- Kudus - Ben Seghir - Diaz
-------- Alvarez - Jota
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne or Gomes in that order
Penalties: Alvarez
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR v Watford
Injuries: Gnabry, Fofana, Ake, Silva, Sterling
------------------- Ederson
Mazraoui - De Ligt - Skriniar - Grimaldo
------------- Gallagher - D Luiz
Dembele ------- Maddison -------- Gordon
‐-------------------- Kane
Subs: Ramsdale, Bremer, Porro, Zubimendi, Adeyemi, Rashford, Guirassy
---------------
First home game of the season, tough test against Watford but I believe we have the strength in depth to get the points.
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, Mazraoui and Grimaldo at fullback, Douglas Luiz and Conor Gallagher as a double pivot with Maddison ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Dembele and Anthony Gordon either side of Harry Kane upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Watford are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
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.
Mazraoui/Grimaldo - Both of you to force the Watford wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Luiz and Gallagher to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Dembele and Gordon 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 Maddison. 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 Watford from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for Mazraoui and Grimaldo either side of you, and Maddison 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.
Maddison - 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 Mazraoui/Grimaldo/Luiz/Gallagher, and look for Dembele/Gordon/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/Gordon/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/Gordon - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Mazraoui 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 Maddison 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 Watford to break us down.
Kane - You will be expected to occupy the Watford centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Try and swap with Dembele and Gordon on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for Luiz/Gallagher/Maddison to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from Luiz/Gallagher/Maddison, 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: Maddison, Gordon and Kane off, Zubimendi, Adeyemi and Guirassy on. Flat 4-5-1, Zubimendi, Luiz and Gallagher the midfield wall, Adeyemi to LW, Guirassy upfront. Absorb pressure and strike on the break with the pace and fresh legs of Adeyemi and Guirassy.
If drawing at 70 mins: Mazraoui, Gordon and Kane off, Porro, Adeyemi and Guirassy on. Same system, more attacking right back in Porro, and fresh legs and pace with Adeyemi at LW and Guirassy upfront. Push for a winner against the tiring Watford backline.
If losing at 70 mins: Mazraoui, Grimaldo and Luiz off, Bremer, Adeyemi and Guirassy on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, push for goals.
-------------------- Ederson
--------- De Ligt - Skriniar - Bremer
------------------- Gallagher
Dembele - Maddison - Gordon - Adeyemi
--------------- Kane - Guirassy
Setpieces:
Corners: Maddison or Luiz in that order
Penalties: Kane or Guirassy in that order
--------------------- 🇮🇹 Donnarumma
🇫🇷 Kounde -- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni -- 🇮🇹 Calafiori
---------------------- 🇵🇹 João Neves
----- 🇳🇱 X.Simons --------------------- 🇳🇴 Ødegaard
------------------------- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz
----------------- 🇧🇷 J.Pedro --- 🇫🇷 Nkunku
Sub:
Kelleher, Timber, Van de Ven, Caicedo, Barcola, Garnacho, Duran
New season new set up as we roll out the 4-1-2-1-2 Dynamic Diamond. Our strength in having 4 midfield technicians allows us to dictate the game, playing to our strengths we go with a young dynamic team playing with a fluid interchangeable system. Total football at its best.
The diamond is a snapshot of our team in transition. Neves playing in a quarterback role allows us to dictate the game from deep and gives him a multitude of options in possession. If we’re hitting them on the counter he’ll be looking for a quick ball either side to Simons or Ødegaard, a ball through the middle to Wirtz or a direct defence splitting pass up to the front two.
In possession our twin 8’s have the option to travel with the ball or continue the quick ascent into the final third as we play at pace cutting apart the opposition.
Out of possession Simons & Ødegaard in drop in alongside Neves giving us a midfield three. Plenty of bodies in the middle will make it extremely congested and difficult for the opposition to play through us. We want to force them wide with a CM’s working in tandem with our FB’s to rob them of possession and hit them quickly on the break.
--------------- Donnarumma
Kounde -- Van Dijk -- Bastoni -- Calafiori
--- X.Simons -- J.Neves -- Ødegaard
------------------ F.Wirtz
------------ J.Pedro -- Nkunku
With Wirtz, Pedro & Nkunku staying forward we’ll have the numbers to pick them apart on the counter as we turn defence into attack in the blink of an eye.
Now a savvy manager might decide the best tactic to survive the onslaught might be to sit deep in a low block, however this would be a periless mistake…
--------------- Donnarumma
Kounde -- Van Dijk -- Bastoni -- Calafiori
----------------- Joao Neves
---- X.Simons -- F.Wirtz -- Ødegaard
------------- J.Pedro -- Nkunku
In the final third is where we really look to turn the screw. Simons & Ødegaard push forward alongside Wirtz in a AM trio. If they sit deep we pin them in and look to dissect their defence with surgical precision. Press resistant our AM trio are excellent technicians who thrive in tight spaces. This set up gives us a multitude of options. For example when Ødegaard is in possession one of their players will be forced to engage, as soon as they do we look to exploit the space they’ve vacated, he’ll have the option of playing the ball into the hole for Wirtz, a cross field ball to Simons, a through ball in behind for Nkunku or a defensive splitting diagonal ball into the path of Joao Pedro to run onto and finish.
Similarly Wirtz & Simons will have at least 4 different defence splitting options when in possession making it a tactical nightmare for their defence to cope.
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 as they form a solid CB pairing.
Our fullbacks are solid defensively and pack plenty of pace, keep the wide players out wide and don’t let them cut inside, force them down the line with our towering CB’s able to comfortably deal with any balls in the air.
Midfield:
Midfield is where we feel the game can be won. Neves 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. In possession he plays as quarterback hitting balls from deep setting us up on the counter.
Simons & Odegaard will see plenty of the ball with both capable of turning a game. Quick interchanging passing should open up space, if the opposition back off both can travel with the ball and with goals & assists in their locker we give them the freedom to showcase their ability.
Forwards:
Wirtz plays at the tip of the attacking diamond. Playing in the hole he’ll look to unlock their defence and is a real goalscoring threat anywhere around the edge of the box.
Up top Joao Pedro & Nkunku should thrive. The Brazilian will look to stretch the field with runs in behind and will be our penalty box poacher attacking any balls into the box.
Nkunku optimises the fluidity to our game. He’ll link up with our midfield 4 whilst also be an incredibly dangerous player in and around their box. He’ll be on his toes ready to pounce at any moment as goals, goals, goals will be the order of the day!
Subs:
If winning:
65 mins: Nkunku off, Caicedo on. Neves & Caicedo as dual DM’s. 4-2-3-1.
75 mins: Simons off, Garnacho on. Extra pace out wide.
80 mins: J.Pedro off, Duran on. Fresh legs up top as we look to pick them off on the counter.
If drawing/losing:
65 mins: Simons & Nkunku off, Barcola & Garnacho on. Injection of pace as we go attacking 4-3-3. Wirtz & Ødegaard twin AM’s with Barcola & Garnacho either side of J.Pedro.
75 mins: Calafiori off, Duran on. Pep Guardiola inspired 3-2-3-2 as we go for the win.
----------- Donnarumma
-- Kounde – Van Dijk - Bastoni
-------- J.Neves -- Odegaard
Garnacho -- F.Wirtz -- Barcola
------- J.Pedro -- Duran
I know some already do, but from here on hi can you put the fixture at the beginning of your tactics
Week 3 -
-------------------- Carnesecchi -------------------
R.Lewis -- Ruben Dias -- Pau Torres -- Mendes
---------- E.Fernandez --- Declan Rice ----------
------------------- J.Bellingham -------------------
---- A.Guler -------------------------- Mbappe ----
---------------------- Haaland ----------------------
Henderson, Romero, Mitchell, Tchouameni, E.Eze, R.Leao, Omorodion
We need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. 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.
Today P.Torres is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Dias to take care of the main man, the CF in for a tough game despite how big and strong he is, Dias is equal to him, both stick to their jobs, give the striker a yard or two, dont sit right on him as if he is lost then the striker is away, giving them a wee bit of room allows them time to adjust to where he is going and gives them that extra second to manouver into position to stop the threat and stop the attack, dont dive in, just shimmy the player to give him second thoughts on what he is doing, allowing our boys to win the ball and get it away from danger, Pau in particular is very good and coming out from the back with the ball and wil look to set up attacks from the back, if under pressure boot it away if you have too.
Our fullbacks will come inside to help with the extra man advantage in midfield, I want Rice taking care of the AM, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. 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 they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, 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, Lewis will likely look for more of a long ball over to utilise Guler 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 may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, when attacking Rice sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our 2/3 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 sitting just behind 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.
Jude 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 the midfield by closing down any runners from deep and look to block the ball/player from advancing, 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, Guler and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I want Guler especially cutting inside and onto his stronger left foot. 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 Jude and the midfield 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 - Mbappe
Losing -
65 Mins - Jude drop into midfield bside Rice, Omorodion on for Enzo 442/424 more direct
73 Mins - Leao for Guler, shift Mbappe to the right, leao on the left
Drawing -
70 Mins - Leao for Guler, switch with Mbappe, Eze for Enzo, Jude drop back beside Rice, Eze to No.10
80 Mins - omorodion for Haaland
Winning -
70 Mins - T.Mitchell for Mendes, Tchouameni for Enzo, fresh legs defensively sound
80 Mins - Omorodion for Haaland
Comment deleted by Article Creator
Manchester United v BRENTFORD
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Samuele Ricci (sold)
Konrad Laimer
Dominik Szoboszlai
Alex Meret
________________🇩🇰Hermansen
🇯🇵Sugawara__🇩🇪Tah__🇩🇪Schlotterbeck_🇭🇺Kerkez
_____________🇦🇹Seiwald____🇫🇷Koné
____________🇩🇪Sané______🇳🇱Reijnders
___________🇧🇪Openda_____🇫🇷Griezmann
Subs
🇩🇰 Kasper Schmeichel
🇧🇦 Amar Dedic
🇩🇪 Niklas Süle
🇹🇷 Ferdi Kadıoğlu
🏴 Jarrod Bowen
🇰🇷 Kang-in Lee
🇮🇹 Mateo Retegui
Captain - Schlotterbeck
Free Kicks - Sané
Pens - Openda
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 65 mins
Dedic on for Sugawara
Kadıoğlu on for Kerkez
Sub on 75 mins
Lee on for Sané
Lee takes free kicks when he replaces Sané on 75 mins
Watford: League Week 3 HOME vs Leicester
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: Moscardo
Team:
-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley----Collins--Murillo----Vázquez
-------------------Moscardo
--------------Jones---Gómez
Edwards---------------------------Domínguez
-------------------Evanilson
SUBS: Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Redondo, Fernandes, Enciso, Castro
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: Moscardo 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 Moscardo. 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 Edwards and Domínguez 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 Evanilson 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.
Evanilson 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, Domínguez or Edwards with Collins, Murillo and Evanilson to offer an aerial threat. Gómez and Domínguez (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Evanilson
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Castro for Evanilson and Enciso for Edwards, 2 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 70 minutes) Enciso for Jones and Castro for Edwards. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Castro and Giovani offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
----------------Moscardo
Enciso--Gómez--- Domínguez
------Evanilson---Castro
Week 3 - Arsenal vs Man City
-------------------- 🇮🇹 Donnarumma
🇫🇷 Kounde --- 🇫🇷 Fofana --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni -- 🇮🇹 Calafiori
--------------------- 🇵🇹 João Neves
----- 🇳🇱 X.Simons ------------------- 🇳🇴 Ødegaard
------------------------ 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz
---------------- 🇷🇸 Vlahovic --- 🇫🇷 Nkunku
Subs:
Kelleher, Van de Ven, Caicedo, Barcola, Garnacho, Zirkzee, Duran
New season new set up as we roll out the 4-1-2-1-2 Dynamic Diamond. Our strength in having 4 midfield technicians allows us to dictate the game, playing to our strengths we go with a young dynamic team playing with a fluid interchangeable system. Total football at its best.
The diamond is a snapshot of our team in transition. Neves playing in a quarterback role allows us to dictate the game from deep and gives him a multitude of options in possession. If we’re hitting them on the counter he’ll be looking for a quick ball either side to Simons or Ødegaard, a ball through the middle to Wirtz or a direct defence splitting pass up to the front two.
In possession our twin 8’s have the option to travel with the ball or continue the quick ascent into the final third as we play at pace cutting apart the opposition.
Out of possession Simons & Ødegaard in drop in alongside Neves giving us a midfield three. Plenty of bodies in the middle will make it extremely congested and difficult for the opposition to play through us. We want to force them wide with a CM’s working in tandem with our FB’s to rob them of possession and hit them quickly on the break.
--------------- Donnarumma
Kounde -- Fofana -- Bastoni -- Calafiori
-- X.Simons -- J.Neves -- Ødegaard
----------------- F.Wirtz
---------- Vlahovic -- Nkunku
With Wirtz, Nkunku & Vlahovic staying forward we’ll have the numbers to pick them apart on the counter as we turn defence into attack in the blink of an eye.
Now a savvy manager might decide the best tactic to survive the onslaught might be to sit deep in a low block, however this would be a periless mistake…
-------------- Donnarumma
Kounde -- Fofana -- Bastoni -- Calafiori
-------------- Joao Neves
-- X.Simons -- F.Wirtz -- Ødegaard
--------- Vlahovic -- Nkunku
In the final third is where we really look to turn the screw. Simons & Ødegaard push forward alongside Wirtz in a AM trio. If they sit deep we pin them in and look to dissect their defence with surgical precision. Press resistant our AM trio are excellent technicians who thrive in tight spaces. This set up gives us a multitude of options. For example when Ødegaard is in possession one of their players will be forced to engage, as soon as they do we look to exploit the space they’ve vacated, he’ll have the option of playing the ball into the hole for Wirtz, a cross field ball to Simons, a through ball in behind for Nkunku or a defensive splitting diagonal ball into the path of Vlahovic to finish.
Similarly Wirtz & Simons will have at least 4 different defence splitting options when in possession making it a tactical nightmare for their defence to cope.
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 Fofana 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 as they form a solid CB pairing.
Our fullbacks are solid defensively and pack plenty of pace, keep the wide players out wide and don’t let them cut inside, force them down the line with our towering CB’s able to comfortably deal with any balls in the air.
Midfield:
Midfield is where we feel the game can be won. Neves 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. In possession he plays as quarterback hitting balls from deep setting us up on the counter.
Simons & Odegaard will see plenty of the ball with both capable of turning a game. Quick interchanging passing should open up space, if the opposition back off both can travel with the ball and with goals & assists in their locker we give them the freedom to showcase their ability.
Forwards:
Wirtz plays at the tip of the attacking diamond. Playing in the hole he’ll look to unlock their defence and is a real goalscoring threat anywhere around the edge of the box.
Up top our front two should thrive. Nkunku optimises the fluidity to our game. He’ll link up with our midfield 4 whilst also be an incredibly dangerous player in and around their box. With the big bodied Vlahovic bullying their CB’s next team Nkunku will look to drift into space and is a great technician capable of engineering a goal at any opportunity.
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 Nkunku and Wirtz 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 we go for goals.
Subs:
If winning:
65 mins: Nkunku off, Caicedo on. Neves & Caicedo as dual DM’s. 4-2-3-1.
75 mins: Simons off, Garnacho on. Extra pace out wide.
80 mins: Vlahovic off, Duran on. Fresh legs up top as we look to pick them off on the counter.
If drawing/losing:
65 mins: Simons & Nkunku off, Barcola & Garnacho on. Injection of pace as we go attacking 4-3-3. Wirtz & Ødegaard twin AM’s with Barcola & Garnacho either side of Vlahovic.
75 mins: Calafiori off, Duran on. The ultimate super sub we look to Duran for the winner as go to a Pep Guardiola inspired 3-2-3-2 for the win.
----------- Donnarumma
--- Kounde - Bastoni - Calafiori
-------- J.Neves -- Odegaard
Garnacho -- F.Wirtz -- Barcola
------- Vlahovic -- Duran
Watford vs Leicester
Attacking 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 attacking fbs to stretch the game. Fbs playing high and wide, stretching the game to allow us to control the midfield.
Foden in a free role in attack, with Kvartskhelia in a false 9 role next to Gyokeres. A fluid front three where Foden will drift right and Kvaratskhelia will drift left. Dragging players both out of position, creating space for others, and also doubling up on their fbs to target them as a weak link.
Musiala, Rodri and Valverde have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Valverde and Musiala have the power, energy and quality on the ball to play box to box roles, Rodri as the sitting cm providing cover and controlling the tempo of the game. When attacking down the right Musiala comes inside next to Rodri, giving Valverde freedom to attack and link with Trent, Foden and Kvarat. Vice versa happens on the other side.
The cm coming across next to 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. Foden with complete freedom to come deep, wide or go beyond the cfs.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden 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 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.
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 —— E.Militao —— Theo.H
—————- Valverde ——Rodri —— Musiala
—————————————P.Foden ——————
———————— Gyokeres ——- Kvaratskhelia
Subs. Sanchez, Lukeba, Maatsen, Ugarte, Mac Allister, Koopmeiners, Vitor 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. Kvarat 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.
Militao the man-marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Valverde 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. 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.
Attack
Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.
We play a fluid front three, who switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This will help the players to get away from their markers, and create space.
Subs.
If winning after 68 mins bring on Koopmeiners for Foden. Musiala moves forward to AM. Koop gives another natural left footer on left
If winning after 74 mins bring on Gloukh for Kvaratskhelia. Playing off the striker.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Mac Allister for Musiala. Move Koopmeiners to AM
If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Koopmeiners for Trent. Theo lcb. Foden RW, Musiala LW.
If losing or drawing after 77 mins bring on Maatsen for Valverde, Musiala to cm. Natural width on left get all the crosses in, going direct.
MAN UNITED VS brentford
--------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
--------------Pacho-----------Inacio-------------Hincapie
--------------------------------Camavinga-----------------------------------
Frimpong-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
---------------------------------------Palmer----------------------------------------
-----------------Saka------------Jackson-----------Doku---------------
Subs - Gusto, Onana, Madueke, Gittens, Sesko, Hojlund
CK'S - SAKA
FK'S - PALMER
PENALTIES - PALMER
Playing at home today I want us to start off with a high tempo and try and get an early goal. Play high press to win the ball back off the oppo and use the home crowd to boost our morale.
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. Pacho and Hincapie will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to stop any attacks that go down their wings using their super human pace and tackling ability. Inacio in the middle will marshall the defence and look to work together with his fellow CB's to stop the oppo attackers. Stay compact and not too far from each other so we can deal with any crosses into the area etc. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.
WINGBACKS
Frimpong and Barco are playing as wingbacks today. They will both have the freedom to bomb up and down their flanks. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM's will be helping you a lot aswell. Pacho and Hincapie will be ready as the outside CB's to help you clear up any loose balls etc. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. I want both wingbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..
Defence Mid
Camavinga
Camavinga will be the main enforcer to protect the defence and to control the central midfield. Just focus on defending as we have enough attacking talent. Cover the central areas in front of the defence and intercept/put in tackles when the oppo AM has the ball in a dangerois position. Play quick passes out to our attackers so we can launch a counter attack.
Wingers
Saka + Doku
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Saka will be looking to cut in from the right and Doku likewise who will cut in from the left. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back into the centre of the pitch to the DM or play quick one two's with our wingbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for Jackson to attack. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack.
Attack Mid
Cold Palmer
Palmer will be playing just behind Jackson and will look to help him out in attack. Be ready for passes into your feet and shoot if you see an opportunity. Mix up your attacking runs to throw off the oppo DM. I want him to dribble with the ball and play 1 2's with the rest of the team. Shoot if you see an opening. Interchange with Saka from time to time to throw off the oppo.
Striker
Nicolas Jackson
Jackson will be leading the line for us today. He has got the pace and strength to play the role and he will have plenty of support in attack. Be vary of crosses into the box and try and get in front of your marker. Use your physical power to hold the ball up and to bring others into the game. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. Be vary of loose balls in the box so you can use your quick reactions to get to the ball before the oppo defenders.
Subs if LOSING BY 75MINS
Put on Gittens and Sesko for Doku and Jackson to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
---------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
-------------------Pacho------Inacio----------Hincapie-------------
------------------------------------Cama--------------------------------------
Frimpong-----------------------------------------------------------Barco
-------------------------------------Palmer-----------------------------------
------------------Saka----------Sesko------------Gittens----------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Palmer and put on Onana in CM to offer more defensive protection and energy in the middle. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack.
----------------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
-----------------------Pacho-----------Inacio--------Hincapie-------
Frimpong----------Camavinga--------Onana-----------Barco
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------Saka---------------Jackson-----------------Doku----------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Switch formation to 3412 to confuse the oppo. Bring on Hojlund for Saka and Onana for Doku to shore up the midfield.
------------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
--------------------Pacho---------Inacio-----------Hincapie-------------
------------------------Camavinga-------Onana-------------------------
Frimpong-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
--------------------------------------Palmer--------------------------------------
--------------------------Hojlund------------Jackson-------------------------
Chelsea v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Trafford, Mitoma, Mainoo, Christensen
---------------------- Oblak
Walker - Le Normand - Rudiger - Mendy
------------------- Palhinha
---------- De Bruyne ---- Paqueta
Kudus ------------------------------------- Diaz
-------------------- Alvarez
Subs: Pickford, Gomez, Gomes, Fernandes, Minteh, Jota, Kolo Muani
----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Chelsea, 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, Le Normand and Rudiger at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Joao Palhinha the sole sitting DM, Kevin De Bruyne and Lucas Paqueta transitioning from midfield to attack, with Kudus and Luis Diaz either side of Alvarez upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Chelsea are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
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 Alvarez.
Le Normand/Rudiger - Rudiger to mark Haaland, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Le Normand 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 Chelsea wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Palhinha to give him passing options, in attack push forward and 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 Alvarez, and link with De Bruyne and Paqueta. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Palhinha - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Chelsea 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 Paqueta ahead of you. No need to get forward, apart for setpieces on occasion.
De Bruyne/Paqueta - Both playing in central midfield but both able to stray into the AM role when required, without the ball form a midfield trio either side of Palhinha, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be match winners. Both of you to primarily work deeper, pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Palhinha and look for Kudus/Diaz/Alvarez making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Paqueta 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 Kudus/Diaz/Alvarez 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 Walker and Mendy overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Alvarez and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Bruyne and Paqueta will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Alvarez's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Palhinha and Paqueta to make it hard for Chelsea to break us down.
Alvarez - You will be expected to occupy the Chelsea centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Try and swap with Kudus and Diaz on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne/Paqueta to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/Paqueta, 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, Kudus and Diaz off, Angel Gomes, Minteh and Jota on. Change to a 4-5-1/4-2-3-1, with Gomes a second DM alongside Palhinha, Paqueta just ahead of the pair, Minteh to RM and Jota to LM. Absorb pressure, look to run the clock down by retaining possession, and utilise the fresh legs out wide and the pace of Alvarez down the middle to counter attack.
If drawing at 70 mins: Paqueta and Alvarez off, Jota and Kolo Muani on. Change to a 4-1-3-2, Palhinha the DM, Kudus - De Bruyne - Diaz behind a front two of Jota and Kolo Muani, try to create a winner and utilise your skills and pace against a tiring Chelsea defence.
If losing at 70 mins: Palhinha, Paqueta and Le Normand off, Jota, Fernandes and Kolo Muani on. Change to 3-1-3-3, De Bruyne in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
------------------ Oblak
--- Walker - Rudiger - Mendy
--------------- De Bruyne
---- Kudus - Fernandes - Diaz
--- Kolo Muani - Alvarez - Jota
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne/Paqueta/Fernandes in that order, depending on who's on the pitch
Penalties: Fernandes/Alvarez/De Bruyne in that order, depending on who's on the pitch
Aston Villa v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Injuries: Luiz, Ederson, Skriniar, Riad
------------------ Pope
Mazraoui - De Ligt - Ake - Grimaldo
-------- Gallagher - Zubimendi
Dembele ----- B Silva ------ Gordon
------------------ Kane
Subs: Ramsdale, Bremer, Porro, Hall, Gravenberch, Adeyemi, Guirassy
---------------
Tough test away at Villa but I believe we have the strength in depth to get the points.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 in possession and a 4-5-1 out of possession, Pope in goal, De Ligt and Ake at centreback, Mazraoui and Grimaldo at fullback, Conor Gallagher and Zubimendi as a double pivot with Bernardo Silva ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Dembele and Anthony Gordon 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.
Pope - 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/Ake - De Ligt to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Ake 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.
Mazraoui/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 Zubimendi and Gallagher to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Dembele and Gordon 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.
Gallagher/Zubimendi - 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 Mazraoui 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 Zubimendi 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 Mazraoui/Grimaldo/Zubimendi/Gallagher, and look for Dembele/Gordon/Kane making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Utilise Zubimendi/Gallagher playing in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Zubimendi/Gallagher, or defenders out of position to create space for Dembele/Gordon/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/Gordon - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Mazraoui 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 Zubimendi, 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 Zubimendi, 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 Gordon on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for Zubimendi/Gallagher/Bernardo to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from Zubimendi/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 and Kane off, Gravenberch and Guirassy on. Flat 4-5-1, Zubimendi, Gallagher and Gravenberch the midfield wall, Guirassy upfront. Absorb pressure and strike on the break with the pace of Gordon, Dembele and Guirassy.
If drawing at 70 mins: Gordon and Kane off, Adeyemi and Guirassy on. Same system, fresh legs and pace with Adeyemi LW and Guirassy upfront. Push for a winner against the tiring Villa backline.
If losing at 70 mins: Mazraoui and Grimaldo off, Bremer and Guirassy on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, push for goals.
-------------------- Ederson
--------- De Ligt - Bremer - Ake
------------------ Zubimendi
Dembele - Gallagher - B Silva - Gordon
-------------- Kane - Guirasy
Setpieces:
Corners: Bernardo or Gallagher in that order
Penalties: Kane or Guirassy in that order
In case of red card, change to 4-4-1;
If Pope, Bernardo Silva off, Ramsdale on
If De Ligt or Ake, Bernardo Silva off, Bremer on
If Mazraoui, Bernardo Silva off, Porro on
If Grimaldo, Bernardo Silva off, Hall on
If Gallagher or Zubimendi, Bernardo Silva off, Gravenberch on
If Dembele or Gordon, Bernardo Silva off, Adeyemi on
If Bernardo Silva, no sub
If Kane, Bernardo Silva off, Guirassy on
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Tactics
Page 75 of 78
74 | 75 | 76 | 77 | 78
posted on 16/9/24
------------------------ G.Bazanu -----------------------
J.Kimmich - John Stones - Adarabioyo - Robertson
---------------- B.Kamara --- F. de Jong --------------
L.Bailey -------------- M.Rogers ------------- Grealish
------------------------ O.Watkins -----------------------
Andreev, Mittlestadt, Vanderson, Wieffer, Goncalves, Moukoko, Lorran
A solid back 4 with Adarabioyo 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. Stones alongside, again a very tough, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Tosin 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, Robertson over lapping allowing Grealish to come inside, or just play him, can also use the CMs for quick passing to get the winger passed the opposition fullbacks, Kimmich will come inside alot to make up a midfield 3 to push on centrally. 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.
Morgan Rogers 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, with the ball close to their feet, they use their ability to dribble round defenders. Grealish comes inside alot, Bailey 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 - Kimmich
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - de Jong
Corners - de Jong
Losing -
60 Mins - Mittlestadt for Robertson, Vanderson for Kamara, tow attacking fullbacks who will attack at the same time, Kimmich moves into the DM role
70 Mins - Moukoko for Rogers, he joins Watkins up top 442/424
Winning -
75 Mins - Wieffer for Rogers, he goes into a 3 man midfield
83 Mins - Moukoko for Watkins
Drawing -
70 Mins - Mittlestadt for Robertson, Goncalves for Rogers will try and open it up for Watkins
80 Mins - Lorran for Bailey give the exciting young man some minutes
posted on 16/9/24
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. Control the midfield and bully City’s kids, in open play and set pieces.
Foden in a free role in attack, we look to expose the space between their defence and midfield. A midfield 3 that are very strong defensively providing great cover for our attacking fbs. Kvaratskhelia has also been picked for his ability to drop deep and expose this space, complimenting Isak who has therefore more freedom in attack. City’s rb is the defender we believe is weakest and with Isak naturally drifting left, he will naturally target space on the left which may be left by the attacking rb. Or even better if up against a back 3.
Musiala, Rodri and Valverde have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Valverde and Musiala have the power, energy and quality on the ball to play box to box roles, Rodri as the sitting cm providing cover and controlling the tempo of the game. When attacking down the right Musiala comes inside next to Rodri, giving Valverde freedom to attack and link with Trent, Foden and Kvarat. Vice versa happens on the other side.
The cm coming across next to 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. Foden with complete freedom to come deep, wide or go beyond the cfs.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden 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 City.
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 ——— E.Militao —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
—————- Valverde ——Rodri —— Musiala
—————————————P.Foden ——————
————— Kvaratskhelia ——— Isak
Subs. Sanchez, Lukeba, Ugarte, Mac Allister, Olise, Nico.W, Osimhen
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 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 Militao who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Valverde 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. 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.
Attack
Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.
We play a fluid front three, who switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This will help the players to get away from their markers, and create space.
Subs.
If winning after 68 mins bring on Nico W for Kvarat and Osimhen for Isak. Pace, power, trickery against tired legs who will leave space chasing a goal.
If winning after 74 mins bring on Ugarte for Musiala. Adds athleticism and energy to shore up midfield.
If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Olise for Trent. 3-5-2. Theo lcb. Olise right, Musiala left. Foden CAM, Valverde cm next to Rodri.
If losing or drawing after 74 mins bring on Osimhen and and Nico for Kvarat and Foden. Musiala central.
posted on 16/9/24
--------------------- 🇮🇹 Donnarumma
🇲🇦 Hakimi -- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni -- 🇮🇹 Calafiori
---------------------- 🇵🇹 João Neves
----- 🇳🇱 X.Simons --------------------- 🇳🇴 Ødegaard
------------------------- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz
----------------- 🇧🇷 J.Pedro --- 🇫🇷 Nkunku
Sub:
Kounde, Van de Ven, Caicedo, Barcola, Garnacho, Duran, Zirkzee
New season new set up as we roll out the 4-1-2-1-2 Dynamic Diamond. Our strength in having 4 midfield technicians allows us to dictate the game, playing to our strengths we go with a young dynamic team playing with a fluid interchangeable system. Total football at its best.
The diamond is a snapshot of our team in transition. Neves playing in a quarterback role allows us to dictate the game from deep and gives him a multitude of options in possession. If we’re hitting them on the counter he’ll be looking for a quick ball either side to Simons or Ødegaard, a ball through the middle to Wirtz or a direct defence splitting pass up to the front two.
In possession our twin 8’s have the option to travel with the ball or continue the quick ascent into the final third as we play at pace cutting apart the opposition.
Out of possession Simons & Ødegaard in drop in alongside Neves giving us a midfield three. Plenty of bodies in the middle will make it extremely congested and difficult for the opposition to play through us. We want to force them wide with a CM’s working in tandem with our FB’s to rob them of possession and hit them quickly on the break.
--------------- Donnarumma
Hakimi -- Van Dijk -- Bastoni -- Calafiori
--- X.Simons -- J.Neves -- Ødegaard
------------------ F.Wirtz
------------ J.Pedro -- Nkunku
With Wirtz, Pedro & Nkunku staying forward we’ll have the numbers to pick them apart on the counter as we turn defence into attack in the blink of an eye.
Now a savvy manager might decide the best tactic to survive the onslaught might be to sit deep in a low block, however this would be a periless mistake…
--------------- Donnarumma
Hakimi -- Van Dijk -- Bastoni -- Calafiori
----------------- Joao Neves
---- X.Simons -- F.Wirtz -- Ødegaard
------------- J.Pedro -- Nkunku
In the final third is where we really look to turn the screw. Simons & Ødegaard push forward alongside Wirtz in a AM trio. If they sit deep we pin them in and look to dissect their defence with surgical precision. Press resistant our AM trio are excellent technicians who thrive in tight spaces. This set up gives us a multitude of options. For example when Ødegaard is in possession one of their players will be forced to engage, as soon as they do we look to exploit the space they’ve vacated, he’ll have the option of playing the ball into the hole for Wirtz, a cross field ball to Simons, a through ball in behind for Nkunku or a defensive splitting diagonal ball into the path of Joao Pedro to run onto and finish.
Similarly Wirtz & Simons will have at least 4 different defence splitting options when in possession making it a tactical nightmare for their defence to cope. As if that wasn’t enough Hakimi’s bursting overlapping runs down the right present yet another danger with opposition forced to contend with being hit from every angle.
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 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 frontmen 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 Bastoni 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. Neves 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. In possession he plays as quarterback hitting balls from deep setting us up on the counter.
Simons & Odegaard will see plenty of the ball with both capable of turning a game. Quick interchanging passing should open up space, if the opposition back off both can travel with the ball and with goals & assists in their locker we give them the freedom to showcase their ability.
Forwards:
Wirtz plays at the tip of the attacking diamond. Playing in the hole he’ll look to unlock their defence and is a real goalscoring threat anywhere around the edge of the box.
Up top Joao Pedro & Nkunku should thrive. The Brazilian will look to stretch the field with runs in behind and will be our penalty box poacher attacking any balls into the box.
Nkunku optimises the fluidity to our game. He’ll link up with our midfield 4 whilst also be an incredibly dangerous player in and around their box. He’ll be on his toes ready to pounce at any moment as goals, goals, goals will be the order of the day!
Subs:
If winning:
65 mins: Hakimi off, Kounde on. Strengthen defensively at RB.
75 mins: Nkunku off, Caicedo on. Neves & Caicedo as dual DM’s. 4-2-3-1.
80 mins: J.Pedro off, Duran on. Fresh legs up top as we look to pick them off on the counter.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Simons & J.Pedro off, Barcola & Garnacho on. Injection of pace as we go attacking 4-3-3. Wirtz & Ødegaard twin AM’s with Barcola & Garnacho either side of Nkunku.
80 mins: Hakimi off, Duran on. Pep Guardiola inspired 3-2-3-2 as we go for the win.
----------- Donnarumma
-- Van Dijk - Bastoni - Calafiori
-------- J.Neves -- Odegaard
Garnacho -- F.Wirtz -- Barcola
---------- Duran -- Nkunku
posted on 17/9/24
Watford v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Mendy, Fernandes, Tapsoba
------------------------- Oblak
Walker - Le Normand - Rudiger - Chilwell
--------------- Mainoo - Palhinha
Kudus ---------- De Bruyne ---------- Mitoma
----------------------- Alvarez
Subs: Pickford, Gomez, Gomes, Paqueta, Diaz, Minteh, Jota
-------------------
Opening game of the season, tough test away at Watford but I believe we have the strength in depth to get the points.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 today, Oblak in goal, Rudiger and Le Normand at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ben Chilwell at fullback, Palhinha and Mainoo the two holding in midfield, Kevin De Bruyne with Kudus and Mitoma either side of him, and Julian Alvarez upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Watford are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Alvarez.
Rudiger/Le Normand - Rudiger to mark their striker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Le Normand 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/Chilwell - Both of you to force the Watford wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Palhinha and Mainoo to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Kudus/Mitoma 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 Alvarez. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Palhinha/Mainoo - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Watford's midfielders 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 Chilwell 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 three alongside Mainoo and Palhinha, 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/Chilwell/Palhinha/Mainoo and look for Alvarez/Kudus/Mitoma 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/Palhinha, or for each other, or drag defenders out of position to create space for Alvarez/Kudus/Mitoma to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Kudus/Mitoma - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Walker and Chilwell overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Alvarez 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 Alvarez's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Palhinha and Mainoo to make it hard for Watford to break us down.
Alvarez - You will be expected to occupy and stretch the Watford centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep and for each other. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to make alternate runs to keep their defence guessing, occasionally drop wide to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne/Kudus/Mitoma to get forward into and more space for your strike partner. 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, Kudus and Mitoma off, Angel Gomes, Luis Diaz and Minteh on. Change to a flat 4-5-1, Gomes alongside Palhinha and Mainoo in midfield, Minteh and Diaz to RM and LM, and Alvarez down the middle. Absorb pressure, look to counter a Watford 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 and Mainoo off, Paqueta and Angel Gomes on. Like for like, same formation but with fresh legs and fresh ideas to force a goal. Paqueta at AM, Gomes alongside Palhinha at CM.
If losing at 70 mins: Le Normand, Mainoo and Mitoma off, Paqueta, Diaz and Jota on. Change to a 3-2-3-2, push for goals.
--------------- Oblak
Walker - Rudiger - Chilwell
--- Palhinha - De Bruyne
- Kudus - Paqueta - Diaz
-------- Alvarez - Jota
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne or Paqueta in that order
Penalties: Alvarez
posted on 17/9/24
Brentford v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Injuries: Maddison, Guirassy, Gravenberch, Bremer
--------------------- Ederson
Mazraoui - De Ligt - Skriniar - Grimaldo
------------- Gallagher - D Luiz
Dembele ------- B Silva -------- Gordon
‐---------------------- Kane
Subs: Ramsdale, Ake, Porro, Zubimendi, Gnabry, Adeyemi, Rashford
---------------
Opening game of the season, tough test away at Brentford but I believe we have the strength in depth to get the points.
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, Mazraoui 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 Anthony Gordon 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/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.
Mazraoui/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 Luiz and Gallagher to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Dembele and Gordon 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 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 Mazraoui 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 Mazraoui/Grimaldo/Luiz/Gallagher, and look for Dembele/Gordon/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/Gordon/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/Gordon - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Mazraoui 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 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 Gordon 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, Gordon and Kane off, Zubimendi, Gnabry and Adeyemi on. Flat 4-5-1, Zubimendi, Luiz and Gallagher the midfield wall, Gnabry to LW, Adeyemi upfront. Absorb pressure and strike on the break with the pace and fresh legs of Gnabry and Adeyemi.
If drawing at 70 mins: Mazraoui, Gordon and Kane off, Porro, Gnabry and Rashford on. Same system, more attacking right back in Porro, and fresh legs and pace with Gnabry at LW and Rashford upfront. Push for a winner against the tiring Brentford backline.
If losing at 70 mins: Mazraoui, Grimaldo and Luiz off, Ake, Gnabry and Rashford on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, push for goals.
-------------------- Ederson
-------- De Ligt - Skriniar - Ake
------------------- Gallagher
Dembele - Silva - Gordon - Gnabry
------------- Kane - Rashford
Setpieces:
Corners: Bernardo or Luiz in that order
Penalties: Kane or Rashford in that order
posted on 20/9/24
------------------- E.Martinez --------------------
B.White - Cr. Romero - Ruben Dias - Mendes
---------- Tchouameni -- Declan Rice ----------
-- A.Guler ----- Eberechi Eze ------ Mbappe --
--------------------- Haaland ----------------------
Setford, Mitchell, E.Fernandez, K.Yildiz, Omorodion, R.Leao, M.Soule
We need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. 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.
Today Dias is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Romero to take care of the main man, the CF in for a tough game despite how big and strong he is, Romero is equal to him, both stick to their jobs, give the striker a yard or two, dont sit right on him as if he is lost then the striker is away, giving them a wee bit of room allows them time to adjust to where he is going and gives them that extra second to manouver into position to stop the threat and stop the attack, dont dive in, just shimmy the player to give him second thoughts on what he is doing, allowing our boys to win the ball and get it away from danger, Dias in particular is very good and coming out from the back with the ball and wil look to set uip attacks from the back, if under pressure boot it away if you have too.
Our fullbacks will come inside to help with the extra man advantage in midfield, I want Rice taking care of the AM, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the likes of Rice and Tchouameni with that extra midfielder so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, Mendes and Mbappe obvs have 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 Guler pace to beat the defenders.
Tchouameni and Rice must be patient, as solid a midfield two as you will see in the league, 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 may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, when attacking Rice sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our 2/3 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. Tchouameni will push a further forward sitting just behind Eze, 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.
Eze 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 the midfield by closing down any runners from deep and look to block the ball/player from advancing, 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, Guler and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I want Guler especially cutting inside and onto his stronger left foot. 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 Eze and the midfield 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 Eze, 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 - Mbappe
Losing -
60 Mins - Enzo for Tchouameni, Leao for Eze, Leao go to LW, Mbappe up top 442/424
70 Mins - Yildiz for Mendes, he goes to No.10, 3 at the back, 3412
Winning -
75 Mins - Enzo for Eze, go to the left of Rice in a 3 man midfield
83 Mins - Omorodion for Haaland, Mitchell for Mendes
Drawing -
70 Mins - Yildiz for Eze, Enzo for Tchouameni
75 Mins - Leao for Haaland, switch with Mbappe
posted on 20/9/24
Comment deleted by Article Creator
posted on 20/9/24
comment by Fan Gillhaus 1903 (U3339)
posted 12 hours ago
------------------------- D. Raya ------------------------
J.Kimmich - John Stones - Adarabioyo - Robertson
-------- Goncalves --- Kamara --- F. de Jong --------
--- Mbeumo ---------- Watkins ---------- Grealish ---
Bazanu, Vanderson, Wieffer, Alex Scott, L.Bailey, J.David, M.Rogers
A solid back 4 with Adarabioyo 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. Stones alongside, again a very tough, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Tosin 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, Robertson over lapping allowing Grealish to come inside, or just play him, can also use the CMs for quick passing to get the winger passed the opposition fullbacks, Kimmich will come inside alot to make up a midfield 3 to push on centrally. defensively, stay strong, keep the wingers to the outside away from danger, try and keep them on there 'bad' foot so they find it difficult to get a cross in, I do not want to see my defenders dive in, so stay tall and use upper body strength to keep there chances to a minimum. This is a solid back 4 who will be difficult to attack, must stay focussed.
The 3 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Kamara is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, wherever he goes he will be there snapping at his heals, he doesnt venture very far from hwere he need to be thus giving support to the back line. 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. Goncalves will push more forward, when attacking he moves into an AM/free role/SS basically anywhere across the line where he will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence in the trio with Kamara and de Jong it is very solid, just hassle the midfield and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.
Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks, at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, 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 - Kimmich
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - de Jong
Corners - de Jong
Losing -
60 Mins - M.Rogers for Grealish, J.David for Goncalves, David to SS to support Watkins, Rogers a very dynamic forward
70 Mins - L.Bailey for Mbuemo
Winning -
75 mins - Wieffer for Goncalves more defensive to see it out, Rogers for Grealish
83 Mins - J.David for Watkins
drawing -
70 Mins - Alex Scott for Goncalves, youngster will get stuck in and look to get on the ball to feed the forwards, M.Rogers for Grealish
80 Mins - J.David for Watkins
----------------------------------------------------------------------
posted on 21/9/24
BRENTFORD v Leicester
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Fábio Carvalho
Jonathan Tah
Koni De Winter
Loïs Openda
________________🇩🇰Hermansen
🇯🇵Sugawara__🇩🇪Süle__🇩🇪Schlotterbeck_🇭🇺Kerkez
_____________🇦🇹Seiwald____🇦🇹Laimer
____________🇩🇪Sané______🇭🇺Szoboszlai
___________🇮🇹Retegui______🇫🇷Griezmann
Subs
🇮🇹 Alex Meret
🇧🇦 Amar Dedic
🏴 Luke Shaw
🇮🇹 Samuele Ricci
🇳🇱 Tijjani Reijnders
🇨🇴 James Rodríguez
🏴 Jarrod Bowen
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
Shaw on for Kerkez
Sub on 80 mins
Bowen on for Retegui
posted on 23/9/24
Watford: League Week 2 AWAY to Spurs
Captain: André
Vice-Captain: Verbruggen
----------------Verbruggen
Bradley---Collins---Murillo--Vanderlan
--------------André--Jones
-------------------Ensico
Alisson-----------------------------Prestianni
-----------------Evanilson
SUBS: Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Price, Gómez, Guilherme, Ferguson
SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with André as the holding/defensive midfielder who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (Jones). In front of them Ensico will operate as the link between midfield and attack. This I feel will give us a better balanced midfield and while being absolutely defensively sound with 2 ‘sitting’ Jones will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Ensico and attack. I think this set-up lets us link up quickly with our attack while at the same time that little bit of extra cautiousness means it will be easy for us to close the door in midfield with all 3 players as comfortable sitting and breaking up attacks if necessary.
We want to play a nice tidy and crisp passing game. Our aim is to move the ball forward as quickly and as effectively as possible. When we have the ball we will use it wisely and when we don’t have the ball then we will press our opponents all over the park with high urgency to win it back. We want to keep the ball on the deck and attack as a team and equally as important defend as a team. This team is bursting with pace. We will utilise that to our advantage and make the pitch wide and use our flying wingers to cause all sorts of mayhem. It will also be a tool that we use to hit opponents on the counter where we know we can out pace any team.
Goalkeeper: Verbruggen is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: We will operate with André as the one holding/defensive midfielder. He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Jones). He has a more conservative role this week and while being a little more constrained than normal he will still have the opportunity to bomb forward when the time is right. They will both have to put a defensive shift in and both are very strong in the tackle. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition. In front of them Ensico will operate as the link between midfield and attack. He will be our creator and can find that magic pass to break open a defence and release one of our front three.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Alisson and Prestianni will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Ensico, Jones and Evanilson in to play. They can vary their attacks as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Jones may sit a bit deeper allowing Ensico 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.
Evanilson starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great playing off the shoulder of the last man he is deadly in and around the box. A bag of energy and very strong we will also look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his lightning pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Ensico, Prestianni or Alisson with Collins, Murillo and Evanilson to offer an aerial threat. Ensico and Prestianni (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Substitutions: (80 mins) If winning, then 3 like for like subs – Quansah for Collins, Price for André and Ferguson for Evanilson.
If losing (60 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Jones with Ferguson and Alisson with Guilherme. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
--------------André
Guilherme---Ensico---Prestianni
--------Ferguson--Evanilson
posted on 24/9/24
Brentford vs Leicester
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 attacking fbs to stretch the game. Fbs playing high and wide, stretching the game to allow us to control the midfield.
Foden in a free role in attack, with Kvartskhelia in a false 9 role next to Osimhen. A fluid front three where Foden will drift right and Kvaratskhelia will drift left. Dragging players both out of position, creating space for others, and also doubling up on their fbs to target them as a weak link.
Musiala, Rodri and Valverde have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Valverde and Musiala have the power, energy and quality on the ball to play box to box roles, Rodri as the sitting cm providing cover and controlling the tempo of the game. When attacking down the right Musiala comes inside next to Rodri, giving Valverde freedom to attack and link with Trent, Foden and Kvarat. Vice versa happens on the other side.
The cm coming across next to 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. Foden with complete freedom to come deep, wide or go beyond the cfs.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden 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 Brentford.
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 —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
—————- Valverde ——Rodri —— Musiala
—————————————P.Foden ——————
———————— Osimhen ——- Kvaratskhelia
Subs. Sanchez, Lukeba, Maatsen, Mac Allister, Koopmeiners, Olise, 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 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 Militao who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Valverde 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. 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.
Attack
Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.
We play a fluid front three, who switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This will help the players to get away from their markers, and create space.
Subs.
If winning after 68 mins bring on Olise for Foden and Isak for Osimhen. Pace, power, trickery against tired legs who will leave space chasing a goal.
If winning after 74 mins bring on Koopmeiners for Musiala. Energy to shore up midfield.
If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Olise for Foden and Isak for Kvarat. 3-5-2. Theo lcb. Trent right, Musiala left. Olise CAM, Valverde cm next to Rodri.
If losing or drawing after 77 mins bring on Maatsen for Valverde, Musiala to cm. Natural width on left get all the crosses in, going direct.
posted on 24/9/24
NEWCASTLE UNITED v Aston Villa
Injuries: Pickford, Paqueta, Fernandes, Rudiger
--------------------- Oblak
Walker - Le Normand - Tapsoba - Mendy
-------------- Mainoo - Palhinha
Kudus ---------- De Bruyne -------- Mitoma
-------------------- Alvarez
Subs: Trafford, Gomez, Gomes, Ben Seghir, Diaz, Minteh, Jota
-------------------
Tough game at home to Villa but I believe we have enough to get the three points.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 today, Oblak in goal, Tapsoba and Le Normand at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Palhinha and Mainoo the two holding in midfield, Kevin De Bruyne with Kudus and Mitoma either side of him, and Julian Alvarez upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Villa are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Alvarez.
Tapsoba/Le Normand - Tapsoba to mark their striker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Le Normand 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 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. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Palhinha and Mainoo to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Kudus/Mitoma 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 Alvarez. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Palhinha/Mainoo - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Villa's midfielders 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 three alongside Mainoo and Palhinha, 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/Palhinha/Mainoo and look for Alvarez/Kudus/Mitoma 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/Palhinha, or for each other, or drag defenders out of position to create space for Alvarez/Kudus/Mitoma to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Kudus/Mitoma - 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 Alvarez 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 Alvarez's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Palhinha and Mainoo to make it hard for Villa to break us down.
Alvarez - You will be expected to occupy and stretch 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 and for each other. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to make alternate runs to keep their defence guessing, occasionally drop wide to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne/Kudus/Mitoma 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, Kudus and Mitoma off, Angel Gomes, Luis Diaz and Minteh on. Change to a flat 4-5-1, Gomes alongside Palhinha and Mainoo in midfield, Minteh and Diaz to RM and LM, and Alvarez down the middle. Absorb pressure, look to counter a Villa 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 and Mainoo off, Ben Seghir and Angel Gomes on. Like for like, same formation but with fresh legs and fresh ideas to force a goal. Ben Seghir at AM, Gomes alongside Palhinha at CM.
If losing at 70 mins: Tapsoba, Mainoo and Mitoma off, Ben Seghir, Diaz and Jota on. Change to a 3-2-3-2, push for goals.
--------------- Oblak
Walker - Le Normand - Mendy
--- Palhinha - De Bruyne
- Kudus - Ben Seghir - Diaz
-------- Alvarez - Jota
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne or Gomes in that order
Penalties: Alvarez
posted on 24/9/24
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR v Watford
Injuries: Gnabry, Fofana, Ake, Silva, Sterling
------------------- Ederson
Mazraoui - De Ligt - Skriniar - Grimaldo
------------- Gallagher - D Luiz
Dembele ------- Maddison -------- Gordon
‐-------------------- Kane
Subs: Ramsdale, Bremer, Porro, Zubimendi, Adeyemi, Rashford, Guirassy
---------------
First home game of the season, tough test against Watford but I believe we have the strength in depth to get the points.
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, Mazraoui and Grimaldo at fullback, Douglas Luiz and Conor Gallagher as a double pivot with Maddison ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Dembele and Anthony Gordon either side of Harry Kane upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Watford are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
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.
Mazraoui/Grimaldo - Both of you to force the Watford wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Luiz and Gallagher to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Dembele and Gordon 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 Maddison. 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 Watford from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for Mazraoui and Grimaldo either side of you, and Maddison 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.
Maddison - 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 Mazraoui/Grimaldo/Luiz/Gallagher, and look for Dembele/Gordon/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/Gordon/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/Gordon - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Mazraoui 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 Maddison 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 Watford to break us down.
Kane - You will be expected to occupy the Watford centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Try and swap with Dembele and Gordon on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for Luiz/Gallagher/Maddison to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from Luiz/Gallagher/Maddison, 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: Maddison, Gordon and Kane off, Zubimendi, Adeyemi and Guirassy on. Flat 4-5-1, Zubimendi, Luiz and Gallagher the midfield wall, Adeyemi to LW, Guirassy upfront. Absorb pressure and strike on the break with the pace and fresh legs of Adeyemi and Guirassy.
If drawing at 70 mins: Mazraoui, Gordon and Kane off, Porro, Adeyemi and Guirassy on. Same system, more attacking right back in Porro, and fresh legs and pace with Adeyemi at LW and Guirassy upfront. Push for a winner against the tiring Watford backline.
If losing at 70 mins: Mazraoui, Grimaldo and Luiz off, Bremer, Adeyemi and Guirassy on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, push for goals.
-------------------- Ederson
--------- De Ligt - Skriniar - Bremer
------------------- Gallagher
Dembele - Maddison - Gordon - Adeyemi
--------------- Kane - Guirassy
Setpieces:
Corners: Maddison or Luiz in that order
Penalties: Kane or Guirassy in that order
posted on 24/9/24
--------------------- 🇮🇹 Donnarumma
🇫🇷 Kounde -- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni -- 🇮🇹 Calafiori
---------------------- 🇵🇹 João Neves
----- 🇳🇱 X.Simons --------------------- 🇳🇴 Ødegaard
------------------------- 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz
----------------- 🇧🇷 J.Pedro --- 🇫🇷 Nkunku
Sub:
Kelleher, Timber, Van de Ven, Caicedo, Barcola, Garnacho, Duran
New season new set up as we roll out the 4-1-2-1-2 Dynamic Diamond. Our strength in having 4 midfield technicians allows us to dictate the game, playing to our strengths we go with a young dynamic team playing with a fluid interchangeable system. Total football at its best.
The diamond is a snapshot of our team in transition. Neves playing in a quarterback role allows us to dictate the game from deep and gives him a multitude of options in possession. If we’re hitting them on the counter he’ll be looking for a quick ball either side to Simons or Ødegaard, a ball through the middle to Wirtz or a direct defence splitting pass up to the front two.
In possession our twin 8’s have the option to travel with the ball or continue the quick ascent into the final third as we play at pace cutting apart the opposition.
Out of possession Simons & Ødegaard in drop in alongside Neves giving us a midfield three. Plenty of bodies in the middle will make it extremely congested and difficult for the opposition to play through us. We want to force them wide with a CM’s working in tandem with our FB’s to rob them of possession and hit them quickly on the break.
--------------- Donnarumma
Kounde -- Van Dijk -- Bastoni -- Calafiori
--- X.Simons -- J.Neves -- Ødegaard
------------------ F.Wirtz
------------ J.Pedro -- Nkunku
With Wirtz, Pedro & Nkunku staying forward we’ll have the numbers to pick them apart on the counter as we turn defence into attack in the blink of an eye.
Now a savvy manager might decide the best tactic to survive the onslaught might be to sit deep in a low block, however this would be a periless mistake…
--------------- Donnarumma
Kounde -- Van Dijk -- Bastoni -- Calafiori
----------------- Joao Neves
---- X.Simons -- F.Wirtz -- Ødegaard
------------- J.Pedro -- Nkunku
In the final third is where we really look to turn the screw. Simons & Ødegaard push forward alongside Wirtz in a AM trio. If they sit deep we pin them in and look to dissect their defence with surgical precision. Press resistant our AM trio are excellent technicians who thrive in tight spaces. This set up gives us a multitude of options. For example when Ødegaard is in possession one of their players will be forced to engage, as soon as they do we look to exploit the space they’ve vacated, he’ll have the option of playing the ball into the hole for Wirtz, a cross field ball to Simons, a through ball in behind for Nkunku or a defensive splitting diagonal ball into the path of Joao Pedro to run onto and finish.
Similarly Wirtz & Simons will have at least 4 different defence splitting options when in possession making it a tactical nightmare for their defence to cope.
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 as they form a solid CB pairing.
Our fullbacks are solid defensively and pack plenty of pace, keep the wide players out wide and don’t let them cut inside, force them down the line with our towering CB’s able to comfortably deal with any balls in the air.
Midfield:
Midfield is where we feel the game can be won. Neves 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. In possession he plays as quarterback hitting balls from deep setting us up on the counter.
Simons & Odegaard will see plenty of the ball with both capable of turning a game. Quick interchanging passing should open up space, if the opposition back off both can travel with the ball and with goals & assists in their locker we give them the freedom to showcase their ability.
Forwards:
Wirtz plays at the tip of the attacking diamond. Playing in the hole he’ll look to unlock their defence and is a real goalscoring threat anywhere around the edge of the box.
Up top Joao Pedro & Nkunku should thrive. The Brazilian will look to stretch the field with runs in behind and will be our penalty box poacher attacking any balls into the box.
Nkunku optimises the fluidity to our game. He’ll link up with our midfield 4 whilst also be an incredibly dangerous player in and around their box. He’ll be on his toes ready to pounce at any moment as goals, goals, goals will be the order of the day!
Subs:
If winning:
65 mins: Nkunku off, Caicedo on. Neves & Caicedo as dual DM’s. 4-2-3-1.
75 mins: Simons off, Garnacho on. Extra pace out wide.
80 mins: J.Pedro off, Duran on. Fresh legs up top as we look to pick them off on the counter.
If drawing/losing:
65 mins: Simons & Nkunku off, Barcola & Garnacho on. Injection of pace as we go attacking 4-3-3. Wirtz & Ødegaard twin AM’s with Barcola & Garnacho either side of J.Pedro.
75 mins: Calafiori off, Duran on. Pep Guardiola inspired 3-2-3-2 as we go for the win.
----------- Donnarumma
-- Kounde – Van Dijk - Bastoni
-------- J.Neves -- Odegaard
Garnacho -- F.Wirtz -- Barcola
------- J.Pedro -- Duran
posted on 25/9/24
I know some already do, but from here on hi can you put the fixture at the beginning of your tactics
Week 3 -
posted on 29/9/24
-------------------- Carnesecchi -------------------
R.Lewis -- Ruben Dias -- Pau Torres -- Mendes
---------- E.Fernandez --- Declan Rice ----------
------------------- J.Bellingham -------------------
---- A.Guler -------------------------- Mbappe ----
---------------------- Haaland ----------------------
Henderson, Romero, Mitchell, Tchouameni, E.Eze, R.Leao, Omorodion
We need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. 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.
Today P.Torres is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger)s are driving forward, if they play 2 up top he will man mark the 2nd striker leaving Dias to take care of the main man, the CF in for a tough game despite how big and strong he is, Dias is equal to him, both stick to their jobs, give the striker a yard or two, dont sit right on him as if he is lost then the striker is away, giving them a wee bit of room allows them time to adjust to where he is going and gives them that extra second to manouver into position to stop the threat and stop the attack, dont dive in, just shimmy the player to give him second thoughts on what he is doing, allowing our boys to win the ball and get it away from danger, Pau in particular is very good and coming out from the back with the ball and wil look to set up attacks from the back, if under pressure boot it away if you have too.
Our fullbacks will come inside to help with the extra man advantage in midfield, I want Rice taking care of the AM, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. 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 they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, 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, Lewis will likely look for more of a long ball over to utilise Guler 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 may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, when attacking Rice sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our 2/3 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 sitting just behind 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.
Jude 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 the midfield by closing down any runners from deep and look to block the ball/player from advancing, 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, Guler and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I want Guler especially cutting inside and onto his stronger left foot. 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 Jude and the midfield 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 - Mbappe
Losing -
65 Mins - Jude drop into midfield bside Rice, Omorodion on for Enzo 442/424 more direct
73 Mins - Leao for Guler, shift Mbappe to the right, leao on the left
Drawing -
70 Mins - Leao for Guler, switch with Mbappe, Eze for Enzo, Jude drop back beside Rice, Eze to No.10
80 Mins - omorodion for Haaland
Winning -
70 Mins - T.Mitchell for Mendes, Tchouameni for Enzo, fresh legs defensively sound
80 Mins - Omorodion for Haaland
posted on 29/9/24
Comment deleted by Article Creator
posted on 29/9/24
Manchester United v BRENTFORD
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Samuele Ricci (sold)
Konrad Laimer
Dominik Szoboszlai
Alex Meret
________________🇩🇰Hermansen
🇯🇵Sugawara__🇩🇪Tah__🇩🇪Schlotterbeck_🇭🇺Kerkez
_____________🇦🇹Seiwald____🇫🇷Koné
____________🇩🇪Sané______🇳🇱Reijnders
___________🇧🇪Openda_____🇫🇷Griezmann
Subs
🇩🇰 Kasper Schmeichel
🇧🇦 Amar Dedic
🇩🇪 Niklas Süle
🇹🇷 Ferdi Kadıoğlu
🏴 Jarrod Bowen
🇰🇷 Kang-in Lee
🇮🇹 Mateo Retegui
Captain - Schlotterbeck
Free Kicks - Sané
Pens - Openda
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 65 mins
Dedic on for Sugawara
Kadıoğlu on for Kerkez
Sub on 75 mins
Lee on for Sané
posted on 29/9/24
Lee takes free kicks when he replaces Sané on 75 mins
posted on 29/9/24
Watford: League Week 3 HOME vs Leicester
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: Moscardo
Team:
-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley----Collins--Murillo----Vázquez
-------------------Moscardo
--------------Jones---Gómez
Edwards---------------------------Domínguez
-------------------Evanilson
SUBS: Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Redondo, Fernandes, Enciso, Castro
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: Moscardo 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 Moscardo. 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 Edwards and Domínguez 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 Evanilson 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.
Evanilson 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, Domínguez or Edwards with Collins, Murillo and Evanilson to offer an aerial threat. Gómez and Domínguez (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Evanilson
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Castro for Evanilson and Enciso for Edwards, 2 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 70 minutes) Enciso for Jones and Castro for Edwards. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Castro and Giovani offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
----------------Moscardo
Enciso--Gómez--- Domínguez
------Evanilson---Castro
posted on 30/9/24
Week 3 - Arsenal vs Man City
-------------------- 🇮🇹 Donnarumma
🇫🇷 Kounde --- 🇫🇷 Fofana --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni -- 🇮🇹 Calafiori
--------------------- 🇵🇹 João Neves
----- 🇳🇱 X.Simons ------------------- 🇳🇴 Ødegaard
------------------------ 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz
---------------- 🇷🇸 Vlahovic --- 🇫🇷 Nkunku
Subs:
Kelleher, Van de Ven, Caicedo, Barcola, Garnacho, Zirkzee, Duran
New season new set up as we roll out the 4-1-2-1-2 Dynamic Diamond. Our strength in having 4 midfield technicians allows us to dictate the game, playing to our strengths we go with a young dynamic team playing with a fluid interchangeable system. Total football at its best.
The diamond is a snapshot of our team in transition. Neves playing in a quarterback role allows us to dictate the game from deep and gives him a multitude of options in possession. If we’re hitting them on the counter he’ll be looking for a quick ball either side to Simons or Ødegaard, a ball through the middle to Wirtz or a direct defence splitting pass up to the front two.
In possession our twin 8’s have the option to travel with the ball or continue the quick ascent into the final third as we play at pace cutting apart the opposition.
Out of possession Simons & Ødegaard in drop in alongside Neves giving us a midfield three. Plenty of bodies in the middle will make it extremely congested and difficult for the opposition to play through us. We want to force them wide with a CM’s working in tandem with our FB’s to rob them of possession and hit them quickly on the break.
--------------- Donnarumma
Kounde -- Fofana -- Bastoni -- Calafiori
-- X.Simons -- J.Neves -- Ødegaard
----------------- F.Wirtz
---------- Vlahovic -- Nkunku
With Wirtz, Nkunku & Vlahovic staying forward we’ll have the numbers to pick them apart on the counter as we turn defence into attack in the blink of an eye.
Now a savvy manager might decide the best tactic to survive the onslaught might be to sit deep in a low block, however this would be a periless mistake…
-------------- Donnarumma
Kounde -- Fofana -- Bastoni -- Calafiori
-------------- Joao Neves
-- X.Simons -- F.Wirtz -- Ødegaard
--------- Vlahovic -- Nkunku
In the final third is where we really look to turn the screw. Simons & Ødegaard push forward alongside Wirtz in a AM trio. If they sit deep we pin them in and look to dissect their defence with surgical precision. Press resistant our AM trio are excellent technicians who thrive in tight spaces. This set up gives us a multitude of options. For example when Ødegaard is in possession one of their players will be forced to engage, as soon as they do we look to exploit the space they’ve vacated, he’ll have the option of playing the ball into the hole for Wirtz, a cross field ball to Simons, a through ball in behind for Nkunku or a defensive splitting diagonal ball into the path of Vlahovic to finish.
Similarly Wirtz & Simons will have at least 4 different defence splitting options when in possession making it a tactical nightmare for their defence to cope.
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 Fofana 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 as they form a solid CB pairing.
Our fullbacks are solid defensively and pack plenty of pace, keep the wide players out wide and don’t let them cut inside, force them down the line with our towering CB’s able to comfortably deal with any balls in the air.
Midfield:
Midfield is where we feel the game can be won. Neves 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. In possession he plays as quarterback hitting balls from deep setting us up on the counter.
Simons & Odegaard will see plenty of the ball with both capable of turning a game. Quick interchanging passing should open up space, if the opposition back off both can travel with the ball and with goals & assists in their locker we give them the freedom to showcase their ability.
Forwards:
Wirtz plays at the tip of the attacking diamond. Playing in the hole he’ll look to unlock their defence and is a real goalscoring threat anywhere around the edge of the box.
Up top our front two should thrive. Nkunku optimises the fluidity to our game. He’ll link up with our midfield 4 whilst also be an incredibly dangerous player in and around their box. With the big bodied Vlahovic bullying their CB’s next team Nkunku will look to drift into space and is a great technician capable of engineering a goal at any opportunity.
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 Nkunku and Wirtz 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 we go for goals.
Subs:
If winning:
65 mins: Nkunku off, Caicedo on. Neves & Caicedo as dual DM’s. 4-2-3-1.
75 mins: Simons off, Garnacho on. Extra pace out wide.
80 mins: Vlahovic off, Duran on. Fresh legs up top as we look to pick them off on the counter.
If drawing/losing:
65 mins: Simons & Nkunku off, Barcola & Garnacho on. Injection of pace as we go attacking 4-3-3. Wirtz & Ødegaard twin AM’s with Barcola & Garnacho either side of Vlahovic.
75 mins: Calafiori off, Duran on. The ultimate super sub we look to Duran for the winner as go to a Pep Guardiola inspired 3-2-3-2 for the win.
----------- Donnarumma
--- Kounde - Bastoni - Calafiori
-------- J.Neves -- Odegaard
Garnacho -- F.Wirtz -- Barcola
------- Vlahovic -- Duran
posted on 30/9/24
Watford vs Leicester
Attacking 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 attacking fbs to stretch the game. Fbs playing high and wide, stretching the game to allow us to control the midfield.
Foden in a free role in attack, with Kvartskhelia in a false 9 role next to Gyokeres. A fluid front three where Foden will drift right and Kvaratskhelia will drift left. Dragging players both out of position, creating space for others, and also doubling up on their fbs to target them as a weak link.
Musiala, Rodri and Valverde have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Valverde and Musiala have the power, energy and quality on the ball to play box to box roles, Rodri as the sitting cm providing cover and controlling the tempo of the game. When attacking down the right Musiala comes inside next to Rodri, giving Valverde freedom to attack and link with Trent, Foden and Kvarat. Vice versa happens on the other side.
The cm coming across next to 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. Foden with complete freedom to come deep, wide or go beyond the cfs.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden 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 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.
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 —— E.Militao —— Theo.H
—————- Valverde ——Rodri —— Musiala
—————————————P.Foden ——————
———————— Gyokeres ——- Kvaratskhelia
Subs. Sanchez, Lukeba, Maatsen, Ugarte, Mac Allister, Koopmeiners, Vitor 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. Kvarat 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.
Militao the man-marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Valverde 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. 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.
Attack
Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.
We play a fluid front three, who switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This will help the players to get away from their markers, and create space.
Subs.
If winning after 68 mins bring on Koopmeiners for Foden. Musiala moves forward to AM. Koop gives another natural left footer on left
If winning after 74 mins bring on Gloukh for Kvaratskhelia. Playing off the striker.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Mac Allister for Musiala. Move Koopmeiners to AM
If losing or drawing after 68 mins bring on Koopmeiners for Trent. Theo lcb. Foden RW, Musiala LW.
If losing or drawing after 77 mins bring on Maatsen for Valverde, Musiala to cm. Natural width on left get all the crosses in, going direct.
posted on 30/9/24
MAN UNITED VS brentford
--------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
--------------Pacho-----------Inacio-------------Hincapie
--------------------------------Camavinga-----------------------------------
Frimpong-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
---------------------------------------Palmer----------------------------------------
-----------------Saka------------Jackson-----------Doku---------------
Subs - Gusto, Onana, Madueke, Gittens, Sesko, Hojlund
CK'S - SAKA
FK'S - PALMER
PENALTIES - PALMER
Playing at home today I want us to start off with a high tempo and try and get an early goal. Play high press to win the ball back off the oppo and use the home crowd to boost our morale.
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. Pacho and Hincapie will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to stop any attacks that go down their wings using their super human pace and tackling ability. Inacio in the middle will marshall the defence and look to work together with his fellow CB's to stop the oppo attackers. Stay compact and not too far from each other so we can deal with any crosses into the area etc. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.
WINGBACKS
Frimpong and Barco are playing as wingbacks today. They will both have the freedom to bomb up and down their flanks. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM's will be helping you a lot aswell. Pacho and Hincapie will be ready as the outside CB's to help you clear up any loose balls etc. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. I want both wingbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..
Defence Mid
Camavinga
Camavinga will be the main enforcer to protect the defence and to control the central midfield. Just focus on defending as we have enough attacking talent. Cover the central areas in front of the defence and intercept/put in tackles when the oppo AM has the ball in a dangerois position. Play quick passes out to our attackers so we can launch a counter attack.
Wingers
Saka + Doku
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Saka will be looking to cut in from the right and Doku likewise who will cut in from the left. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back into the centre of the pitch to the DM or play quick one two's with our wingbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for Jackson to attack. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack.
Attack Mid
Cold Palmer
Palmer will be playing just behind Jackson and will look to help him out in attack. Be ready for passes into your feet and shoot if you see an opportunity. Mix up your attacking runs to throw off the oppo DM. I want him to dribble with the ball and play 1 2's with the rest of the team. Shoot if you see an opening. Interchange with Saka from time to time to throw off the oppo.
Striker
Nicolas Jackson
Jackson will be leading the line for us today. He has got the pace and strength to play the role and he will have plenty of support in attack. Be vary of crosses into the box and try and get in front of your marker. Use your physical power to hold the ball up and to bring others into the game. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. Be vary of loose balls in the box so you can use your quick reactions to get to the ball before the oppo defenders.
Subs if LOSING BY 75MINS
Put on Gittens and Sesko for Doku and Jackson to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
---------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
-------------------Pacho------Inacio----------Hincapie-------------
------------------------------------Cama--------------------------------------
Frimpong-----------------------------------------------------------Barco
-------------------------------------Palmer-----------------------------------
------------------Saka----------Sesko------------Gittens----------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Palmer and put on Onana in CM to offer more defensive protection and energy in the middle. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack.
----------------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
-----------------------Pacho-----------Inacio--------Hincapie-------
Frimpong----------Camavinga--------Onana-----------Barco
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------Saka---------------Jackson-----------------Doku----------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Switch formation to 3412 to confuse the oppo. Bring on Hojlund for Saka and Onana for Doku to shore up the midfield.
------------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
--------------------Pacho---------Inacio-----------Hincapie-------------
------------------------Camavinga-------Onana-------------------------
Frimpong-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
--------------------------------------Palmer--------------------------------------
--------------------------Hojlund------------Jackson-------------------------
posted on 1/10/24
Chelsea v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Trafford, Mitoma, Mainoo, Christensen
---------------------- Oblak
Walker - Le Normand - Rudiger - Mendy
------------------- Palhinha
---------- De Bruyne ---- Paqueta
Kudus ------------------------------------- Diaz
-------------------- Alvarez
Subs: Pickford, Gomez, Gomes, Fernandes, Minteh, Jota, Kolo Muani
----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Chelsea, 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, Le Normand and Rudiger at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Joao Palhinha the sole sitting DM, Kevin De Bruyne and Lucas Paqueta transitioning from midfield to attack, with Kudus and Luis Diaz either side of Alvarez upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Chelsea are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
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 Alvarez.
Le Normand/Rudiger - Rudiger to mark Haaland, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Le Normand 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 Chelsea wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Palhinha to give him passing options, in attack push forward and 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 Alvarez, and link with De Bruyne and Paqueta. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Palhinha - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Chelsea 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 Paqueta ahead of you. No need to get forward, apart for setpieces on occasion.
De Bruyne/Paqueta - Both playing in central midfield but both able to stray into the AM role when required, without the ball form a midfield trio either side of Palhinha, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be match winners. Both of you to primarily work deeper, pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Palhinha and look for Kudus/Diaz/Alvarez making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Paqueta 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 Kudus/Diaz/Alvarez 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 Walker and Mendy overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Alvarez and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Bruyne and Paqueta will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Alvarez's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Palhinha and Paqueta to make it hard for Chelsea to break us down.
Alvarez - You will be expected to occupy the Chelsea centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Try and swap with Kudus and Diaz on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne/Paqueta to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/Paqueta, 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, Kudus and Diaz off, Angel Gomes, Minteh and Jota on. Change to a 4-5-1/4-2-3-1, with Gomes a second DM alongside Palhinha, Paqueta just ahead of the pair, Minteh to RM and Jota to LM. Absorb pressure, look to run the clock down by retaining possession, and utilise the fresh legs out wide and the pace of Alvarez down the middle to counter attack.
If drawing at 70 mins: Paqueta and Alvarez off, Jota and Kolo Muani on. Change to a 4-1-3-2, Palhinha the DM, Kudus - De Bruyne - Diaz behind a front two of Jota and Kolo Muani, try to create a winner and utilise your skills and pace against a tiring Chelsea defence.
If losing at 70 mins: Palhinha, Paqueta and Le Normand off, Jota, Fernandes and Kolo Muani on. Change to 3-1-3-3, De Bruyne in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
------------------ Oblak
--- Walker - Rudiger - Mendy
--------------- De Bruyne
---- Kudus - Fernandes - Diaz
--- Kolo Muani - Alvarez - Jota
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne/Paqueta/Fernandes in that order, depending on who's on the pitch
Penalties: Fernandes/Alvarez/De Bruyne in that order, depending on who's on the pitch
posted on 1/10/24
Aston Villa v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Injuries: Luiz, Ederson, Skriniar, Riad
------------------ Pope
Mazraoui - De Ligt - Ake - Grimaldo
-------- Gallagher - Zubimendi
Dembele ----- B Silva ------ Gordon
------------------ Kane
Subs: Ramsdale, Bremer, Porro, Hall, Gravenberch, Adeyemi, Guirassy
---------------
Tough test away at Villa but I believe we have the strength in depth to get the points.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 in possession and a 4-5-1 out of possession, Pope in goal, De Ligt and Ake at centreback, Mazraoui and Grimaldo at fullback, Conor Gallagher and Zubimendi as a double pivot with Bernardo Silva ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Dembele and Anthony Gordon 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.
Pope - 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/Ake - De Ligt to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Ake 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.
Mazraoui/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 Zubimendi and Gallagher to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Dembele and Gordon 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.
Gallagher/Zubimendi - 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 Mazraoui 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 Zubimendi 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 Mazraoui/Grimaldo/Zubimendi/Gallagher, and look for Dembele/Gordon/Kane making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Utilise Zubimendi/Gallagher playing in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Zubimendi/Gallagher, or defenders out of position to create space for Dembele/Gordon/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/Gordon - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Mazraoui 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 Zubimendi, 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 Zubimendi, 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 Gordon on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for Zubimendi/Gallagher/Bernardo to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from Zubimendi/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 and Kane off, Gravenberch and Guirassy on. Flat 4-5-1, Zubimendi, Gallagher and Gravenberch the midfield wall, Guirassy upfront. Absorb pressure and strike on the break with the pace of Gordon, Dembele and Guirassy.
If drawing at 70 mins: Gordon and Kane off, Adeyemi and Guirassy on. Same system, fresh legs and pace with Adeyemi LW and Guirassy upfront. Push for a winner against the tiring Villa backline.
If losing at 70 mins: Mazraoui and Grimaldo off, Bremer and Guirassy on. Change to a 3-1-4-2, push for goals.
-------------------- Ederson
--------- De Ligt - Bremer - Ake
------------------ Zubimendi
Dembele - Gallagher - B Silva - Gordon
-------------- Kane - Guirasy
Setpieces:
Corners: Bernardo or Gallagher in that order
Penalties: Kane or Guirassy in that order
In case of red card, change to 4-4-1;
If Pope, Bernardo Silva off, Ramsdale on
If De Ligt or Ake, Bernardo Silva off, Bremer on
If Mazraoui, Bernardo Silva off, Porro on
If Grimaldo, Bernardo Silva off, Hall on
If Gallagher or Zubimendi, Bernardo Silva off, Gravenberch on
If Dembele or Gordon, Bernardo Silva off, Adeyemi on
If Bernardo Silva, no sub
If Kane, Bernardo Silva off, Guirassy on
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