Tactics

Brighton v BRENTFORD

🤧🤒🤕🤢
N/A


______________🇳🇱Verbruggen
______________🇧🇷Marquinhos
_____🇳🇱van Hecke_________🇬🇷Koulierakis
_________________🇩🇪Stiller
______🇸🇪Larsson____________🇩🇪Bischof
_________________🇹🇷Uzun
🇩🇿Bouanani________________________🇳🇴Nusa
_______________🇩🇪Woltemade


Subs:
🇯🇵 Suzuki
🇩🇪 Schlotterbeck
🇦🇹 Laimer
🇯🇵 Doan
🇩🇿 Maza
🇫🇷 Bahoya
🇽🇰 Asllani

Captain: Marquinhos
Free Kicks: Stiller
Penalties: Woltemade

Our team contains a mixture of defensive experience and an array of youth in the advanced positions. Backing up this eclectic, exciting mix of footballers with a distinct philosophy harking back to the romanticised eras of yester-year.

We line up with two lightening quick wingers in Badredine Bouanani and Antonio Nusa patrolling each flank with the intelligent and technically superb Can Uzun behind our ‘maverick’ centre forward Nick Woltemade. We pack the midfield with Stiller, Larsson and Tom Bischof protecting the back-three of van Hecke, Marquinhos and Koulierakis.

We operate with Marquinhos as a sweeper. Pre-historic as it seems today, playing a sweeper helps negate the opposition's threat in the attacking third. With our opponents centre forward or centre forwards being picked up by van Hecke and Koulierakis – this leaves Marquinhos to pick up stray balls, runs from deep and anything our opponents throw at him.

Marquinhos always looks to drop deeper and pick up the loose ball if van Hecke and Koulierakis fail to deal with the first ball

We will be comfortable in having 3 defenders against our opponents central attackers, van Hecke and Koulierakis are comfortable picking up a forward each and if they fail to control the opposition’s forward line, Marquinhos is the contingency plan.

From the off, our opponents may realise that they need to get their wide players into the game to breach our narrow defence.

This is an obvious ploy to breach our defence, and we will react to this. We will respond by getting Larsson and Bischof to track the wingers back. When they do this, Uzun will drop deeper to fill in the central midfield so the deeper lying Angelo Stiller is not outnumbered in the middle of the field.

Switching of play
When faced with doubling-up, switching the ball quickly and directly can lead to a team finding an area of the pitch with no opposition player in. Such tactical nuances are a distinct part of our team. This is an obvious and logical tactical ploy; however, some people do not find this logical style of play attractive or in keeping with flair – as it will often mean that talented players are instructed to play a pass instead of attempting to pass his marker.

Regardless of opinion to such regulated thought processes in regard to talented, individualistic players – these tactics do work. The quick movement to an area where an opponent are a man-short allows us to keep possession comfortably as well as creating opportunities.

Playing against teams using a three/four bank system, based on strict straight lines gives us the opportunity to find space in the most predictable of positions on the pitch.

Stiller and Uzun are always available to receive the ball, with the ability to dissect our opponents midfield with ease.

Our flexible, hard-working 3-1-2-3-1 system allows us to have a spare-man available when the opposition are on the ball, but significantly, it gives flexibility and strength in keeping possession. With Stiller and Uzun both floating around the half-way line and attacking third respectively, we are able to move the ball with ease.

The rigidness of the three/four bank systems make it difficult for opponents to react to these players, as if they did move out of position to get closer to Uzun and Stiller, the shape of the team can fall apart. To combat the constant space Uzun receives, our opponents wide players may find themselves moving infield. This however gives Bouanani and Nusa more space to receive the ball.

Our use of Larsson and Bischof is interesting too. As well as having defensive responsibilities, they are instructed to run from deep to connect with the wingers and forwards. It will be their late runs that were most dangerous to penetrate the opponents defence especially if they operate with a high-line. To do this, both Larsson and Bischof will show superb tactical understanding and discipline, not to mention supreme physical fitness. The combination of quick passing and runs from deep will be a constant menace for the opposition back-line. The implication of this is if a high-line is played, used to combat the threat of Uzun, then they'll need to drop deeper and deeper to negate the threat of these quick triangles through the midfield.

We will always be looking to stretch the opposition defence with Bouanani and Nusa always looking to stay wide in the build-up of moves. It will be therefore unsurprising that either Larsson or Bischof will be the ones to break the deadlock in this game.

The players have game intelligence instilled inside them. Our system is flexible, always allowing us to have a man-over in all areas of the pitch. It may restrict individualism and spontaneous creativity. As a collective however, our team is phenomenally well-drilled and creative, the system forms a base for our players to play aesthetically delightful football as a team.

Subs:
70 mins
Doan > Bouanani
Maza > Uzun
Bahoya > Nusa

VILLA v spurs

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

J. Kounde --- A. Silva ---- M.Guehi --- Cambiaso

---- F. de Jong ---- Zubimendi ---- Reijnders ----

--- Raphinha ----- O. Watkins ------ Eberechi ---

D.Seimen, Bellanova, Tielemans, Semenyo, Madueke, J.David, G.Garcia

Always tough against Spurs, but we go in looking to dominate midfield and hit them fast up top..

Both physically strong our CBs will look to keep the CF quiet. Marc Guehi is a ball-playing center-back known for his exceptional defensive intelligence, composure, and ability to play progressive passes from the back. He excels in 1v1 situations with high ground duel success rates and is comfortable carrying the ball forward, utilizing a strong two-footed game to create passing options. He will look to start attacks from the back.Silva also a great passer so both will get the attacks starting from the back. Get the ball to midfield or to the Fbs so they can move forward, a dominate CB so will help Guehi keep the attacks away from danger. Cambiasohas lisence to attack a very aggresive forward thinking player so can join the midfield and really drive on and support Eberechi as he drives past the winger aloowing Eze to move inside to a more No.10 position, Kounde I want to be more subdued in his attacks, if Cambiaso is up Kounde stays in a back three, if in possession then can pass it early up to Raphinha

Our trio may look defensive, however only Zubimendi will sit, allowing Reijnders and de Jong to pass and move into postions that help our attack, Zubi marks the AM/SS, he is very strong and will notbe easily beaten,once in possesssion he can initiate attacks.

Reijnders and de jong both good ball carriers so once they have the ball make progressive runs forward aloowing our front three to create space for themselves to be found, one twos with the three and also looking for the runs of Cambiaso as he drives forward, Reijnders in particular likes to make the late runs into the box so always an option to look for if forwards are closed down.As a three defensivley very sound as they keep the line and as little space possible for them to ddrive at.

Up top we have creativity, pace and goals, Watkins the central man always on the last foot of the defence as he makes himself a nuisance to defenders, can drift left/right allowing the others to go central, Eze in particular will be moving into the centre if Cambiaso is up and as a number 10 he can force away shots/passes that get Watkins and Raphinha in on goal. Raphinha is allowed freedom to do as he wishes, starting on rhe right he will harrass the LB hopefully winning the dual, wont get alot of support from Kounde so will look to de Jong for the pass and move into dangerous areas for de Jong tofind him in and away on goal.

Fast direct and really get at them,bit also defend the lines, wingers stopping the FBs getting too high up the pitch

Captain - Guehi
Free Kicks - Raphinha
Pens - Raphinha

Subs -
Losing -
65 Mins - J.David for de Jong he goes to No.10 4231
65 Mins - Semenyo for Eberechi more direct take the guy on the outside winger
75 Mins - G.Garcia for Cambiaso, 3 at the back,very attacking 3232 formation

Winning -
75 Mins- Tielemans for de Jong fresh legs
83 Mins - Bellanova for Raphinha attacking FB so willhelp Kounde out
83 Mins - G.Garcia for Watkins

Drawing -
70 Mins - G.Garcia for Watkins, Semenyo for Eberechi, Tielemans for de Jong

------------------------ Trubin -------------------------

B.White --- C. Romero --- Ruben Dias --- Mendes

---------- E.Fernandez ----- Declan Rice -----------

-- M.Olise --------- Bellingham --------- Rodrygo --

---------------------- K. Mbappe ----------------------

Martinez, Kerkez, Tonali, Guler, Yildiz, Marmoush, Aghehowa

At home so go for the jugglier! We have plenty, experience, youth, pace, power we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. We have goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line even if they get numbers back we will look to expose the gaps and dominate that part of the pitch, 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.

Dias is the spare man allowing the other three to man mark when the opposition ie(CF, Winger, AM, No.10) 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,he must get in ahead of him to stop the attack early, 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, both very good and coming out from the back with the ball and will look to set up attacks from the back, if under pressure boot it away if you have too.

Our fullbacks will come inside to squeeze the opposition and force them backwards, I want no gaps allowing them to be dangerous, close them down quickly, I want Rice taking care of the AM or the most advanced CM, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes, Mendes always on the attack and looking to push wide allowing Rodrygo to cut inside to support Mbappe, taking their RB with him, freeing up space for Mendes one twos which will either get Mendes out wide to cross in or in to the box, B.White likewise on the right, with Olise ahead of him drive down the line looking for one twos allowing Olise to cut inside with or without the ball to create spaces for White to move into. Mendes and White however, i dont want them just randomly up the pitch, they focus on defending as up against two quality players.

Enzo and Rice must be patient, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball, both imo very complete midfielders both in defending and attacking, however I want 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 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 has more license today and will will provide more creativity & will push a little further forward allowing Bellingham to push on and support Mbappe in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area be creative with his passing, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.

Bellingham in a No.10/Free role is the link between midfield and attack in a free role, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Mbappe who 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 to the wingers 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 and really drive at there defense, 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 front three, full of goals, speed and frightening for the best ofr defenders to face, Our wingers are extremely quick and tricky, also a huge goal threat, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack squeeze the midfield as they play quite narrow, 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, Olise and Rodrygo will cause them problems drifting in an out, with pace I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, although when they are pushing forward they will leave gaps for us to exploit, especially down our left hand side, 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 Mbappe 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 Mbappe to run onto, we must always make sure he is well supported, especially wingers and Bellingham, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.

Captain - Ruben Dias
Pens - Bellingham
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Corners - Wingers

Losing -
65 Mins - Aghehowa for Enzo, he goes up top, Jude in beside Rice 4-4-2/4-2-4, Jude has to be a little more disciplined with his forward runs, but we have enough to get the ball to the front 4 /Mendes
75 Mins - Tonali for Jude, more creativity, Yildiz for Rodrygo

Drawing -
70 Mins - Arda Guler for Enzo, he pushes up beside Jude
Aghehowa for Rodrygo,Mbappe goes to LCF, Aghehowa No.9, look to get it to the big man in the centre,quick and strong
75 Mins - Marmoush for Olise we go with 3 up top

Winning -
75 Mins - Tonali for Jude he goes to the left of RIce to shore up the midfield
83 Mins - Kerkez for Mendes, Yildiz for Rodrygo

NEWCASTLE v Watford

No Injuries

--------------- D Costa
---- Timber - Rudiger - Gabriel
Porro - Vitinha - Mainoo - DiMarco
--- Mbuemo ----------- Garnacho
-------------- Gyokeres

Subs: Szczesny, Couto, Stones, Fernandes, Elanga, Ouattara, Wissa

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

Tough but winnable opening game of the season against Watford, hoping to spring a surprise with our 3-4-2-1 formation, solid defensively and in attack with the wingbacks key to our success, both of our wingbacks are more than capable of tracking back to form a back five without the ball, but able to get forward and overlap the inverted wingers when we are attacking. Primarily aiming to control possession, the main plan is to attract the opposition forward and then play through or over them to get into attacking positions and create opportunities.

Costa in goal, Timber, Rudiger and Gabriel the back three, Porro and DiMarco as wingbacks, Vitinha as the deep lying playmaker, Mainoo alongside him as the box to box player, Mbuemo and Garnacho as inverted wingers, with Gyokeres the centre forward.

Costa - Distribute to feet to the back three or midfield two, occasionally look for the long pass to the front three if there is space in behind the Watford back four. Stay big for any one on ones.

Timber/Rudiger/Gabriel - Look to recycle possession between each other, Costa behind you, and Vitinha/Mainoo/Porro/DiMarco, if they come at us with a high press look for the ball over the top for Mbuemo/Garnacho, but primarily look to stay in control of the ball. In defence, Rudiger to mark the centre forward and bully him, if they play a second striker Timber and Gabriel to remain zonal, and track the runner if he is your side of the back three. Look to be first to any second balls, and be alert when their attack are making runs.

Porro/DiMarco - Straightforward approach, when we are out of possession, drop in to stop the back three being overwhelmed, and form a back five, but in possession, come short to offer an option to the defenders and midfielders, when the ball is further forward, push on and overlap your inverted winger to create space and opportunities. Both of you have the engine and the skill to be effective wingbacks, when you are forward look to get crosses in first time, or cut the ball back.

Vitinha/Mainoo - Vitinha playing as the deep lying playmaker, pick the ball up from the back three or goalkeeper, turn and look to provide through balls to the wingbacks and front three, link with Mainoo, look to recycle possession if no opportunities ahead of you, controlling possession is the best way of us winning this game, but play the percentages. Mainoo in the box to box role, without the ball drop in alongside Vitinha, assist the defence and be a passing option, when we have the ball out wide you will need to be the one breaking the lines and looking to get to the edge of the box for crosses, keep their DM guessing by mixing up your runs.

Mbuemo/Garnacho - In possession, look to get the ball to feet and get your opposition fullback 1 v 1, look to commit them, you will have Porro/DiMarco overlapping you to provide options and opportunities, either pass to allow them to get crosses in, or use their run to cut inside and either link with Gyokeres or get a shot off on your stronger foot. If we are under pressure, drop back to form a midfield four alongside Vitinha/Mainoo when Porro and DiMarco have dropped back to form a back five. Work with Gyokeres to press their defence as a trio if they are playing out from the back.

Gyokeres - Aim to stay central where you are at your most dangerous, link with Mbuemo and Garnacho when they are cutting infield, but look to be almost marking their centre back to be as far forward as possible without being offside, look to get in behind if they play a high line with incoming passes from deep or from Vitinha, and look to shoot on sight. Aim to be in the box whenever Porro/DiMarco are overlapping as they will be looking to get crosses in first time. Stick with their defenders, if they are passing the ball around their defence, press only if its all three of you pressing, otherwise you are just wasting energy.

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

Subs:
If winning at 70 mins: Mbuemo, Garnacho and Gyokeres off, Stones, Fernandes and Wissa on. Change to a 5-4-1 diamond, Porro and DiMarco further back into fullback roles, Stones to DM between Vitinha and Mainoo, Fernandes the AM behind Wissa upfront. Look to absorb pressure and hit on the break, look to retain possession throughout.

If drawing at 70 mins: Mbuemo, Garnacho and Gyokeres off, Elanga, Ouattara and Wissa on. Same formation, but fresh legs in attack, Elanga to RW, Ouattara to LW and Wissa upfront, look to get in behind the Watford defence and grab a winner.

If losing at 70 mins: Timber, Garnacho and Mainoo off, Fernandes, Ouattara and Wissa on. Change to a 4-2-4, Porro and DiMarco drop into attacking fullback roles, Fernandes into midfield alongside Vitinha, Wissa joins Gyokeres upfront with Mbuemo at RW and Ouattara at LW. Push for goals.

Setpieces (in order):
Right side Corners: DiMarco
Left side Corners: Porro
Long free kicks: Vitinha
Short free kicks: Vitinha
Penalties: Gyokeres/Wissa

Watford: League week 1 AWAY to Newcastle
Captain: Kelleher
Vice-Captain: Collins

-----------------Kelleher
Bradley---Collins---Murillo--López
-----------Evertton--Jones
--------------------White
Domínguez---------------------Henrique
--------------------Rômulo

SUBS: Mamardashvili, Wesley, Beraldo, Redondo, Guerra, Gomes, Castro

SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with Evertton as the holding/defensive midfielder who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (Jones). In front of them White 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 White 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: Kelleher 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 Evertton 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 White 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 Domínguez and Henrique will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring White, Jones and Rômulo 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 White to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF.
As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Rômulo 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: White, Henrique or Domínguez with Collins, Murillo and Rômulo to offer an aerial threat. White and Henrique (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.

Substitutions: (80 mins) If winning, then 3 like for like subs – Beraldo for Collins, Redondo for Evertton and Castro for Rômulo.
If losing (60 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Jones with Castro and Domínguez with Gomes. 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.
----------Evertton
Gomes---White---Henrique
--------Castro--Rômulo

Leicester vs Man United
Attacking 4-3-3 High tempo

We play a fluid attacking team full of pace and power and a high tempo, dominate possession in cm with pace up top and width from attacking fbs to stretch the game. Fbs playing high and wide, stretching the game to allow our midfield to dominate and control the game.

At home with no injuries in a game we are confident we can win the midfield battle we go with a slight change to make us more attacking. Kvaratskhelia coming in for Odegaard giving us more width in attack. Alvarez playing as a second striker in a free role just off Isak.

Musiala in a free role in attack, playing off the front two who will create space for him in the whole with their pace and power stretching their back line. Isak will naturally drift left, pulling defenders out of position for Musiala and Alvarez to expose. On the other side Alvarez will also drift deep/right creating space for Isak and Musiala.

Rodri and Valverde have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Valverde has the energy and quality on the ball to play box to box role, Rodri as the sitting cm providing cover and controlling the tempo of the game. Musiala ahead as the attacking midfielder. When attacking down the right Valverde has the freedom to attack and link with Trent, Musiala and Alvarez. Hall will stay more reserved slightly ahead of the cbs.

When attacking down the left, Valverde will come inside, allowing Trent to still bomb forward on the right, with Kvaratskhelia providing more natural width on the left with Hall providing creativity on the overlap and Musiala linking on the inside.

The fbs bombing forward to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space. Militao starts at cb for his pace and power, offering perfect cover for the attacking Trent.

Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate. Musiala with complete freedom to come deep, wide or go beyond the front three.

With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Alvarez, Hall and Trent (set piece taker) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully the opposition.

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 ——— Militao ——— Gvardiol ——— L.Hall
——————— Valverde ——— Rodri
———————————— Musiala ——————
——— J.Alvarez ————————— Kvaratskhelia ———
————————————— Isak

Subs. Pope, Gravenberch, Odegaard, Kvaratskhelia, N.Williams, Foden, Delap

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. Alvarez drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the 3 cms narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Kvarat is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.

Militao the man-marker next to Gvardiol 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. Kvarat zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Alvarez marks their deepest cm. Alvarez and Kvarat 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 70 mins bring on Williams for Kvarat. Fresh pace to run against tired legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Gravenberch for Musiala. Valverde and Gravenberch playing box to box roles.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Foden for Alvarez.

If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Williams and Gravenberch for Trent and Rodri. 3-5-2. Hall lcb. Valverde and Gravenberch as cms with Nico right, Musiala central, Kvarat left. More pace and power in cm and on wings to allow us to go more attacking.
If losing or drawing after 74 mins bring on Foden for Musiala. Fresh pace and creativity.

Chelsea vs Man City

--------------- 🇮🇹 Donnarumma -----------------
-- 🇪🇸 Huijsen -- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk -- 🇮🇹 Bastoni --
-------- 🇵🇹 João Neves -- 🇪🇨 Caicedo ---------
🇫🇷 D.Doue ------ 🇩🇪 F.Wirtz ------- 🇵🇹 R.Leao
------------ 🇳🇴 Haaland -- 🇳🇬 Osimhen --------

Subs:
Trafford, Hakimi, Ait-Nouri, Baleba, Cherki, Ekitike, Kane

Season opener and we spring a surprise on the opposition as we go with a 3-5-2 x 3-2-3-2 hybrid, interchangeable when attacking and defending giving us an element of unpredictability that will make it difficult for the opposition to contain.

Defensively we go with a compact back three, the opposition tend to go with plenty of pace up top and we look to counter this by sitting deep when out of possession. Let them have it on the flanks out wide, we keep our defensive unit tight knit knowing that we can comfortably deal with any balls into the box with our towering trio.

If the opposition play with inverted wingers this works even more in our favour, don’t bother engaging them when out wide, we keep our shape safe in the knowledge that they’ll ultimately be looking to cut back infield and running into traffic. If they mix it up and go with out and out wingers we’ll happily see them down the line knowing our CB’s our agile enough to anticipate any cut backs or balls across our box.

In support of our 3 CB’s we go with 2 DM’s, giving us the safety of 5 defensive players at all times. Neves & Caicedo will shield our defence, if their FB’s push forward then they will work in tandem with our RCB & LCB to provide support and prevent any overloads out wide. If either DM is forced to drift out wide Wirtz will drop in giving us another body in the middle.

By sitting deep out of possession we nullify their speed and also set ourselves up perfectly to hit them on the counter. Our wide players Doue & Leao track back when out of possession but as soon as we win the ball back they break at speed. With their wingers and FB’s pushed upfield this will leave plenty of space for our speedy wide men to exploit as we hit them with pace and decisiveness on the break.

The beauty of this set up is it’s not all about player on the counter. We are equally as comfortable when in possession, our ball playing CB’s can bring it out from the back with Neves & Caicedo both possessing great passing ability and distribution in the middle of the park. They can look to hit our wingers, get the ball into Wirtz or supply our deadly duo up top giving us a plethora of options when in possession.

Wirtz plays at 10, he’ll be the perfect creator in the middle and will have a deadly front 4 to provide that killer pass.

Up top we go with a powerhouse CF duo which will give any defence nightmares. Both adept at holding the ball up, lightning pace to get in behind and deadly in front of goal. A deadly duo capable of winning any game.

One area the opposition CB’s tend to lack is pace making Haaland and Osimhen a real mismatch in this regard. We want them to work to be on their toes, ready to latch on to our through balls in behind as we continually hit them on the counter at pace.

Doue & Leao will look to be direct on the flanks. Out of possession we want them to be looking to make runs in behind their defence with Wirtz capable of threading the ball through the eye of a needle. In possession go at your man with option of cutting in field and going for goal or going down the line and cutting back for our of our strikers to finish.

Wirtz will be floating in the AM role. Behind him he’ll have our DM duo breaking down the oppposition, bundles of energy they’ll bring the defensive workrate allowing Wirtz to pick the ball up in space and drive at the opposition. If there’s space in behind release it if not we look to retain possession, moving the ball at speed before playing that killer pass as soon as we spot an opening.

Haaland & Osimhen work in tandem up top. Communication is key, if one runs to the front post then the other hits the back post. If our wide players have the ball then one anticipate the cutback whilst the other gambles on the ball across the 6 yard box. Defensively they will be a nightmare and we will look to hit them early and often as we turn defence into attack in the blink of an eye. Both power forwards they’ll thrive on any balls in the air as we look to storm Stamford Bridge and take home the 3 points.

Subs:

If winning:
70 mins: Doue & Leao off, Hakimi & Ait-Nouri on. Move to a conventional 3-5-2 with natural wingbacks.
80 mins: Osimhen off, Ekitike on. Fresh legs up top.

If drawing/losing:
65 mins: Osimhen off, Kane on.
70 mins: Neves off, Simons on. Extra creativity.
80 mins: Doue off, Cherki on.

------------ Donnarumma -----------
--- Huijsen - Van Dijk - Bastoni --
--------- Caicedo -- Simons --------
-- R.Cherki --- Wirtz --- R.Leao --
--------- Haaland -- Kane ----------

Brighton vs Brentford

-------------------- Maignan --------------------
R.James --- Konate --- Araujo --- Gutierrez
-------- Tchouameni --- Mac Allister ---------
--- M.Soule ----- De Bruyne ------ J.Doku ---
--------------------- Lautaro --------------------

Subs:
Restes, Laporte, Casado, Szoboszlai, Elliott, B.Silva, Evanilson

Tactics:

Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-3-1-2 formation today as we aim for the win. We will look to dictate the play and take the game to the opposition. When they’re in possession we sit deep, our CM’s marshalling the middle of the park, breaking down the opposition and setting up us on the counter. We feel that we have the perfect set up to open them up on the counter with quick passing as we transition from defence to attack.

Defence:

We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with pace and quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Konate will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Araujo will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top or picking up their second CF if two up top.

Our fullbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have supporting cover in behind. If they play two up top our FB's will narrow, offering additional cover in behind the CB's. When in possession both having license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third. We look to draw the opposition onto us by sitting deep when they are in possession, limiting the space in behind and drawing them further up the field creating space for us to hit them on the counter.

Midfield:

We go with a top class midfield duo as we aim to
dominate in the middle of the park. Tchouameni in the middle, top class DM we rely on his fantastic reading of the game ball playing ability to break down the opposition.

Mac Allister ext to him. A strong ball carriers with top quality distribution from deep setting us up on the attack and allowing us to control the play by retaining possession. In possession he has license to get forward and has a ferocious strike from distance.

Completing our midfield we have the instrumental De Bruyne. He plays in the AM role and has free roam to push forward when in possession. A player with superb vision he will look to get on the ball as much as possible, running at the opposition drawing them in and committing a defender before playing that decisive ball. We look for him to play between the lines, dropping into pockets of space and supplying our forwards who are ready to pounce at any moment.

Forward:

Up top we go for goals with a dangerous front three. Soule on the right will look to be direct, use his pace and skill to go at his man, with James in support we will look to overwhelm down the right hand side. Quick one two’s with KDB will also open up space on the edge of the box with the Argentine lethal when presented with half a chance.

On the opposite flank Doku offers a bundle of pace and energy, be direct and take on your man. In a one on one he has the beating of anybody and his off the ball runs in behind will be perfect for KDB’s through balls.

With a dream supply line around him Lautaro will be in his element. When on the attack he’ll be looking to do what he does best, get himself in the box and finish any chances that come his way.

Subs:

If winning:
70 mins: De Bruyne off, Szoboszlai on. Extra legs in midfield.
80 mins: Soule off, B.Silva on.
85 mins: Doku off, Laporte on.

If drawing/losing:
65 mins: Tchouameni off. Szoboszlai on.
75 mins: Soule off, B.Silva on.
80 mins: Mac Allister off, Evanilson on. Two up top.

SPURS vs villa

------------------------------------ Courtois --------------------------
Jimenez-------------De Ligt----------Branthwaite------------Udogie
--------------------------------------Onana-----------------------------
---------------McTominay--------------------Olmo------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Salah--------‐----------------Openda------------------------Luis Diaz

Subs - Ramsdale, Garcia, McAtee, Neto, Ricci, Rashford, Biereth

CK - OLMO
FK - OLMO
PENALTIES - OPENDA

The tactics today will be to press the oppo and not give them time on the ball. I want us to try to recover the ball as soon we lose it. So for 5 seconds after we lose possession I want the 2 closest players to the ball to relentlessly press the player who has the ball. If we can't get the ball back within that time I want you to slow down and conserve your energy. Get into a well balanced defensive shape and just try and intercept balls/put tackles in to win the ball back.

Defence
We have Courtois in net, a calm and collected keeper who is very comfortable with the ball at his feet so he won't crumble under any pressure if the oppo rushes in towards him when he has the ball as he has the ability to seamlessly play it out. He's a world class shot stopper aswell so the defence will be well assured having him in goal.
De ligt and Branthwaite are two top class level CB's. I want one of them to stick close to the oppo striker while the other will mark any runners that try and play off of him. Put tackles in, hoof the ball out if need be, just defend! You both have good ball playing skills so if there's some space for you, you can bring the ball out a bit and try and play some lofted through balls for our forwards to run onto.

Full backs
Jimenez + Udogie
What we have here are 2 fullbacks who are blessed with the pace and athletic ability to help out both in attack and defence. You both are adapt at defending so you should know what the oppo wingers will do. You need to stop them cutting inside and getting shots and crosses into the box. Don't let them play off of your shoulders as they will try and get behind you and past you. Use your strength to get in front of them to win the ball back. Attacking wise I want them to get some crosses into the box as our strikers are a threat in the air. If we lose possession while you lot are in attacking positions quickly run back into your defensive position. Varela will be covering for you if you are out of position as a safety precaution.

Defence mid
Onana will be the anchor that helps the defence. He will only focus on defensive duties and will try and intercept any loose balls the oppo have in the attacking third. Put tackles in and cover for our fullbacks when they are attacking. Use your superior physical strength to outmuscle the oppo attackers and win the ball back deep to start a quick counter.
Centre Mids
McTominay + Olmo
McTom will be the link from defence to attack. Main job is to get the ball from deep and to use your technical and dribbling ability to open up the oppo midfield. Make runs forward and play pass and move passes with teammates and help the attack whenever you can.
Olmo will play CM today. I want him to use his vision to spot the runs of our attackers and thread balls for them. You are the creative force in the middle so always be aware of where your teammates are and if you see a gap in the oppo, then pounce on it. He is a long shot specialist so if the ball is played out to him and he's within a shootable distance then shoot. I want him to make late runs into the oppo box as well from time to time.

Wingers
Both Salah and Diaz will look to use their pace and dribbling ability to create chances from their flanks. When you have the ball in a dangerous position try and cut in onto your stronger foot and get a shot in or put some crosses into the box. When one of our creative CM's have the ball try and make runs off the oppo FB and beat tje offside trap. Drift infield between the oppo FB and CB from time to time to confuse the oppo aswell.

Openda
Openda will be the striker. Play aerial balls for him to bring down so he can bring others into play or through balls for him to run onto. When in the box use your ruthlessness and decisiveness to get into good positions away from oppo defenders and smash home any balls played into the box.

IF WINNING BY 75 MINS
Play deep and hit the oppo on the counter.
Take off Diaz and put on Garcia to give the defence even more protection.

IF LOSING BY 75 MINS
Take off McTom and put on Biereth in strike. Play close to each other and put a tonne of pressure in the oppo defence. Defend high up and try and score a goal.

IF DRAWING BY 80MINS
Rashford on for Diaz
Bierith for Openda

MAN UNITED vs leicester

--------------------------------------Garcia--------------------------------
---------------Saliba------------ Pacho---------Hincapie-----------
-----------------------Camavinga-----Nico G----------------------
Frimpong-----------------------------------------------------------Carreras
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------Saka---------------J Pedro----------------Rogers---------------

Subs - Chevalier, Diomande, Bergvall, Palmer, Savio, Tel, Sesko

CK'S - SAVKA
FK'S - SAKA
PENALTIES - PEDRO

I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.

Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. Saliba 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 Carreras 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. One of our DM's will come over to mark the oppo winger who has the ball incase they use the overlapping fullbacks. I want both wingbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..

Centre Mids
Camavinga + Nico G
These 2 will be the main enforcers to protect the defence and to control the central midfield. Both of these have the engine to easily last the 90 minutes. Camavinga will be the more defensive of the two. He will help the wingbacks in defending against oppo wingers and will also look to put a lock on the oppo AM to stop him dictating play. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings and try and play some quick one two's as you are a good dribbler and passer. Nico will be allowed to stretch his legs and run with the ball from deep if there is space to do so in the centre of the pitch. When out of possession drop deep next to Camavinga and try and intercept the ball. Nico will look to use his technical ball playing ability to pass the ball forwards and to try and thread dangerous passes to unlock the oppo defence. I want the front three to be on the lookout for his passes. When out of possession drop deep and cover the central midfield space.

Wingers
Saka + Rogers
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Saka will be looking to cut in from the left and Rogers likewise who will cut in from the right. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back into the centre of the pitch to one of our DM's or play quick one two's with our wingbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for Pedro to attack. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack.

Striker
Joao Pedro
Pedro 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 Palmer and Savio for Nico and Rogers 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.

------------------------------Garcia-----------------------
---------------Saliba-------Pacho------Hincapie----------
------------------------------------Cama--------------------------------------
Frimpong-----------------------------------------------------------Carreras
-----------------------------------Palmer-----------------------------------
------------------Saka--------Pedro------Savio----------------

Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Saka and put on Bergvall in CM to offer more defensive protection and energy in the middle. Also put on Palmer for Rogers. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack.

-----------------------------------Garcia-----------------------
------------------Saliba-----------Pacho----------Hincapie--------
Frimpong----Nico G---Camavinga----Bergvall-----Carreras
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------Palmer-----------------------------------
--------------------------------------Pedro-----------------------------------

Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Switch formation to 3412 to confuse the oppo. Bring on Palmer and Sesko for Saka and Rogers.

------------------------------------Garcia-------------------------------
---------------Saliba-----------Pacho---------Hincapie-----------
-----------------------Camavinga-----Nico-----------------------
Frimpong----------------------------------------------------------Carreras
---------------------------------------Palmer--------------------------------------
-------------------------Pedro------------Sesko----------------------