——————————Ter Stegen
Odriozola———Sule—————Rudiger———Castro
———————————Rodri
——————Torreira—————Keita
———Lozano————Kane—————Guedes
Subs: Pope, Gaya, Diallo, Milinkovic-Savic, Brandt, Dybala, Sancho
Captain: Marc Andre Ter Stegen
Corners: Lucas Torreira
Free Kicks: Lucas Torreira
Penalties: Harry Kane
Starting with a mid-low block, so that they can’t find space in behind, a narrow 4-3-3 shape to start with. Instead of harrying the CBs, we close the passing lanes to midfield and create the structural foundations to press anyone that looks to break our lines in our half, taking advantage of having 6 players centrally. The two lines of 3 will form to compact triangles with Rodri and Kane slightly behind their flanking players, keeping DM and CF, and RCM and RW, LCM and LW connected and close together. Kane blocks the passing lane to the DM, with the wingers blocking the easy route to midfield. We can set a trap, either bating their advanced CMs to drop back to pick up possession or forcing their possession into undesirable wide spaces, not allowing them to establish dominance in midfield, the key is to disconnect their attacking players by making it impossible to play through the middle.
If their CMs drop deeper, it allows us to take advantage of better structural organisation, with the ball side CM, winger and Kane all well connected and ready to press the ball carrier from all sides, whilst using their cover shadows to block passing lanes, looking to force errors and win the ball back. If either of Portsmouth’s CMs start positioning themselves deeper alongside the DM then Keita will go and play alongside Kane, using their energy to press and make sure Portsmouth can’t use this tactic to set up easy possession. If the DM gets the ball then Kane turns to press from behind, with Rodri pushing up to limit the space in the central lanes, with the CMs + wingers able to squeeze the centre quickly.
We expect a large portion of their possession to have to go wide. From here we press in triangles using the close connections between the ball side CM and AM to defend the wide area together, cutting off the route back central, whilst Kane positions himself between the two Cbs so they can’t circulate the ball to the other side. As our press moves on to their FBs, Rodri and the far side CM shuffle across, with the far side AM dropping back in to create a line of 4 across the field, allowing us to maintain coverage of the centre, half spaces and far side so that if they do manage to beat the press, we have our midfield line there to slow them down. Winger presses the FB, CM blocks his passing lanes.
The back 4 always maintains close compactness to the midfield, adding to the difficulties in playing through us, and moves across the field in conjunction with the rest of the team. Due to the well drilled midfield and forward lines, our FBs can maintain a strong defensive position off the ball, which means they can always be very quick into the wingers as soon as they shape to receive a pass, keeping them under pressure, not leaving space behind them for the wingers to attack and narrow to the CBs so that when they try cutting inside there’s multiple players to drop them on the floor. Any longer balls or crosses are easy pickings for our CBs, with Sule marking the CF and Rudiger covering.
When we do win it we want to be direct, using the pace of Keita, Guedes and Lozano. Kane will look to drop deep between the lines, drawing their midfielders towards him before releasing team mates into space, with Guedes, Lozano and Keita able to run off him. Our FBs stay deeper in the initial transition, if we do need to pass it between the back four and Rodri to draw in Portsmouth before releasing the CMs and wingers behind their midfield or wingers, we can.
Between the attack and midfield we want to see strong positional play, creating triangles to overload the opposition and using third man runs to break the lines. Eg if a CM moves moved wide in behind the opposition winger, drawing his marker out of the middle, then one winger can drop into the vacated space and the other make a move behind the opposition FB. We have a versatile set of players here which means we can transition to a 4-2-3-1 with Keita able to move into the attack and use his pace to stretch the game. Kane occupies the CBs and will look to be constantly moving vertically to ensure that the CBs have to keep altering their position, eventually this will break their defensive shape. He will then have to use his movement in the box to get his goals. Guedes and Lozano will have a lot of freedom to orchestrate attacks, both can beat men and make good runs behind the opposition defence, both can drop deep and link, both can go wide and create, with plan A using direct balls into them to carry us forward, in particular drifting wide in counters to find space behind the FB, or running directly at them.
Our FBs are going to have freedom to join attacks from wide. They will run from deep where they are harder to pick up, and more difficult to defend than a static winger with his back to goal, drive down the line and get whipped balls into the forwards/ link with the midfielders.
Subs:
If Winning: Gaya for Guedes 70’, can offer cover for Castro as Portsmouth throw more players forward. Milinkovic-Savic and Diallo for Lozano and Keita 75’, 5-4-1
If Drawing: Milinkovic-Savic for Torreira 70’, offers more going forward, and an outlet if needed. Dybala for Guedes 75’, starts to drift across the field and pickup pockets of space between the lines. Sancho for Lozano 80’, 10 minutes to do what he does.
If Losing: Dybala for Torreira 60’, Dybala in behind Kane. Milinkovic-Savic and Sancho for Castro and Odriozola 70, 3-4-3 with Rodri to CB, Milinkovic and Keita in midfield, pushing Lozano and Sancho wide with Guedes and Dybala next to Kane.
Everton v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Injuries: Maffeo, Januzaj, Gerson, Ings
----------------- Arrizabalaga
Hakimi - Marquinhos - Tah - Shaw
--- Rakitic - Fernandinho - Meyer
---- Di Maria - Immobile - Perisic
Subs: Leno, Vida, Sturaro, Diawara, Ozil, Vitolo, Alcacer
-----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Everton, hopefully our back four will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Arrizabalaga in goal, Marquinhos and Tah at centreback, Hakimi and Shaw at fullback, Rakitic, Fernandinho and Meyer in midfield, Di Maria and Perisic either side of Immobile upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Everton are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Arrizabalaga - 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 Immobile.
Marquinhos/Tah - Marquinhos mark their striker, force them high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Tah to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs 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.
Hakimi/Shaw - Both of you to force the Everton 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 possession, push forward and support Di Maria and Perisic as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Immobile and link with Rakitic and Meyer. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Fernandinho - Our DM today, sit in front of the back four, break up play, watch out for runs from deep from the opposition, when in possession use your range of passing to look for teammates in advanced positions, use Rakitic and Meyer alongside you if you're closed down.
Rakitic/Meyer - Two box to box midfielders today, one either side of Fernandinho at DM. Both of you are required to get back and assist Fernandinho in front of the back four when we don't have the ball, but both with the ability and the freedom to push forward and join the front three, while always leaving at least one of you behind the ball. Look to link with Di Maria, Perisic or Immobile.
Di Maria/Perisic - Both with the trickery to beat the Everton fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Immobile with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Rakitic and Meyer, and capitalise on the space Immobile's presence will create for you.
Immobile - you will be expected to occupy the Everton centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Di Maria or Perisic on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you to create opportunities.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Di Maria, Perisic and Meyer off, Vida, Diawara and Ozil on. Change to 5-3-1-1, Vida an extra CB, midfield trio of Rakitic, Fernandinho and Diawara, with Ozil in the AM role providing support to Immobile upfront.
If drawing: Meyer off, Ozil on. Switch to a 4-2-3-1, Rakitic and Fernandinho in midfield, Ozil to AM behind Immobile. Try and find a winner.
If losing: Tah, Fernandinho and Meyer off, Vitolo, Ozil and Alcacer on. 3-1-4-2, Hakimi - Marquinhos - Shaw at the back, Rakitic the playmaker from deep, Vitolo - Di Maria - Ozil - Perisic behind Immobile and Alcacer upfront. Push for goals.
------------------------- Ederson
--------- Pavard ------ Van Dijk ------- Umtiti
K.Walker ----- Busquets ----- Koke ---------- B.Mendy
-------------- De Bruyne ------- Griezmann
---------------------- Gabriel Jesus
Subs: Butland, J.Martinez, Ghoulam, Bentancur, Tolisso, Mahrez, Aubameyang
3-5-2, looking to get at this Liverpool side today, pressing intensively initially from the front and ensuring they have to go long with a lack of height in the side. We move Van Dijk to a more central CB role to mark Kane out the game and isolate him throughout.
Busquets and Kokes role today is to allow the others to play, forceful but fair, sit in and play that pass to our creators in the side when we recover possession and always make themselves available for a pass. Koke playing more box to box and using his burst of energy on the ball to mix it up.
When we have possession we control the dynamic, very direct and purposeful. WG-backs push up with the front 3 interchanging and given freedom to play, keep bodies back with Busquets, (at times) Koke and the 3 CB's to prevent quick counters from the opposition.
Key is our quick WG-backs staying very wide and stretching the game, if the opposition look to close them down then we have our creative cm’s/am’s freed up in the middle, making it very difficult for Pool to defend the space.
G.Jesus comes into the side as he's full of energy and great at the press. On the ball takes defenders with him to give KDB and Griezzy space whilst off it look to nick in and give the opposition no time to play, we can utilize Auba's pace and movement late on as a sub today as Liverpool tire.
3-4-2-1 - On the ball:
It starts from the back. Ederson is very able with his hands and feet and should look to find our players in space.
The CB trio are excellent on the ball, very good passing success rates and should look to move the ball into mf quickly. At times collecting short from Ederson and getting their heads up, looking for movement from the attackers and attempting diagonal or long balls into feet, so we can can counter at pace and bypass their mf press.
Pavard & Umtiti should shift slightly wider when on the offense allowing our wing-backs to push up in a bank of 4 in mf.
Busquets and Koke, a midfield pair that will provide plenty of energy and will work their socks off for the side to allow others around them to express themselves. They should look to stamp their authority with their work rate and power looking to take a grip on mf and shielding our defence, oppressing the opposition midfielders and covering every blade of grass out there.
When attacking, Busquets sits just infront of the defence and makes himself available for a pass back. A passing outlet if we are being vigorously pressed whilst also allowing us to create space when working the ball around in triangles, also prevent counter attacks.
De Bruyne & Griezmann will look to play more the AM role and inbetween the lines, roaming in the oppositions half and looking to act as the links between midfield and attack. Picking up pockets of space and using their awareness to dictate the play, running at their backline and using quick pace and incisiveness to commit defenders on the break.
Flanks will be key as we look to expose them in wide areas and create space in midfield.
Two quick & skilful WG-backs in Walker and B.Mendy, need to hug the touchline and provide the width allowing us to stretch the opposition. Always on the move so we can get them in behind and use them as outlets going forward when picking a pass.
Very possession orientated, comfortable playing quick 1-2's and accelerating into space, overlapping often and getting early deliveries into the box for our strikers to attack.
When Liverpool are in possession we will look to initially press from the front looking to prevent them playing out from the back, if they bypass this we then get behind the ball as a unit and form phase two.
Phase two involves forming a rigid structure looking to press the space and dropping off with men behind the ball, only allowing them to play where we want them too, stifle the midfield and stop them from picking their passes into a forward attacker, Van Dijk isolating him throughout.
Essentially a 3-5-2, 5 in mf working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wing-backs then drop off to mark the oppositions wingers and help our CB's to prevent any space being left in behind.
Key is leaving no gaps or space to get in behind, working as a staunch unit so their quick attackers have to come deeper to get involved making their first point of contact with the ball much deeper than they anticipated and notably further away from our final third.
When we have them deep we have more to work with, we can plug at them and tactically foul in areas that will prevent them from playing with any flow, breaking up the game and frustrating the oppoistion.
If we manage to win the ball we must immediately look to counter and hit the opposition hard. Walker & Mendy can come up to support the play and provide the width. The front 3 burst forward.
Subs:
IF WINNING: 70th minute – (3-5-2)
- Tolisso > Koke
- Aubameyang > G.Jesus
- Bentancur > Busquets (80th min)
Compact 3-5-2, we get fresh legs on and keep things solid, Auba used as an outlet to surge forward when possible
IF DRAW: 70th minute – (3-4-3)
- Aubameyang > G.Jesus
- Mahrez > KDB
- Bentancur > Koke (75th min)
3-4-3, stretch the play and look to play more in wider areas at this stage. Mahrez RW, Auba LW and Griezzy CF.
IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- Aubameyang > Pavard
- Mahrez > G.Jesus
- Tolisso > Koke
4-4-2, direct. long balls into the box and constantly looking for the two strikers.
Flood forward and look for an equalizer/winner.
C - van Dijk
FK's - De Bruyne / Griezmann
Corners - De Bruyne
Pens – Griezmann
--------------------Pickford
Danilo---Kompany---Sane---Rodriguez
-----------Goretzka---Herrera
Malcom---------Aspas--------Costa
------------------Cavani
Lloris, Llorente, Maitland-Niles, Fabregas, Callejon, Wood, Amiri
I am opting for an attacking lineup today, given that we are at home against a Hull side, in what is looking like a must win game against a good side. My aim is to get bodies forward, fashion chances and allow my strong attacking players to bag themselves goals aplenty, whilst having players defensively and in midfield that are capable of marshalling the space and preventing the opposition from creating an abundance of chances.
I have changed goalkeeper today, bringing in Jordan Pickford for Hugo Lloris, who has been having a torrid time of things recently. I expect Pickford to marshall his penalty area well, allowing for us to play the ball out of the back, instead of looking long. When he has the ball in his hands I am hoping that he will be capable of throwing or rolling the ball out to the full backs, to start quick attacks with our direct wide players.
My full backs will be key parts of my play. As I have previously stated, they will be key to us transforming defence into attack, with my goalkeeper looking to distribute the ball to them. They will then charge forward with the ball in their possession, looking to widen the play, to create more space in the middle as players are dragged out of position. Alternatively I also encourage them to take the underlapping option if it becomes available, as both players can be dangerous themselves in goalscoring positions. The key to this system is how they interact with our wingers. Defensively, I expect them to marshall the wide positions, forcing the opposition wingers out wide and keeping the ball there, until a time when they can win it back and get it forward.
My central defenders are a tough unit. They are both physical players who can dominate aerially. I expect them to work as a team, with Sane getting close to the opposition attackers, using his strength to win long balls forward, whilst Kompany bosses the space behind, not allowing for them to turn Sane. If they do then he will pounce and win the ball back for our team. I don’t want either player spending a long time on the ball. When they get possession they will look to distribute forward to the central midfielders or out to the full backs, who will react in the same way as they do when fed the ball by the keeper.
Just like Sane and Kompany, Goretzka and Herrera will work as a team together. I expect Goretzka to be the playmaker of the two when on the ball, sitting deep to control the area just in front of the defence. When he gets on the ball he will look to spread the play, or find the runs in behind of Aspas, Malcom and Costa. Herrera will serve as the meat of the midfield, getting stuck in and hastling and harrying the opposition advanced midfielders, using his boundless energy to not allow them a moment’s rest. When we have the ball in the attacking third, both players should push up, as they can both be a danger in and around the attacking third. This means they need to be alert and get back into defensive positions quickly. They will not be afraid to take bookings for the team to end opposition break aways if needed.
Malcom and Costa are the standard Arsenal wide players. I trust these two to use their pace and skill to threaten the opposition defence on a frequent and regular basis. They should be supplied with plenty of help, as Danilo and Rodriguez get forward to support the attacks. They will alternate between pulling the defenders and midfield out wide, creating space for Aspas in the hole, or charging directly at the defence, to put the opposition centre backs on the back foot. Both players are a threat in these areas, and will look to get low balls across the dangerous positions, whis suit the poachering tendencies of Aspas and Cavani. I will also allow them to swap flanks during the course of the game, adding further confusion for the opposition defenders to deal with.
Aspas is sitting in the attacking midfield position, but rest assured, he is not playing as a number 10 playmaker. He sits there as a shadow striker, a slightly reserved threat, who will use his pace and running skills to push beyond Cavani and make late runs into the box. I think this will allow him a bit more time and space when he does get into these positions. He will also be looking for space in the defence to make intelligent runs and get in behind the defence, making it even harder to mark, as he will be varying his movement.
Cavani is the spearhead of our attack, serving as the large physical presence to contrast with the nimble and fast Aspas, Malcom and Costa. He, like Sane, poses a threat in the air, but most of today will be played on the deck. Cavani will press high up the pitch, not allowing Hull’s defenders time on the ball to play it out from the back, forcing them either into going long or into making simple mistakes. He will look to cause havoc in the box, occupying the attention of the opposition defence by getting into good positions, allowing for space to be created for Aspas, who will push into good positions. Most importantly, Cavani will also carve out chances for himself, looking to continue his good run of form and bag more goals.
Substitutions
If winning
Malcom off and Jose Callejon on 70 mins
Fresh legs on the right hand side of the attack to maintain our non-stop attacking football. Callejon still has a lot of pace to offer, and will look to make direct runs at the defence.
Iago Aspas off and Nadiem Amiri on 80 mins
Perhaps a slight let up in our non-stop approach. Amiri may be a more reserved player than Aspas, but he will still look to get into threatening positions. He will also look to dictate the play and get on the ball more than Aspas did.
Riccardo Rodriguez off and Ainsley Maitland-Niles on 87 mins
Perhaps a bit of timewasting on our behalf, but AMN can slot in nicely at the LB position, allowing us that bit of extra pace to attack the opposition defence down that side in the last few minutes of the game, to support the no doubt flagging Costa.
If losing/drawing
Leon Goretzka off and Cesc Fabregas on 70 mins
An attacking change as we bring on a more attack minded midfield player to better control the possession of the ball. Fabregas will look to play in a more advanced role than Goretzka did, trying to find pockets of space in a more conventional number 10 role.
Danilo off and Christopher Wood on 80 mins
A shift of formation for the last ten minutes, to the following
----------------------Pickford
--------Kompany---Sane----Rodriguez
-------------Fabregas---Herrera
Malcom--------------------------------Costa
---------------Aspas------Cavani
----------------------Wood
To allow us to get more bodies in the box in the hunt for a goal. Got to go big or go home, right?
Riccardo Rodriguez off and Nadiem Amiri on 85 mins
Another change of formation as Amiri comes on. We shift to a two at the back, with Herrera patrolling the area just in front. Amiri and Fabregas occupy the roles in between Costa and Malcom, looking to get the ball into the opposition penalty area as much as possible.
Bournemouth Tactics: Week 11
Captain: Tarkowski
Vice Captain: Walace
Team:
--------------------Ward
Bustos--Tarkowski—Rabello--Saracchi
-------------------Walace
--------------Paredes---Paquetá
Pussetto-----------------------------Everton
----------------------Pedro
SUBS: Rossi, Murilo, Militão, Wendel, Vargas, González, Rodríguez
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: Ward is a big mobile keeper and very agile. 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: Walace 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. Paredes and Paquetá will play just in front of Walace. Paredes will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Paquetá 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 Pussetto and Everton 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 Paquetá, Paredes and Pedro 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 Paredes may sit a bit deeper allowing Paquetá 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.
Pedro 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: Paquetá, Everton or Pussetto with Tarkowski, Rabello, Walace and Pedro to offer an aerial threat. Paquetá and Everton (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Pedro
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Murilo for Rabello, Rodríguez for Pedro and Wendel for Paredes, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 80 minutes) Vargas for Paredes and Rodríguez for Pussetto. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Pussetto and Vargas offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
----------------Walace
Vargas------- Paquetá ----Everton
---------Pedro --------Rodríguez
Man City v Tottenham Hotspur
------------------------ Courtois --------------------------
S.Aurier ------ Boateng ----- Hummels -- T.Hernandez
-------------- M.Verratti ----- L.Alberto ----------------
M.Asensio ----------- C.Eriksen -------------- A.Martial
---------------------- Timo Werner -----------------------
Subs:
A.McCarthy, M.Alonso, E.Bailly, E.Dier, M.Gotze, L.Bailey, M.Arnautovic
Captain: Hummels
Free Kicks: Eriksen
Penalties: Aguero
Corners: Eriksen
Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim for 3 points. Our three AM’s in support of Werner will be key components to this style of play as we feel we pose threats from all angles with plenty of goals in our lineup. Verratti and Alberto offer great quality on the ball from a slightly deeper position as they both possess a fantastic range of passing, able to break the lines and play that killer pass in to our attacking quartet. We will look to dictate the play and frustrate the opposition when in possession, continually moving them around, making them chase the ball by switching flanks. Our front four are firing on all cylinders and we look to supply them with plenty of ammunition. Werner making constant runs in behind with Asensio and Martial causing havoc on the flanks whilst Eriksen pulls the strings through the middle.
Whilst the opposition have some dangerous players we will look to significantly limit their impact by retaining possession, we will force them to track back or risk leaving their defence exposed when we push forward in numbers. We aim to make things uncomfortable for them and we feel that limiting their ability to have the ball in attacking areas will severely limit any threat posed. When they are in possession our wingers drop in as we play a compact 4-5-1 formation. The aim of the game will be to break at speed with our wide players offering an immediate outlet when we win back possession, turning defence into attack in the blink of an eye.
We aim to play on the front foot, hit them early to take the lead and then exploit the space in behind as they push forward. We start fast, high intensity and pressing from the front, putting them under immediate pressure we can force an early mistake.
Defence:
We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with experience and quality we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. We have two strong and aerially imposing CB’s to deal with the threat posed by their forwards. We will look to be dominant at the back as we aim to take the sting out of the opposition early on and play on the front foot. Asensio and Martial will both drift infield taking the opposition FB’s which will create space for FB’s to exploit, they will at all times be looking for the runs of Werner whose movement and finishing is deadly. However only one will push forward at a time to ensure we keep a balanced defence and have plenty of cover to snuff out any opposition counter attack. Keep the wingers down the line and do not let them come infield.
If the opposition play one up top then Hummels will mark, strong and aggressive we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Boateng will sweep up and cover in behind, a fantastic reader at the back he will also be the one to bring the ball out from defence. We fancy them to play Mandzukic up top and feel Hummels and Boateng are perfectly suited in dealing with his physical presence and aerial threat.
Midfield:
Eriksen will look to dominate the midfield, a fantastic player who in tandem with Verratti will be key to our style of play with their quick passing. Keep the ball moving, continually recycling possession and making the opposition chase shadows. Don’t force the issue as we aim to run them down, tired legs = tired minds and we feel that this will lead to plenty of openings as we continually move them out of shape. Verratti will play the holding role, strong in the tackle he will add cover in front of our defence whilst having the ability to spread the play from deep. Alberto will look to break between the lines, picking the ball up in CM and pushing forward alongside Eriksen to form a dual AM threat when on the attack. Eriksen plays ahead of them in the AM role, a gifted technician he will be looking to create opportunities all afternoon. With the runs of Asensio, Martial and Werner to pick out we feel that he will thrive. An assist master we also encourage him to go for goal should the opportunity arise, we anticipate the opposition sitting deep and an Eriksen thunderbolt from distance is always on the cards when given space
Forwards:
Frightening pace, electrifying dribbling and deadly finishing, we feel our front three have it all. Our wide players will look to take the opposition on at will. Asensio and Martial both have license to cut in from the flanks and go for goal, we encourage them to utilise their terrific pace and go at the opposition. Draw in the oppositions CB’s which in turn creates space for Werner to be slipped in on goal. Both will look to make jinking runs into the box where they can draw a foul or drive to the byline and whip the ball into Werner to finish. Both wingers have fantastic work rate and will be a constant outlet as they make runs in behind when our playmakers are in possession. We press from the front, put their defenders under pressure and force the mistake. Asensio in particular will look to come infield and shoot from distance. The wingers will push high up onto the defence and we very much play with a front three when on the attack. Werner plays through the middle, a player with fantastic movement and real predator. Immediately look to get into the box when we’re on the attack as we go for goals.
Subs;
If winning:
60 mins: Luis Alberto off, Dier on.
75 mins: Martial off, Bailly on. We tighten up with a strong defensive unit as we see the game out with a solid back 5 and defensive midfield cover.
If drawing:
60 mins: Luis Alberto off, Bailey on. Asensio comes in at AM forming an attacking midfield trio with Bailey and Martial all in support of Werner.
75 mins: Verratti off, Gotze on. Extra creativity in CM as we look to carve out an opening.
85 mins: Werner off, Arnautovic on. A new threat for the finale, Arnautovic brings his fine form and physical presence up top. Shoot on sight whilst his hold up play will create additional space allowing Asensio, Martial and Bailey to get in for the winner.
If losing:
55 mins: Luis Alberto off, Bailey on.
65 mins: Aurier off, Arnautovic on. We revert to 3-4-3 with Arnautovic, Werner and Martial up top as we go for goals, goals, goals.
Comment deleted by Article Creator
------------------------ Oblak -------------------------
M.Ginter ----- Stones ----- Varane ----- C.Biraghi
----------------------- Fabinho ------------------------
----------------- Pjanic ----- Pogba ------------------
Mbappe -------------------------------------- Neymar
-------------------- Lewandowski --------------------
Meret, Henrichs, de Jong, Zielinski, Bernardeschi, Kluivert, Rodrigo
Possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, Pjanic, Fabinho & Pogba just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and the front 3 in and around the half way line, Lewandowski slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow Pjanic and Pogba to dictate play, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.
Stones picks up the CF, Varane spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly when we have possession, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, fullbacks must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. When they attack, only one at a time this will mostly be Biraghi,as to not let ourselves be exposed, they drive down the line in support of the wingers. the two always make themselves available to the wingers. If Biraghi gets caught up field I want Fabinho to drift to the left and Biraghi to make his way to midfield to cover I want both Varane and Stones to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Fabinho sitting back.
In the centre of the pitch are Pjanic, Fabinho and Pogba. Fabinho our deepest player sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, Pjanic and Pogba must be disciplined and lend a hand to stop them coming through. Fabinho must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. Pjanic slightly higher up the pitch, he will stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, make our midfield very difficult to pass through, protect our defence and Fabinho as best as possible and again in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Pogba as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Pogba is essential to our style of play, he is the link(alongside Pjanic) between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in a 10 role and look for the Pjanic pass. he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.
Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Neymar and Mbappe will cause them problems as they switch around at times, will see us make their defenders move out of position to follow their player, thus allowing Pogba to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Lewandowski who has the power and ability to beat any defender and the other winger who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Lewandowski right on top of the young goalkeeper to put a lot of pressure on him, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game.
Captain - Varane
Pens - Lewandowski
Corners - Pjanic
Free Kicks - Pjanic
Subs
Losing -
70 Mins - Bernardeschi for Pogba, he goes to RW and Mbappe up front 4-4-2
80 Mins - Kluivert for Biraghi, Ginter to RCB(3 at the back), we go 343 with Kluivert on the left and Neymar to LCF
Winning -
70 Mins - de Jong for Pogba, sits in a tight midfield 3 defensively strong
80 Mins - Bernardeschi for Lewandowski, Mbappe up top deschi to the right
85 Mins - Henrichs for Neymar, sit in a tight mid 5 and lets see this out
Drawing -
70 Mins - Zielinski for Pogba, straight swap fresh legs
80 Mins - Bernardeschi for Lewandowski, he goes RW and Mbappe up top
---------------------- McCarthy ------------------------
Bellerin ----- Bonucci ----- Chiellini ----- Phil Max
------------------------ Danilo --------------------------
---------------- A.Vidal ----- R.Neves ----------------
F.Chiesa ------------------------------------ Rashford
----------------------- M.Icardi -------------------------
Letica, Sidibe, Blind, Barkley, B.Traore, Shaawary, Morata
Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team from the front and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially Vidal, Neves and Danilo as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards.
Bellerin and Max have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, one always staying back so we will have a back 3, they will bomb down the line supporting the wingers, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Icardi. They look to play one twos with the attacking midfield 3 which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Bonucci the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Chiellini alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, bot very powerful defenders, dominate in the air and good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Both up for corners, fullbacks and Danilo stay back. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both CBs are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..
Danilo's primary role is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defence where the opposition’s number 10 will likely to be operating whilst also being aware when the full-backs had pushed forward.Take care of of the No 10/SS is also a main focus, stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him.
Vidal is our box-to-box midfielder and has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for team mates, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running they are expected to do. The box-to-box midfielder is more likely to be found on the side of the pitch where the full-back that is less efficient in the attacking third plays to provide balance on both flanks. Neves main responsibility is to create chances for the three attackers in front of him. He will often find himself the furthest forward of the three midfielders and sometimes even in the number 10 role if the correct situation arises. The main requirement of Neves is creativity; he needs to be able to play a pass that penetrates the opposition’s defense or dictates the direction of the attack These three should work well together and between them have everything a midfield needs.
Wingers are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos, using Neves to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using Neves to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Icardi so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.Icardi will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two/three with the aid of Neves and the wingers. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges with hopefully a few crosses coming in he can get up and above defenders for. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Rashford, Chiesa and Neves will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side if he cant go for goal himself. But especially look for Neves as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.
We must defend as a team tho, from the front, so wingers track back and cover the fullbacks, even just to stop them supporting the wingers, we must drive into them and pressurize them into mistakes
Captain - Chiellini
Pens - Icardi
FK's - Neves
Corners - Wingers
Subs
Losing
70 Mins - Bertand Traore for Vidal, go 4-4-2
80 Mins - Blind and Shaawary for Bellerin and Max, Blind to a 3 man defence, Shaawary to LM and Rashford to LCF
Winning -
70 Mins - Blind for Vidal, fresh legs and help out defensively
80 Mins - Sidibe for Max, a more defence minded LB
85 Mins - Traore for Icardi, run things down
Drawing -
70 Mins - Traore for Chiesa, Barkley for Vidal fresh legs and more attacking threat from the middle
----------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------Perin
Vrsaljko---Milenkovic ------David Luiz----Jorge
----------------Rudy-----------Kampl
---Thauvin----------Ziyech---------------Rebic
-------------------------Jovic
Subs: Müller, Caleta-Car, Eiting, Laimer, Lallana, Forsberg, Mariano
Our defensive unit consists of Nikola Milenkovic and David Luiz paired up at centre-back, Sime Vrsaljko at right-back and Jorge at left-back, with Sebastian Rudy and Kevin Kampl as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Rudy and Kampl we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Kampl can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Rudy can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Kampl’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Kampl running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Sebastian Rudy.
A holding midfielder through and through, Rudy is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Rudy such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Florian Thauvin, Hakim Ziyech and Ante Rebic as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luka Jovic as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Rudy or Kampl, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Vrsaljko and Jorge can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Rudy and Kampl can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Florian Thauvin and Ante Rebic, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Hakim Ziyech our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Ziyech is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer who will look to play Thauvin, Rebic and Jovic in via fast passing combinations.
An out and out explosive centre-forward, Jovic is known for the abundance of pace and power that he possesses. Jovic has a strong and sturdy physical frame that he’ll use well to bully the opposition defence.
Jovic has a fierce right-foot and is an equally strong header of the ball too, which will make him a huge threat in and around the penalty box. With his pace combined with his dribbling ability and the power that he possesses, Jovic will brush aside defenders and run past them with nonchalance.
While he is explosive and dangerous with the ball at his feet, what makes Jovic even more exciting is his excellent movement off the ball and the ability to make those smart runs in behind the defenders.
Subs on 75 mins
Mariano on for Jovic and Forsberg on for Rebic
Lots of fresh legs and pace to trouble the opposition for a late goal regardless of the score line
I’ll leave to chance
Tactics:
MANCHESTER CITY vs Tottenham Hotspur
Injuries:
Arkadiusz Milik 28/02/94 Poland CF FG
Aleksandr Golovin 30/05/96 22 Russia CAM FG
Axel Witsel 12/01/89 29 Belgium CM FG
Gelson Martins
Line Up:
-----------------------------Rico---------------------------------
------------Caldara----Zagadou----Romagnoli----------------
Pereira-----------Partey-------Matuidi-----------Guerreiro
---------Moura---------Mandzukic---------Fekir----------
Subs: Forster; Mukiele; Wober; Dahoud; Richarlison; Benzema; Lingard
Captain: Matuidi
Penalties: Mandzukic
Free Kicks: Fekir
Corners: Fekir
Game Plan:
We have been scouting the Spurs midfield and, while there is some technical brilliance in there, it is not the most physically capable and we will be looking to exploit that weakness with our powerful centre-mid duo. We want to force Spurs into playing narrow and compact, where we can link up on the flanks and expose their defence with fast, direct attacking in numbers. The 3-4-3 formation requires great athleticism, as well as discipline and, fortunately, we have both in abundance.
We will look to triple mark whomever has the ball in any area of the pitch – with one player closing down the ball, one player cutting off space and the last player marking the closest man. By triple-marking at all times, we not only increase the effectiveness with which we can apply pressure to the opposition but we also reduce the amount each individual player has to run, thus allowing them to keep the high tempo game running for longer than if we were single man pressing.
By pressing high and in numbers we can minimise the space in which Spurs can play. When Spurs play from the back, Fekir and Moura will look to intercept the space in between the two centre backs and cut off the option of a cross-field ball while Mandzukic will close down the man with the ball. If the right-sided centre back has the ball then our left winger will close down the right back while our midfielders will press closer as well, and vice versa with the other side of the pitch. The aim here is to limit the playing space our opponents have, which forces them to move the ball back to the keeper, move the ball long or move it in to the centre where our CMs, our wingers and our forwards can close down the space quickly and force them in to hasty decisions. If they manage to move the ball out wide, then our full backs will look to push up (depending on which side of the pitch the ball is on) to close down the space while our winger on that side challenges for the ball and the closest centre mid closes down the passing lanes.
The formation itself is actually more of a 3-4-2-1 formation. Starting at the back, the three defenders are Caldara, Zagadou and Romagnoli along with the mobile and energetic pairing of Partey and Matuidi. Width is provided by the wing-backs Guerreiro and Pereira. Ahead lie the mobile unit of Fekir, Moura and Mandzukic. Fekir and Moura are natural inside forwards and Mandzukic can drop into space or offer himself as a target man.
Rico is in goal for us today and he can play well as a sweeper keeper, he has the pace and awareness to come out of goal to sweep up balls over the top and he is confident at claiming crosses and high balls, not to mention being a terrific shot stopper. When he gets the ball, he will look to clear it out to the flanks instantly, to initiate a quick breakaway in the area that we will have more players than our opponents.
Should Spurs opt to go long with the ball, we have 3 tall CBs all capable of winning the aerial duel with the CF, while also having players to cover the 2nd ball. The idea is to compact the centre of the pitch, with the 3 CBs covering all space through the middle to stop any quick interplay and to nullify any central creative players. The striker is, obviously, out- numbered up front. The wing backs can mark the space out wide while the two defenders on either side of the central defender in the back three can mark the half spaces. All our CBs are intelligent and read the game well, playing zonally to track the central runs made by the opposition.
The movement from the forwards is enabled by Zagadou who essentially plays as a sweeper in front of the other two centre-backs. He can start attacks by bringing the ball into midfield, or he can drop back into defence to intercept passes. When building out from the back, the back three split and stretch as wide as they can in order to break the press as the pressing team has a greater distance to cover. All 3 CBs in the side are good on the ball and have played at full back, so are fine with stretching wide. The two wing backs position themselves high up the pitch to create more space for the back three. If the opposition press high on the three centre-backs then the left or right centre back moves into a conventional full back position.
Pereira and Guerreiro will push forward to deny the opposition full-backs space and will seek to create an overload. By creating this numerical advantage in the opponent’s half, Fekir and Moura can attack the channels between full-back and centre-back.
Alternatively, the wing-backs can cut inside and swap positions with the inside-forwards. Mandzukic is the focal point and he will occupy at least one of the opposing centre-backs which means that we will always have a man spare in attack with this method, and even if an opposing midfielder drops, Partey and Matuidi can push up to sustain the overload. Because we have so much attacking threat we will always find space.
Similarly to our attack, defensively we will always have a spare man due to the energy of the both full-backs, Guerreiro and Pereira. They can: press up to the opposing full-backs, or track the inside forwards. Then the centre-backs can sweep or push up to the opposition's creative centre-attacking midfielders. And then there is our duo of Partey and Matuidi, who have the energy and positional awareness to, with the help of the pressing game from the front 3, overload the opposition’s central midfield and make it impossible for them to play through the middle.
Substitutions:
If Winning: Dahoud for Moura 65’, Switch to a 3-5-2 with more numbers in midfield. Richarlison and Mukiele for Mandzukic and Pereira 75’, Both provide extra legs for the press, with Richarlison and Fekir dropping deeper to help defend knowing that they can dribble the ball further up the pitch on the attack.
If Drawing or Losing: Richarlison for Moura 70’, fresh energy and ideas. Benzema and Lingard for Mandzukic and Pereira 75’
BRUM VS villa
-------------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Hysaj------------Skriniar---------------Maguire------------Chilwell
-----------------------Kessie----------------Tousart-----------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neres----------------------------------------------------------------------Zaha
------------------------------------Philipp----------------------------------------
-----------------------------------Batshuayi-------------------------------------
Subs - Lunin, Ruben Dias, Ndidi, Cristante, Pellegrini, Adama, Dembele
CAPTAIN - SKRINIAR
CK'S - ZAHA
FK'S - ZAHA
PENALTIES - ZAHA
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo dont 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
Lafont is a quality young keeper. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Skriniar and Maguire bring a whole lot of experience and pace to the defence. Maguire will use his experience to marshal the defence and Skriniar will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Tousart will be covering for them when they go attacking.
Defence Mids
Toudart + Kessie
Tousart will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or play a through ball from deep to our wingers.
Kessie will play as a b2b mid and will be able to help both in attack and defence as he has a lot of stamina. He will be making run's forward and helping our attackers with quick passes and penetrating runs from deep and using his physical strength to win the ball back from the oppo. When not in possession of the ball I want him to sit alongside Tousart in the middle and protect the defence.
Wingers
Zaha + Neres
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. They are 2 young and hungry players and I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Zaha will be looking to cut in from the right and Neres likewise onto his 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 or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of our fullbacks and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. Hysaj and Chilwell are no slouches attacking wise so use them! If you can cut in onto your stronger foot, don't be afraid to shoot from range as you both have the ability to score from long range. If there is no space to do so then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Bats to get his head on. 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
Maximilian Philipp
Philipp will be playing just behind Batshuayi 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.
Striker
Michy 'Batman' Batshuayi
Bats will look to use his strength to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and hold the ball up for Zaha/Neres/Philipp to make infield runs ahead of you.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Dembele for Tousart, Adama for Neres and Cristante for Philipp to bring some more pace on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212.
--------------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Hysaj-------------Skriniar-----------Maguire------------Chilwell
-----------------------------------Kessie------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adama------------------------------------------------------------------Zaha
------------------------------------Cristante------------------------------------
--------------------Batshuayi--------------Dembele-------------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Philipp and put on Dias in CM. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Adama on for Neres and Dembele for Bats.
------------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Hysaj--------Skriniar------Maguire------Dias------Chilwell
-----------------------Kessie------------Tousart----------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------Adama---------------------------------------------Zaha---------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------Dembele---------------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Adama on for Neres
Ndidi on for Tousart
Dembele on for Batshuayi
Fresh legs to bring on.
NEWCASTLE 4-3-3
___________Alisson
Azpi____Alder___Godin___Robbo
__________Jorginho
________Milner___Silva
Salah______Suarez________Mane
SUBS: Reus, Radja, Lukaku, Alli, N’Zonzi, James, Bobby
Captain: Diego Godin
Penalties: Luis Suarez
Corners: David Silva
Freekicks: Luis Suarez
Crossing Freekick: David Silva
The formation deployed today is so that we gain as much control as possible higher up he pitch. We expect to have more of the ball so patience is key. We also expect the four behind the striker to drift around a bit, getting into positions where their natural play can cause damage. The striker up front presses when we don’t have the ball and the entire team will support him cut passing lanes to help win the ball higher up. The quality of our players will allow us to break through the oppositions press. When we have the ball we will want to attract the press and use the spaces that they open up to attack.
Full backs will get forward when the opportunity arises. Our full backs are good at feeding our forward line with their ability on the ball and we aim to utilize that with their ability to get up the pitch and tactical arareness. We also need our full backs to widen the pitch for us. Our centre halves are good on the ball, and a long punt every now and then to utilize our pace out wide is encouraged. Our right back will also tuck in to help solidify the team.
The regista will drop in to form a back three so that the centre backs can split wide to push the full backs general position higher up in line with the midfielders (and wide forwards engage their back line along with the striker). In doing so we create a four man midfield to overpower their midfield. This will allow our midfield to be flexible, if one of their midfielders steps forward, one of ours will move into the space they vacated. The regista will be the link between our defence and midfield and because of the way he plays, he will draw the opponents forward towards him to attack the ball, pulling their team’s lines apart. This will create more spaces between the lines for our midfield and forward lines to move into. The right centre mid will be the more defensive one in his box to box role, closing down space and cutting passing lanes with his incredible interception ability. Playing alongside the regista will give him less areas of the pitch to cover, and shorter distance needed to win the ball back to start the next attack. Both centre mids will float between the lines during the attacking phase just behind our forwards.
By having our wide forwards up front when we have the ball it will effectively create space out wide. We would expect our full backs to sometimes go infield to collect the ball from the keeper, while one of the midfielders goes wide so when he receives the ball he will have time to look up and pick passes as the opposition midfield will be reluctant to press which will leave a man free in midfield. This can be done by a midfielder too, dropping deep to create a free man in the first line with time on the ball, ping it straight to the striker who can lay it off to the other onrushing midfielder.
If short passing options aren’t available the passing range and accuracy of our keeper will safely transfer the ball forwards via our full backs, wherever they are on the pitch. The keeper can also dink the ball into space for the striker or wide forward to control taking out 6 or 7 opposition players in the process.
The striker’s main role will be to create space for the wide forwards. He will drop deep into a ten to drag defenders out and create space for our wide forwards to run into. This will tie into our quick short passing which is aimed at dragging their players out of position and create space between their lines. Our team will always recycle the ball back to the regista to keep possession and to keep the ball moving.
When we don’t have the ball we will expect our four behind the striker to drop into a 4-5-1 in support of our regista and right centre mid. We will also create triangles to trap the opposition players that have the ball, cutting the passing lanes and others putting pressure on players that might receive the ball. We stop the oppositions rhythm and force them into mistakes with our pressure. To stop their counter attacks after we lose the ball, three players will swarm the ball carrier before he can get his head up to play. If they beat the immediate press when the team’s main goal is to push their play wide where they can do the least damage. Our midfielders are an integral part to our play, when we win the ball back we will create space and time for them with our team shape. There will be times when we are under the cosh and will have the option of deploying a bowl shaped 5 at the back, with the right centre mid dropping in to make closing down the opponents very effective.
Subs
70 mins: Radja comes on for Silva, our legs will start to tire, so will theirs, Radja will add box to box ability and energy late in the game.
75 mins: Bobby comes on for Suarez, a different style of forward play for the opposition to think about.
If winning 80 mins: N’Zonzi comes on for Jorginho to close out the game. He is capable in deep midfield alongside Radja in a 4-2-3-1.
If losing/drawing 80 mins: Lukaku comes on for Jorginho and play 2 up front.
-------------------Buffon
Florenzi----Sokratis----Verthongen----Luis
------------------Brozovic
------------Rabiot-------Kovacic
Lamela-------------------------------Son
------------------Lacazette
Subs
Strakosha, Retsos, Cucurella, Locatelli, Inaki, Gameiro, Mkhi
Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control, they have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance.
Verthongen is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counters, When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out, they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style.


For the full backs the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly.

 Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who to go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up, looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the attackers to drag the opposition defensive players out of position. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Gameiro, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.


When Lacazette is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.


Set Pieces


Corners - Kovacic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Lacazette work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Son and Lamela flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Rabiot looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Brozovic takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, as well as occasionally providing the short option to draw defenders out of the box.




Free Kicks - Lamela takes Direct FK's
Penalties - Lacazette is the designated taker.
Subs



If Winning


70 mins - Mkhi for Son - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.



82 + 86 Mins - Locatelli for Rabiot and Inaki for Lamela - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Mkhi for Kovacic - add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing



67 Mins - Gameiro, Mkhi and Retsos for Fred, Luis and Florenzi - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.
In the event of a red card, got to a 4-4-1 formation, sub off Brozovic and get on a replacement for the position which was sent off.
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v Liverpool
Injuries: Mina, Hakimi, Januzaj, Benkovic
----------------- Arrizabalaga
Maffeo - Marquinhos - Tah - Shaw
------ Sturaro - Diawara - Rakitic
------ Di Maria - Alcacer - Perisic
Subs: Leno, Vida, Strinic, Fernandinho, Ozil, Vitolo, Immobile
-----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Liverpool, hopefully our back four will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Arrizabalaga in goal, Marquinhos and Tah at centreback, Maffeo and Shaw at fullback, Sturaro, Diawara and Rakitic in midfield, Di Maria and Perisic either side of Alcacer upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Liverpool are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Arrizabalaga - 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 Alcacer.
Marquinhos/Tah - Marquinhos mark their striker, force them high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Tah to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs 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.
Maffeo/Shaw - Both of you to force the Liverpool 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 possession, push forward and support Di Maria and Perisic as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Alcacer and link with Rakitic and Sturaro. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Diawara - Our DM today, sit in front of the back four, break up play, watch out for runs from deep from the opposition, when in possession use your range of passing to look for teammates in advanced positions, use Rakitic and Sturaro alongside you if you're closed down.
Rakitic/Sturaro - Two box to box midfielders today, one either side of Diawara at DM. Both of you are required to get back and assist Diawara in front of the back four when we don't have the ball, but both with the ability and the freedom to push forward and join the front three, while always leaving at least one of you behind the ball. Look to link with Di Maria, Perisic or Immobile.
Di Maria/Perisic - Both with the trickery to beat the Liverpool fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Immobile with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Rakitic and Sturaro, and capitalise on the space Alcacer's presence will create for you.
Alcacer - you will be expected to occupy the Liverpool centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Di Maria or Perisic on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you to create opportunities.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Di Maria, Sturaro and Perisic off, Vida, Fernandinho and Ozil on. Change to 5-3-1-1, Vida an extra CB, midfield trio of Rakitic, Fernandinho and Diawara, with Ozil in the AM role providing support to Alcacer upfront.
If drawing: Sturaro and Alcacer off, Ozil and Immobile on. Switch to a 4-2-3-1, Rakitic and Diawara in midfield, Ozil to AM behind Immobile. Try and find a winner.
If losing: Tah, Diawara and Sturaro off, Vitolo, Ozil and Immobile on. 3-1-4-2, Maffeo - Marquinhos - Shaw at the back, Rakitic the playmaker from deep, Vitolo - Di Maria - Ozil - Perisic behind Immobile and Alcacer upfront. Push for goals.
------------------------- Ederson
--------- Pavard ------ Van Dijk ------- Umtiti
K.Walker ----- Busquets ----- Koke ---------- Ghoulam
-------------- De Bruyne ------- Griezmann
---------------------- Gabriel Jesus
Subs: Butland, Otamendi, J.Martinez, Bentancur, Lemar, Mahrez, Aubameyang
3-5-2, looking to get at this Newcastle side today, pressing intensively initially from the front and ensuring they have to go long with a lack of height in the side. We move Van Dijk to a more central CB role to mark Suarez out the game and isolate him throughout.
Busquets and Koke's role today is to allow the others to play, forceful but fair, sit in and play that pass to our creators in the side when we recover possession and always make themselves available for a pass. Koke playing more box to box and using his burst of energy on the ball to mix it up.
When we have possession we control the dynamic, very direct and purposeful. WG-backs push up with the front 3 interchanging and given freedom to play, keep bodies back with Busquets, (at times) Koke and the 3 CB's to prevent quick counters from the opposition.
Key is our quick WG-backs staying very wide and stretching the game, if the opposition look to close them down then we have our creative cm’s/am’s freed up in the middle, making it very difficult for Newcastle to defend the space.
G.Jesus comes into the side as he's full of energy and great at the press. On the ball takes defenders with him to give KDB and Griezzy space whilst off it look to nick in and give the opposition no time to play, we can utilize Auba's pace and movement late on as a sub today as the opposition tire.
3-4-2-1 - On the ball:
It starts from the back. Ederson is very able with his hands and feet and should look to find our players in space.
The CB trio are excellent on the ball, very good passing success rates and should look to move the ball into mf quickly. At times collecting short from Ederson and getting their heads up, looking for movement from the attackers and attempting diagonal or long balls into feet, so we can can counter at pace and bypass their mf press.
Pavard & Umtiti should shift slightly wider when on the offense allowing our wing-backs to push up in a bank of 4 in mf.
Busquets and Koke, a midfield pair that will provide plenty of energy and will work their socks off for the side to allow others around them to express themselves. They should look to stamp their authority with their work rate and power looking to take a grip on mf and shielding our defence, oppressing the opposition midfielders and covering every blade of grass out there.
When attacking, Busquets sits just infront of the defence and makes himself available for a pass back. A passing outlet if we are being vigorously pressed whilst also allowing us to create space when working the ball around in triangles, also prevent counter attacks.
De Bruyne & Griezmann will look to play more the AM role and inbetween the lines, roaming in the oppositions half and looking to act as the links between midfield and attack. Picking up pockets of space and using their awareness to dictate the play, running at their backline and using quick pace and incisiveness to commit defenders on the break.
Flanks will be key as we look to expose them in wide areas and create space in midfield.
Two quick & skilful WG-backs in Walker and Ghoulam, need to hug the touchline and provide the width allowing us to stretch the opposition. Always on the move so we can get them in behind and use them as outlets going forward when picking a pass.
Very possession orientated, comfortable playing quick 1-2's and accelerating into space, overlapping often and getting early deliveries into the box for our strikers to attack.
When Newcastle are in possession we will look to initially press from the front looking to prevent them playing out from the back, if they bypass this we then get behind the ball as a unit and form phase two.
Phase two involves forming a rigid structure looking to press the space and dropping off with men behind the ball, only allowing them to play where we want them too, stifle the midfield and stop them from picking their passes into a forward attacker, Van Dijk isolating him throughout.
Essentially a 3-5-2, 5 in mf working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wing-backs then drop off to mark the oppositions wingers and help our CB's to prevent any space being left in behind.
Key is leaving no gaps or space to get in behind, working as a staunch unit so their quick attackers have to come deeper to get involved making their first point of contact with the ball much deeper than they anticipated and notably further away from our final third.
When we have them deep we have more to work with, we can plug at them and tactically foul in areas that will prevent them from playing with any flow, breaking up the game and frustrating the opposition.
If we manage to win the ball we must immediately look to counter and hit the opposition hard. Walker & Ghoulam can come up to support the play and provide the width. The front 3 burst forward.
Subs:
IF WINNING: 70th minute – (3-5-2)
- Javi.M > Koke
- Aubameyang > G.Jesus
- Bentancur > Busquets (80th min)
Compact 3-5-2, we get fresh legs on and keep things solid, Auba used as an outlet to surge forward when possible
IF DRAW: 70th minute – (3-4-3)
- Aubameyang > G.Jesus
- Mahrez > KDB
- Bentancur > Koke (75th min)
3-4-3, stretch the play and look to play more in wider areas at this stage. Mahrez RW, Auba LW and Griezzy CF.
IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- Aubameyang > Pavard
- Mahrez > G.Jesus
- Javi.M > Koke
4-4-2, direct. long balls into the box and constantly looking for the two strikers.
Flood forward and look for an equalizer/winner.
C - van Dijk
FK's - De Bruyne / Griezmann
Corners - De Bruyne
Pens – Griezmann
————————Ter Stegen
Weiser———Sule————Rudiger——Castro
—————————Rodri
—————B.Silva——————Keita
—————————Milinkovic
————Kane————————Dybala
Subs: Pope, Upamecano, Tielemans, McKennie, Loftus-Cheek, Lozano, Sancho
Captain: Marc Andre Ter Stegen
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala
Penalties: Harry Kane
Corners: Bernardo Silva
When Wolves press higher will keep our FBs deeper in build up so we have an overload on both their attack and midfield, allowing for easier progression. Fbs are only slightly ahead of the CBs and tucked in to draw Wolves narrow, leaving access to the wings open to our CMs. Rodri drops towards build up to draw Wolves’ midfield forward, opening space between the lines that our CMs and Milinkovic can exploit. CFs between CB and FB to keep the entire back 4 pinned, if a FB leaves his position to go and press a CM wide, it creates a 1 v 1 battle for our CF, if their CM steps out, it opens space for Milinkovic or Dybala to drop into. If their press loses shape, Weiser will push forward (3-diamond-3 build up), playing higher up and offering an easy diagonal outball that can draw FB and CM out to press, opening gaps between defenders and in midfield.
The main aim is to use diagonal passes out to our wide CMs, eliminating both vertical and horizontal lines of the opponents defensive shape, with the Cbs and Rodri all capable of picking these passes quickly. We can follow that up with a second diagonal ball, sometimes back to Rodri to push Wolves’ midfield out again and open up more space behind, from there Rodri can find our attackers, or the CM can go directly into the forwards should the space be there.
In creating chances we will use lots of sharp short passing combinations, taking advantage of the triangles and diamonds that naturally form within our shape. By moving the ball quickly and constantly changing the direction of play through our close connections we create mental overloads which draw opponents towards the movement of the ball, rather than our movement off the ball, helping us to unmark ourselves. With our midfield overload in place already, this gives us a great opportunity to get players into open space higher up the pitch.
Our CMs movement in particular is key, they can look to get behind the Wolves CMs to receive passes in the half spaces, or drift wide where they can have 1 v 1 battles in positions they are comfortable playing in, but the opponent is not, particularly with Silve’s trickery and Keita’s direct pace. It also creates space for Milinkovic and Dybala to overload the DM. Both CMs will look to make third man runs from deep to support the forwards, again both quicker than their markers which means they should lose them easily with off the ball runs, but also excellent dribblers that allow them to win battles with the ball.
Milinkovic will occupy their DM as well as move across to overload the half spaces with the CMs and create quick short passing combinations, using his strength to hold the ball up and pick the right runners. The strikers should also be constantly on the move, working in tandem with Kane making runs in behind to draw the defence deeper and open up a gap between midfield and defence, and Dybala exploiting this gap with his quick link up play and direct attacking style.
The FBs push forward as the ball progresses, coming from deeper they are harder to defend as they will have momentum running on to passes. They can put in high crosses for the strikers and Milinkovic to attack, or cut backs for midfielder runners to attack at pace, we know Kepa isn’t great cfrom crosses and we exploit this. They also help to stretch the game if Wolves defend narrow, particularly with quick diagonal switches of play.
We know Wolves build from the GK and we will look to control this today. Our CFs start the press between FB and CB, stopping the ball going to the FBs in build up, Milinkovic blocking the ball to the DM and Keita and Silva in the half spaces so they can cover multiple passing lanes. We have two traps to set, one forces the opposition CM to spread out to find more space, detaching him from the rest of the opposition midfield and leaving him vulnerable to being pressed by Milinkovic, Rodri, the CM and our FB, leaving him no escape route by the touchline. The second trap sees Milinkovic step up on to a CB and allow the ball carrying CB to move forward and find the DM. In this scenario Rodri steps forward alongside the CMs so that he can quickly press the DM when the ball is played towards him, with Milinkovic from behind and both CMs quickly closing passing lanes to the CMs, look to force him into a mistake and take advantage of the CBs being in different lines too, with a quick pass into the space for the runs of the strikers. We use our diamond shape to aid these pressing traps with the natural overload we have on them.
Our CMs in the half spaces means they have great access to defend the flanks if Wolves do get the ball wide. Our formation also means we can quickly drop into a flat 4-4-1-1, both CMs are very good supporting the FBs defensively, and Milinkovic drops comfortably alongside Rodri, with one striker dropping deeper to cover the DM. Our Fbs not being needed in the press means they are in a strong position to defend the flanks and cut out Wolves’ biggest strength, with Keita and Silva in support, particularly in keeping narrow deeper in our half so the wingers don’t have space to cut in.
Subs:
If Winning: Tielemans for Milinnkovic 70’, helps to maintain possession and control. Lozano for Dybala 75’, fresh legs in attack to exploit gaps. Upamecano for Bernardo 80’, 5-3-1-1.
If Drawing: Lozano for Milinkovic 65’, Dybala dropping in as a 10, Lozano up front, using his out to in movement between defenders. Sancho for Bernardo 75’, 4-2-3-1, changes the shape of our attack and forces them to react quickly, Sancho and Lozano’s pace will terrify them. Loftus-Cheek for Keita 80’, fresh legs in midfield.
If Losing: Upamecano and Lozano for Castro and Keita 60’, 3-4-3, Weiser RWB with Lozano on the other side. Sancho for Milinkovic 70’, stretch the game.
3-5-2 Control
A huge game away to Chelsea, we go with a fresh side having left majority of our first xi at home for Europe midweek, make every advantage count against this Chelsea side, the main players who also played midweek.
We go with 3 back at the back, simply to give more cover to our full backs. Against the threat of their wide men we want cover here with the pace of Gomez rather than a natural dm. The midfield trio also allowing us to dominate possession while their pressing will allow us to win the ball back quickly stopping any counters before they start.
Our game plan is to control the tempo and possession, we want to go to Chelsea and frustrate them and their fans. Keep the ball, and tire them mentally and physically by having them chase us in possession.
Importantly the formation also gives more freedom to Marcelo and Carvajal, as there would be more space left with a back 4. They will provide real width to our side and stretch the game, creating space for our central players to get on the ball. Getting them both taking on the Chelsea fbs and creating for our forwards.
The formation also means a free role for Hazard. Make him impossible to man mark without leavings holes and space for our other attackers to exploit.
Ronaldo up top plays his natural game, offering a forward we can go longer too, for Hazard to play off, linking the play and most importantly being in the box to be the difference maker and get the goals.
The midfield trio look to play their natural games, getting on the ball dominating possession. Thiago plays in the Busquets role, pressing the space in front of the cbs. Ceballos is more attacking looking to find space between the opposition defence and midfield. Modric always looking to get on the ball, linking the play and creating. Ceballos strong pressing game and Modric’s intelligence defensively will also be hugely important when looking to win the ball back quickly.
The back 3 are all comfortable on the ball and look to play out, helping us dominate possession by having a strong base. They don’t however play too high a line, ensuring that too much space isn’t left behind. Neuer also guards against hopeful long balls over the top in his sweeper keeper role.
It would be impossible to stop a team like Chelsea having chances, so our game plan is to give the defence extra cover with an extra pacey cb, and by dominating possession with the creative players we have in attack to create and score more.
When we lose the ball high up the park we always look to win it back straight away, don’t give Chelsea a chance to counter. The closest 2/3 players press. Allowing others to get back into position behind the ball.
------------------------ Neuer
--------- J.Gomez - S.Ramos - Laporte
Carvajal - Ceballos - Thiago - Modric - Marcelo
------------------ Ronaldo -- Hazard
Subs. Schmeichel, Kehrer, Ascaibar, Doucoure, Correa, Sane, Coutinho
Defence
We look to control the opposition by pressing the space high up the pitch with a narrow rigid defensive unit. Simply having our attacking players in the right defensive positions in front of our strong to defence to make us difficult to break down. Make it difficult for the opposition to play out. The defence play a normal line, not high, not deep. Neuer sweeper keeper in behind, we have the height and pace at the back.
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone else bar Ronaldo gets behind the ball into position. Stop them breaking.
As the Chelsea advance into higher areas of the park and into our thrid shape will resemble a 4-4-1-1, narrowing to the side of play. With the wb opposite play dropping to fb. Giving us a wide cb and a wb in front defending the side of play that Chelsea are attacking. With a midfield four and Hazard coming deep to sit on their deepest cm/dm.
In this tight rigid formation, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Thiago will be key defending the space in front of the cbs, pressing the space with Ceballos and Modric pressing the ball. Narrowing the play to the side the Chelsea are attacking, pushing them backwards and wide away from danger. When they switch play, we switch over.
We drop deeper as Chelsea advance, leaving no space between the lines.
Attack
Centre backs play out, they have the option to go long or have Thiago, Modric, Ceballos and wbs all offering options. We have a lot of quality on the ball in midfield, let them play.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half, using our forward to get in behind and dragging centre backs out of position. If it is not on, we are happy to keep possession, attacking down the wings, get balls into the box.
Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Doucoure for Ceballos. Fresh power and pace as more space opens up and more defensive cover.
If wining after 75 mins bring on Correa for Ronaldo. Fresh pace, great work rate from the front and super sub.
If wining after 80 mins bring on Sane for Carvajal. Fresh pace and energy.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Coutinho for Ceballos. Going for win.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Sane for Carvajal. Going for win.
If drawing after 75 mins also bring on Doucoure for Thiago. Fresh power and energy in front of defence.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Coutinho and Sane for Carvajal and Ceballos. More attacking 352.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Correa for Marcelo.
--------------------Pickford
Danilo---Kompany---Sane---Rodriguez
-----------Goretzka---Herrera
Malcom--------Amiri--------Costa
------------------Aspas
Lloris, Llorente, Maitland-Niles, Fabregas, Sessegnon, Wood, Foden
I am opting for an attacking lineup today, given that we are at home against a Hull side, in what is looking like a must win game against a good side. My aim is to get bodies forward, fashion chances and allow my strong attacking players to bag themselves goals aplenty, whilst having players defensively and in midfield that are capable of marshalling the space and preventing the opposition from creating an abundance of chances.
I have changed goalkeeper today, bringing in Jordan Pickford for Hugo Lloris, who has been having a torrid time of things recently. I expect Pickford to marshall his penalty area well, allowing for us to play the ball out of the back, instead of looking long. When he has the ball in his hands I am hoping that he will be capable of throwing or rolling the ball out to the full backs, to start quick attacks with our direct wide players.
My full backs will be key parts of my play. As I have previously stated, they will be key to us transforming defence into attack, with my goalkeeper looking to distribute the ball to them. They will then charge forward with the ball in their possession, looking to widen the play, to create more space in the middle as players are dragged out of position. Alternatively I also encourage them to take the underlapping option if it becomes available, as both players can be dangerous themselves in goalscoring positions. The key to this system is how they interact with our wingers. Defensively, I expect them to marshall the wide positions, forcing the opposition wingers out wide and keeping the ball there, until a time when they can win it back and get it forward.
My central defenders are a tough unit. They are both physical players who can dominate aerially. I expect them to work as a team, with Sane getting close to the opposition attackers, using his strength to win long balls forward, whilst Kompany bosses the space behind, not allowing for them to turn Sane. If they do then he will pounce and win the ball back for our team. I don’t want either player spending a long time on the ball. When they get possession they will look to distribute forward to the central midfielders or out to the full backs, who will react in the same way as they do when fed the ball by the keeper.
Just like Sane and Kompany, Goretzka and Herrera will work as a team together. I expect Goretzka to be the playmaker of the two when on the ball, sitting deep to control the area just in front of the defence. When he gets on the ball he will look to spread the play, or find the runs in behind of Amiri, Malcom and Costa. Herrera will serve as the meat of the midfield, getting stuck in and hastling and harrying the opposition advanced midfielders, using his boundless energy to not allow them a moment’s rest. When we have the ball in the attacking third, both players should push up, as they can both be a danger in and around the attacking third. This means they need to be alert and get back into defensive positions quickly. They will not be afraid to take bookings for the team to end opposition break aways if needed.
Malcom and Costa are the standard Arsenal wide players. I trust these two to use their pace and skill to threaten the opposition defence on a frequent and regular basis. They should be supplied with plenty of help, as Danilo and Rodriguez get forward to support the attacks. They will alternate between pulling the defenders and midfield out wide, creating space for Amiri in the hole, or charging directly at the defence, to put the opposition centre backs on the back foot. Both players are a threat in these areas, and will look to get low balls across the dangerous positions, whis suit the poachering tendencies of Amiri and Aspas. I will also allow them to swap flanks during the course of the game, adding further confusion for the opposition defenders to deal with.
Amiri is sitting in the attacking midfield position, but rest assured, he is not playing as a number 10 playmaker. He sits there as a shadow striker, a slightly reserved threat, who will use his pace and running skills to push beyond Aspas and make late runs into the box. I think this will allow him a bit more time and space when he does get into these positions. He will also be looking for space in the defence to make intelligent runs and get in behind the defence, making it even harder to mark, as he will be varying his movement.
Aspas is the spearhead of our attack, which may seem strange given that he is not much of a physical specimen. I think that he has the attributes to work well as a leading man, with the ball coming into him along the deck, so that he can lay it off for our various attackers. I expect him to try and contribute to the players running at the opposition, and also get into the box to provide a goalscoring threat as often as possible.
Substitutions
If winning
Malcom off and Ryan Sessegnon on 70 mins
Fresh legs on the right hand side of the attack to maintain our non-stop attacking football. Callejon still has a lot of pace to offer, and will look to make direct runs at the defence.
Nadiem Amiri off for Phil Foden on 80 mins
Perhaps a slight let up in our non-stop approach. Foden may be a more reserved player than Amiri, but he will still look to get into threatening positions. He will also look to dictate the play and get on the ball more than Amiri did.
Riccardo Rodriguez off and Ainsley Maitland-Niles on 87 mins
Perhaps a bit of timewasting on our behalf, but AMN can slot in nicely at the LB position, allowing us that bit of extra pace to attack the opposition defence down that side in the last few minutes of the game, to support the no doubt flagging Costa.
If losing/drawing
Leon Goretzka off and Cesc Fabregas on 70 mins
An attacking change as we bring on a more attack minded midfield player to better control the possession of the ball. Fabregas will look to play in a more advanced role than Goretzka did, trying to find pockets of space in a more conventional number 10 role.
Danilo off and Christopher Wood on 80 mins
A shift of formation for the last ten minutes, to the following
----------------------Pickford
--------Kompany---Sane----Rodriguez
-------------Fabregas---Herrera
Malcom--------------------------------Costa
---------------Aspas------Amiri
----------------------Wood
To allow us to get more bodies in the box in the hunt for a goal. Got to go big or go home, right?
Riccardo Rodriguez off and Phil Foden on 85 mins
Another change of formation as Foden comes on. We shift to a two at the back, with Herrera patrolling the area just in front. Foden and Fabregas occupy the roles in between Costa and Malcom, looking to get the ball into the opposition penalty area as much as possible.
Bournemouth Tactics: League Cup
Captain: Paredes
Vice Captain: Walace
Team:
------------------Grohe
Angulo--Murilo—Rabello--Saracchi
-----------------Walace
-----------Paredes---Palacios
Pussetto--------------------------Everton
----------------------Gómez
SUBS: Ronaldo, Senesi, Álvarez, Maycon, Vargas, González, Pedro
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: Grohe is a big mobile keeper and very agile. 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: Walace 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 forGrohe. 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. Paredes and Palacios will play just in front of Walace. Paredes will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Palacios 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 ForGrohe: When in possession both Pussetto and Everton 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 Palacios, Paredes and Gómez 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 Paredes may sit a bit deeper allowing Palacios 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.
Gómez starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great big old fashioned centre forGrohe. 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: Palacios, Everton or Pussetto with Murilo, Rabello, Walace and Gómez to offer an aerial threat. Palacios and Everton (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Gómez
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Senesi for Rabello, Pedro for Gómez and Maycon for Paredes, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 80 minutes) Vargas for Paredes and Pedro for Pussetto. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Pussetto and Vargas offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
----------------Walace
Vargas------- Palacios ----Everton
---------Gómez --------Pedro
-------------------------Müller
Vrsaljko---Milenkovic ------David Luiz----Tagliafico
----------------Eiting-----------Gagliardini
---Thauvin-----------Kampl----------------Rebic
-------------------------Jovic
Subs: Hennessey, Klostermann, Baumgartl, Tierney, Laimer, Brekalo, Mitrovic
Our defensive unit consists of Nikola Milenkovic and David Luiz paired up at centre-back, Sime Vrsaljko at right-back and Nicolás Tagliafico at left-back, with Carel Eiting and Roberto Gagliardini as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Eiting and Gagliardini we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Gagliardini can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Eiting can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Gagliardini’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Gagliardini running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Carel Eiting.
A holding midfielder through and through, Eiting is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Eiting such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Florian Thauvin, Kevin Kampl and Ante Rebic as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luka Jovic as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Eiting or Gagliardini, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Vrsaljko and Tagliafico can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Eiting and Gagliardini can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Florian Thauvin and Ante Rebic, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Kevin Kampl our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Kampl is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer who will look to play Thauvin, Rebic and Jovic in via fast passing combinations.
An out and out explosive centre-forward, Jovic is known for the abundance of pace and power that he possesses. Jovic has a strong and sturdy physical frame that he’ll use well to bully the opposition defence.
Jovic has a fierce right-foot and is an equally strong header of the ball too, which will make him a huge threat in and around the penalty box. With his pace combined with his dribbling ability and the power that he possesses, Jovic will brush aside defenders and run past them with nonchalance.
While he is explosive and dangerous with the ball at his feet, what makes Jovic even more exciting is his excellent movement off the ball and the ability to make those smart runs in behind the defenders.
Subs on 75 mins
Mitrovic on for Jovic and Brekalo on for Rebic
Lots of fresh legs and pace to trouble the opposition for a late goal regardless of the score line
Newcastle Cup
NEWCASTLE 4-3-3
________________Chesney
Bissaka____de Vrij___Koulibaly___Ake
________________N’Zonzi
_______________Alli___James
Suso____________Lukaku_______Rafinha
SUBS: Mane, Radja, Suarez, Jorginho, Kante, Reus, Bobby
Captain: James Rodriguez
Penalties: James Rodriguez
Corners: Suso
Freekicks: James Rodriguez
Crossing Freekick: Suso
The formation deployed today is so that we gain as much control as possible higher up he pitch. We expect to have more of the ball so patience is key. We also expect the four behind the striker to drift around a bit, getting into positions where their natural play can cause damage. The striker up front presses when we don’t have the ball and the entire team will support him cut passing lanes to help win the ball higher up. The quality of our players will allow us to break through the oppositions press. When we have the ball we will want to attract the press and use the spaces that they open up to attack.
Full backs will get forward when the opportunity arises. Our full backs are good at feeding our forward line with their ability on the ball and we aim to utilize that with their ability to get up the pitch and tactical arareness. We also need our full backs to widen the pitch for us. Our centre halves are good on the ball, and a long punt every now and then to utilize our pace out wide is encouraged. Our right back will also tuck in to help solidify the team.
The regista will drop in to form a back three so that the centre backs can split wide to push the full backs general position higher up in line with the midfielders (and wide forwards engage their back line along with the striker). In doing so we create a four man midfield to overpower their midfield. This will allow our midfield to be flexible, if one of their midfielders steps forward, one of ours will move into the space they vacated. The regista will be the link between our defence and midfield and because of the way he plays, he will draw the opponents forward towards him to attack the ball, pulling their team’s lines apart. This will create more spaces between the lines for our midfield and forward lines to move into. The right centre mid will be the more defensive one in his box to box role, closing down space and cutting passing lanes with his incredible interception ability. Playing alongside the regista will give him less areas of the pitch to cover, and shorter distance needed to win the ball back to start the next attack. Both centre mids will float between the lines during the attacking phase just behind our forwards.
By having our wide forwards up front when we have the ball it will effectively create space out wide. We would expect our full backs to sometimes go infield to collect the ball from the keeper, while one of the midfielders goes wide so when he receives the ball he will have time to look up and pick passes as the opposition midfield will be reluctant to press which will leave a man free in midfield. This can be done by a midfielder too, dropping deep to create a free man in the first line with time on the ball, ping it straight to the striker who can lay it off to the other onrushing midfielder.
If short passing options aren’t available the passing range and accuracy of our keeper will safely transfer the ball forwards via our full backs, wherever they are on the pitch. The keeper can also dink the ball into space for the striker or wide forward to control taking out 6 or 7 opposition players in the process.
The striker’s main role will be to create space for the wide forwards. He will drop deep into a ten to drag defenders out and create space for our wide forwards to run into. This will tie into our quick short passing which is aimed at dragging their players out of position and create space between their lines. Our team will always recycle the ball back to the regista to keep possession and to keep the ball moving.
When we don’t have the ball we will expect our four behind the striker to drop into a 4-5-1 in support of our regista and right centre mid. We will also create triangles to trap the opposition players that have the ball, cutting the passing lanes and others putting pressure on players that might receive the ball. We stop the oppositions rhythm and force them into mistakes with our pressure. To stop their counter attacks after we lose the ball, three players will swarm the ball carrier before he can get his head up to play. If they beat the immediate press when the team’s main goal is to push their play wide where they can do the least damage. Our midfielders are an integral part to our play, when we win the ball back we will create space and time for them with our team shape. There will be times when we are under the cosh and will have the option of deploying a bowl shaped 5 at the back, with the right centre mid dropping in to make closing down the opponents very effective.
Subs
70 mins: Radja comes on for Alli, our legs will start to tire, so will theirs, Radja will add box to box ability and energy late in the game.
75 mins: Suarez comes on for Lukaku, a different style of forward play for the opposition to think about.
If winning 80 mins: Kante comes on for N’Zonzi to close out the game.
If losing/drawing 80 mins: Bobby comes on for N’Zonzi and play 2 up front.
______________Chesney
Bissaka____de Vrij___Koulibaly___Ake
_______________N’Zonzi
_____________Alli____James
Suso___________Lukaku_______Rafinha
Sorry the above came out a bit painful on the eye
Attacking 4-3-3
We look to play our usual attacking game and take the game to Wolves, controlling possession and the tempo of the game. Control possession and find space in between the opposition lines. Get Thiago and Coutinho on the ball and looking to play killer balls to open up the opposition using the pace of our attacking players.
Key to our attack is quick passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly. Pass and move. Tire the opposition out physically and mentally with our possession play. Predominantly short passing on the deck, but varying our play when a counter is on.
Using the pace of our wide players to stretch the game and get in behind Wolves backline, getting them close to and playing off Costa.
As you'd expect, possession starts at the back, Kehrer the man marker next to D.Sanchez who is free. In midfield, Casemiro reading the play looking to win the ball back as the dm, Thiago and Coutinho will offer inteligence defensively, with the pressing of Thiago also improtant as he takes up a deeper cm position.
Getting Coutinho and Thiago on the ball and get pushing up the pitch, they are used to being on the offensive and playing in tight spaces, so we look to them to pick the passes. But if they play a high line they can pick the passes through or over the top to expose the space behind them. Quick one twos between the two and the attacking trio and Wendell and Alexander-Arnold always looking to provide an option.
The defence will be patient on the ball, will be hugely important in keeping possession and pushing us up the pitch. Playing a reasonably high line, with good pace at the back and energy in front. As soon as we get the ball to our midfield, we look to move the ball quickly, quick passing and moving.
In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Wolves. One fb bombing forward at a time. The other fb advances ahead of the cbs but is more reserved and offers the option to switch going back the way.
--------------------- Neuer
Carvajal - D.Sanchez - Kehrer - Wendell
------------ Casemiro -- Thiago.A
------------------- Coutinho
Geubbels -------------------------- L.Sane
--------------------- D.Costa
Subs. Schmeichel, Laporte, Doucoure, Gundogan, Modric, Hazard, Correa
Defending in numbers
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone else bar Costa gets behind the ball into position. Stop them breaking.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Draw them in to positions where they can’t hurt us, and then try and win the ball back. Then get forward quickly.
As Wolves advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1. Our wingers will track any forward runs made by their fbs, and Casemiro presses the space in front of our cbs, sweeping up danger in front of the defence, the cms pressing their midfield.
In this tight formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Casemiro will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, getting across to cut out any danger. Coutinho picks up the most advanced cm. The winger opposite play comes inside and sits on their deepest cm while Thiago presses the space next to and in front of Casemiro. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Attack.
Get the ball to our midfield trio, get them linking up with quick passing, getting the ball to our wingers and get balls into Costa. The trio's movement will be key in opening up the opposition defence.
The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game. We look to find space between their defence and midfield, committing defenders from there and playing killer balls.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Thiago, Coutinho and the wingers will always be looking for the killer ball. If it is not on, we are happy to keep the ball moving and keep possession.
Costa has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals.
Subs. If winning after 70 mins bring on Correa for Costa. Fresh energy. Pushes tempo up.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Hazard for Geubbels. Fresh pace and energy, pushing tempo up.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Doucoure for Coutinho. Injects power and energy to midfield.
If drawing or losing after 60 mins bring on Modric and Hazard for Coutinho and Geubbels.
If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Correa for Thiago. Move Hazard central AM, Correa right.
Line Up:
-----------------------------Rico---------------------------------
--------------Elvedi------Akanji------Zagadou----------------
Mukiele-----------Partey-------Matuidi-----------Guerreiro
---------Moura---------Mandzukic---------Fekir----------
Subs: Forster; Pereira; Holding; Dahoud; Richarlison; Benzema; Golovin
Captain: Matuidi
Penalties: Mandzukic
Free Kicks: Fekir
Corners: Fekir
Game Plan:
We will look to triple mark whomever has the ball in any area of the pitch – with one player closing down the ball, one player cutting off space and the last player marking the closest man. By triple-marking at all times, we not only increase the effectiveness with which we can apply pressure to the opposition but we also reduce the amount each individual player has to run, thus allowing them to keep the high tempo game running for longer than if we were single man pressing.
By pressing high and in numbers we can minimise the space in which Arsenal can play. When Arsenal play from the back, Fekir and Moura will look to intercept the space in between the two centre backs and cut off the option of a cross-field ball while Mandzukic will close down the man with the ball. If the right-sided centre back has the ball then our left winger will close down the right back while our midfielders will press closer as well, and vice versa with the other side of the pitch. The aim here is to limit the playing space our opponents have, which forces them to move the ball back to the keeper, move the ball long or move it in to the centre where our CMs, our wingers and our forwards can close down the space quickly and force them in to hasty decisions. If they manage to move the ball out wide, then our full backs will look to push up (depending on which side of the pitch the ball is on) to close down the space while our winger on that side challenges for the ball and the closest centre mid closes down the passing lanes.
The formation itself is actually more of a 3-4-2-1 formation. Starting at the back, the three defenders are Caldara, Zagadou and Romagnoli along with the mobile and energetic pairing of Partey and Matuidi. Width is provided by the wing-backs Guerreiro and Pereira. Ahead lie the mobile unit of Fekir, Moura and Mandzukic. Fekir and Moura are natural inside forwards and Mandzukic can drop into space or offer himself as a target man.
Rico is in goal for us today and he can play well as a sweeper keeper, he has the pace and awareness to come out of goal to sweep up balls over the top and he is confident at claiming crosses and high balls, not to mention being a terrific shot stopper. When he gets the ball, he will look to clear it out to the flanks instantly, to initiate a quick breakaway in the area that we will have more players than our opponents.
Should Arsenal opt to go long with the ball, we have 3 tall CBs all capable of winning the aerial duel with the CF, while also having players to cover the 2nd ball. The idea is to compact the centre of the pitch, with the 3 CBs covering all space through the middle to stop any quick interplay and to nullify any central creative players. The striker is, obviously, out- numbered up front. The wing backs can mark the space out wide while the two defenders on either side of the central defender in the back three can mark the half spaces. All our CBs are intelligent and read the game well, playing zonally to track the central runs made by the opposition.
The movement from the forwards is enabled by Zagadou who essentially plays as a sweeper in front of the other two centre-backs. He can start attacks by bringing the ball into midfield, or he can drop back into defence to intercept passes. When building out from the back, the back three split and stretch as wide as they can in order to break the press as the pressing team has a greater distance to cover. All 3 CBs in the side are good on the ball and have played at full back, so are fine with stretching wide. The two wing backs position themselves high up the pitch to create more space for the back three. If the opposition press high on the three centre-backs then the left or right centre back moves into a conventional full back position.
Pereira and Guerreiro will push forward to deny the opposition full-backs space and will seek to create an overload. By creating this numerical advantage in the opponent’s half, Fekir and Moura can attack the channels between full-back and centre-back.
Alternatively, the wing-backs can cut inside and swap positions with the inside-forwards. Mandzukic is the focal point and he will occupy at least one of the opposing centre-backs which means that we will always have a man spare in attack with this method, and even if an opposing midfielder drops, Partey and Matuidi can push up to sustain the overload. Because we have so much attacking threat we will always find space.
Similarly to our attack, defensively we will always have a spare man due to the energy of the both full-backs, Guerreiro and Pereira. They can: press up to the opposing full-backs, or track the inside forwards. Then the centre-backs can sweep or push up to the opposition's creative centre-attacking midfielders. And then there is our duo of Partey and Matuidi, who have the energy and positional awareness to, with the help of the pressing game from the front 3, overload the opposition’s central midfield and make it impossible for them to play through the middle.
Substitutions:
If Winning: Dahoud for Moura 65’, Switch to a 3-5-2 with more numbers in midfield. Richarlison and Pereira for Mandzukic and Mukiele 75’, Both provide extra legs for the press, with Richarlison and Fekir dropping deeper to help defend knowing that they can dribble the ball further up the pitch on the attack.
If Drawing or Losing: Richarlison for Moura 70’, fresh energy and ideas. Benzema and Golovin for Mandzukic and Mukiele 75’
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Tactics
Page 7 of 20
8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12
posted on 14/10/18
——————————Ter Stegen
Odriozola———Sule—————Rudiger———Castro
———————————Rodri
——————Torreira—————Keita
———Lozano————Kane—————Guedes
Subs: Pope, Gaya, Diallo, Milinkovic-Savic, Brandt, Dybala, Sancho
Captain: Marc Andre Ter Stegen
Corners: Lucas Torreira
Free Kicks: Lucas Torreira
Penalties: Harry Kane
Starting with a mid-low block, so that they can’t find space in behind, a narrow 4-3-3 shape to start with. Instead of harrying the CBs, we close the passing lanes to midfield and create the structural foundations to press anyone that looks to break our lines in our half, taking advantage of having 6 players centrally. The two lines of 3 will form to compact triangles with Rodri and Kane slightly behind their flanking players, keeping DM and CF, and RCM and RW, LCM and LW connected and close together. Kane blocks the passing lane to the DM, with the wingers blocking the easy route to midfield. We can set a trap, either bating their advanced CMs to drop back to pick up possession or forcing their possession into undesirable wide spaces, not allowing them to establish dominance in midfield, the key is to disconnect their attacking players by making it impossible to play through the middle.
If their CMs drop deeper, it allows us to take advantage of better structural organisation, with the ball side CM, winger and Kane all well connected and ready to press the ball carrier from all sides, whilst using their cover shadows to block passing lanes, looking to force errors and win the ball back. If either of Portsmouth’s CMs start positioning themselves deeper alongside the DM then Keita will go and play alongside Kane, using their energy to press and make sure Portsmouth can’t use this tactic to set up easy possession. If the DM gets the ball then Kane turns to press from behind, with Rodri pushing up to limit the space in the central lanes, with the CMs + wingers able to squeeze the centre quickly.
We expect a large portion of their possession to have to go wide. From here we press in triangles using the close connections between the ball side CM and AM to defend the wide area together, cutting off the route back central, whilst Kane positions himself between the two Cbs so they can’t circulate the ball to the other side. As our press moves on to their FBs, Rodri and the far side CM shuffle across, with the far side AM dropping back in to create a line of 4 across the field, allowing us to maintain coverage of the centre, half spaces and far side so that if they do manage to beat the press, we have our midfield line there to slow them down. Winger presses the FB, CM blocks his passing lanes.
The back 4 always maintains close compactness to the midfield, adding to the difficulties in playing through us, and moves across the field in conjunction with the rest of the team. Due to the well drilled midfield and forward lines, our FBs can maintain a strong defensive position off the ball, which means they can always be very quick into the wingers as soon as they shape to receive a pass, keeping them under pressure, not leaving space behind them for the wingers to attack and narrow to the CBs so that when they try cutting inside there’s multiple players to drop them on the floor. Any longer balls or crosses are easy pickings for our CBs, with Sule marking the CF and Rudiger covering.
When we do win it we want to be direct, using the pace of Keita, Guedes and Lozano. Kane will look to drop deep between the lines, drawing their midfielders towards him before releasing team mates into space, with Guedes, Lozano and Keita able to run off him. Our FBs stay deeper in the initial transition, if we do need to pass it between the back four and Rodri to draw in Portsmouth before releasing the CMs and wingers behind their midfield or wingers, we can.
Between the attack and midfield we want to see strong positional play, creating triangles to overload the opposition and using third man runs to break the lines. Eg if a CM moves moved wide in behind the opposition winger, drawing his marker out of the middle, then one winger can drop into the vacated space and the other make a move behind the opposition FB. We have a versatile set of players here which means we can transition to a 4-2-3-1 with Keita able to move into the attack and use his pace to stretch the game. Kane occupies the CBs and will look to be constantly moving vertically to ensure that the CBs have to keep altering their position, eventually this will break their defensive shape. He will then have to use his movement in the box to get his goals. Guedes and Lozano will have a lot of freedom to orchestrate attacks, both can beat men and make good runs behind the opposition defence, both can drop deep and link, both can go wide and create, with plan A using direct balls into them to carry us forward, in particular drifting wide in counters to find space behind the FB, or running directly at them.
Our FBs are going to have freedom to join attacks from wide. They will run from deep where they are harder to pick up, and more difficult to defend than a static winger with his back to goal, drive down the line and get whipped balls into the forwards/ link with the midfielders.
Subs:
If Winning: Gaya for Guedes 70’, can offer cover for Castro as Portsmouth throw more players forward. Milinkovic-Savic and Diallo for Lozano and Keita 75’, 5-4-1
If Drawing: Milinkovic-Savic for Torreira 70’, offers more going forward, and an outlet if needed. Dybala for Guedes 75’, starts to drift across the field and pickup pockets of space between the lines. Sancho for Lozano 80’, 10 minutes to do what he does.
If Losing: Dybala for Torreira 60’, Dybala in behind Kane. Milinkovic-Savic and Sancho for Castro and Odriozola 70, 3-4-3 with Rodri to CB, Milinkovic and Keita in midfield, pushing Lozano and Sancho wide with Guedes and Dybala next to Kane.
posted on 14/10/18
Everton v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Injuries: Maffeo, Januzaj, Gerson, Ings
----------------- Arrizabalaga
Hakimi - Marquinhos - Tah - Shaw
--- Rakitic - Fernandinho - Meyer
---- Di Maria - Immobile - Perisic
Subs: Leno, Vida, Sturaro, Diawara, Ozil, Vitolo, Alcacer
-----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Everton, hopefully our back four will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Arrizabalaga in goal, Marquinhos and Tah at centreback, Hakimi and Shaw at fullback, Rakitic, Fernandinho and Meyer in midfield, Di Maria and Perisic either side of Immobile upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Everton are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Arrizabalaga - 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 Immobile.
Marquinhos/Tah - Marquinhos mark their striker, force them high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Tah to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs 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.
Hakimi/Shaw - Both of you to force the Everton 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 possession, push forward and support Di Maria and Perisic as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Immobile and link with Rakitic and Meyer. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Fernandinho - Our DM today, sit in front of the back four, break up play, watch out for runs from deep from the opposition, when in possession use your range of passing to look for teammates in advanced positions, use Rakitic and Meyer alongside you if you're closed down.
Rakitic/Meyer - Two box to box midfielders today, one either side of Fernandinho at DM. Both of you are required to get back and assist Fernandinho in front of the back four when we don't have the ball, but both with the ability and the freedom to push forward and join the front three, while always leaving at least one of you behind the ball. Look to link with Di Maria, Perisic or Immobile.
Di Maria/Perisic - Both with the trickery to beat the Everton fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Immobile with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Rakitic and Meyer, and capitalise on the space Immobile's presence will create for you.
Immobile - you will be expected to occupy the Everton centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Di Maria or Perisic on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you to create opportunities.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Di Maria, Perisic and Meyer off, Vida, Diawara and Ozil on. Change to 5-3-1-1, Vida an extra CB, midfield trio of Rakitic, Fernandinho and Diawara, with Ozil in the AM role providing support to Immobile upfront.
If drawing: Meyer off, Ozil on. Switch to a 4-2-3-1, Rakitic and Fernandinho in midfield, Ozil to AM behind Immobile. Try and find a winner.
If losing: Tah, Fernandinho and Meyer off, Vitolo, Ozil and Alcacer on. 3-1-4-2, Hakimi - Marquinhos - Shaw at the back, Rakitic the playmaker from deep, Vitolo - Di Maria - Ozil - Perisic behind Immobile and Alcacer upfront. Push for goals.
posted on 14/10/18
------------------------- Ederson
--------- Pavard ------ Van Dijk ------- Umtiti
K.Walker ----- Busquets ----- Koke ---------- B.Mendy
-------------- De Bruyne ------- Griezmann
---------------------- Gabriel Jesus
Subs: Butland, J.Martinez, Ghoulam, Bentancur, Tolisso, Mahrez, Aubameyang
3-5-2, looking to get at this Liverpool side today, pressing intensively initially from the front and ensuring they have to go long with a lack of height in the side. We move Van Dijk to a more central CB role to mark Kane out the game and isolate him throughout.
Busquets and Kokes role today is to allow the others to play, forceful but fair, sit in and play that pass to our creators in the side when we recover possession and always make themselves available for a pass. Koke playing more box to box and using his burst of energy on the ball to mix it up.
When we have possession we control the dynamic, very direct and purposeful. WG-backs push up with the front 3 interchanging and given freedom to play, keep bodies back with Busquets, (at times) Koke and the 3 CB's to prevent quick counters from the opposition.
Key is our quick WG-backs staying very wide and stretching the game, if the opposition look to close them down then we have our creative cm’s/am’s freed up in the middle, making it very difficult for Pool to defend the space.
G.Jesus comes into the side as he's full of energy and great at the press. On the ball takes defenders with him to give KDB and Griezzy space whilst off it look to nick in and give the opposition no time to play, we can utilize Auba's pace and movement late on as a sub today as Liverpool tire.
3-4-2-1 - On the ball:
It starts from the back. Ederson is very able with his hands and feet and should look to find our players in space.
The CB trio are excellent on the ball, very good passing success rates and should look to move the ball into mf quickly. At times collecting short from Ederson and getting their heads up, looking for movement from the attackers and attempting diagonal or long balls into feet, so we can can counter at pace and bypass their mf press.
Pavard & Umtiti should shift slightly wider when on the offense allowing our wing-backs to push up in a bank of 4 in mf.
Busquets and Koke, a midfield pair that will provide plenty of energy and will work their socks off for the side to allow others around them to express themselves. They should look to stamp their authority with their work rate and power looking to take a grip on mf and shielding our defence, oppressing the opposition midfielders and covering every blade of grass out there.
When attacking, Busquets sits just infront of the defence and makes himself available for a pass back. A passing outlet if we are being vigorously pressed whilst also allowing us to create space when working the ball around in triangles, also prevent counter attacks.
De Bruyne & Griezmann will look to play more the AM role and inbetween the lines, roaming in the oppositions half and looking to act as the links between midfield and attack. Picking up pockets of space and using their awareness to dictate the play, running at their backline and using quick pace and incisiveness to commit defenders on the break.
Flanks will be key as we look to expose them in wide areas and create space in midfield.
Two quick & skilful WG-backs in Walker and B.Mendy, need to hug the touchline and provide the width allowing us to stretch the opposition. Always on the move so we can get them in behind and use them as outlets going forward when picking a pass.
Very possession orientated, comfortable playing quick 1-2's and accelerating into space, overlapping often and getting early deliveries into the box for our strikers to attack.
When Liverpool are in possession we will look to initially press from the front looking to prevent them playing out from the back, if they bypass this we then get behind the ball as a unit and form phase two.
Phase two involves forming a rigid structure looking to press the space and dropping off with men behind the ball, only allowing them to play where we want them too, stifle the midfield and stop them from picking their passes into a forward attacker, Van Dijk isolating him throughout.
Essentially a 3-5-2, 5 in mf working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wing-backs then drop off to mark the oppositions wingers and help our CB's to prevent any space being left in behind.
Key is leaving no gaps or space to get in behind, working as a staunch unit so their quick attackers have to come deeper to get involved making their first point of contact with the ball much deeper than they anticipated and notably further away from our final third.
When we have them deep we have more to work with, we can plug at them and tactically foul in areas that will prevent them from playing with any flow, breaking up the game and frustrating the oppoistion.
If we manage to win the ball we must immediately look to counter and hit the opposition hard. Walker & Mendy can come up to support the play and provide the width. The front 3 burst forward.
Subs:
IF WINNING: 70th minute – (3-5-2)
- Tolisso > Koke
- Aubameyang > G.Jesus
- Bentancur > Busquets (80th min)
Compact 3-5-2, we get fresh legs on and keep things solid, Auba used as an outlet to surge forward when possible
IF DRAW: 70th minute – (3-4-3)
- Aubameyang > G.Jesus
- Mahrez > KDB
- Bentancur > Koke (75th min)
3-4-3, stretch the play and look to play more in wider areas at this stage. Mahrez RW, Auba LW and Griezzy CF.
IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- Aubameyang > Pavard
- Mahrez > G.Jesus
- Tolisso > Koke
4-4-2, direct. long balls into the box and constantly looking for the two strikers.
Flood forward and look for an equalizer/winner.
C - van Dijk
FK's - De Bruyne / Griezmann
Corners - De Bruyne
Pens – Griezmann
posted on 14/10/18
--------------------Pickford
Danilo---Kompany---Sane---Rodriguez
-----------Goretzka---Herrera
Malcom---------Aspas--------Costa
------------------Cavani
Lloris, Llorente, Maitland-Niles, Fabregas, Callejon, Wood, Amiri
I am opting for an attacking lineup today, given that we are at home against a Hull side, in what is looking like a must win game against a good side. My aim is to get bodies forward, fashion chances and allow my strong attacking players to bag themselves goals aplenty, whilst having players defensively and in midfield that are capable of marshalling the space and preventing the opposition from creating an abundance of chances.
I have changed goalkeeper today, bringing in Jordan Pickford for Hugo Lloris, who has been having a torrid time of things recently. I expect Pickford to marshall his penalty area well, allowing for us to play the ball out of the back, instead of looking long. When he has the ball in his hands I am hoping that he will be capable of throwing or rolling the ball out to the full backs, to start quick attacks with our direct wide players.
My full backs will be key parts of my play. As I have previously stated, they will be key to us transforming defence into attack, with my goalkeeper looking to distribute the ball to them. They will then charge forward with the ball in their possession, looking to widen the play, to create more space in the middle as players are dragged out of position. Alternatively I also encourage them to take the underlapping option if it becomes available, as both players can be dangerous themselves in goalscoring positions. The key to this system is how they interact with our wingers. Defensively, I expect them to marshall the wide positions, forcing the opposition wingers out wide and keeping the ball there, until a time when they can win it back and get it forward.
My central defenders are a tough unit. They are both physical players who can dominate aerially. I expect them to work as a team, with Sane getting close to the opposition attackers, using his strength to win long balls forward, whilst Kompany bosses the space behind, not allowing for them to turn Sane. If they do then he will pounce and win the ball back for our team. I don’t want either player spending a long time on the ball. When they get possession they will look to distribute forward to the central midfielders or out to the full backs, who will react in the same way as they do when fed the ball by the keeper.
Just like Sane and Kompany, Goretzka and Herrera will work as a team together. I expect Goretzka to be the playmaker of the two when on the ball, sitting deep to control the area just in front of the defence. When he gets on the ball he will look to spread the play, or find the runs in behind of Aspas, Malcom and Costa. Herrera will serve as the meat of the midfield, getting stuck in and hastling and harrying the opposition advanced midfielders, using his boundless energy to not allow them a moment’s rest. When we have the ball in the attacking third, both players should push up, as they can both be a danger in and around the attacking third. This means they need to be alert and get back into defensive positions quickly. They will not be afraid to take bookings for the team to end opposition break aways if needed.
Malcom and Costa are the standard Arsenal wide players. I trust these two to use their pace and skill to threaten the opposition defence on a frequent and regular basis. They should be supplied with plenty of help, as Danilo and Rodriguez get forward to support the attacks. They will alternate between pulling the defenders and midfield out wide, creating space for Aspas in the hole, or charging directly at the defence, to put the opposition centre backs on the back foot. Both players are a threat in these areas, and will look to get low balls across the dangerous positions, whis suit the poachering tendencies of Aspas and Cavani. I will also allow them to swap flanks during the course of the game, adding further confusion for the opposition defenders to deal with.
Aspas is sitting in the attacking midfield position, but rest assured, he is not playing as a number 10 playmaker. He sits there as a shadow striker, a slightly reserved threat, who will use his pace and running skills to push beyond Cavani and make late runs into the box. I think this will allow him a bit more time and space when he does get into these positions. He will also be looking for space in the defence to make intelligent runs and get in behind the defence, making it even harder to mark, as he will be varying his movement.
Cavani is the spearhead of our attack, serving as the large physical presence to contrast with the nimble and fast Aspas, Malcom and Costa. He, like Sane, poses a threat in the air, but most of today will be played on the deck. Cavani will press high up the pitch, not allowing Hull’s defenders time on the ball to play it out from the back, forcing them either into going long or into making simple mistakes. He will look to cause havoc in the box, occupying the attention of the opposition defence by getting into good positions, allowing for space to be created for Aspas, who will push into good positions. Most importantly, Cavani will also carve out chances for himself, looking to continue his good run of form and bag more goals.
Substitutions
If winning
Malcom off and Jose Callejon on 70 mins
Fresh legs on the right hand side of the attack to maintain our non-stop attacking football. Callejon still has a lot of pace to offer, and will look to make direct runs at the defence.
Iago Aspas off and Nadiem Amiri on 80 mins
Perhaps a slight let up in our non-stop approach. Amiri may be a more reserved player than Aspas, but he will still look to get into threatening positions. He will also look to dictate the play and get on the ball more than Aspas did.
Riccardo Rodriguez off and Ainsley Maitland-Niles on 87 mins
Perhaps a bit of timewasting on our behalf, but AMN can slot in nicely at the LB position, allowing us that bit of extra pace to attack the opposition defence down that side in the last few minutes of the game, to support the no doubt flagging Costa.
If losing/drawing
Leon Goretzka off and Cesc Fabregas on 70 mins
An attacking change as we bring on a more attack minded midfield player to better control the possession of the ball. Fabregas will look to play in a more advanced role than Goretzka did, trying to find pockets of space in a more conventional number 10 role.
Danilo off and Christopher Wood on 80 mins
A shift of formation for the last ten minutes, to the following
----------------------Pickford
--------Kompany---Sane----Rodriguez
-------------Fabregas---Herrera
Malcom--------------------------------Costa
---------------Aspas------Cavani
----------------------Wood
To allow us to get more bodies in the box in the hunt for a goal. Got to go big or go home, right?
Riccardo Rodriguez off and Nadiem Amiri on 85 mins
Another change of formation as Amiri comes on. We shift to a two at the back, with Herrera patrolling the area just in front. Amiri and Fabregas occupy the roles in between Costa and Malcom, looking to get the ball into the opposition penalty area as much as possible.
posted on 16/10/18
Bournemouth Tactics: Week 11
Captain: Tarkowski
Vice Captain: Walace
Team:
--------------------Ward
Bustos--Tarkowski—Rabello--Saracchi
-------------------Walace
--------------Paredes---Paquetá
Pussetto-----------------------------Everton
----------------------Pedro
SUBS: Rossi, Murilo, Militão, Wendel, Vargas, González, Rodríguez
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: Ward is a big mobile keeper and very agile. 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: Walace 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. Paredes and Paquetá will play just in front of Walace. Paredes will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Paquetá 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 Pussetto and Everton 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 Paquetá, Paredes and Pedro 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 Paredes may sit a bit deeper allowing Paquetá 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.
Pedro 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: Paquetá, Everton or Pussetto with Tarkowski, Rabello, Walace and Pedro to offer an aerial threat. Paquetá and Everton (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Pedro
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Murilo for Rabello, Rodríguez for Pedro and Wendel for Paredes, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 80 minutes) Vargas for Paredes and Rodríguez for Pussetto. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Pussetto and Vargas offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
----------------Walace
Vargas------- Paquetá ----Everton
---------Pedro --------Rodríguez
posted on 19/10/18
Man City v Tottenham Hotspur
------------------------ Courtois --------------------------
S.Aurier ------ Boateng ----- Hummels -- T.Hernandez
-------------- M.Verratti ----- L.Alberto ----------------
M.Asensio ----------- C.Eriksen -------------- A.Martial
---------------------- Timo Werner -----------------------
Subs:
A.McCarthy, M.Alonso, E.Bailly, E.Dier, M.Gotze, L.Bailey, M.Arnautovic
Captain: Hummels
Free Kicks: Eriksen
Penalties: Aguero
Corners: Eriksen
Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim for 3 points. Our three AM’s in support of Werner will be key components to this style of play as we feel we pose threats from all angles with plenty of goals in our lineup. Verratti and Alberto offer great quality on the ball from a slightly deeper position as they both possess a fantastic range of passing, able to break the lines and play that killer pass in to our attacking quartet. We will look to dictate the play and frustrate the opposition when in possession, continually moving them around, making them chase the ball by switching flanks. Our front four are firing on all cylinders and we look to supply them with plenty of ammunition. Werner making constant runs in behind with Asensio and Martial causing havoc on the flanks whilst Eriksen pulls the strings through the middle.
Whilst the opposition have some dangerous players we will look to significantly limit their impact by retaining possession, we will force them to track back or risk leaving their defence exposed when we push forward in numbers. We aim to make things uncomfortable for them and we feel that limiting their ability to have the ball in attacking areas will severely limit any threat posed. When they are in possession our wingers drop in as we play a compact 4-5-1 formation. The aim of the game will be to break at speed with our wide players offering an immediate outlet when we win back possession, turning defence into attack in the blink of an eye.
We aim to play on the front foot, hit them early to take the lead and then exploit the space in behind as they push forward. We start fast, high intensity and pressing from the front, putting them under immediate pressure we can force an early mistake.
Defence:
We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with experience and quality we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. We have two strong and aerially imposing CB’s to deal with the threat posed by their forwards. We will look to be dominant at the back as we aim to take the sting out of the opposition early on and play on the front foot. Asensio and Martial will both drift infield taking the opposition FB’s which will create space for FB’s to exploit, they will at all times be looking for the runs of Werner whose movement and finishing is deadly. However only one will push forward at a time to ensure we keep a balanced defence and have plenty of cover to snuff out any opposition counter attack. Keep the wingers down the line and do not let them come infield.
If the opposition play one up top then Hummels will mark, strong and aggressive we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. Boateng will sweep up and cover in behind, a fantastic reader at the back he will also be the one to bring the ball out from defence. We fancy them to play Mandzukic up top and feel Hummels and Boateng are perfectly suited in dealing with his physical presence and aerial threat.
Midfield:
Eriksen will look to dominate the midfield, a fantastic player who in tandem with Verratti will be key to our style of play with their quick passing. Keep the ball moving, continually recycling possession and making the opposition chase shadows. Don’t force the issue as we aim to run them down, tired legs = tired minds and we feel that this will lead to plenty of openings as we continually move them out of shape. Verratti will play the holding role, strong in the tackle he will add cover in front of our defence whilst having the ability to spread the play from deep. Alberto will look to break between the lines, picking the ball up in CM and pushing forward alongside Eriksen to form a dual AM threat when on the attack. Eriksen plays ahead of them in the AM role, a gifted technician he will be looking to create opportunities all afternoon. With the runs of Asensio, Martial and Werner to pick out we feel that he will thrive. An assist master we also encourage him to go for goal should the opportunity arise, we anticipate the opposition sitting deep and an Eriksen thunderbolt from distance is always on the cards when given space
Forwards:
Frightening pace, electrifying dribbling and deadly finishing, we feel our front three have it all. Our wide players will look to take the opposition on at will. Asensio and Martial both have license to cut in from the flanks and go for goal, we encourage them to utilise their terrific pace and go at the opposition. Draw in the oppositions CB’s which in turn creates space for Werner to be slipped in on goal. Both will look to make jinking runs into the box where they can draw a foul or drive to the byline and whip the ball into Werner to finish. Both wingers have fantastic work rate and will be a constant outlet as they make runs in behind when our playmakers are in possession. We press from the front, put their defenders under pressure and force the mistake. Asensio in particular will look to come infield and shoot from distance. The wingers will push high up onto the defence and we very much play with a front three when on the attack. Werner plays through the middle, a player with fantastic movement and real predator. Immediately look to get into the box when we’re on the attack as we go for goals.
Subs;
If winning:
60 mins: Luis Alberto off, Dier on.
75 mins: Martial off, Bailly on. We tighten up with a strong defensive unit as we see the game out with a solid back 5 and defensive midfield cover.
If drawing:
60 mins: Luis Alberto off, Bailey on. Asensio comes in at AM forming an attacking midfield trio with Bailey and Martial all in support of Werner.
75 mins: Verratti off, Gotze on. Extra creativity in CM as we look to carve out an opening.
85 mins: Werner off, Arnautovic on. A new threat for the finale, Arnautovic brings his fine form and physical presence up top. Shoot on sight whilst his hold up play will create additional space allowing Asensio, Martial and Bailey to get in for the winner.
If losing:
55 mins: Luis Alberto off, Bailey on.
65 mins: Aurier off, Arnautovic on. We revert to 3-4-3 with Arnautovic, Werner and Martial up top as we go for goals, goals, goals.
posted on 20/10/18
Comment deleted by Article Creator
posted on 20/10/18
------------------------ Oblak -------------------------
M.Ginter ----- Stones ----- Varane ----- C.Biraghi
----------------------- Fabinho ------------------------
----------------- Pjanic ----- Pogba ------------------
Mbappe -------------------------------------- Neymar
-------------------- Lewandowski --------------------
Meret, Henrichs, de Jong, Zielinski, Bernardeschi, Kluivert, Rodrigo
Possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, Pjanic, Fabinho & Pogba just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and the front 3 in and around the half way line, Lewandowski slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow Pjanic and Pogba to dictate play, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.
Stones picks up the CF, Varane spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly and be strong, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly when we have possession, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, fullbacks must keep the wingers quiet, stop them and we stop a lot of there attacks They will look to keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. When they attack, only one at a time this will mostly be Biraghi,as to not let ourselves be exposed, they drive down the line in support of the wingers. the two always make themselves available to the wingers. If Biraghi gets caught up field I want Fabinho to drift to the left and Biraghi to make his way to midfield to cover I want both Varane and Stones to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and Fabinho sitting back.
In the centre of the pitch are Pjanic, Fabinho and Pogba. Fabinho our deepest player sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, Pjanic and Pogba must be disciplined and lend a hand to stop them coming through. Fabinho must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. Pjanic slightly higher up the pitch, he will stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, make our midfield very difficult to pass through, protect our defence and Fabinho as best as possible and again in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Pogba as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Pogba is essential to our style of play, he is the link(alongside Pjanic) between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in a 10 role and look for the Pjanic pass. he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.
Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Neymar and Mbappe will cause them problems as they switch around at times, will see us make their defenders move out of position to follow their player, thus allowing Pogba to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Lewandowski who has the power and ability to beat any defender and the other winger who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Lewandowski right on top of the young goalkeeper to put a lot of pressure on him, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game.
Captain - Varane
Pens - Lewandowski
Corners - Pjanic
Free Kicks - Pjanic
Subs
Losing -
70 Mins - Bernardeschi for Pogba, he goes to RW and Mbappe up front 4-4-2
80 Mins - Kluivert for Biraghi, Ginter to RCB(3 at the back), we go 343 with Kluivert on the left and Neymar to LCF
Winning -
70 Mins - de Jong for Pogba, sits in a tight midfield 3 defensively strong
80 Mins - Bernardeschi for Lewandowski, Mbappe up top deschi to the right
85 Mins - Henrichs for Neymar, sit in a tight mid 5 and lets see this out
Drawing -
70 Mins - Zielinski for Pogba, straight swap fresh legs
80 Mins - Bernardeschi for Lewandowski, he goes RW and Mbappe up top
posted on 20/10/18
---------------------- McCarthy ------------------------
Bellerin ----- Bonucci ----- Chiellini ----- Phil Max
------------------------ Danilo --------------------------
---------------- A.Vidal ----- R.Neves ----------------
F.Chiesa ------------------------------------ Rashford
----------------------- M.Icardi -------------------------
Letica, Sidibe, Blind, Barkley, B.Traore, Shaawary, Morata
Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team from the front and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially Vidal, Neves and Danilo as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards.
Bellerin and Max have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, one always staying back so we will have a back 3, they will bomb down the line supporting the wingers, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support Icardi. They look to play one twos with the attacking midfield 3 which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Bonucci the more mobile and quicker CB will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Chiellini alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, bot very powerful defenders, dominate in the air and good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Both up for corners, fullbacks and Danilo stay back. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both CBs are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..
Danilo's primary role is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defence where the opposition’s number 10 will likely to be operating whilst also being aware when the full-backs had pushed forward.Take care of of the No 10/SS is also a main focus, stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him.
Vidal is our box-to-box midfielder and has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for team mates, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running they are expected to do. The box-to-box midfielder is more likely to be found on the side of the pitch where the full-back that is less efficient in the attacking third plays to provide balance on both flanks. Neves main responsibility is to create chances for the three attackers in front of him. He will often find himself the furthest forward of the three midfielders and sometimes even in the number 10 role if the correct situation arises. The main requirement of Neves is creativity; he needs to be able to play a pass that penetrates the opposition’s defense or dictates the direction of the attack These three should work well together and between them have everything a midfield needs.
Wingers are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos, using Neves to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using Neves to get into danger areas. Both wingers have a fantastic forward to aim for in Icardi so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack.Icardi will get plenty chances, however he must put away there side who will be solid at the back, however I want to target the slower of the two/three with the aid of Neves and the wingers. Get into positions that he can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. He can score from various angles/ranges with hopefully a few crosses coming in he can get up and above defenders for. Can hold it up and look for runners, in particular Rashford, Chiesa and Neves will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side if he cant go for goal himself. But especially look for Neves as he times his runs perfectly so a little touch back to him allows him to go for goal.
We must defend as a team tho, from the front, so wingers track back and cover the fullbacks, even just to stop them supporting the wingers, we must drive into them and pressurize them into mistakes
Captain - Chiellini
Pens - Icardi
FK's - Neves
Corners - Wingers
Subs
Losing
70 Mins - Bertand Traore for Vidal, go 4-4-2
80 Mins - Blind and Shaawary for Bellerin and Max, Blind to a 3 man defence, Shaawary to LM and Rashford to LCF
Winning -
70 Mins - Blind for Vidal, fresh legs and help out defensively
80 Mins - Sidibe for Max, a more defence minded LB
85 Mins - Traore for Icardi, run things down
Drawing -
70 Mins - Traore for Chiesa, Barkley for Vidal fresh legs and more attacking threat from the middle
----------------------------------------------------------------------
posted on 20/10/18
-------------------------Perin
Vrsaljko---Milenkovic ------David Luiz----Jorge
----------------Rudy-----------Kampl
---Thauvin----------Ziyech---------------Rebic
-------------------------Jovic
Subs: Müller, Caleta-Car, Eiting, Laimer, Lallana, Forsberg, Mariano
Our defensive unit consists of Nikola Milenkovic and David Luiz paired up at centre-back, Sime Vrsaljko at right-back and Jorge at left-back, with Sebastian Rudy and Kevin Kampl as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Rudy and Kampl we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Kampl can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Rudy can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Kampl’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Kampl running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Sebastian Rudy.
A holding midfielder through and through, Rudy is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Rudy such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Florian Thauvin, Hakim Ziyech and Ante Rebic as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luka Jovic as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Rudy or Kampl, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Vrsaljko and Jorge can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Rudy and Kampl can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Florian Thauvin and Ante Rebic, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Hakim Ziyech our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Ziyech is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer who will look to play Thauvin, Rebic and Jovic in via fast passing combinations.
An out and out explosive centre-forward, Jovic is known for the abundance of pace and power that he possesses. Jovic has a strong and sturdy physical frame that he’ll use well to bully the opposition defence.
Jovic has a fierce right-foot and is an equally strong header of the ball too, which will make him a huge threat in and around the penalty box. With his pace combined with his dribbling ability and the power that he possesses, Jovic will brush aside defenders and run past them with nonchalance.
While he is explosive and dangerous with the ball at his feet, what makes Jovic even more exciting is his excellent movement off the ball and the ability to make those smart runs in behind the defenders.
Subs on 75 mins
Mariano on for Jovic and Forsberg on for Rebic
Lots of fresh legs and pace to trouble the opposition for a late goal regardless of the score line
I’ll leave to chance
posted on 20/10/18
Tactics:
MANCHESTER CITY vs Tottenham Hotspur
Injuries:
Arkadiusz Milik 28/02/94 Poland CF FG
Aleksandr Golovin 30/05/96 22 Russia CAM FG
Axel Witsel 12/01/89 29 Belgium CM FG
Gelson Martins
Line Up:
-----------------------------Rico---------------------------------
------------Caldara----Zagadou----Romagnoli----------------
Pereira-----------Partey-------Matuidi-----------Guerreiro
---------Moura---------Mandzukic---------Fekir----------
Subs: Forster; Mukiele; Wober; Dahoud; Richarlison; Benzema; Lingard
Captain: Matuidi
Penalties: Mandzukic
Free Kicks: Fekir
Corners: Fekir
Game Plan:
We have been scouting the Spurs midfield and, while there is some technical brilliance in there, it is not the most physically capable and we will be looking to exploit that weakness with our powerful centre-mid duo. We want to force Spurs into playing narrow and compact, where we can link up on the flanks and expose their defence with fast, direct attacking in numbers. The 3-4-3 formation requires great athleticism, as well as discipline and, fortunately, we have both in abundance.
We will look to triple mark whomever has the ball in any area of the pitch – with one player closing down the ball, one player cutting off space and the last player marking the closest man. By triple-marking at all times, we not only increase the effectiveness with which we can apply pressure to the opposition but we also reduce the amount each individual player has to run, thus allowing them to keep the high tempo game running for longer than if we were single man pressing.
By pressing high and in numbers we can minimise the space in which Spurs can play. When Spurs play from the back, Fekir and Moura will look to intercept the space in between the two centre backs and cut off the option of a cross-field ball while Mandzukic will close down the man with the ball. If the right-sided centre back has the ball then our left winger will close down the right back while our midfielders will press closer as well, and vice versa with the other side of the pitch. The aim here is to limit the playing space our opponents have, which forces them to move the ball back to the keeper, move the ball long or move it in to the centre where our CMs, our wingers and our forwards can close down the space quickly and force them in to hasty decisions. If they manage to move the ball out wide, then our full backs will look to push up (depending on which side of the pitch the ball is on) to close down the space while our winger on that side challenges for the ball and the closest centre mid closes down the passing lanes.
The formation itself is actually more of a 3-4-2-1 formation. Starting at the back, the three defenders are Caldara, Zagadou and Romagnoli along with the mobile and energetic pairing of Partey and Matuidi. Width is provided by the wing-backs Guerreiro and Pereira. Ahead lie the mobile unit of Fekir, Moura and Mandzukic. Fekir and Moura are natural inside forwards and Mandzukic can drop into space or offer himself as a target man.
Rico is in goal for us today and he can play well as a sweeper keeper, he has the pace and awareness to come out of goal to sweep up balls over the top and he is confident at claiming crosses and high balls, not to mention being a terrific shot stopper. When he gets the ball, he will look to clear it out to the flanks instantly, to initiate a quick breakaway in the area that we will have more players than our opponents.
Should Spurs opt to go long with the ball, we have 3 tall CBs all capable of winning the aerial duel with the CF, while also having players to cover the 2nd ball. The idea is to compact the centre of the pitch, with the 3 CBs covering all space through the middle to stop any quick interplay and to nullify any central creative players. The striker is, obviously, out- numbered up front. The wing backs can mark the space out wide while the two defenders on either side of the central defender in the back three can mark the half spaces. All our CBs are intelligent and read the game well, playing zonally to track the central runs made by the opposition.
The movement from the forwards is enabled by Zagadou who essentially plays as a sweeper in front of the other two centre-backs. He can start attacks by bringing the ball into midfield, or he can drop back into defence to intercept passes. When building out from the back, the back three split and stretch as wide as they can in order to break the press as the pressing team has a greater distance to cover. All 3 CBs in the side are good on the ball and have played at full back, so are fine with stretching wide. The two wing backs position themselves high up the pitch to create more space for the back three. If the opposition press high on the three centre-backs then the left or right centre back moves into a conventional full back position.
Pereira and Guerreiro will push forward to deny the opposition full-backs space and will seek to create an overload. By creating this numerical advantage in the opponent’s half, Fekir and Moura can attack the channels between full-back and centre-back.
Alternatively, the wing-backs can cut inside and swap positions with the inside-forwards. Mandzukic is the focal point and he will occupy at least one of the opposing centre-backs which means that we will always have a man spare in attack with this method, and even if an opposing midfielder drops, Partey and Matuidi can push up to sustain the overload. Because we have so much attacking threat we will always find space.
Similarly to our attack, defensively we will always have a spare man due to the energy of the both full-backs, Guerreiro and Pereira. They can: press up to the opposing full-backs, or track the inside forwards. Then the centre-backs can sweep or push up to the opposition's creative centre-attacking midfielders. And then there is our duo of Partey and Matuidi, who have the energy and positional awareness to, with the help of the pressing game from the front 3, overload the opposition’s central midfield and make it impossible for them to play through the middle.
Substitutions:
If Winning: Dahoud for Moura 65’, Switch to a 3-5-2 with more numbers in midfield. Richarlison and Mukiele for Mandzukic and Pereira 75’, Both provide extra legs for the press, with Richarlison and Fekir dropping deeper to help defend knowing that they can dribble the ball further up the pitch on the attack.
If Drawing or Losing: Richarlison for Moura 70’, fresh energy and ideas. Benzema and Lingard for Mandzukic and Pereira 75’
posted on 21/10/18
BRUM VS villa
-------------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Hysaj------------Skriniar---------------Maguire------------Chilwell
-----------------------Kessie----------------Tousart-----------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neres----------------------------------------------------------------------Zaha
------------------------------------Philipp----------------------------------------
-----------------------------------Batshuayi-------------------------------------
Subs - Lunin, Ruben Dias, Ndidi, Cristante, Pellegrini, Adama, Dembele
CAPTAIN - SKRINIAR
CK'S - ZAHA
FK'S - ZAHA
PENALTIES - ZAHA
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo dont 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
Lafont is a quality young keeper. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Skriniar and Maguire bring a whole lot of experience and pace to the defence. Maguire will use his experience to marshal the defence and Skriniar will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Tousart will be covering for them when they go attacking.
Defence Mids
Toudart + Kessie
Tousart will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings or play a through ball from deep to our wingers.
Kessie will play as a b2b mid and will be able to help both in attack and defence as he has a lot of stamina. He will be making run's forward and helping our attackers with quick passes and penetrating runs from deep and using his physical strength to win the ball back from the oppo. When not in possession of the ball I want him to sit alongside Tousart in the middle and protect the defence.
Wingers
Zaha + Neres
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. They are 2 young and hungry players and I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Zaha will be looking to cut in from the right and Neres likewise onto his 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 or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of our fullbacks and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. Hysaj and Chilwell are no slouches attacking wise so use them! If you can cut in onto your stronger foot, don't be afraid to shoot from range as you both have the ability to score from long range. If there is no space to do so then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Bats to get his head on. 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
Maximilian Philipp
Philipp will be playing just behind Batshuayi 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.
Striker
Michy 'Batman' Batshuayi
Bats will look to use his strength to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and hold the ball up for Zaha/Neres/Philipp to make infield runs ahead of you.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Dembele for Tousart, Adama for Neres and Cristante for Philipp to bring some more pace on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212.
--------------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Hysaj-------------Skriniar-----------Maguire------------Chilwell
-----------------------------------Kessie------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adama------------------------------------------------------------------Zaha
------------------------------------Cristante------------------------------------
--------------------Batshuayi--------------Dembele-------------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Philipp and put on Dias in CM. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Adama on for Neres and Dembele for Bats.
------------------------------------Lafont--------------------------------
Hysaj--------Skriniar------Maguire------Dias------Chilwell
-----------------------Kessie------------Tousart----------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------Adama---------------------------------------------Zaha---------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------Dembele---------------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Adama on for Neres
Ndidi on for Tousart
Dembele on for Batshuayi
Fresh legs to bring on.
posted on 21/10/18
NEWCASTLE 4-3-3
___________Alisson
Azpi____Alder___Godin___Robbo
__________Jorginho
________Milner___Silva
Salah______Suarez________Mane
SUBS: Reus, Radja, Lukaku, Alli, N’Zonzi, James, Bobby
Captain: Diego Godin
Penalties: Luis Suarez
Corners: David Silva
Freekicks: Luis Suarez
Crossing Freekick: David Silva
The formation deployed today is so that we gain as much control as possible higher up he pitch. We expect to have more of the ball so patience is key. We also expect the four behind the striker to drift around a bit, getting into positions where their natural play can cause damage. The striker up front presses when we don’t have the ball and the entire team will support him cut passing lanes to help win the ball higher up. The quality of our players will allow us to break through the oppositions press. When we have the ball we will want to attract the press and use the spaces that they open up to attack.
Full backs will get forward when the opportunity arises. Our full backs are good at feeding our forward line with their ability on the ball and we aim to utilize that with their ability to get up the pitch and tactical arareness. We also need our full backs to widen the pitch for us. Our centre halves are good on the ball, and a long punt every now and then to utilize our pace out wide is encouraged. Our right back will also tuck in to help solidify the team.
The regista will drop in to form a back three so that the centre backs can split wide to push the full backs general position higher up in line with the midfielders (and wide forwards engage their back line along with the striker). In doing so we create a four man midfield to overpower their midfield. This will allow our midfield to be flexible, if one of their midfielders steps forward, one of ours will move into the space they vacated. The regista will be the link between our defence and midfield and because of the way he plays, he will draw the opponents forward towards him to attack the ball, pulling their team’s lines apart. This will create more spaces between the lines for our midfield and forward lines to move into. The right centre mid will be the more defensive one in his box to box role, closing down space and cutting passing lanes with his incredible interception ability. Playing alongside the regista will give him less areas of the pitch to cover, and shorter distance needed to win the ball back to start the next attack. Both centre mids will float between the lines during the attacking phase just behind our forwards.
By having our wide forwards up front when we have the ball it will effectively create space out wide. We would expect our full backs to sometimes go infield to collect the ball from the keeper, while one of the midfielders goes wide so when he receives the ball he will have time to look up and pick passes as the opposition midfield will be reluctant to press which will leave a man free in midfield. This can be done by a midfielder too, dropping deep to create a free man in the first line with time on the ball, ping it straight to the striker who can lay it off to the other onrushing midfielder.
If short passing options aren’t available the passing range and accuracy of our keeper will safely transfer the ball forwards via our full backs, wherever they are on the pitch. The keeper can also dink the ball into space for the striker or wide forward to control taking out 6 or 7 opposition players in the process.
The striker’s main role will be to create space for the wide forwards. He will drop deep into a ten to drag defenders out and create space for our wide forwards to run into. This will tie into our quick short passing which is aimed at dragging their players out of position and create space between their lines. Our team will always recycle the ball back to the regista to keep possession and to keep the ball moving.
When we don’t have the ball we will expect our four behind the striker to drop into a 4-5-1 in support of our regista and right centre mid. We will also create triangles to trap the opposition players that have the ball, cutting the passing lanes and others putting pressure on players that might receive the ball. We stop the oppositions rhythm and force them into mistakes with our pressure. To stop their counter attacks after we lose the ball, three players will swarm the ball carrier before he can get his head up to play. If they beat the immediate press when the team’s main goal is to push their play wide where they can do the least damage. Our midfielders are an integral part to our play, when we win the ball back we will create space and time for them with our team shape. There will be times when we are under the cosh and will have the option of deploying a bowl shaped 5 at the back, with the right centre mid dropping in to make closing down the opponents very effective.
Subs
70 mins: Radja comes on for Silva, our legs will start to tire, so will theirs, Radja will add box to box ability and energy late in the game.
75 mins: Bobby comes on for Suarez, a different style of forward play for the opposition to think about.
If winning 80 mins: N’Zonzi comes on for Jorginho to close out the game. He is capable in deep midfield alongside Radja in a 4-2-3-1.
If losing/drawing 80 mins: Lukaku comes on for Jorginho and play 2 up front.
posted on 21/10/18
-------------------Buffon
Florenzi----Sokratis----Verthongen----Luis
------------------Brozovic
------------Rabiot-------Kovacic
Lamela-------------------------------Son
------------------Lacazette
Subs
Strakosha, Retsos, Cucurella, Locatelli, Inaki, Gameiro, Mkhi
Buffon is a commanding presence at the back, when he calls for a ball, the defence know he will take control, they have complete confidence in each other and stops those little split second doubts which could lead to a chance.
Verthongen is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counters, When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out, they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style.


For the full backs the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly.

 Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who to go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their high energy, all action styles to get themselves around the middle of the pitch, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up, looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the attackers to drag the opposition defensive players out of position. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Both wingers today will be looking will be to drift around when deeper players are in possession, looking to combine with the other attacking players to get little areas of space before using their pace and trickery respectively to drift between the CB and FB and get in behind them. When they are on the ball the emphasis will be more on cutting inside with the occasional long shot to test the keeper, and only occasionally putting in crosses, getting involved in a fast intricate style of passing with the centre mids and Gameiro, looking to create the passing triangles which will just take players out of the game. They should also look to run at players as they will be cautious not to give away a set piece. When the opposite winger has the ball, the one without the ball should look to find space between the CB and FB to add an extra body in the box. When defending, they should be stopping the passing lines to the full backs primarily, then focus on ensuring our full backs dont get outnumbered.


When Lacazette is attacking, he will look to constantly drift around the defenders looking to get himself a bit of space enough for him to get the ball and pass it along to another attacker or face up the defenders and take them on. When running onto a ball, He will also be looking to use his reactions to get ahead and then use his strength to cut in front of the defender, causing them to either stop their forward momentum completely, or make the foul.
When defending, he will be working with the wingers to cut off the passing lines for their CB's, forcing them or the keeper to launch it long, then using his tireless energy reserves to work back and press their centre mids.


Set Pieces


Corners - Kovacic takes the corners, most of the time looking to have the ball at an attackable height around 8-10 yards out between the posts, the FB's stay back to prevent counters, the CB's and Lacazette work in a group to make little blocks and cross-runs to lose a marker so 1 or 2 can get a run at the ball, Son and Lamela flit around away from the main attacking group looking to pounce on mistimed touches and flicks around the area. Rabiot looks to limit the opposition keeper from moving too far off his line, looking to take a defender with him to create less space for the keeper and one less man in the main action area. Brozovic takes a position just outside the box to pick up weak clearances and go for the odd thundercunt, as well as occasionally providing the short option to draw defenders out of the box.




Free Kicks - Lamela takes Direct FK's
Penalties - Lacazette is the designated taker.
Subs



If Winning


70 mins - Mkhi for Son - The wingers tuck back, but look to get out quickly and counter if the opposition over-commit for a route back into the game.



82 + 86 Mins - Locatelli for Rabiot and Inaki for Lamela - Actively time waste and really frustrate the opposition.



If Drawing
70 Mins - Mkhi for Kovacic - add a bit more urgency into attacks, show the opposition we are going for the win.
If Losing



67 Mins - Gameiro, Mkhi and Retsos for Fred, Luis and Florenzi - switch to a 3-5-2 with emphasis on the wings backs acting as wingers and just pile forward in numbers.
In the event of a red card, got to a 4-4-1 formation, sub off Brozovic and get on a replacement for the position which was sent off.
posted on 21/10/18
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v Liverpool
Injuries: Mina, Hakimi, Januzaj, Benkovic
----------------- Arrizabalaga
Maffeo - Marquinhos - Tah - Shaw
------ Sturaro - Diawara - Rakitic
------ Di Maria - Alcacer - Perisic
Subs: Leno, Vida, Strinic, Fernandinho, Ozil, Vitolo, Immobile
-----------------
A tough but winnable game today against Liverpool, hopefully our back four will keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-3-3 today, Arrizabalaga in goal, Marquinhos and Tah at centreback, Maffeo and Shaw at fullback, Sturaro, Diawara and Rakitic in midfield, Di Maria and Perisic either side of Alcacer upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Liverpool are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Arrizabalaga - 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 Alcacer.
Marquinhos/Tah - Marquinhos mark their striker, force them high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Tah to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and their AM making runs 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.
Maffeo/Shaw - Both of you to force the Liverpool 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 possession, push forward and support Di Maria and Perisic as they will try to run inside the fullback and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Alcacer and link with Rakitic and Sturaro. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Diawara - Our DM today, sit in front of the back four, break up play, watch out for runs from deep from the opposition, when in possession use your range of passing to look for teammates in advanced positions, use Rakitic and Sturaro alongside you if you're closed down.
Rakitic/Sturaro - Two box to box midfielders today, one either side of Diawara at DM. Both of you are required to get back and assist Diawara in front of the back four when we don't have the ball, but both with the ability and the freedom to push forward and join the front three, while always leaving at least one of you behind the ball. Look to link with Di Maria, Perisic or Immobile.
Di Maria/Perisic - Both with the trickery to beat the Liverpool fullback and get crosses in, you will also have our fullback overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Immobile with chances and also provide yourself with chances. Link up with Rakitic and Sturaro, and capitalise on the space Alcacer's presence will create for you.
Alcacer - you will be expected to occupy the Liverpool centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to interchange with Di Maria or Perisic on occasion. Try and link with the two alongside you to create opportunities.
------------------
Subs 70 mins;
If winning: Di Maria, Sturaro and Perisic off, Vida, Fernandinho and Ozil on. Change to 5-3-1-1, Vida an extra CB, midfield trio of Rakitic, Fernandinho and Diawara, with Ozil in the AM role providing support to Alcacer upfront.
If drawing: Sturaro and Alcacer off, Ozil and Immobile on. Switch to a 4-2-3-1, Rakitic and Diawara in midfield, Ozil to AM behind Immobile. Try and find a winner.
If losing: Tah, Diawara and Sturaro off, Vitolo, Ozil and Immobile on. 3-1-4-2, Maffeo - Marquinhos - Shaw at the back, Rakitic the playmaker from deep, Vitolo - Di Maria - Ozil - Perisic behind Immobile and Alcacer upfront. Push for goals.
posted on 21/10/18
------------------------- Ederson
--------- Pavard ------ Van Dijk ------- Umtiti
K.Walker ----- Busquets ----- Koke ---------- Ghoulam
-------------- De Bruyne ------- Griezmann
---------------------- Gabriel Jesus
Subs: Butland, Otamendi, J.Martinez, Bentancur, Lemar, Mahrez, Aubameyang
3-5-2, looking to get at this Newcastle side today, pressing intensively initially from the front and ensuring they have to go long with a lack of height in the side. We move Van Dijk to a more central CB role to mark Suarez out the game and isolate him throughout.
Busquets and Koke's role today is to allow the others to play, forceful but fair, sit in and play that pass to our creators in the side when we recover possession and always make themselves available for a pass. Koke playing more box to box and using his burst of energy on the ball to mix it up.
When we have possession we control the dynamic, very direct and purposeful. WG-backs push up with the front 3 interchanging and given freedom to play, keep bodies back with Busquets, (at times) Koke and the 3 CB's to prevent quick counters from the opposition.
Key is our quick WG-backs staying very wide and stretching the game, if the opposition look to close them down then we have our creative cm’s/am’s freed up in the middle, making it very difficult for Newcastle to defend the space.
G.Jesus comes into the side as he's full of energy and great at the press. On the ball takes defenders with him to give KDB and Griezzy space whilst off it look to nick in and give the opposition no time to play, we can utilize Auba's pace and movement late on as a sub today as the opposition tire.
3-4-2-1 - On the ball:
It starts from the back. Ederson is very able with his hands and feet and should look to find our players in space.
The CB trio are excellent on the ball, very good passing success rates and should look to move the ball into mf quickly. At times collecting short from Ederson and getting their heads up, looking for movement from the attackers and attempting diagonal or long balls into feet, so we can can counter at pace and bypass their mf press.
Pavard & Umtiti should shift slightly wider when on the offense allowing our wing-backs to push up in a bank of 4 in mf.
Busquets and Koke, a midfield pair that will provide plenty of energy and will work their socks off for the side to allow others around them to express themselves. They should look to stamp their authority with their work rate and power looking to take a grip on mf and shielding our defence, oppressing the opposition midfielders and covering every blade of grass out there.
When attacking, Busquets sits just infront of the defence and makes himself available for a pass back. A passing outlet if we are being vigorously pressed whilst also allowing us to create space when working the ball around in triangles, also prevent counter attacks.
De Bruyne & Griezmann will look to play more the AM role and inbetween the lines, roaming in the oppositions half and looking to act as the links between midfield and attack. Picking up pockets of space and using their awareness to dictate the play, running at their backline and using quick pace and incisiveness to commit defenders on the break.
Flanks will be key as we look to expose them in wide areas and create space in midfield.
Two quick & skilful WG-backs in Walker and Ghoulam, need to hug the touchline and provide the width allowing us to stretch the opposition. Always on the move so we can get them in behind and use them as outlets going forward when picking a pass.
Very possession orientated, comfortable playing quick 1-2's and accelerating into space, overlapping often and getting early deliveries into the box for our strikers to attack.
When Newcastle are in possession we will look to initially press from the front looking to prevent them playing out from the back, if they bypass this we then get behind the ball as a unit and form phase two.
Phase two involves forming a rigid structure looking to press the space and dropping off with men behind the ball, only allowing them to play where we want them too, stifle the midfield and stop them from picking their passes into a forward attacker, Van Dijk isolating him throughout.
Essentially a 3-5-2, 5 in mf working to minimise the space in midfield zones and preventing them from finding their attackers. Our wing-backs then drop off to mark the oppositions wingers and help our CB's to prevent any space being left in behind.
Key is leaving no gaps or space to get in behind, working as a staunch unit so their quick attackers have to come deeper to get involved making their first point of contact with the ball much deeper than they anticipated and notably further away from our final third.
When we have them deep we have more to work with, we can plug at them and tactically foul in areas that will prevent them from playing with any flow, breaking up the game and frustrating the opposition.
If we manage to win the ball we must immediately look to counter and hit the opposition hard. Walker & Ghoulam can come up to support the play and provide the width. The front 3 burst forward.
Subs:
IF WINNING: 70th minute – (3-5-2)
- Javi.M > Koke
- Aubameyang > G.Jesus
- Bentancur > Busquets (80th min)
Compact 3-5-2, we get fresh legs on and keep things solid, Auba used as an outlet to surge forward when possible
IF DRAW: 70th minute – (3-4-3)
- Aubameyang > G.Jesus
- Mahrez > KDB
- Bentancur > Koke (75th min)
3-4-3, stretch the play and look to play more in wider areas at this stage. Mahrez RW, Auba LW and Griezzy CF.
IF LOSING: 75th minute – (4-4-2 - direct)
- Aubameyang > Pavard
- Mahrez > G.Jesus
- Javi.M > Koke
4-4-2, direct. long balls into the box and constantly looking for the two strikers.
Flood forward and look for an equalizer/winner.
C - van Dijk
FK's - De Bruyne / Griezmann
Corners - De Bruyne
Pens – Griezmann
posted on 21/10/18
————————Ter Stegen
Weiser———Sule————Rudiger——Castro
—————————Rodri
—————B.Silva——————Keita
—————————Milinkovic
————Kane————————Dybala
Subs: Pope, Upamecano, Tielemans, McKennie, Loftus-Cheek, Lozano, Sancho
Captain: Marc Andre Ter Stegen
Free Kicks: Paulo Dybala
Penalties: Harry Kane
Corners: Bernardo Silva
When Wolves press higher will keep our FBs deeper in build up so we have an overload on both their attack and midfield, allowing for easier progression. Fbs are only slightly ahead of the CBs and tucked in to draw Wolves narrow, leaving access to the wings open to our CMs. Rodri drops towards build up to draw Wolves’ midfield forward, opening space between the lines that our CMs and Milinkovic can exploit. CFs between CB and FB to keep the entire back 4 pinned, if a FB leaves his position to go and press a CM wide, it creates a 1 v 1 battle for our CF, if their CM steps out, it opens space for Milinkovic or Dybala to drop into. If their press loses shape, Weiser will push forward (3-diamond-3 build up), playing higher up and offering an easy diagonal outball that can draw FB and CM out to press, opening gaps between defenders and in midfield.
The main aim is to use diagonal passes out to our wide CMs, eliminating both vertical and horizontal lines of the opponents defensive shape, with the Cbs and Rodri all capable of picking these passes quickly. We can follow that up with a second diagonal ball, sometimes back to Rodri to push Wolves’ midfield out again and open up more space behind, from there Rodri can find our attackers, or the CM can go directly into the forwards should the space be there.
In creating chances we will use lots of sharp short passing combinations, taking advantage of the triangles and diamonds that naturally form within our shape. By moving the ball quickly and constantly changing the direction of play through our close connections we create mental overloads which draw opponents towards the movement of the ball, rather than our movement off the ball, helping us to unmark ourselves. With our midfield overload in place already, this gives us a great opportunity to get players into open space higher up the pitch.
Our CMs movement in particular is key, they can look to get behind the Wolves CMs to receive passes in the half spaces, or drift wide where they can have 1 v 1 battles in positions they are comfortable playing in, but the opponent is not, particularly with Silve’s trickery and Keita’s direct pace. It also creates space for Milinkovic and Dybala to overload the DM. Both CMs will look to make third man runs from deep to support the forwards, again both quicker than their markers which means they should lose them easily with off the ball runs, but also excellent dribblers that allow them to win battles with the ball.
Milinkovic will occupy their DM as well as move across to overload the half spaces with the CMs and create quick short passing combinations, using his strength to hold the ball up and pick the right runners. The strikers should also be constantly on the move, working in tandem with Kane making runs in behind to draw the defence deeper and open up a gap between midfield and defence, and Dybala exploiting this gap with his quick link up play and direct attacking style.
The FBs push forward as the ball progresses, coming from deeper they are harder to defend as they will have momentum running on to passes. They can put in high crosses for the strikers and Milinkovic to attack, or cut backs for midfielder runners to attack at pace, we know Kepa isn’t great cfrom crosses and we exploit this. They also help to stretch the game if Wolves defend narrow, particularly with quick diagonal switches of play.
We know Wolves build from the GK and we will look to control this today. Our CFs start the press between FB and CB, stopping the ball going to the FBs in build up, Milinkovic blocking the ball to the DM and Keita and Silva in the half spaces so they can cover multiple passing lanes. We have two traps to set, one forces the opposition CM to spread out to find more space, detaching him from the rest of the opposition midfield and leaving him vulnerable to being pressed by Milinkovic, Rodri, the CM and our FB, leaving him no escape route by the touchline. The second trap sees Milinkovic step up on to a CB and allow the ball carrying CB to move forward and find the DM. In this scenario Rodri steps forward alongside the CMs so that he can quickly press the DM when the ball is played towards him, with Milinkovic from behind and both CMs quickly closing passing lanes to the CMs, look to force him into a mistake and take advantage of the CBs being in different lines too, with a quick pass into the space for the runs of the strikers. We use our diamond shape to aid these pressing traps with the natural overload we have on them.
Our CMs in the half spaces means they have great access to defend the flanks if Wolves do get the ball wide. Our formation also means we can quickly drop into a flat 4-4-1-1, both CMs are very good supporting the FBs defensively, and Milinkovic drops comfortably alongside Rodri, with one striker dropping deeper to cover the DM. Our Fbs not being needed in the press means they are in a strong position to defend the flanks and cut out Wolves’ biggest strength, with Keita and Silva in support, particularly in keeping narrow deeper in our half so the wingers don’t have space to cut in.
Subs:
If Winning: Tielemans for Milinnkovic 70’, helps to maintain possession and control. Lozano for Dybala 75’, fresh legs in attack to exploit gaps. Upamecano for Bernardo 80’, 5-3-1-1.
If Drawing: Lozano for Milinkovic 65’, Dybala dropping in as a 10, Lozano up front, using his out to in movement between defenders. Sancho for Bernardo 75’, 4-2-3-1, changes the shape of our attack and forces them to react quickly, Sancho and Lozano’s pace will terrify them. Loftus-Cheek for Keita 80’, fresh legs in midfield.
If Losing: Upamecano and Lozano for Castro and Keita 60’, 3-4-3, Weiser RWB with Lozano on the other side. Sancho for Milinkovic 70’, stretch the game.
posted on 21/10/18
3-5-2 Control
A huge game away to Chelsea, we go with a fresh side having left majority of our first xi at home for Europe midweek, make every advantage count against this Chelsea side, the main players who also played midweek.
We go with 3 back at the back, simply to give more cover to our full backs. Against the threat of their wide men we want cover here with the pace of Gomez rather than a natural dm. The midfield trio also allowing us to dominate possession while their pressing will allow us to win the ball back quickly stopping any counters before they start.
Our game plan is to control the tempo and possession, we want to go to Chelsea and frustrate them and their fans. Keep the ball, and tire them mentally and physically by having them chase us in possession.
Importantly the formation also gives more freedom to Marcelo and Carvajal, as there would be more space left with a back 4. They will provide real width to our side and stretch the game, creating space for our central players to get on the ball. Getting them both taking on the Chelsea fbs and creating for our forwards.
The formation also means a free role for Hazard. Make him impossible to man mark without leavings holes and space for our other attackers to exploit.
Ronaldo up top plays his natural game, offering a forward we can go longer too, for Hazard to play off, linking the play and most importantly being in the box to be the difference maker and get the goals.
The midfield trio look to play their natural games, getting on the ball dominating possession. Thiago plays in the Busquets role, pressing the space in front of the cbs. Ceballos is more attacking looking to find space between the opposition defence and midfield. Modric always looking to get on the ball, linking the play and creating. Ceballos strong pressing game and Modric’s intelligence defensively will also be hugely important when looking to win the ball back quickly.
The back 3 are all comfortable on the ball and look to play out, helping us dominate possession by having a strong base. They don’t however play too high a line, ensuring that too much space isn’t left behind. Neuer also guards against hopeful long balls over the top in his sweeper keeper role.
It would be impossible to stop a team like Chelsea having chances, so our game plan is to give the defence extra cover with an extra pacey cb, and by dominating possession with the creative players we have in attack to create and score more.
When we lose the ball high up the park we always look to win it back straight away, don’t give Chelsea a chance to counter. The closest 2/3 players press. Allowing others to get back into position behind the ball.
------------------------ Neuer
--------- J.Gomez - S.Ramos - Laporte
Carvajal - Ceballos - Thiago - Modric - Marcelo
------------------ Ronaldo -- Hazard
Subs. Schmeichel, Kehrer, Ascaibar, Doucoure, Correa, Sane, Coutinho
Defence
We look to control the opposition by pressing the space high up the pitch with a narrow rigid defensive unit. Simply having our attacking players in the right defensive positions in front of our strong to defence to make us difficult to break down. Make it difficult for the opposition to play out. The defence play a normal line, not high, not deep. Neuer sweeper keeper in behind, we have the height and pace at the back.
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone else bar Ronaldo gets behind the ball into position. Stop them breaking.
As the Chelsea advance into higher areas of the park and into our thrid shape will resemble a 4-4-1-1, narrowing to the side of play. With the wb opposite play dropping to fb. Giving us a wide cb and a wb in front defending the side of play that Chelsea are attacking. With a midfield four and Hazard coming deep to sit on their deepest cm/dm.
In this tight rigid formation, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Thiago will be key defending the space in front of the cbs, pressing the space with Ceballos and Modric pressing the ball. Narrowing the play to the side the Chelsea are attacking, pushing them backwards and wide away from danger. When they switch play, we switch over.
We drop deeper as Chelsea advance, leaving no space between the lines.
Attack
Centre backs play out, they have the option to go long or have Thiago, Modric, Ceballos and wbs all offering options. We have a lot of quality on the ball in midfield, let them play.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half, using our forward to get in behind and dragging centre backs out of position. If it is not on, we are happy to keep possession, attacking down the wings, get balls into the box.
Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Doucoure for Ceballos. Fresh power and pace as more space opens up and more defensive cover.
If wining after 75 mins bring on Correa for Ronaldo. Fresh pace, great work rate from the front and super sub.
If wining after 80 mins bring on Sane for Carvajal. Fresh pace and energy.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Coutinho for Ceballos. Going for win.
If drawing after 75 mins bring on Sane for Carvajal. Going for win.
If drawing after 75 mins also bring on Doucoure for Thiago. Fresh power and energy in front of defence.
If losing after 60 mins bring on Coutinho and Sane for Carvajal and Ceballos. More attacking 352.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Correa for Marcelo.
posted on 21/10/18
--------------------Pickford
Danilo---Kompany---Sane---Rodriguez
-----------Goretzka---Herrera
Malcom--------Amiri--------Costa
------------------Aspas
Lloris, Llorente, Maitland-Niles, Fabregas, Sessegnon, Wood, Foden
I am opting for an attacking lineup today, given that we are at home against a Hull side, in what is looking like a must win game against a good side. My aim is to get bodies forward, fashion chances and allow my strong attacking players to bag themselves goals aplenty, whilst having players defensively and in midfield that are capable of marshalling the space and preventing the opposition from creating an abundance of chances.
I have changed goalkeeper today, bringing in Jordan Pickford for Hugo Lloris, who has been having a torrid time of things recently. I expect Pickford to marshall his penalty area well, allowing for us to play the ball out of the back, instead of looking long. When he has the ball in his hands I am hoping that he will be capable of throwing or rolling the ball out to the full backs, to start quick attacks with our direct wide players.
My full backs will be key parts of my play. As I have previously stated, they will be key to us transforming defence into attack, with my goalkeeper looking to distribute the ball to them. They will then charge forward with the ball in their possession, looking to widen the play, to create more space in the middle as players are dragged out of position. Alternatively I also encourage them to take the underlapping option if it becomes available, as both players can be dangerous themselves in goalscoring positions. The key to this system is how they interact with our wingers. Defensively, I expect them to marshall the wide positions, forcing the opposition wingers out wide and keeping the ball there, until a time when they can win it back and get it forward.
My central defenders are a tough unit. They are both physical players who can dominate aerially. I expect them to work as a team, with Sane getting close to the opposition attackers, using his strength to win long balls forward, whilst Kompany bosses the space behind, not allowing for them to turn Sane. If they do then he will pounce and win the ball back for our team. I don’t want either player spending a long time on the ball. When they get possession they will look to distribute forward to the central midfielders or out to the full backs, who will react in the same way as they do when fed the ball by the keeper.
Just like Sane and Kompany, Goretzka and Herrera will work as a team together. I expect Goretzka to be the playmaker of the two when on the ball, sitting deep to control the area just in front of the defence. When he gets on the ball he will look to spread the play, or find the runs in behind of Amiri, Malcom and Costa. Herrera will serve as the meat of the midfield, getting stuck in and hastling and harrying the opposition advanced midfielders, using his boundless energy to not allow them a moment’s rest. When we have the ball in the attacking third, both players should push up, as they can both be a danger in and around the attacking third. This means they need to be alert and get back into defensive positions quickly. They will not be afraid to take bookings for the team to end opposition break aways if needed.
Malcom and Costa are the standard Arsenal wide players. I trust these two to use their pace and skill to threaten the opposition defence on a frequent and regular basis. They should be supplied with plenty of help, as Danilo and Rodriguez get forward to support the attacks. They will alternate between pulling the defenders and midfield out wide, creating space for Amiri in the hole, or charging directly at the defence, to put the opposition centre backs on the back foot. Both players are a threat in these areas, and will look to get low balls across the dangerous positions, whis suit the poachering tendencies of Amiri and Aspas. I will also allow them to swap flanks during the course of the game, adding further confusion for the opposition defenders to deal with.
Amiri is sitting in the attacking midfield position, but rest assured, he is not playing as a number 10 playmaker. He sits there as a shadow striker, a slightly reserved threat, who will use his pace and running skills to push beyond Aspas and make late runs into the box. I think this will allow him a bit more time and space when he does get into these positions. He will also be looking for space in the defence to make intelligent runs and get in behind the defence, making it even harder to mark, as he will be varying his movement.
Aspas is the spearhead of our attack, which may seem strange given that he is not much of a physical specimen. I think that he has the attributes to work well as a leading man, with the ball coming into him along the deck, so that he can lay it off for our various attackers. I expect him to try and contribute to the players running at the opposition, and also get into the box to provide a goalscoring threat as often as possible.
Substitutions
If winning
Malcom off and Ryan Sessegnon on 70 mins
Fresh legs on the right hand side of the attack to maintain our non-stop attacking football. Callejon still has a lot of pace to offer, and will look to make direct runs at the defence.
Nadiem Amiri off for Phil Foden on 80 mins
Perhaps a slight let up in our non-stop approach. Foden may be a more reserved player than Amiri, but he will still look to get into threatening positions. He will also look to dictate the play and get on the ball more than Amiri did.
Riccardo Rodriguez off and Ainsley Maitland-Niles on 87 mins
Perhaps a bit of timewasting on our behalf, but AMN can slot in nicely at the LB position, allowing us that bit of extra pace to attack the opposition defence down that side in the last few minutes of the game, to support the no doubt flagging Costa.
If losing/drawing
Leon Goretzka off and Cesc Fabregas on 70 mins
An attacking change as we bring on a more attack minded midfield player to better control the possession of the ball. Fabregas will look to play in a more advanced role than Goretzka did, trying to find pockets of space in a more conventional number 10 role.
Danilo off and Christopher Wood on 80 mins
A shift of formation for the last ten minutes, to the following
----------------------Pickford
--------Kompany---Sane----Rodriguez
-------------Fabregas---Herrera
Malcom--------------------------------Costa
---------------Aspas------Amiri
----------------------Wood
To allow us to get more bodies in the box in the hunt for a goal. Got to go big or go home, right?
Riccardo Rodriguez off and Phil Foden on 85 mins
Another change of formation as Foden comes on. We shift to a two at the back, with Herrera patrolling the area just in front. Foden and Fabregas occupy the roles in between Costa and Malcom, looking to get the ball into the opposition penalty area as much as possible.
posted on 25/10/18
Bournemouth Tactics: League Cup
Captain: Paredes
Vice Captain: Walace
Team:
------------------Grohe
Angulo--Murilo—Rabello--Saracchi
-----------------Walace
-----------Paredes---Palacios
Pussetto--------------------------Everton
----------------------Gómez
SUBS: Ronaldo, Senesi, Álvarez, Maycon, Vargas, González, Pedro
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: Grohe is a big mobile keeper and very agile. 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: Walace 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 forGrohe. 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. Paredes and Palacios will play just in front of Walace. Paredes will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Palacios 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 ForGrohe: When in possession both Pussetto and Everton 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 Palacios, Paredes and Gómez 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 Paredes may sit a bit deeper allowing Palacios 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.
Gómez starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great big old fashioned centre forGrohe. 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: Palacios, Everton or Pussetto with Murilo, Rabello, Walace and Gómez to offer an aerial threat. Palacios and Everton (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Gómez
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Senesi for Rabello, Pedro for Gómez and Maycon for Paredes, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 80 minutes) Vargas for Paredes and Pedro for Pussetto. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Pussetto and Vargas offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
----------------Walace
Vargas------- Palacios ----Everton
---------Gómez --------Pedro
posted on 25/10/18
-------------------------Müller
Vrsaljko---Milenkovic ------David Luiz----Tagliafico
----------------Eiting-----------Gagliardini
---Thauvin-----------Kampl----------------Rebic
-------------------------Jovic
Subs: Hennessey, Klostermann, Baumgartl, Tierney, Laimer, Brekalo, Mitrovic
Our defensive unit consists of Nikola Milenkovic and David Luiz paired up at centre-back, Sime Vrsaljko at right-back and Nicolás Tagliafico at left-back, with Carel Eiting and Roberto Gagliardini as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Eiting and Gagliardini we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Gagliardini can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Eiting can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Gagliardini’s role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Gagliardini running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Carel Eiting.
A holding midfielder through and through, Eiting is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Eiting such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Florian Thauvin, Kevin Kampl and Ante Rebic as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luka Jovic as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Eiting or Gagliardini, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Vrsaljko and Tagliafico can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Eiting and Gagliardini can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Florian Thauvin and Ante Rebic, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Kevin Kampl our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Kampl is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer who will look to play Thauvin, Rebic and Jovic in via fast passing combinations.
An out and out explosive centre-forward, Jovic is known for the abundance of pace and power that he possesses. Jovic has a strong and sturdy physical frame that he’ll use well to bully the opposition defence.
Jovic has a fierce right-foot and is an equally strong header of the ball too, which will make him a huge threat in and around the penalty box. With his pace combined with his dribbling ability and the power that he possesses, Jovic will brush aside defenders and run past them with nonchalance.
While he is explosive and dangerous with the ball at his feet, what makes Jovic even more exciting is his excellent movement off the ball and the ability to make those smart runs in behind the defenders.
Subs on 75 mins
Mitrovic on for Jovic and Brekalo on for Rebic
Lots of fresh legs and pace to trouble the opposition for a late goal regardless of the score line
posted on 26/10/18
Newcastle Cup
NEWCASTLE 4-3-3
________________Chesney
Bissaka____de Vrij___Koulibaly___Ake
________________N’Zonzi
_______________Alli___James
Suso____________Lukaku_______Rafinha
SUBS: Mane, Radja, Suarez, Jorginho, Kante, Reus, Bobby
Captain: James Rodriguez
Penalties: James Rodriguez
Corners: Suso
Freekicks: James Rodriguez
Crossing Freekick: Suso
The formation deployed today is so that we gain as much control as possible higher up he pitch. We expect to have more of the ball so patience is key. We also expect the four behind the striker to drift around a bit, getting into positions where their natural play can cause damage. The striker up front presses when we don’t have the ball and the entire team will support him cut passing lanes to help win the ball higher up. The quality of our players will allow us to break through the oppositions press. When we have the ball we will want to attract the press and use the spaces that they open up to attack.
Full backs will get forward when the opportunity arises. Our full backs are good at feeding our forward line with their ability on the ball and we aim to utilize that with their ability to get up the pitch and tactical arareness. We also need our full backs to widen the pitch for us. Our centre halves are good on the ball, and a long punt every now and then to utilize our pace out wide is encouraged. Our right back will also tuck in to help solidify the team.
The regista will drop in to form a back three so that the centre backs can split wide to push the full backs general position higher up in line with the midfielders (and wide forwards engage their back line along with the striker). In doing so we create a four man midfield to overpower their midfield. This will allow our midfield to be flexible, if one of their midfielders steps forward, one of ours will move into the space they vacated. The regista will be the link between our defence and midfield and because of the way he plays, he will draw the opponents forward towards him to attack the ball, pulling their team’s lines apart. This will create more spaces between the lines for our midfield and forward lines to move into. The right centre mid will be the more defensive one in his box to box role, closing down space and cutting passing lanes with his incredible interception ability. Playing alongside the regista will give him less areas of the pitch to cover, and shorter distance needed to win the ball back to start the next attack. Both centre mids will float between the lines during the attacking phase just behind our forwards.
By having our wide forwards up front when we have the ball it will effectively create space out wide. We would expect our full backs to sometimes go infield to collect the ball from the keeper, while one of the midfielders goes wide so when he receives the ball he will have time to look up and pick passes as the opposition midfield will be reluctant to press which will leave a man free in midfield. This can be done by a midfielder too, dropping deep to create a free man in the first line with time on the ball, ping it straight to the striker who can lay it off to the other onrushing midfielder.
If short passing options aren’t available the passing range and accuracy of our keeper will safely transfer the ball forwards via our full backs, wherever they are on the pitch. The keeper can also dink the ball into space for the striker or wide forward to control taking out 6 or 7 opposition players in the process.
The striker’s main role will be to create space for the wide forwards. He will drop deep into a ten to drag defenders out and create space for our wide forwards to run into. This will tie into our quick short passing which is aimed at dragging their players out of position and create space between their lines. Our team will always recycle the ball back to the regista to keep possession and to keep the ball moving.
When we don’t have the ball we will expect our four behind the striker to drop into a 4-5-1 in support of our regista and right centre mid. We will also create triangles to trap the opposition players that have the ball, cutting the passing lanes and others putting pressure on players that might receive the ball. We stop the oppositions rhythm and force them into mistakes with our pressure. To stop their counter attacks after we lose the ball, three players will swarm the ball carrier before he can get his head up to play. If they beat the immediate press when the team’s main goal is to push their play wide where they can do the least damage. Our midfielders are an integral part to our play, when we win the ball back we will create space and time for them with our team shape. There will be times when we are under the cosh and will have the option of deploying a bowl shaped 5 at the back, with the right centre mid dropping in to make closing down the opponents very effective.
Subs
70 mins: Radja comes on for Alli, our legs will start to tire, so will theirs, Radja will add box to box ability and energy late in the game.
75 mins: Suarez comes on for Lukaku, a different style of forward play for the opposition to think about.
If winning 80 mins: Kante comes on for N’Zonzi to close out the game.
If losing/drawing 80 mins: Bobby comes on for N’Zonzi and play 2 up front.
posted on 26/10/18
______________Chesney
Bissaka____de Vrij___Koulibaly___Ake
_______________N’Zonzi
_____________Alli____James
Suso___________Lukaku_______Rafinha
Sorry the above came out a bit painful on the eye
posted on 26/10/18
Attacking 4-3-3
We look to play our usual attacking game and take the game to Wolves, controlling possession and the tempo of the game. Control possession and find space in between the opposition lines. Get Thiago and Coutinho on the ball and looking to play killer balls to open up the opposition using the pace of our attacking players.
Key to our attack is quick passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly. Pass and move. Tire the opposition out physically and mentally with our possession play. Predominantly short passing on the deck, but varying our play when a counter is on.
Using the pace of our wide players to stretch the game and get in behind Wolves backline, getting them close to and playing off Costa.
As you'd expect, possession starts at the back, Kehrer the man marker next to D.Sanchez who is free. In midfield, Casemiro reading the play looking to win the ball back as the dm, Thiago and Coutinho will offer inteligence defensively, with the pressing of Thiago also improtant as he takes up a deeper cm position.
Getting Coutinho and Thiago on the ball and get pushing up the pitch, they are used to being on the offensive and playing in tight spaces, so we look to them to pick the passes. But if they play a high line they can pick the passes through or over the top to expose the space behind them. Quick one twos between the two and the attacking trio and Wendell and Alexander-Arnold always looking to provide an option.
The defence will be patient on the ball, will be hugely important in keeping possession and pushing us up the pitch. Playing a reasonably high line, with good pace at the back and energy in front. As soon as we get the ball to our midfield, we look to move the ball quickly, quick passing and moving.
In attack we play with width to stretch the game and open up Wolves. One fb bombing forward at a time. The other fb advances ahead of the cbs but is more reserved and offers the option to switch going back the way.
--------------------- Neuer
Carvajal - D.Sanchez - Kehrer - Wendell
------------ Casemiro -- Thiago.A
------------------- Coutinho
Geubbels -------------------------- L.Sane
--------------------- D.Costa
Subs. Schmeichel, Laporte, Doucoure, Gundogan, Modric, Hazard, Correa
Defending in numbers
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone else bar Costa gets behind the ball into position. Stop them breaking.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Draw them in to positions where they can’t hurt us, and then try and win the ball back. Then get forward quickly.
As Wolves advance into higher areas of the park and into our half, our shape will resemble a 4-1-4-1. Our wingers will track any forward runs made by their fbs, and Casemiro presses the space in front of our cbs, sweeping up danger in front of the defence, the cms pressing their midfield.
In this tight formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation. Casemiro will be key, reading the play in between the defence and midfield, getting across to cut out any danger. Coutinho picks up the most advanced cm. The winger opposite play comes inside and sits on their deepest cm while Thiago presses the space next to and in front of Casemiro. Our fb’s have fantastic pace up against their wide forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Attack.
Get the ball to our midfield trio, get them linking up with quick passing, getting the ball to our wingers and get balls into Costa. The trio's movement will be key in opening up the opposition defence.
The cm trio seeking to collect the ball from the defence, and seeking to start our attacks from the back. Spreading play, and setting the tempo of the game. We look to find space between their defence and midfield, committing defenders from there and playing killer balls.
We want quick one twos in the opposition half. Thiago, Coutinho and the wingers will always be looking for the killer ball. If it is not on, we are happy to keep the ball moving and keep possession.
Costa has freedom to play his natural game and get the goals.
Subs. If winning after 70 mins bring on Correa for Costa. Fresh energy. Pushes tempo up.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Hazard for Geubbels. Fresh pace and energy, pushing tempo up.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Doucoure for Coutinho. Injects power and energy to midfield.
If drawing or losing after 60 mins bring on Modric and Hazard for Coutinho and Geubbels.
If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Correa for Thiago. Move Hazard central AM, Correa right.
posted on 27/10/18
Line Up:
-----------------------------Rico---------------------------------
--------------Elvedi------Akanji------Zagadou----------------
Mukiele-----------Partey-------Matuidi-----------Guerreiro
---------Moura---------Mandzukic---------Fekir----------
Subs: Forster; Pereira; Holding; Dahoud; Richarlison; Benzema; Golovin
Captain: Matuidi
Penalties: Mandzukic
Free Kicks: Fekir
Corners: Fekir
Game Plan:
We will look to triple mark whomever has the ball in any area of the pitch – with one player closing down the ball, one player cutting off space and the last player marking the closest man. By triple-marking at all times, we not only increase the effectiveness with which we can apply pressure to the opposition but we also reduce the amount each individual player has to run, thus allowing them to keep the high tempo game running for longer than if we were single man pressing.
By pressing high and in numbers we can minimise the space in which Arsenal can play. When Arsenal play from the back, Fekir and Moura will look to intercept the space in between the two centre backs and cut off the option of a cross-field ball while Mandzukic will close down the man with the ball. If the right-sided centre back has the ball then our left winger will close down the right back while our midfielders will press closer as well, and vice versa with the other side of the pitch. The aim here is to limit the playing space our opponents have, which forces them to move the ball back to the keeper, move the ball long or move it in to the centre where our CMs, our wingers and our forwards can close down the space quickly and force them in to hasty decisions. If they manage to move the ball out wide, then our full backs will look to push up (depending on which side of the pitch the ball is on) to close down the space while our winger on that side challenges for the ball and the closest centre mid closes down the passing lanes.
The formation itself is actually more of a 3-4-2-1 formation. Starting at the back, the three defenders are Caldara, Zagadou and Romagnoli along with the mobile and energetic pairing of Partey and Matuidi. Width is provided by the wing-backs Guerreiro and Pereira. Ahead lie the mobile unit of Fekir, Moura and Mandzukic. Fekir and Moura are natural inside forwards and Mandzukic can drop into space or offer himself as a target man.
Rico is in goal for us today and he can play well as a sweeper keeper, he has the pace and awareness to come out of goal to sweep up balls over the top and he is confident at claiming crosses and high balls, not to mention being a terrific shot stopper. When he gets the ball, he will look to clear it out to the flanks instantly, to initiate a quick breakaway in the area that we will have more players than our opponents.
Should Arsenal opt to go long with the ball, we have 3 tall CBs all capable of winning the aerial duel with the CF, while also having players to cover the 2nd ball. The idea is to compact the centre of the pitch, with the 3 CBs covering all space through the middle to stop any quick interplay and to nullify any central creative players. The striker is, obviously, out- numbered up front. The wing backs can mark the space out wide while the two defenders on either side of the central defender in the back three can mark the half spaces. All our CBs are intelligent and read the game well, playing zonally to track the central runs made by the opposition.
The movement from the forwards is enabled by Zagadou who essentially plays as a sweeper in front of the other two centre-backs. He can start attacks by bringing the ball into midfield, or he can drop back into defence to intercept passes. When building out from the back, the back three split and stretch as wide as they can in order to break the press as the pressing team has a greater distance to cover. All 3 CBs in the side are good on the ball and have played at full back, so are fine with stretching wide. The two wing backs position themselves high up the pitch to create more space for the back three. If the opposition press high on the three centre-backs then the left or right centre back moves into a conventional full back position.
Pereira and Guerreiro will push forward to deny the opposition full-backs space and will seek to create an overload. By creating this numerical advantage in the opponent’s half, Fekir and Moura can attack the channels between full-back and centre-back.
Alternatively, the wing-backs can cut inside and swap positions with the inside-forwards. Mandzukic is the focal point and he will occupy at least one of the opposing centre-backs which means that we will always have a man spare in attack with this method, and even if an opposing midfielder drops, Partey and Matuidi can push up to sustain the overload. Because we have so much attacking threat we will always find space.
Similarly to our attack, defensively we will always have a spare man due to the energy of the both full-backs, Guerreiro and Pereira. They can: press up to the opposing full-backs, or track the inside forwards. Then the centre-backs can sweep or push up to the opposition's creative centre-attacking midfielders. And then there is our duo of Partey and Matuidi, who have the energy and positional awareness to, with the help of the pressing game from the front 3, overload the opposition’s central midfield and make it impossible for them to play through the middle.
Substitutions:
If Winning: Dahoud for Moura 65’, Switch to a 3-5-2 with more numbers in midfield. Richarlison and Pereira for Mandzukic and Mukiele 75’, Both provide extra legs for the press, with Richarlison and Fekir dropping deeper to help defend knowing that they can dribble the ball further up the pitch on the attack.
If Drawing or Losing: Richarlison for Moura 70’, fresh energy and ideas. Benzema and Golovin for Mandzukic and Mukiele 75’
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