Arsenal vs WOLVERHAMPTON
Injuries:
Georginio Wijnaldum
Gareth Bale
Jeremy Doku
Leonardo Spinazzola
Feels like a bit of a grudge match this one, Jet and I don’t seem to get on and as we’re rivals for the 5th place trophy we go there to give him and his side a beating. He’s a good tactician and has shown flexibility in his style, going from 3-5-2 to 4-3-3. But we will go there playing our strongest suit and looking to play off the front foot.
………………………………Donnarumma……………………….
……………Koulibaly….Milenkovic..Romagnoli…….
Semedo……………Busquets……….Verratti…………Wijndal
………………Ronaldo……Vlahovic……Neymar………..
Subs: Pickford, Soyuncu, Soumare, Insigne, Trincao, Raul, Griezmann
The 3-4-3 Is possibly the best formation when going away and giving up the form slot. It’ll keep us tight at the back, allow us a modicum of control in midfield and still give us enough firepower up top to have done the job for Guido Fawkes.
We know that the gunners have a lot of pace in their side but pace with no footballing brain means precious little, trust me I know, I see Adama play weekly. Our back line holds the line is that too many lines? It probably is now, circa 35 yards out, I know it’s risky with a ball over the top or in behind, but offensively it enables us to control possession and apply a stronger press on these north London fairies, defensively the back-three play in Italy, they know the dirty little fouls to disrupt the flow of the game and stop Arsenal finding their rhythm, a little shirt pull 35 yards out isn’t a red, ask Chiellini.
Physically our defence is intimidating so any balls whipped into our box is bread and butter for them to deal with, and if our defence miss it then we have man mountain Judas Donnarumma to come off his line and clear house.
Semedo and Wijndal add the width to this side, Semedo takes unfair criticism you don’t get to be 1st choice for Portugal and play well over 100 games for Barca if you’re no good, good with ball to feet and blisteringly quick, will link up with his homeboy Ronaldo down Arses’ left flank, Wijndal still only 21 but captains Alkmaar, 6 assists and 2 goals last season isn’t a bad return, he’ll bring the width on the left flank, allowing Neymar to drift inside and attack Arsenals RB.
Semedo and Wj will both go simultaneously I’m not a fan of one go one sit, we want to be fast paced, so to do so we have to overwhelm Arsenal, and the easiest way to do so is the “switch balls” probing for that space to exploit, both men will have some very good targets to hit in the box, so we need them to be “heads up” players, take the risky pass and trust your teammates to make it work as the reward is well worth it.
The engine,
The key components to any side are the midfield, “always outnumbered, never outgunned” – Keith Flint said that about my side, and then robbed it for an album title
You all know what Busquets and Verratti bring to a side, even Stevie wonder can you, but for those that don’t know, 1 World Cup, 2 European Championships, 3 Champions Leagues, 15 (fifteen) league titles, 27 (yes 27) Domestic cups, 3 world club cups, 3 UEFA Super cups.
They will anchor our midfield, Arsenal will get no change, none, nada from them, This solid foundation and our back-three allows our wing-backs to push as high as often as they like, knowing the doors are locked behind them. We effectively are playing an old fashioned 5-5 formation, we will take the game to the gunners and peg them back in their own half, if they go long our defence will out jump and out muscle them, when Romagnoli at 6ft2 is the short guy then you’re in business. If they come through the middle Tiki-Talia will stop them, their only joy is on our flanks, but they can’t score form out there can they? Nope they have to come inside and that’s when we stop them with a 5 man block, 7 once our Wing-backs are back in situ.
The Trinity:
It may only be 3 men, and I’m sure Jet will have a plan to counter-act their influence on the game, but what 3 men they are,
Ronaldo Inside right, he’s not as rapid anymore but he’s quick enough, and the first yard is in the head, and that’s enough to get enough space to do his magic, he’s not on the wing, he’s the widest point of a 3-pronged strike-force, we want him on the edge of the box, occupying the spaces in the vicinity of where the LB/LWB will be. If Jet goes 4 at the back then his LB is toast In a 1v1, he has Semedo running the over-lap taking a runner with him, so who helps the LB deal with Ronnie? If Jet goes 3 at the back then the LCB I guess will help cover the LWB, even ignoring Semedo a 2v1 on Ronnie still helps us as that’s the first part of the overlaps we want,
Vlahovic our 6ft2 powerhouse centre-forward, 3 goals in 3 games in Serie A this season, will just bully this Arsenal defence, do they leave him 1v1? Or do they pull a man across to help cover him? Either way suits us, as we have such individual brilliance, we will create the spaces and we have finishers in this side to punish these southerners.
Neymar the playmaker finds himself inside-left, will look to mirror Ronaldo on the right, with Wijndal backing him up, we’ll create carnage across this Arsenal defence.
I know my side can be considered top heavy, but it really isn’t. our defence is balanced and will stand Arsenal up man for man, I can’t imagine Jet playing a front-three so we have 2 CB’s man marking Arsenal’s 2 strikers, and a Spare CB to act as the Libero, deal with the loose balls/second balls and keep an eye on a run from deep.
2 wing-backs full of pace and energy to stretch out the gunners and keep their opposite numbers pegged back.
Twin-sixes that have shown time and time again that they can control a game of football, and a strike-force that Jet doesn’t have enough defenders to nullify, he can only really double on one of them but you risk leaving numbers in favour of Ronaldo or Neymar.
Subs 65 mins:
Insigne > Neymar, Insigne running at tiring legs is a recipe for disaster.
Griezmann > Vlahovic, more of a false 9 as we go for a more fluid trident.
Sub 80 mins:
Trincao > Ronaldo, pace and trickery for the final ten
Manchester united vs LIVERPOOL
Injuries:
Daniel James
Adama Traore
Nathan Ake
Weston McKennie
After Lubo’s attempts last week to drag my G into a fake derby game, this week we have a proper derby game. I’ve got a lot of time for Nadz, he plays good open attacking football and his people trafficking from France and her colonies is doing a trifick trade (read that like ‘arry Redknapp)
We’re not expecting many surprises from Nadz, he’s pretty settled on his 3-4-3 variant s we’ll go 4 at the back and try to find some over-laps higher up the field and create a few chances of our own.
……………………………………..Lloris…………………………………..
Trippier………….Varane…………..Botman………..Nouri
………………………..Tonali………..Zinchenko……………..
Gakpo………………………..Neto……………………….Leao
………………………………….Icardi…………………
Subs: Trubin, Schuurs, Williams, Belotti, Kelechi, Willock, Ihattaren
We’re not going there with a concrete game plan, we know Nadz for all his attacking players likes to keep things tight early doors and grow into games, so the plan is to try and hit them hardest when they’re still cold, the theory being if we hit them hard and fast from the first whistle we can maybe nick a quick opener before they have the chance to grow into the game. Other than that we’re a little reactionary we’ve set up as a fast paced counter-punching unit, so if he’s passing it around his own half we’ll be passive and let him have it (after the opening 20 minutes) once he’s deeper in our half we step up the press and try and pinch the ball, turning quickly form defence to offence, use our pace out-wide and turn the united defence, I would make some jokey reference to the French being quick on the retreat but that’d be to our detriment as they’d be back in position.
Lloris is a better keeper than given credit for, adds much needed experience to our squad, will be vocal at the back organising the defence, with the ball he can go long or short, just keep it simple we cant risk soft goals against.
Trippier and Nouri are two very different types of FB but they give us a nice blend, Trippier has great delivery, and pin point direct passes from deep, this is perfect for our counter-punching style as we can in theory atleast get it up and over the United midfield and into our wingers, as united back-track, Nouri is much more direct, fast and tricky, looks to be a real prospect, he’ll drive forward with the ball taking runners with him.
Botman and Varane are a solid partnership, one of the very best CB’s in the business and a young partner with the potential to take that mantle from him, Zonal marking today rather than man-to-man, they have that Rio and Vidic feel about them, with Varane being the brains and Botman the muscle.
Tonali and Zinchenko are a solid if uninspiring foundation, both get their feet in and shield the defence and both can pick a pass, long or short, but today their primary purpose is shielding the defence as much as they can, as we’re set-up for counters there won’t be huge amounts of short ball retaining passes, but more direct passes served solely with the purpose of turning the United defence and getting men in behind.
Gakpo and Leao are two super talented youngsters, blessed with blistering pace, will look to stretch the United defence and try to latch onto the balls from our FB’s and DM’s, in possession we want them ball to feet driving deep into United territory, drawing men towards them before offloading, and continuing their run, either to collect the return ball or to add numbers to our attack and hit the spaces in Uniteds box, if Nadz continues with 3 at the back, then we need these two getting into the box as often as possible.
Neto is our AM, fast, and direct with quick feet and a quicker footballing brain, he’ll link the play, more a SS than an AM I guess, will be given the freedom to roam the pitch looking for the ball, he,Gakpo and Leao will be key to our success as a counter-attacking unit, such pace and direct running will be a joy to behold.
Icardi leads the line, quicker than given credit for, better touch than given credit for, may get out-numbered by the 3 french giants, but he’ll keep trying, the lad only needs one chance to punish a side. 200 goals in 359 games and 42 assists prove he’s real contributor.
Subs 65 mins:
Willock > Zinchenko
Belotti > Icardi
75 mins
Kelechi > Gakpo…. Who then goes up top with Belotti and Neto RW
……………………………………..Lloris…………………………………..
Trippier………….Varane…………..Botman………..Nouri
………………………..Tonali………..Willock……………..
Neto……………………….. ……………………….…….Leao
……………………..Kelechi………..Belotti………
Watford: Week 6 (Away to Brentford)
Captain: Fuchs
Vice-Captain: Júnior
--------------Júnior
Dodô--Fuchs--Collins---Abner
------Assunção--Matheus
-----------------Igor
Henrique--------------Paulinho
--------------Evanilson
SUBS: Brenno, Ngakia, Wilmot, Danilo, De Paula, Veron, Kaio
SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Assunção) who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (Ward-Prowse). In front of them Igor will operate as the link between midfield and attack. This I feel will give us a better balanced midfield and while being absolutely defensively sound with 2 ‘sitting’ Ward-Prowse will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Igor and attack. I think this set-up lets us link up quickly with our attack while at the same time that little bit of extra cautiousness means it will be easy for us to close the door in midfield with all 3 players as comfortable sitting and breaking up attacks if necessary.
We want to play a nice tidy and crisp passing game. Our aim is to move the ball forward as quickly and as effectively as possible. When we have the ball we will use it wisely and when we don’t have the ball then we will press our opponents all over the park with high urgency to win it back. We want to keep the ball on the deck and attack as a team and equally as important defend as a team. This team is bursting with pace. We will utilise that to our advantage and make the pitch wide and use our flying wingers to cause all sorts of mayhem. It will also be a tool that we use to hit opponents on the counter where we know we can out pace any team.
Goalkeeper: Júnior is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: We will operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Assunção). He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Ward-Prowse). He has a more conservative role this week and while being a little more constrained than normal he will still have the opportunity to bomb forward when the time is right. They will both have to put a defensive shift in and both are very strong in the tackle. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition. In front of them Igor will operate as the link between midfield and attack.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Henrique and Paulinho 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 Igor, Ward-Prowse and Evanilson in to play. They can vary their attacks as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Ward-Prowse may sit a bit deeper allowing Igor to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF.
As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Evanilson starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great playing off the shoulder of the last man he is deadly in and around the box. A bag of energy and very strong we will also look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his lightning pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Igor, Paulinho or Henrique with Fuchs, Collins, Assunção and Evanilson to offer an aerial threat. Igor and Paulinho (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Substitutions: (75 mins) If winning, then 3 like for like subs – Wilmot for Fuchs, Danilo for Assunção and Kaio for Evanilson.
If losing (70 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Ward-Prowse with Kaio and Henrique with Veron. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
-------Assunção
Veron---Igor---Paulinho
----Kaio --Evanilson
Red Card Subs:
Keeper: Brenno for Júnior and take off Igor: 4-4-1
FB: Ngakia as direct replacement (LB/RB) and take off Igor: 4-4-1
CB: Wilmot as direct replacement and take off Igor: 4-4-1
CM: Danilo as direct replacement and take off Igor: 4-4-1
LW/RW/AM: Move Igor to LW/RW: 4-4-1
CF: Kaio as direct replacement and take off Igor: 4-4-1
*****If Igor red carded then use Paulinho
BRENTFORD v Watford
T. Silva, Grimaldo, Höjbjerg, Mertens
---------------------Simón
Livramento, Kjaer, Andersen, Maehle
---------------Kovacic, Laimer
Berardi-----------James----Saint-Maximin
--------------------Suárez
Subs: Kelleher, Lamptey, Ampadu, Gallagher, Isco, Immobile, Ibrahimovic
Captain: Kjaer
Free Kicks: Berardi/James
Penalties: Suárez (Ibrahimovic)
Our defensive unit consists of Simon Kjaer and Joachim Andersen paired up at centre-back, Tino Livramento at right-back and Joakim Maehle at left-back, with Mateo Kovacic and Konrad Laimer as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Kovacic and Laimer 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 Laimer can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Kovacic 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 Laimer's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Laimer running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will be dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Mateo Kovacic.
Kovacic 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 Kovacic such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Domenico Berardi, James Rodríguez and Allan Saint-Maximin as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez 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 Kovacic or Laimer, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Livramento and Maehle can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Kovacic and Laimer can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Domenico Berardi and Allan Saint-Maximin, who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers, will cut inside or make runs into the box.
James Rodríguez, our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders. James 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 with his quick flicks and one-touch passing, will combine exceptionally well with Berardi, Saint-Maximin & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.
Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Berardi, James & Saint-Maximin to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.
Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suárez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.
All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.
Subs on 75 mins
Gallagher on for Laimer and Ibrahimovic on for Suárez
Double substitution - full on combativeness in midfield from Gallagher and a real focal point for the attacking midfielders in Ibrahimovic in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line.
🟥 Move to a 441 formation. Sacrifice (unless sent off himself) James; for any of Kelleher (GK), Lamptey (RB/RW/LB - LB not his natural position but he'd do a job there), Ampadu (DM/CB), Isco (AM/LW), Immobile (CF)
ARSENAL Wolves
-------------------- M. Maignan --------------------
------- Kounde --- J. Stones --- Tapsoba -------
Hakimi --- T. Partey --- Tielemans --- J. Alba
-------------------- N. Barella ---------------------
------------ P. Dybala --- Aubameyang ----------
Subs: Onana, Alba, Guimaraes, Paqueta, Maddison, M. Diaby, Calvert-Lewin
We are at home and should be winning this game. Tino doesn’t seem to like me, but I have nothing but respect for him as a manager - life’s too short and I have no idea what his problem was last week. Our players will be fired up for this one following the off the pitch trouble Tino has appeared to forcefully drum up for the week leading up to this one, perhaps all mind games - we hope - or there must be something else going on. We do our talking on the pitch.
Wolves have some good players, but I can’t help but feel a lot of individuals that may struggle to perform consistently to a high level as a team. We have excellent ball players across the pitch and an extremely strong core, we will use this to dominate the game, but keep the spaces tight between players. Our quality on the ball in the 3 CBs and 3 CMs should see us dominate whilst their lazy forwards wait for the ball and leave their midfield drowning in our quality.
Maignan – The Milan stopper is one of the best in the world at the moment in his position. In possession he has the back three to pass into, or skip a player and clip it wide to the marauding wing backs.
Hakimi – The Moroccan is one of the worlds best right backs, His qualities ensure he can offer us a dynamic outlet in possession and a strong defensive unit to combat what Wolves throw at us. As he advances up the right in an attacking sense, he has the freedom of that wing, with Dybala as the RS who likes to come inside with the ball ahead of him, this gives that right flank a serious double threat on the inside and out. On overlap he has one of the best final balls around, capable of scoring himself or picking out two brilliant finishers in that box of Dybala and Aubameyang.
Jules Kounde - One of the best in this role. Reads the game incredibly well. He has experience at right back and as a RCB, he gives Hakimi that protection needed to get forward. His technical ability on the ball will be a real asset to spring tactical diagonal balls to Alba / Aubameyang - this will break the Wolves shape and create chaos.
Tapsoba – Tapsoba has been brilliant when placed alongside calm defenders, so we have prepared the perfect environment for him today. Alba as an outlet ahead of him and Aubameyang as a longer outball. Equally he can carry the ball further himself, through the middle and work with the CMs. He’s also extremely strong and tall and will partner well with Kounde and Stones from a defensive point of view. Again in his perfect role at LCB.
Stones - This guy has really stepped up for club and country in recent months and here for his debut we are giving him the freedom of the central CB - he’s brilliant on the ball and reads the game exceptionally well. They have dangerous attackers and he is in the middle of that for his experience to help guide two of the best young CBs in world football alongside him.
Alba - One of the best left backs in the world over the last 10 years, Alba knows Neymar and Ronaldo well, whoever is on his side he will be able to combine with Tapsoba to stop. He’s been selected over Chilwell and Saka for that speed and experience today. He will also offer the outlet out of defence, an overlap to Aubameyang who will cut inside when in possession. Defensively he has the pace, experience and tactical nous to snuff out what Wolves can throw at us.
Partey – Partey has been chosen for his physical dominance and ability to turn and play at pace. The dynamic midfielder has the qualtity and experience to add to our midfield. With the attacking players ahead of him, Partey will sit and marshall the right half space, allowing Hakimi more attacking freedom. Partey has played at right back before so this is well suited. He will sit at the heart of midfield both in and out of possession, offering a shield to the defence and helping to nullify Wolves. Ball winning midfielder today.
Tielemans – Tielemans will dictate that left side of the midfield. Very calm on the ball, looking to progress and carry the ball through the lines when received from the central defenders. He can combine with Alba on the left too in order to create an overload. He is a master of slowing or quickening the tempo of a game. Will look to play the deep lying playmaker role today.
Barella - Barella is one of the best midfielders in Serie A and has just won Euro 2020. In this game we’ve given him more freedom to get forward and create - he has two CMs and three CBs behind him, so we want him to use his technical ability to combine with Dybala and the wing backs to create attacking overloads.
Dybala – An elegant forward, we expect to have possession so we’ve chosen a forward who consistently breaks deep blocks for club and country. A fantastic link man, he has pace either side in Alba and Hakimi and ahead in Aubameyang - Barrella for that close combination play.
Aubameyang - The furthest forward of our team, he will use his energy to pressure the ponderous Wolves defenders and look to snap up mistakes. He will sniff out chances that Dybala, Barella and the wing backs create / cross for him to do what he does best. The left half space is his and this is the area he excels in most.
SUBS
After 60 (all scenarios) - Calvert-Lewin for Aubameyang
If winning
After 60 – Guimaraes for Tielemans
If not winning
After 60 – Paqueta for Tielemans (on fire in recent months, more B2B and goal threat)
After 80 (if losing) – M. Diaby for Tapsoba (433)
Newcastle 4-3-3 / 2-3-5
_____________Mendy
Tanganga___Matip____VVD____Shaw
____________Casemiro
_______Llorente_____Kessie
Salah_________Lewa___________Olmo
Subs: Fabian, Christensen, Damsgaard, Naby, Madueke, Silva, Pedro Goncalves
Today I’d like to take complete control of midfield, holding possession and stretch their back line while outnumbering every area of the middle third and final third of the pitch. Our full backs will play as inverted fullbacks assuming the role as box to box and pivoting midfielders, thereby pushing our midfielders further forwards creating a 5 man attack.
______________Mendy
__________Matip_____VVD_______
____Tang_____Casemiro____Shaw
Salah____Llorente___Kessie______Olmo
_______________Lewa______________
By doing so I will always have an extra man in midfield, including wide passing options, creating overloads. It will also help us stretch the field wider as I would expect opposition players to drift in-field to try and mitigate the presence of the extra bodies in midfield leaving wide areas for our wide players to exploit. As such the wide players will be given instruction so hug the touchline when waiting to receive the ball, then they can cut in and play their natural game but providing pass options initially is a must.
I fully expect us to create difficulty for the opposition in assessing exactly how and where to cover space and how to effectively pressure the ball. Create pass options to drag players out of position when they struggle to cope with the extra man in midfield exploiting gaps between the lines.
Our attacks will be taking a very vertical approach which allows the attacking midfielders to receive the ball in space allowing us to hurt them. Our version of a vertical approach is passing the ball up and down the field, with players inviting pressure as they receive and release the ball thereby creating a gap for another player to move into to receive a recycled pass. Eventually a path to goal will appear and it’ll be up to the players to exploit that playing their natural games. The whole point of this system is about opening greater space in between the lines for the attacking midfielders to receive. The attacking midfielders will also be expected to break the lines and make runs beyond the striker to find space higher up the pitch creating goal-scoring opportunities. The fullbacks therefore have many options to pass to, the 9, the 10s, and out wide depending on the natural movements of the players.
Defensive stability is very important to the way we want to play. One of the rules ultimately in football is you cannot score if you don’t have the ball, so we aim to keep the ball as much as possible with the ongoing ball recycling process of trying to drag players out of position finding space to exploit. When the opposition do gain possession they immediately face a block of five in the middle and our third of the pitch, quickly changing back to a standard 4-5-1 in two flat lines (plus the striker up top). Doing so will allow us to effectively defend our wide areas stopping any crosses coming in while congesting the middle enough for minimal gaps to appear between the lines. We press less to minimise the risk of gaps appearing but instead rely on cutting passing lanes and options. Once possession is regained, we immediately progress up the pitch and revert back to 2-3-5. The central defensive triangle of both CBs and the DM are good in the air capable of winning plenty of duels in the air as well as on the ground, in addition of course to their exceptional passing ability. It is important to have players that occupy those three positions that have on-the-ball intelligence, astute awareness of how to cover space in transition, and an aerial presence.
Subs.
65 mins - Naby on Kessie off. Fresh legs.
70 mins losing/drawing - Pedro G on Llorente off. Better finisher in the box from midfield.
75 mins losing/drawing - Silva on Casemiro off. Better presence up top in a 4-4-2.
75 mins winning - Fabian on Llorente off. Fresh legs while not losing creative quality.
MAN UNITED vs Liverpool
------------------------------------Dragowski---------------------------------
--------------Fofana--------Upamecano--------J Gomez-----------
-----------------------------Ndidi---------Valverde------------------------
Dest--------------------------------------------------------------------Reguilon
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------Raphinha------Greenwood---------Rashford---------------
Subs - Gulasci, Tchoucameni, Aouar, Ødegaard, Kulusevski, Pulisic, Martinelli
CAPTAIN - VALVERDE
CK'S - RAPHINHA
FK'S - RAPHINHA
PENALTIES - RASHFORD
We HATE our opponents this week! It's as simple as that. Liverpool have been a thorn in our ends for far too long and we need to take them down a peg or two. Their manager is cool tho
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. Fofana and Gomez will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to stop any attacks that go down their wings. Upamecano in the middle will marshall the defence and look to snuff out any attacks from the oppo strikers. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.
WINGBACKS
Dest and Reguilon are playing as wingbacks today. They will both have the freedom to bomb up and down their flanks. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM's will be helping you a lot aswell. Gomez and Fofana will be ready as the outside CB's to help you clear up any loose balls etc. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. One of our DM's will come over to mark the oppo winger who has the ball incase they use the overlapping fullbacks. I want both wingbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..
Defence Mids
Ndidi + Valverde
These 2 will be the main enforcers to protect the defence and to control the central midfield. Ndidi will be the midfield destroyer. He will help the wingbacks in defending against oppo wingers and will also look to put a lock on the oppo AM to stop him dictating play. Valverde will be the b2b engine who will be given the freedom to attack. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings and try and play some quick one two's. Valverde will be allowed to stretch his legs and run with the ball from deep if there is space to do so in the centre of the pitch. When out of possession drop deep next to Ndidi and try and intercept the ball.
Wingers
Raphinha + Rashford
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Rashford will be looking to cut in from the left and Raphinha likewise who will cut in from the right. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back into the centre of the pitch to one of our DM's or play quick one two's with our wingbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for Greenwood to attack. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack. .
Striker
Mason Greenwood
The baby faced assassin will be leading the line for us today. He has got the strength and pace to play the role and he will have plenty of support in attack. Be vary of crosses into the box and try and get in front of your marker. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. I want Greenwood and Rashford to interchange positions with each other from time to confuse the oppo defence.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Ødegaard for Ndidi and Kulusevski for Raphinha to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
-------------------------------------Dragowski-----------------------
---------------Fofana---------Upamecano--------Gomez----------
-------------------------------------Valverde--------------------------------------
Dest-------------------------------------------------------------------Reguilon
----------------------------------Odegaard----------------------------------------
----------Kulusevski------Greenwood--------Rashford----------
Subs if WINNING BY 60MINS
Take off Rashford and put on Tchoucameni in DM to offer more defensive protection. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Put on Ødegaard for Raphinha aswell as Ødegaard is very good at putting a shift in defensively.
--------------------------------------Drag-----------------------
--------------Fofana--------Upamecano--------Gomez--------
Dest--------Valverde----------Ndidi----------Tchou---------Reguilon
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------Odegaard-------------------------------------
-----------------------------------Greenwood-----------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Kulusevski on for Raphinha
Martinelli on for Rashford
Ødegaard on for Valverde
-------------------- Ederson -------------------
B.Pavard -- De Ligt --- Ramos -- A.Sandro
-------------------- Fabinho ------------------
---------- De Bruyne --- P.Pogba ------------
L.Messi ---------- S.Aguero -------- G.Jesus
Subs:
Ramsdale, E.Garcia, R.Neves, J.Sancho, L.Sane, Havertz, Cavani
Like a well oiled machine this team continues to find a way to win after a fantastic victory last time out against a very strong Wolves team.
We return back to home comforts today and welcome the return of De Bruyne who will be keen to put on a show with Pogba beginning to open up a lead in the goals & assists race.
Security has been tight ahead of this fixture with a few dodgy looking Yorkshiremen removed from the training ground this week, still we expect Lubo will no doubt casting his beading little eyes over these tactics prior to submitting his team in order to gain a tactical edge. Unfortunately for him there is none and we are happy to detail why;
Home and form advantage:
Unlike in real life we have managed to turn this part of North London into an absolute fortress this season. Big guns Chelsea and Leicester have both left empty handed and we expect to put this dirty Leeds side to the sword. Our form of 5 straight wins has also instilled a belief that we will find a way to win regardless of who we’re up against.
If they go 3-4-3:
A quick scout of Leeds previous set up shows their go to formation is 343 in some variation. Going with this set up today is tactical suicide. Our midfield trio of KDB, Pogba & Fabinho are in fine form and about as good a trio as you’re likely to find. Up against a midfield two we will simply overwhelm them, Pogba and KDB are passmasters whilst Fabinho also has a penchant for goal. We’ll look to overload them, short sharp passing always looking for the open man. With time and space Pogba & KDB have the end product to quickly take the game away from the opposition.
Another mismatch is that it will leave our front three man for man against their back three. Whilst they have a strong aerial presence the likes of Maguire has the turning speed of an oil tanker whilst D.Carlos is never far from an accident waiting to happen. We go with a deadly front three. One on one Messi is devastating, Aguero’s movement enables him to lose his marker in the blink of an eye whilst Jesus is godly.
We look to retain possession, in doing so they’ll constantly be forced to track back meaning they’ll get penned into a 5-4-1. This will allow us to create pressure with wave after wave of attacking phases. KDB and Pogba are both capable of threading the ball through the eye of a needle in the final third, Messi only needs a split second to create half a yard of space and finish, Aguero requires you to have eyes in the back of your head with his incredible movement whilst Jesus has the pace and workrate to tire any defender into a mistake. We create countless problems, tire them out both physically and mentally creating a lapse in concentration to open the floodgates. The fresh legs and strength of our subs really enables us to put the game to bed in the latter stages of the game.
If they go 4-3-3:
If after reading the above Lubo decides to change his set up and go 4-3-3 then even better. It’ll mean we match up man for man where we feel have superior strength, meaning that if we beat a man we quickly have an overload to exploit. We play at a high tempo and look for an early goal which will immediately put them on the back foot. Again dominating the midfield will be crucial and with twin AM’s we create problems galore with our attacking intent. Similar to above we look to wear them down, the difference being that instead of their wingbacks dropping back it’ll be their wingers having to track back into area’s they don’t want to be. If they get caught cheating we’re in and it also means that Kane will be left isolated and we all know when he’s not getting the service he becomes anonymous, taking away their biggest weapon.
General tactics:
Irrespective of their set up our tactics stays the same. Ball retention, get the ball into our midfield trio and make the opposition work. Short sharp quick tempo passing as we look to run them into the ground, if they try to compact this area then KDB and Pogba open up their range of passing and look to get the ball forwards quickly to exploit the space in behind.
Defensively we want to stick to a tight back four. Our fullbacks sitting in alongside our CB’s leaving no space for them to exploit down the flanks. They have a strong attack but we look to take their legs away from them with our ball retention. We keep their wingers down the line and don’t let them cut inside. Kane is a formidable striker but has a deserved reputation for not turning up in big games. We stick Ramos on him, one of the best in the business his reading of the game is second to none. Get physical, Kane doesn’t have the pace to run in behind which should enable Ramos to keep him in his pocket but in any event De Ligt will be alongside to sweep up any balls over the top of pick up the second striker if they go with a front two. Starved of possession we make it a frustrating afternoon for their attack.
As we wear them down we look to exploit their tired legs with our options off the bench. The fresh legs of Sane and Sancho are a defenders worst nightmare as we bring the rapid pair on for the final 20 minutes. A switch to 4-2-3-1 allows us to play a front three of Sancho, Jesus, Sane with Messi operating in the hole as a #10 as we look to put them to the sword.
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Aguero and Pogba off, Sancho and Sane on. 4-2-3-1.
85 mins: KDB off, R.Neves on. Twin DM alongside Fabinho.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Aguero & Jesus off, Sancho & Sane on. Injection of speed & quality as the flying wingers play either side of Messi in a deadly front three.
Comment deleted by Article Creator
No Chelsea tactics this week, stop posting them
rof post them on wolves or liverppols page
---------------------Meslier
-------Carlos----Maguire---Hernandez
Walker---Jorginho-----SMS-----------Digne
-----Chiesa-------Kane--------Depay
Woodman
White
Pellegrini
Castagne
Isak
Foden
Zaha
A tough game for us today, as we make the trip to the Toilet Bowl Stadium, but buoyed from our win last week, we hope that we possess the quality to upset the apple cart in one of the week’s late kick-offs. It will be a tough league debut for Illan Meslier, but we are more than capable in his ability to come in and replace Neuer. Lucas Digne also returns, facilitating our transition to a 3-4-3, adding the extra body defensively to deal with Tottenham’s stacked attacking options. In practice, out of possession, the system is more likely to reflect a 5-2-3, as attacking opportunities for our wing backs will probably be fairly slim. Instead, I want to see us revert to a counter attacking system. We need to start strongly, and try to get ourselves on the ball, and frustrate them with early possession, waiting for the fickle Spurs fans to turn on their own team. I want to see our usual 2 touch pass-and-move system in these early stages, making the opposition work in the press, to try and tire them out in the early stages, and draw their lines out, so that there will be more space to exploit in behind.
Defensively, I think we have a solid back three that compliments each other well. Maguire is our bruiser at the heart of it, and I want to see him man-marking the main opposition goal threat, sticking to him like glue, and cutting out high crosses and aerial balls forward. A bit of rough and tumble is always fair game in these encounters. With Hernandez and Carlos either side of him, he should always be supported by a covering defender, capable of nipping in behind should he get turned, and allowing us to double up on their line leader. In other areas of the defenesive unit, I want to see Digne and Walker man-marking the opposition wide-men, also, but again, they can be supported in this effort by their CB, who can push out to support them should we be getting overloaded in these areas. Jorginho is another option here, as I want to see him shuttling across the line in front of the defence, supporting the FBs should we being overloaded in the wide areas. SMS will provide most of the covering running in the middle to accomodate this, and his engine should provide us with a willing runner and presser. Less of his usual vertical dynaism today, and more of the horizontal stuff, though when we break at pace he does have the license to push us out, so we don’t remain entirely under the cosh.
In terms of releasing the ball, Chiesa and Depay should both deepish to provide the outball, sticking to the touchline where possible, though that can all change when they get on the ball. Both players are very talented at transitioning play from the middle of the pitch into the final third, with their aptitude for direct running, pace, and skills. Kane will keep himself central, to play off these attacking flair units, between the goalposts, where he is most potent. There isn’t a defence in the league that shouldn’t be scared of this front three, so if Tottenham provide us any room to hit them, then these players are the ones to take advantage. Both Depay and Chiesa are more comfortable operating as inside forwards, so this is what we will see today, with conventional wing play out of the window. I want to see direct runs at their defence, putting them on the back foot. SMS can support these, but his box to box runs will need to be strictly watched, and not too enthusiastic, so as to not leave ourselves overly exposed at the back. Similar rules can apply to Digne and Walker, who I will allow the license to support the attack when the opportunity presents itself, but never together, so as not to expose ourselves.
In terms of when the ball is lost in these positions, the high press will be slightly more reserved this week. Depay and Chiesa should drop to the half way line, and engage the press from there, whilst Kane will make sure that their CBs don’t spend too much time on the ball. The important thing is that we keep our defensive shape further down the pitch, and I trust the lads to maintain this through the ninety minutes.
Substitutions
If winning
Chiesa off for Pellegrini 75 mins
A switch of formation to a 5-3-2, with Depay operating as the movement striker alongside Kane. Pellegrini and SMS will sit either side of Jorgy, to provide the willing runs and fresh legs.
Depay off for Isak 80 mins
Fresh legs up top to support Kane and potentially kill the game with another goal.
If losing/drawing
Carlos off for Foden 70 mins
Switch to a 4-2-3-1, which isn’t throwing too much at them, but will hopefully maintain our defensives footing, whilst providing us a more natural playmaker going forward.
Chiesa off for Zaha 75 mins
Some fresh legs on the RW, and what defender in the world will want to see Wilfried Zaha coming on after dealing with Federico Chiesa for 75 mins.
------------------------ J.Oblak -------------------------
J.Cancelo ---- Bonucci ---- Romero ---- Robertson
----- Camavinga --- F.de Jong --- Bellingham ------
--- Mbappe ---------- Haaland ---------- Grealish ---
Pope, Mendes, Bissouma, L.Bailey, Mahrez, Musiala, Malen
We play possession football, especially the midfield where we want to dominate, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, up against it but our trio has everything we need to stop them controlling the game, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with the midfield ahead of them harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and our midfield will be in and around the half way line, Haaland slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow us to dictate play, defend from the front, 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.
Romero picks up the CF he wont let much passed him, Bonucci spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, both powerful boys so keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, look to intercept quickly, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get to our midfield quickly, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass to those in front to hit them with pace, both must attack high balls to get the ball away from the opposition big men. Fullbacks keep the wingers quiet, stop their attacks. 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!!, Driving passed the wingers to gain that extra body in the opp half, If either get caught up field I want the midfielders to help them out by filling the gaps so we don't get exposed, this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. CBs to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and de Jong sitting back.
We have a classy young midfield trio that has the lot. de Jong is our deepest midfielder sitting just in front of the CB's he will dictate play hopefulyy allowing the other two to do the running, he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, they have undoubted quality in there midfield and I want him to be quick to the challenge, having a player like de Jong allows more time for Camavinga and Bellingham, he is a cool head, he 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, he will drop in between the two CBS to pick up the ball and start from the back, 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 spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, 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. Bellingham & Camavinga will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defence as best as possible, in possession get it to the front 3/4 but also look for fullbacks 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. Bellingham and Camavinga move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Both are essential to our style of play, they are the link between defence and attack, as we break quickly they will look to set up our front three and push on, look to receive a pass and drive on. They will drop back at times to pick it up and will look to their dribbling capabilities to get them around players, and into the danger area to unleash a powerful drive. When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. After the pass they can make up the extra man further forward as de Jong stays and covers. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on. When defending this is a tight 3 man midfield.
Our wingers are extremely quick and skillfull, 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 our defenders are superb long ball passers, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks, however, the movement up front between Grealish and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing youngsters Bellingham and Camavinga to pick their moments to move into space. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power/pace and the other wingers 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 Haaland and the rest that have made their way into the danger area so they can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality at times, , we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers one of whom at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside depending which side we are attacking from, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain - Bonucci
Penalties - Haaland
Free Kicks - Grealish
Corners - Grealish
Losing -
65 Mins - Mahrez for Bellingham he goes RW, Mbappe up top 442/424, Leon Bailey for Grealish,adds a super amount of pace down the left hand side
Winning -
75 Mins - Bissouma for Bellingham, he goes into the centre of the 3 becoming a proper DM, L.Bailey for Grealish
Drawing -
65 Mins - L.Bailey for Grealish
75 Mins - N.Mendes for Robertson, adding more pace down that left hand side
78 Mins - D.Malen for Bellingham, he goes up top 442/424
Johnstone on the bench instead of Pope(injured)
Attacking 4-4-2
We go with an attacking team, playing with a high tempo in attack. A fluid front four with real quality and pace. We apparently lacked goals (even though Lautaro would’ve outscored Lukaku if he’d taken pens) so add Benzema to play with rather than replace Lautaro. Both are excellent dropping deep to get on the ball and creating which is hugely important for our formation.
City have a great Cm, but with injuries they have weaknesses in defence, out wide and in goal. So we look to target their weakest cbs and space out wide with our formation overload their back 3/4. We also have a very strong physical team, we look to bully City and control the game. Get balls out wide and crosses in - their keeper won’t like that.
We deliberately go with strong defensive fb on the right, in possession we look for Theo to bomb forward down the wing and Militao to narrow to form a back 3. In midfield Bruno then has freedom to come inside, and gives us a 3-5-2 formation in possession ensuring we are not outnumbered in midfield and can take the game to City. Get the attackers in between the lines. Goretzka up supporting and creating.
The fluidity to our team will be a key tactic in pulling opposition players out of possession.
We aim to gain control by overloading their defence, our attackers pushing them back, we’ll have Bruno giving us a third man in Cm pushing our forwards on to their defence. Importantly we have two forwards who will drop deep to find pockets of space linking the play and creating.
I’m form so no hanging about we look to attack, getting in behind and target them out wide, get balls in the box, getting down the outside for a cut back/cross or coming inside to space to shoot/cut back.
Two intelligent cms key to our plan, Rodri dictating the tempo and spreading the play with Goretzka playing box to box and linking the play. Up top Lautaro has the pace and energy to buzz around Benzema who has the quality and intelligence to link with him, they drop deep looking to drag defenders out of position creating space for the other striker or wingers to get in. Bruno behind with freedom will be the spark looking to create something, he is fantastic at coming inside and crossing from the left and with two forwards to find today.
Theo the only fb that gets forward, Militao plays at rb for his pace and defensive strength, while adding a set piece threat, he always stays back as 3rd cb. Theo bombs forward down the wing.
We direct our attacks out wide in final 3rd and play quickly and direct. We have a front four full of pace, looking to stretch the opposition and create space for other attackers to exploit.
Rodri plays zonally in front of cbs, Goretzka who presses the play. Similar in attack, Rodro plays deepest covering and creating from deep. We have a defence full of pace and great energy in front so play a balanced/middle line.
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 high tempo play.
We have a cm duo who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid front four, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space. As we move forward we get quick one twos in the opposition half.
Set-pieces will be important we have giants in the air to get forward in Marquinhos, Militao, Laporte, Goretzka, Rodri, Theo and Benzema plus Lautaro who love a header, and fantastic delivery from Bruno where we can bully Chelsea’s midgets. Rodri generally stays back with Sterling though so we’ve not too many forward.
————————————— Allison
Militao —— Marquinhos —— Laporte —— T.Hernandez
———————— Goretzka —— Rodri
Sterling —————————————————— B.Fernandes
————————- Lautaro —— Benzema
Subs. Henderson, R.James, Alaba, Rice, J.Felix, Gnabry, S.Mane
Defending
When we lose possession the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press as soon as they get into middle 3rd. Stop them breaking and press them relatively high up the park (not as high as usual since back line is slightly deeper, ensuring no space between the lines).
Laporte the man marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his pace and intelligence to sweep up. In midfield, Thiago plays zonally in front of cbs, with Goretzka ball side. The wingers narrow in front to the side of play City are attacking, in spaces on either side of their cms. In a position to block passing lanes central or wide.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, put them under pressure to force a mistake. Then break quickly when we do win the ball.
As City get into our half, the wide players drop deep to add protection in front of the fb and next to the two cms. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play. Lautaro drops behind Benzema sitting on their deepest Cm.
Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Mane for Lautaro. More control and energy in midfield, 4-3-3
If winning after 75 mins bring on Rice for Rodri. Fresh legs, and control to see game out.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Felix for Bruno. Fresh pace in attack.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Mane and R.James for Lautaro and Militao. More control 4-3-3, James on as we look to attack wings and double up on their fbs.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Felix for Goretzka.
If losing after 65 mins bring on James and Mane for Militao and Lautaro. 4-2-3-1. Bruno behind Benz, more pace and width.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Felix for Goretzka.
Watford: Week 7 (Home to Wolves)
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: Assunção
Team:
--------------Júnior
Dodô--Collins—Fuchs---Abner
-------------Assunção
------Matheus----Igor G
Henrique---------------Paulinho
-------------Evanilson
SUBS: Brenno, Lewis, Wilmot, Pyerre, De Paula, Arezo, Kaio
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: Júnior is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: Assunção 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. Matheus and Igor G will play just in front of Assunção. Matheus will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Igor G 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 Henrique and Paulinho 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 Igor G, Matheus and Evanilson in to play. They can vary their attacks by going wide or cutting inside as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Matheus may sit a bit deeper allowing Igor G to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF. As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Evanilson starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great big old fashioned centre forward. We will look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. An eye for a pass and not afraid to have a go from distance. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his power pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Matheus, Paulinho or Henrique with Collins, Fuchs, Assunção and Evanilson to offer an aerial threat. Igor G and Paulinho (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Evanilson
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Wilmot for Fuchs, Kaio for Evanilson and De Paula for Matheus, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 80 minutes) Arezo for Matheus and Kaio for Henrique. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Kaio and Arezo offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
-------------Assunção
Arezo---Igor G---Paulinho
--------Evanilson---Kaio
Chelsea v BRENTFORD
Berardi, Grimaldo, Guehi, Livramento
🟥 Laimer
-----------------------Simón
Lamptey, Andersen, T Silva, Maehle
--------------Kovacic, Höjbjerg
Bernardeschi-----Isco----Saint-Maximin
------------------------Suárez
Subs: Kelleher, Kjaer, Koopmeiners, Gallagher, Mertens, Immobile, Ibrahimovic
Captain: Thiago Silva
Free Kicks: Bernardeschi/Isco
Penalties: Suárez (Ibrahimovic)
Our defensive unit consists of Joachim Andersen and Thiago Silva paired up at centre-back, Tariq Lamptey at right-back and Joakim Maehle at left-back, with Mateo Kovacic and Pierre-Emile Höjbjerg as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Kovacic and Höjbjerg 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 Höjbjerg can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Kovacic 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 Höjbjerg's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Höjbjerg running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will be dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Mateo Kovacic.
Kovacic 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 Kovacic such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Federico Bernardeschi, Isco and Allan Saint-Maximin as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez 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 Kovacic or Höjbjerg, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Lamptey and Maehle can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Kovacic and Höjbjerg can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Federico Bernardeschi and Allan Saint-Maximin, who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers, will cut inside or make runs into the box.
Isco, our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders. Isco 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 with his quick flicks and one-touch passing, will combine exceptionally well with Bernardeschi, Saint-Maximin & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.
Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Bernardeschi, Isco & Saint-Maximin to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.
Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suárez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.
All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.
Subs on 75 mins
Mertens on for Saint-Maximin and Ibrahimovic on for Suárez
Double substitution - acceleration, pace and sublime dribbling from Mertens and a real focal point for the attacking midfielders in Ibrahimovic during the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line.
ARSENAL Leeds
-------------------- M. Maignan --------------------
------ J. Stones --- Tapsoba --- Tierney -------
Pereira ---- T. Partey --- Barella ----- J. Alba
------- B. Saka ---- P. Dybala --------------------
------------------------------ Aubameyang -------
Subs: Onana, Chilwell, Paqueta, Tielemans, Smith Rowe, M. Diaby, Calvert-Lewin
We want to continue our recovery in form with a big result here. Leeds have good players, but I feel there are areas we can take advantage of, particularly in defence. We’ve shifted to a wider front 3 today to expose those wide side area weaknesses in their defence. We also want to outnumber them in midfield and dictate the game. With three ball playing central defenders and a technically sound midfield and two forwards very good in possession and combination play, we think we can do this and with confidence. We also have our talisman Dybala dropping in to link midfield and attack. We’ve packed the team with players excellent in transitions and with very good ball retention skills - this is so we can win those crucial battles and survive and play through any press from Leeds.
Maignan – The Milan stopper has excelled in the 2 year and earned his move to Milan. He’s confident in claiming crosses and in playing from the back. In possession he has the back three to pass into, or skip a player and clip it wide to the marauding wing backs.
Pereira – The Portuguese wingback is back to his best and ready to step in today. In a back five he has the freedom to do what he does best and attack. He has experience of playing as a winger too so feel this is a role well suited for him. We’ve put Stones behind him today to feed him down that right channel. Between Partey and Stones they can cover any space he leaves when attacking - but he also has great recovery pace to snatch the ball back quickly or get back
Tierney - Tierney is a warrior and comes in to play LCB today as he does for Scotland. He reads the game incredibly well and is aggressive. He has experience at left and as a RCB, he gives Pereira that protection needed to get forward. His technical ability on the ball will be a real asset to spring tactical diagonal balls to Alba / Aubameyang - this will break the Leeds shape and create chaos.
Tapsoba – Tapsoba has been brilliant when placed alongside calm defenders, so we have prepared the perfect environment for him today. Alba as an outlet ahead of him and Aubameyang as a longer outball. Equally he can carry the ball further himself, through the middle and work with the CMs. He’s also extremely strong and tall and will partner well with Tierney and Stones from a defensive point of view.
Stones - This guy has really stepped up for club and country in recent months and here for his debut we are giving him the freedom of the central CB - he’s brilliant on the ball and reads the game exceptionally well. They have dangerous attackers and he is in the middle of that for his experience to help guide two of the best young CBs in world football alongside him.
Alba - Whoever is on his side he will be able to combine with Tierney to stop. He’s been selected for that speed and experience today. He will also offer the outlet out of defence, an overlap to Aubameyang who will cut inside when in possession. Defensively he has the pace, experience and tactical nous to snuff out what Leeds can throw at us. In possession, the presence of Tierney behind him provides Alba with the freedom to push forward and influence technically.
Partey – Ball winning midfielder: Partey has been chosen for his physical dominance and ability to turn and play at pace. The dynamic midfielder has the quality and experience to add to our midfield. With the attacking players ahead of him, Partey will sit and marshall the right half space, allowing Pereira more attacking freedom. Partey has played at right back before so this is well suited. He will sit at the heart of midfield both in and out of possession, offering a shield to the defence and helping to nullify Leeds. Ball winning midfielder today.
Barella – Deep lying playmaker: Barella will dictate that left side of the midfield. Very calm on the ball, looking to progress and carry the ball through the lines when received from the central defenders. He has Partey to sit deepest and mop up and three CBs behind him, and he should be the conductor. He can combine with Alba on the left too in order to create an overload. He is a master of slowing or quickening the tempo of a game. Will look to play the deep lying playmaker role today.
Saka - Ball carrying wide attacking midfielder: His ability to carry the ball and final end product makes him vital here - he will help us in the fast transitions to carry that ball forward, look for neat one-two’s with Dybala and then get his head up to find his teammate Aubameyang in the middle. At his best on this right side where he can cut in on his stronger left foot and finish. Him cutting inside onto his left creates room for Pereira to overlap also.
Dybala – False 9: An elegant forward, we expect to have possession so we’ve chosen a forward who consistently breaks deep blocks for club and country. A fantastic link man, he has pace either side in Alba and Pereira and ahead in Aubameyang - Saka for that close combination play.
Aubameyang - Pressing forward: The furthest forward of our team, he will use his energy to pressure the ponderous Leeds defenders and look to snap up mistakes. He will sniff out chances that Dybala, Saka and the wing backs create / cross for him to do what he does best. The left half space is his and this is the area he excels in most.
SUBS
After 60 (all scenarios) - Tielemans for Barella - fresh legs in that crucial role.
If winning
After 65 – Paqueta for Dybala - Auba move to CF, Paqueta to LAM and a more 433 with more ball retention quality and ability to retain ball better and fresh legs.
If not winning
After 65 – Paqueta for Partey (on fire in recent months, more B2B and goal threat)
After 80 (if losing) – Calvert-Lewin for Tierney (433/424)
-------------------------- Remiro --------------------------
-------- Manolas ------ S.de Vrij ------ Kamara --------
Mazraoui ------ N.Kante ----- T.Kroos ------ R.Gosens
--------------------------- B.Silva --------------------------
----------------- Lukaku --------- Werner ----------------
Bazanu, M.Cash, Chilwell, Prowse, Buendia, Watkins, Zaniolo
When we don't have the ball, we will press high up the pitch, conceding very little space, B.Silva will look to steal the ball within the attacking third and hopefully, quickly get it to those ahead of him. We do not give them any time on the ball and our front 2 prevent their defence hanging on to it too long or trying to play form the back as we pressurise them all the time.
If they do get to our half then we have a strong back 3 and double pivot ahead to prevent play through the middle, meaning they will need to push wide, whichever side they attack from tho I want B.Silva to push to that side again to close them down and support the wingbacks, lots of pace in the front three to get at players.
When we have the ball it starts from the back moving the ball around between defence and centre midfield until the moment arrives when a pass can be made through to the front line, , there is no rush, if they come pressing we simply move it to the wide areas for them to bomb down the line and look to either cut it back or get a pass into the front three.
Remiro is our sweeper keeper, he always makes himself big, I want him involved with the defence playing out, if he has the ball I want him to find players especially the wingbacks when we are ready to attack
Manolas and Kamara, Cover the wingbacks when they have pushed forward and take the ball out of defence, use there positional sense well as they may be out paced., must do this with confidence, if they lose the ball then all numbers back to cover, if they are being pressurised then a simple pass even back to the keeper and start again, stay wide (depending on what side) to cover wingbacks if they are forward.
de Vrij - He will press the opposition striker, when we lose the ball he needs to be on top of the CF very quickly, he must intercept everything, but he has the experience to do this, don't take any risks as the CF will also be on him so move it quickly when he gets it.
Mazraoui and Gosens, must work very hard, they have great work rate but this must done for the whole game, get down the line, get the crosses in, two great forwards to aim for, don't worry so much about whats behind you as their is plenty cover, I don't mean forget your defence duties, just play with a bit of freedom, crosses, one-twos, cut backs and all with pace to hurt them.
Although Kante's primary role in front of the defence is to control possession and then start an attacking phase, 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 the No 10/SS is also a main focus, he will 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.
Kroos has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for the front 3, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running he is expected to do and he does a lot. 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..
B.Silva is in a free role I want him to dictate proceedings in the final third, either playing the through ball to the front two or use the wingers, pass in between the lines and give them something to run onto as the drive passed the defender, making late runs into the box and look for any loose ball to have a pop at goal, he, Silva is a great finisher so look to make late runs into the area and latching onto crosses from wide areas, defending wise, I want him to harass who ever has the ball in that area, get it and move it forward as quickly as possible, also can draw players into him, therefore winning a lot of free kicks
Werner I want to be making all the runs behind the defence, a tirless worker always making it hard for defenders, I want him to drift wide and pull defenders away, quick and skillfull, look to move out to create an outlet for the wingbacks to use or indeed link with B.Silva to get Lukaku away on goal, he and Lukaku both fantastic in the air, so while they aim for Lukaku, Werner & Silva will be making the late runs into the danger area and with a head start look to get up early and attack the crosses coming in. Again, really put the pressure on their back line, they are great going forward but today, pretty weak at the back
Lukaku, is our out an out No.9, fox in the box, a bully and powerful striker, he is there to finish off chances created by other, I want him always on the last man, no defending required from him, always ready to pounce, if however he cant get in on goal he has plenty round him to lay it off to, or just a quick pass and look to get into space where he can get his shot off, end of, he is in to score goals and that is what he shall do.
Captain - de Vrij
Pens - Lukaku
Free Kicks - B.Silva
Corners - B.Silva
Losing -
65 Mins - Watkins for Mazraoui, B.Silva goes to RM, Watkins to RCF 3-4-3, Prowse for Kroos for fresh legs in the centre
Winning -
75 Mins - Prowse for Werner, he goes into CM, Kante drops back a it 5311, Zaniolo for Silva
Drawing -
70 Mins - Zaniolo for Silva, Watkins for Werner, Cash for Mazraoui straight swaps, fresh legs
Newcastle 3-4-2-1
—————— Mendy
——— Dias - Matip - Andreas C
Trent - Llorente - Casemiro - Shaw
————— Salah - Son
——————— Lewa
Subs: Kessie, Modric, Andre S, Naby, Tomori, Gundogan, Bowen
Today is all about controlling midfield and playing off the front man, while maintaining defensive balance. Not particularly playing for possession or without just sort of go with the flow.
In our build up and attacking phases we will have our wing backs push very high up the pitch to create width in the first moments of the build up. This will force them to defend in a wider block to cover this threat which in turn will create space centrally for us to exploit and progress the ball. Central defenders will split wide with one of the two deepest central midfielders dropping deep to give a passing option to the man in possession. The use of a central midfielder in this manner is designed to provide a passing option beyond the first line of pressure from the opposition. It’ll allow us to move the ball at angles vertically through the press of the opposition and allowing one of our midfielders to escape the shadow of their midfielders to receive the ball in space.
We will always use a double pivot to act as the base of midfield. These two will provide security in the attacking phase but they will also screen the defensive unit when the opposition are attacking. In using two players in this pivot position we see the versatility to allow one to rotate into advanced positions when in possession while the other retains a deeper position. When in possession you will rarely see these players operating on the same line as one another. Instead, they will tend to be staggered with the ball near player deeper. This allows the ball to be played into the double pivot and then played forward to the second player in the pivot, remember the importance of verticality for each player in possession. Being staggered in their line also allows them to pull the opposition midfielders out of position allowing our attacking midfielders to profit from that.
Verticality is key to our system, it is of paramount importance. Our players will look for the vertical pass in the first instance. Obviously this is not always possible which means some lateral passing will come in, but this is designed only to move the opposition out of position to create vertical passing lanes that will allow the ball to be progressed forward. Our attacking players will play their natural game and take up positions between the lines of the opposition allowing vertical passes to be players into dangerous spaces.
In the final third, in particular, we will look to overload the centre of the field before playing quick vertical passes that bypass the opposition defensive block allowing us to create numerous opportunities on their goal. When the ball is played into our striker, the attacking midfielders are immediately on their bikes going beyond their already stretched defensive line, remembering the role of our wing backs. In moving so many players into high areas of the pitch when in possession of the ball we make it very difficult for the oppositions defensive block. By moving our players in between their defensive lines we create an advanced platform from which we can threaten them.
Defensively we press systematically. Front three as the first line of the press with the attacking midfielders focusing on their deeper centre midfielders. We shift as a block side to side to the side that the focus their play. Wings backs drop into a back five.
Subs
65 mins - Kessie on Casemiro off. Fresh legs.
70 mins losing/drawing - Modric on Llorente off. Struggling to break them down so we need to stretch them.
75 mins losing/drawing - Andre S on Son off. Need to gain bodies in the box.
75 mins winning - Gundogan for Llorente. Calm things a bit.
------------------- Ederson -----------------
Emerson -- De Ligt --- Ramos -- Ferland
------------------- Fabinho ------------------
--------- De Bruyne --- P.Pogba -----------
L.Messi --------- G.Jesus --------- L.Sane
Subs:
Ramsdale, A.Sandro, P.Torres, R.Neves, Sancho, Havertz, Aguero
The boys are absolutely flying and we look to continue are fine form for the trip away to Liverpool. Whilst they are the opposite end of the table it's a game we won’t be taking lightly.
Competition for places is currently huge with every player knowing that they need to be at the top of their game to keep their place in the side. Leroy Sane gets rewarded for his fine form with a place in the starting line up and will be keen to put on a masterclass.
We aim to start fast, get at them from the first whistle and put the game to bed early. They’re a very youthful side that probably need a couple of season to mature so we really want to stamp down our authority early and let our superior quality shine. It will also mean that a red card will little impact on the result if we can put the game to bed early and build a cushion.
Tactically we continue to play on the front foot as we go for goals. Central to our success will be our midfield as we go with the perfectly balanced trio of De Bruyne, Pogba & Fabinho. We look to dominate this area of the field, allowing us to play on the front foot, retaining possession and dictating the play.
As we dominate possession we look to pen them in, creating wave after wave of attacking phases as we apply the pressure. KDB and Pogba are both capable of threading the ball through the eye of a needle in the final third, Messi only needs a split second to create half a yard of space and finish, Jesus requires you to have eyes in the back of your head with his incredible movement whilst Sane has the pace and workrate to tire any defender into a mistake. We create countless problems, tire them out both physically and mentally creating a lapse in concentration to open the floodgates. Once we smell blood we have player that are capable of quickly taking the game away from them as we go for goals.
Due to the abundance of attacking quality it's important that have a solid defence and rely on our watertight CB duo of Ramos & De Ligt. Very much the master and the apprentice with both natural born leaders. They are missing their main man Icardi up top and starved of possession we want to make it a frustrating afternoon for their attackers.
Defence:
We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Ramos will mark. Master of the dark arts he's strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game with the tools to deal with any opponent. De Ligt will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top.
Our fullbacks will stick tight to their wingers, both with bags of pace we see them down the line and don’t let them cut infield. Both have quality on the ball and we want them to hit the channels early as we look to get Sane and Messi in behind.
Midfield:
Midfield is where we possess the perfect trio to take the game to the opposition. Fabinho will be our anchor operating as a DM. A fantastic reader of the game we want him to sit in front of our defence, breaking up the opposition play and getting the ball forward early.
De Bruyne and Pogba speak for themselves. When on it they are truly a world class pairing. Their range of passing is sublime and they'll be spraying round the ball round majestically all afternoon.
They'll be our chief creators, picking apart the opposition and playing that killer pass in the final third. Both also possess a great strike from range, if the opposition drop off then both have license to go for goal.
Forwards:
Movement, movement, movement. The key to breaking down the opposition will be the movement of our front three. Jesus plays centrally but also has license to drift to the flank and interchange with Messi. This will make it almost impossible for them to implement any sort of man marking tactic but also creates chaos in their backline. Varane is their marquee man however we give him a defensive nightmare. The pace of Jesus in behind will force him track his runs, taking him out of position and creating a huge hole for Messi to exploit when he cuts infield. He’ll also have to deal with the pace of Sane down the left flank once he gets past their FB, when he comes across to cover if will leave Jesus and Messi one on one, a quick sliderule ball and they are in.
Their fullbacks our a potential weakness and we look to exploit any deficiencies in this area. Sane will play as a conventional winger, an absolute speed merchant we want him to take his man on and whip balls across the face of the goal for Messsi or Jesus to tap home. On the other flank we look to isolate Messi one on one against their LB. Go on their man, waltz past him and fire off a short or look to play in Jesus or Sane. De Bruyne and Pobga will also be making advanced runs from midfield creating the option of a cutback for one of them to slot home.
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Pogba off, Neves on. Twin DM alongside Fabinho.
80 mins: Jesus off, Havertz on.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Jesus & Pogba off, Aguero & Sancho on. 4-2-2-2 with Sane & Sancho on the wings and Messi & Aguero up top. Goals.
Red card scenario:
In all scenario’s we revert to a 4-4-1 formation. Jesus will be replaced with one of the below whilst our wingers drop back in a 4 man midfield. Little change from a tactical perspective as we form a tight unit and pick off the opposition on the break as they commit men forward.
------------------ Ederson ------------------
Emerson - De Ligt -- S.Ramos - Ferland
L.Sane -- Fabinho -- De Bruyne - Pogba
------------------ L.Messi ------------------
GK – Ramsdale
FB – A.Sandro
CB - P.Torres
CM - Neves
WG – Sancho
CF - Aguero
MAN UNITED VS Newcastle
-----------------------------------Dragowski-----------------------
Dest-----------Upamecano-----------Fofana----------Reguilon
--------------------------Ndidi----------------Aouar-------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Raphinha---------------------Wirtz-----------------------Rashford
--------------------------------Greenwood--------------------------------
Subs - Gulácsi, J Gomez, Tchoucameni, Ismaila Sarr, Ødegaard, Pulisic, Martinelli
CAPTAIN - RASHFORD
CK'S - RAPHINHA
FK'S - WIRTZ
PENALTIES - RASHFORD
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Upamecano and Fofana bring a lot of strength and pace to the defence. Upamecano will marshal the defence and Fofana 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. Ndidi will be covering for them when they go attacking.
Dest and Reguilon are playing as fullbacks today. Start the game off with a conservative mindset and try not too attack too much, but as the game goes on you will have more freedom. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM's will be helping you a lot aswell. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. One of our DM's will come over to mark the oppo winger who has the ball incase they use the overlapping fullbacks. I want both fullbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..
Defence Mids
Ndidi + Aouar
Ndidi 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 to Aouar. Also be on the lookout for the runs of Rashford/Raphinha and thread dangerous through balls to them.
Aouar will be playing as a b2b CM today. He will pick the ball up from deep and use his technique and vision to find the runs of our attacking players and thread deadly passes to them. Play quick passes forward and use your agility to outmanoeuvre the oppo players. Play 1 2 quick passes with your teammates and make penetrating runs from deep. When not in possession of the ball I want him to drop deep in central midfield and try and intercept any passes the oppo will make. Shoot if you have a chance to.
Wingers
Raphinha + Rashford
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Rashford will be looking to cut in from the left and Raphinha likewise who will cut in from the right. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back into the centre of the pitch to one of our DM's or play quick one two's with our fullbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for Greenwood to attack. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack. .
Attack Mid
Florian Wirtz
Wirtz will be playing just behind Greenwood 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
Mason Greenwood
The baby faced assassin will be leading the line for us today. He has got the strength and pace to play the role and he will have plenty of support in attack. Be vary of crosses into the box and try and get in front of your marker. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. I want Greenwood and Rashford to interchange positions with each other from time to confuse the oppo defence.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Martinelli for Aouar and Sarr for Raphinha to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212 and play the below formation. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
----------------------------------Dragowski--------------------------------
Dest-------Upamecano-------------Fofana---------Reguilon
--------------------------------------Ndidi---------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sarr-------------------------------------------------------------Martinelli
------------------------------------Wirtz-------------------------------
-------------------Rashford------------Greenwood-------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Wirtz and put on Gomez in CB. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Tchoucameni on for Aouar aswell to offer more defensive protection.
----------------------------------------Drag--------------------------------
Dest-------Upamecano------Fofana------Gomez--------Reguilon
-----------------------------Ndidi--------------Tchou-----------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------Raphinha---------------Greenwood----------------Rashford----
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Sarr on for Raphinha
Ødegaard on for Wirtz
Pulisic on for Rashford
Fresh legs to bring on.
Watford vs Wolves (GW7)
Injuries:
Nelson Semedo
Lorenzo Insigne
Owen Wijndal
Gianluigi Donnarumma
Fifth away game of the season in the opening seven fixtures, clocking up the miles, we’re having a terrible start to the season and any hopes of breaking into the top-four have gone already. Gonna be a long old season for the boy from the black-country, we’re not taking Elsie and his young guns lightly but this has now become a must win game already.
Fast paced, one touch passing today as we look to over-run our south American hosts, impose our character on the game and look to our big performers to deliver, get a win and start to rebuild.
…………………………….Pickford……………………..
Hoever……Koulibaly….Romagnoli……Spinazzola
……………………………..Busquets…………………
………………….Verratti………….Wijnaldum………
Griezmann………………Ronaldo…………………Neymar
Subs: Turati, Soyuncu, Soumare, Gourna, Doku, Vlahovic, Milenkovic.
On paper we have a strong side, but footy unfortunately isn’t played on paper, so that’s a waste of twenty-one words.
Really disappointing defeat last week against Arsenal, I offered my resignation in disgust but for some perverse reason I’m still here.
Elsie has built a great setup at The Gap, but to a man we’re more experienced and we need to pull it together now, dominate possession and dictate the tempo, go against the home advantage and form slots and get the job done.
Pickford comes into the side, and is criminally underrated by many based purely on his noncey T-rex style arms, good shot stopper as long as it’s not “top bins”. Decent distribution and with a lot of ball players in the side he has his freedom of choice to go long or short. Just play sensibly we don’t need to be chasing the game.
The back-line are a nice blend of pace and physicality, Hoever is a top young talent and will be given the space and freedom to get forward and support the attack, defensively, just standard generic stuff, keep it disciplined don’t dive in, stand your man up and force him down the line.
Spinazzola is a great athlete, rapid as something that’s really quick (Fan emptying into this GF?) will be given free licence to get up the pitch and attack Watfords RB, his presence out there will enable Neymar to come inside more, defensively, same as Hoever, stand your man up don’t dive in etc etc.
Koulignoli, other than sounding like a weird pasta dish, have the makings of a very good, Roma the Milan captain and part of a side that’s only conceded 4 goals in his 5 league games and Koulibaly conceding just 2 goals in 6 games, Incidentally Kouli has 2 goals and an assist so far in Serie A.
Both are big strong athletes and comfortable on the ball, which is perfect for our possession based higher line, as we look to take the sting out of the hornets.
Our game plan today is definitely possession heavy, we know we have the better side (no offence) but we have to earn that right to win the game, and that has to be done through control, and more specifically controlling the midfield, so with that in mind (the following stats are from Whoscored)
Busquets is the anchor-man, vastly experienced and still one of the very best in this role, will just sit today and give our full-backs the cover needed to get forwards and stretch the hornets.
86% pass success rate in a p!sh poor Barca side, would be far greater in this side, as we move Watford about like pieces on a chess board. 1.7 and 1.2 for tackles and interceptions to, show he still has the defensive nous to drive this side onwards.
Verratti and Wijnaldum both play B2B today, the higher defensive line automatically pushes the rest of the side higher up the pitch and this gives Tenacious V more opportunity to influence the game.
91.1% pass accuracy, 3.5 dribbles completed and 2.5 tackles per game show that Verratti can influence the game all over the pitch, the short sharp passes between Verratti and Busquets would be akin to a heavyweight boxer softening up his opponent with a barrage of jabs, creating the spaces for the KO blow.
Wij is much less involved in the intricate passing triangles but with an average of 30 passes a game and a completion rate of 88.2% , he’s not exactly poor on the ball, but what this man brings is a goal-scoring threat from the middle.
So in short, we have a midfield-trio that are tight at the back, comfortable on the ball and can chip in with goals, our strike-force gets the plaudits but it’s this trio that wins us games (occasionally)
The Trident:
Griezzer gets a start today as an Inside-right, has his full-back running the over-lap, very good with both feet but predominantly a left-pegger suits us just fine, can either slip the ball through for our RB to whip in or can cut inside and bang one with his left peg, the joy of him being “inverted” is that he can play in Ronaldo without having to break his stride to release the ball, we want him on the little give and go’s, the link up play between our front-line should be worth the admission fee.
Neymar is a wonderfully two footed player, and the dynamic of giving him a right-footed left back to work off has a strange chemistry about it but one that should cause damage down the Watford right, as Neymar stays wide and Spina comes in off the line, looking for the pull back, once Neymar pulls it back he can then continue his run into the box, causing some overloads on the far side. That’s where the danger is for Watford, how can they really mark Griezzer/Ronaldo/Neymar and still check the runs from our FB’s let alone the late runs from Wijnaldum.
Ronaldo is meant to be slowing down isn’t he? But 3 in 3 since his return to the prem only tells half the picture, whilst the stats are tangible it’s the other things like the aura about him that make him such a threat, Watfords defenders will have the fear factor about letting him get a yard away from them, it’s this extra vigilance that’s the undoing as it does then mean Neymar and Griezmann can find that yard of space instead.
Subs 65 Mins
Doku > Griezmann, an out and out winger, and pace abuser comes into the side, his speed against tiring legs could be carnage.
Vlahovic > Ronaldo, 4 goals in 6 Serie A appearances for the young Serbian hitman, Whilst Ronaldo is impossible to replace, he offers a decent alternative.
Soumare > Busquets, like for like in the engine room
-------------------Neuer
------Carlos---Maguire---Hernandez
Walker---SMS----Jorginho-------Digne
---------------Pellegrini
-----------Kane------Depay
Meslier
White
Castagne
Phillips
Foden
Chiesa
Isak
A change of shape for today’s game, as we take on a tough Arsenal side. I’ve decided to match up with JET’s traditional 3-5-2, as I think it allows for us to go man-for-man in key positions. We want to stake our claim in midfield today, and I believe that we have picked a trio that combines, tenacity, energy, and technical skill in a perfect blend. Defensively, I have opted for the back three to give us a man over on their attack, and hope that the pace of the two wide CBs will counter the pace in the attack posed by the opposition. We have also shifted to the two up top, but the versatility afforded by Depay shouldn’t make this too much of a problem, as he is perfectly adept slotting inside and operating as part of an attacking two, as he demonstrates when away on international duty.
Defensively, the shape is very important. Arsenal prefer to operate with an attacking two, with both capable of drifting away from the centre and into open spaces and free pockets. As such, we cannot afford to have our shape pulled apart, whilst also not wanting to provide them too much space. In a change to the usual system, oit will, today, be the two wide CBs who do the man-for-man, as I believe their increased meanuverability skills will lend themselves better to dealing with more mobile attackers. Maguire will operate as the sweeping defender, using his physicality to throw himself in the way of any attackers who wriggle free. I don’t mind Hernandez or Carlos following their player (within reason, I don’t want them being pulled into midfield), and when one does, the defense should shift to accommodate for this, so that nobody is left isolated. In this sense, they operate as a unit. Jorginho will be the deepest of our midfielders, and I want to see him sitting on their more advanced CM. Jet tends to operate with one midfielder serving as the link between defence and attack, so Jorginho will work on this player, sitting on them, and not allowing them the time or space to dictate the play. By doing this, we hope to limit the service into their attacking players through central areas. Another key worry for us are Arsenal’s WBs, as JET usually uses them to provide attacking width. In Digne and Walker we have opted for quick, well-balanced options, and they will sit wide, and look to limit the involvement of the attacking play in this area, keeping the WBs as wide as they can, and limiting service. We believe that it will be possible to isolate these players, as they seem to lack supporting options, aside from the attacking players being pulled wide, which limits the actual threat in the box.
In terms of moving the ball out from the back, we want to constrict the field, pulling Arsenal’s players into the middle, before quickly breaking it into the wider areas. In Depay, we have a player who is at home both through the middle and out wide, so I want to see him peeling away from their defender, and pushing into the channels quickly, to exploit the attacking nature of their WBs. With Digne and Walker both given license to attack, these areas will be the key out-ball for us today. In the defensive third, I want to see clean, two-touch football, with the ball moved quickly and crisply to limit the chances of defensive mistakes. With Jorginho and SMS in front, and Neuer behind, the defenders should never be short on options to help us retain possession. SMS and Pellegrini will both be operating as B2B midfielders (with Pellegrini playing slightly more advanced), so we can also look to utilise these players to help break the ball up the pitch.
In the attacking third, we will be seeing Depay operating as a support striker, operating both through the middle and through the channels. This will make him hard for the opposition to deal with, as they will struggle to go man-for-man with him. It also facilitates us creating overloads in key positions, with Depay pushing out wide to support the WBs, and doubling up on their isolated wide players. If CBs or CMs are deployed to support them, then it will create more space in the middle for our marauding midfield players. Kane is our biggest goal threat, so he will keep himself between the posts, and look to jump on any spaces created by their defence being tugged out of position. Pellegrini and SMS will both be providing support runs, getting in and around the penalty area to make themselves a nuisance, and are both capable of providing wide support, to really cause an overload in our favour,
By commiting a lot of bodies forward, we need to make sure that our reaction in the press is quick and swift. The attacking WBs should instantly attach themselves to their opposite numbers, tracking them up and down the line, and allowing this to be a limited source of attacking opportunity, whilst Pellegrini and SMS will both find their man in midfield, with Pellegrini sitting on their deepest lying midfielder, whilst SMS will take the opposing B2B (this can change during the game, to help conserve the energy levels, as both should be comfortable operating in the other’s role), whilst Kane and Depay will lead the high press against the opposition CBs, forcing them into long balls that will be mopped up by our defensive behemoths, or into mistakes high up the pitch, allowing us to retain possesion and continue our attacks.
Substitutions
If winning
Depay off for Phillips 80 mins
Switch to a 3-4-2-1, with Phillips and Jorginho in the deeper roles, and SMS and Pellegrini just in front, operating as dual B2B players
Walker off for Castagne 85 mins
Fresh legs at RWB.
If losing/drawing
Pellegrini off for Foden 65 mins
The same formation, but with a more conventional 10 than an additional B2B, Foden will sit higher up the pitch, and operate as a further support forward to Kane.
Carlos off for Chiesa 75 mins
Switch to a 4-2-3-1, with Chiesa and Depay on the flanks, and Foden at 10, gives us some more natural width to target their flagging WBs.
Digne off for Isak 85 mins
Switch again to a 3-2-3-2, with Isak operating as a support striker to Kane.
LIVERPOOL vs spurs
Injuries:
Morgan Gibbs-White
Jens Cajuste
Mauro Icardi
Calvin Stengs
Home game against everyone’s favourite Liverpool fan TAB (sorry Ludes but saying 2nd favourite wouldn’t have the same impact)
Bit of a hiding for nothing this one as they’re probably the best team in the division and on a ridiculous run of wins on the bounce, so the only way to try and get anything out of this game is just to stifle them, kill any of the gaps and get bodies behind the ball. As the great Sam Allardyce once said (The only England manager with a 100% win rate) you start the game with 1 point, if you end the game still with that point you haven’t done bad.
………………………………lloris………………………….
………………………………Varane…………………………..
Trippier……….Schuurs….…Botman…..Zinchenko
Adama………………Tonali………….McKennie………..Neto
………………………………..Leao……………………………
Subs: Trubin, Dumfries, Ake, Willock, Belotti, Kelechi, James
So with the above in mind we’re bringing back the libero. Varane is the perfect candidate to do this role, he’s quick physically and mentally, can read the game better than most, but more importantly he’s comfortable in the possession and in true Libero style, will step out of defence and add extra weight into the midfield, allowing us to have 3 central midfielders (when we have the ball) and still maintaining a solid defensive line.
We know we can’t out-gone Spurs, not many can, so the best way to defend against them is to keep the ball, we know that Spurs midfield unit can damage us (with the ball) but we also know they’re not necessarily the best with getting the ball back so we can with good game management slow the game down and disrupt their rhythm taking any momentum out of the game. If they get the overloads they’re looking for then do the right thing, take a man out 35+yards out, make sure the ref blows, I know it’s not the “Liverpool way” but Spurs are gonna have to earn the win.
Lloris may be having a torrid time adjusting to Nuno-ball, but he’s still a very good keeper, vastly experienced and a great asset to the side, decent with ball to feet and that’s the main thing as he looks to play out and continue the ball retention theme.
The Defence:
Varane – Libero, will sit behind the back-line, fighting fires, bring the ball out of the back-line and join the midfield for retention, when we lose the ball or score, then he resets back to behind the line.
Trippier/Zinchenko, play their natural games today, Trippier will push on and add numbers down the flank, Zinchenko will be more restrained and not cross half-way, but he has great long passes so if the quick counter is on he can pick the long switch balls. Defensively they’re gonna be up against it today but they’re both pretty quick so can just jockey the man where possible, if he’s done ya then wipe him out.
Botman is the muscle at a very decent 6ft3 anything coming into the box aerially he’s the first man. Good on the ball too so will look to join in the passing routes as we take the sting out of the game.
Schuurs also 6ft 3 but he’s the second ball winner, his main job will be to man mark the central striker.
Botman deals with balls into the box, Schurrs marks the central striker, and Varane fire fights by switching left to right and doubling up with our FB on whichever flank is most threatened, it’s easier with a designated sweeper as the central two have clear designated roles so there is no communication error.
Adama/Neto are lightening quick, they’ll stay wide to peg back Spurs FB’s and stop them advancing too far up the pitch, as we’re possession based so our back four will go higher than usual, these two will also push up, Neto is a tricky little fecker and if he can get a 1v1 vs the RB then he can get some joy for us today, Adama is just a bull of a player, in a leg race the Spurs LB is toast, so we want to manoeuvre the ball into that area of the pitch and create some overloads where possible. Spurs won’t want to push too high as giving either of these two a head start kills them.
Tonali is the playmaker, he gets a hard time being labelled the second coming of Pirlo but he adds so much more steel to the side than the great Andrea ever could, another 6-footer will look to use that frame to shield the ball and keep us on the front foot, we know that whatever combination TAB uses in the engine it’s a tall order, but this lad’s a pure baller, goals and assists already this season for Milan plus a solid worth ethic.
Mckennie has all the key ingredients to be a top player as he matures, strong and athletic, decent on the ball and chips in with goals in big games, needs to add the consistency but it’ll come, he goes B2B today as he looks to link up with our front-man and add some numbers in the sours box.
Leao – May be our 4th striker, but he gets the nod today, blistering pace, great technical ability and just over 6ft1” mean he has all the key skills to lead the line for us, 2 goals in 6 games for Milan so far, he can be the perfect springboard for our attacks, The pace that he,Adama and Neto bring mean that we can get men in behind that solid but sluggish defence, Spurs shouldn’t get this all their own way today.
Set-Pieces – Varane,Schurrs,Botman,Leao,Tonali all clear 6ft and all go in the box, Trippier to take them and whip them in.
Red-Card:
If it’s a CB no change, we’ll go with a back four.
Any other position Schurrs makes way and the appropriate sub comes off the bench to replace him
Subs 65 mins:
Kelechi > Leao
James > Adama
One sub in the tank in case of the red card being mine
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Tactics
Page 40 of 87
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posted on 17/9/21
Arsenal vs WOLVERHAMPTON
Injuries:
Georginio Wijnaldum
Gareth Bale
Jeremy Doku
Leonardo Spinazzola
Feels like a bit of a grudge match this one, Jet and I don’t seem to get on and as we’re rivals for the 5th place trophy we go there to give him and his side a beating. He’s a good tactician and has shown flexibility in his style, going from 3-5-2 to 4-3-3. But we will go there playing our strongest suit and looking to play off the front foot.
………………………………Donnarumma……………………….
……………Koulibaly….Milenkovic..Romagnoli…….
Semedo……………Busquets……….Verratti…………Wijndal
………………Ronaldo……Vlahovic……Neymar………..
Subs: Pickford, Soyuncu, Soumare, Insigne, Trincao, Raul, Griezmann
The 3-4-3 Is possibly the best formation when going away and giving up the form slot. It’ll keep us tight at the back, allow us a modicum of control in midfield and still give us enough firepower up top to have done the job for Guido Fawkes.
We know that the gunners have a lot of pace in their side but pace with no footballing brain means precious little, trust me I know, I see Adama play weekly. Our back line holds the line is that too many lines? It probably is now, circa 35 yards out, I know it’s risky with a ball over the top or in behind, but offensively it enables us to control possession and apply a stronger press on these north London fairies, defensively the back-three play in Italy, they know the dirty little fouls to disrupt the flow of the game and stop Arsenal finding their rhythm, a little shirt pull 35 yards out isn’t a red, ask Chiellini.
Physically our defence is intimidating so any balls whipped into our box is bread and butter for them to deal with, and if our defence miss it then we have man mountain Judas Donnarumma to come off his line and clear house.
Semedo and Wijndal add the width to this side, Semedo takes unfair criticism you don’t get to be 1st choice for Portugal and play well over 100 games for Barca if you’re no good, good with ball to feet and blisteringly quick, will link up with his homeboy Ronaldo down Arses’ left flank, Wijndal still only 21 but captains Alkmaar, 6 assists and 2 goals last season isn’t a bad return, he’ll bring the width on the left flank, allowing Neymar to drift inside and attack Arsenals RB.
Semedo and Wj will both go simultaneously I’m not a fan of one go one sit, we want to be fast paced, so to do so we have to overwhelm Arsenal, and the easiest way to do so is the “switch balls” probing for that space to exploit, both men will have some very good targets to hit in the box, so we need them to be “heads up” players, take the risky pass and trust your teammates to make it work as the reward is well worth it.
The engine,
The key components to any side are the midfield, “always outnumbered, never outgunned” – Keith Flint said that about my side, and then robbed it for an album title
You all know what Busquets and Verratti bring to a side, even Stevie wonder can you, but for those that don’t know, 1 World Cup, 2 European Championships, 3 Champions Leagues, 15 (fifteen) league titles, 27 (yes 27) Domestic cups, 3 world club cups, 3 UEFA Super cups.
They will anchor our midfield, Arsenal will get no change, none, nada from them, This solid foundation and our back-three allows our wing-backs to push as high as often as they like, knowing the doors are locked behind them. We effectively are playing an old fashioned 5-5 formation, we will take the game to the gunners and peg them back in their own half, if they go long our defence will out jump and out muscle them, when Romagnoli at 6ft2 is the short guy then you’re in business. If they come through the middle Tiki-Talia will stop them, their only joy is on our flanks, but they can’t score form out there can they? Nope they have to come inside and that’s when we stop them with a 5 man block, 7 once our Wing-backs are back in situ.
The Trinity:
It may only be 3 men, and I’m sure Jet will have a plan to counter-act their influence on the game, but what 3 men they are,
Ronaldo Inside right, he’s not as rapid anymore but he’s quick enough, and the first yard is in the head, and that’s enough to get enough space to do his magic, he’s not on the wing, he’s the widest point of a 3-pronged strike-force, we want him on the edge of the box, occupying the spaces in the vicinity of where the LB/LWB will be. If Jet goes 4 at the back then his LB is toast In a 1v1, he has Semedo running the over-lap taking a runner with him, so who helps the LB deal with Ronnie? If Jet goes 3 at the back then the LCB I guess will help cover the LWB, even ignoring Semedo a 2v1 on Ronnie still helps us as that’s the first part of the overlaps we want,
Vlahovic our 6ft2 powerhouse centre-forward, 3 goals in 3 games in Serie A this season, will just bully this Arsenal defence, do they leave him 1v1? Or do they pull a man across to help cover him? Either way suits us, as we have such individual brilliance, we will create the spaces and we have finishers in this side to punish these southerners.
Neymar the playmaker finds himself inside-left, will look to mirror Ronaldo on the right, with Wijndal backing him up, we’ll create carnage across this Arsenal defence.
I know my side can be considered top heavy, but it really isn’t. our defence is balanced and will stand Arsenal up man for man, I can’t imagine Jet playing a front-three so we have 2 CB’s man marking Arsenal’s 2 strikers, and a Spare CB to act as the Libero, deal with the loose balls/second balls and keep an eye on a run from deep.
2 wing-backs full of pace and energy to stretch out the gunners and keep their opposite numbers pegged back.
Twin-sixes that have shown time and time again that they can control a game of football, and a strike-force that Jet doesn’t have enough defenders to nullify, he can only really double on one of them but you risk leaving numbers in favour of Ronaldo or Neymar.
Subs 65 mins:
Insigne > Neymar, Insigne running at tiring legs is a recipe for disaster.
Griezmann > Vlahovic, more of a false 9 as we go for a more fluid trident.
Sub 80 mins:
Trincao > Ronaldo, pace and trickery for the final ten
posted on 17/9/21
Manchester united vs LIVERPOOL
Injuries:
Daniel James
Adama Traore
Nathan Ake
Weston McKennie
After Lubo’s attempts last week to drag my G into a fake derby game, this week we have a proper derby game. I’ve got a lot of time for Nadz, he plays good open attacking football and his people trafficking from France and her colonies is doing a trifick trade (read that like ‘arry Redknapp)
We’re not expecting many surprises from Nadz, he’s pretty settled on his 3-4-3 variant s we’ll go 4 at the back and try to find some over-laps higher up the field and create a few chances of our own.
……………………………………..Lloris…………………………………..
Trippier………….Varane…………..Botman………..Nouri
………………………..Tonali………..Zinchenko……………..
Gakpo………………………..Neto……………………….Leao
………………………………….Icardi…………………
Subs: Trubin, Schuurs, Williams, Belotti, Kelechi, Willock, Ihattaren
We’re not going there with a concrete game plan, we know Nadz for all his attacking players likes to keep things tight early doors and grow into games, so the plan is to try and hit them hardest when they’re still cold, the theory being if we hit them hard and fast from the first whistle we can maybe nick a quick opener before they have the chance to grow into the game. Other than that we’re a little reactionary we’ve set up as a fast paced counter-punching unit, so if he’s passing it around his own half we’ll be passive and let him have it (after the opening 20 minutes) once he’s deeper in our half we step up the press and try and pinch the ball, turning quickly form defence to offence, use our pace out-wide and turn the united defence, I would make some jokey reference to the French being quick on the retreat but that’d be to our detriment as they’d be back in position.
Lloris is a better keeper than given credit for, adds much needed experience to our squad, will be vocal at the back organising the defence, with the ball he can go long or short, just keep it simple we cant risk soft goals against.
Trippier and Nouri are two very different types of FB but they give us a nice blend, Trippier has great delivery, and pin point direct passes from deep, this is perfect for our counter-punching style as we can in theory atleast get it up and over the United midfield and into our wingers, as united back-track, Nouri is much more direct, fast and tricky, looks to be a real prospect, he’ll drive forward with the ball taking runners with him.
Botman and Varane are a solid partnership, one of the very best CB’s in the business and a young partner with the potential to take that mantle from him, Zonal marking today rather than man-to-man, they have that Rio and Vidic feel about them, with Varane being the brains and Botman the muscle.
Tonali and Zinchenko are a solid if uninspiring foundation, both get their feet in and shield the defence and both can pick a pass, long or short, but today their primary purpose is shielding the defence as much as they can, as we’re set-up for counters there won’t be huge amounts of short ball retaining passes, but more direct passes served solely with the purpose of turning the United defence and getting men in behind.
Gakpo and Leao are two super talented youngsters, blessed with blistering pace, will look to stretch the United defence and try to latch onto the balls from our FB’s and DM’s, in possession we want them ball to feet driving deep into United territory, drawing men towards them before offloading, and continuing their run, either to collect the return ball or to add numbers to our attack and hit the spaces in Uniteds box, if Nadz continues with 3 at the back, then we need these two getting into the box as often as possible.
Neto is our AM, fast, and direct with quick feet and a quicker footballing brain, he’ll link the play, more a SS than an AM I guess, will be given the freedom to roam the pitch looking for the ball, he,Gakpo and Leao will be key to our success as a counter-attacking unit, such pace and direct running will be a joy to behold.
Icardi leads the line, quicker than given credit for, better touch than given credit for, may get out-numbered by the 3 french giants, but he’ll keep trying, the lad only needs one chance to punish a side. 200 goals in 359 games and 42 assists prove he’s real contributor.
Subs 65 mins:
Willock > Zinchenko
Belotti > Icardi
75 mins
Kelechi > Gakpo…. Who then goes up top with Belotti and Neto RW
……………………………………..Lloris…………………………………..
Trippier………….Varane…………..Botman………..Nouri
………………………..Tonali………..Willock……………..
Neto……………………….. ……………………….…….Leao
……………………..Kelechi………..Belotti………
posted on 17/9/21
Watford: Week 6 (Away to Brentford)
Captain: Fuchs
Vice-Captain: Júnior
--------------Júnior
Dodô--Fuchs--Collins---Abner
------Assunção--Matheus
-----------------Igor
Henrique--------------Paulinho
--------------Evanilson
SUBS: Brenno, Ngakia, Wilmot, Danilo, De Paula, Veron, Kaio
SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Assunção) who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (Ward-Prowse). In front of them Igor will operate as the link between midfield and attack. This I feel will give us a better balanced midfield and while being absolutely defensively sound with 2 ‘sitting’ Ward-Prowse will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Igor and attack. I think this set-up lets us link up quickly with our attack while at the same time that little bit of extra cautiousness means it will be easy for us to close the door in midfield with all 3 players as comfortable sitting and breaking up attacks if necessary.
We want to play a nice tidy and crisp passing game. Our aim is to move the ball forward as quickly and as effectively as possible. When we have the ball we will use it wisely and when we don’t have the ball then we will press our opponents all over the park with high urgency to win it back. We want to keep the ball on the deck and attack as a team and equally as important defend as a team. This team is bursting with pace. We will utilise that to our advantage and make the pitch wide and use our flying wingers to cause all sorts of mayhem. It will also be a tool that we use to hit opponents on the counter where we know we can out pace any team.
Goalkeeper: Júnior is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: We will operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Assunção). He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Ward-Prowse). He has a more conservative role this week and while being a little more constrained than normal he will still have the opportunity to bomb forward when the time is right. They will both have to put a defensive shift in and both are very strong in the tackle. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition. In front of them Igor will operate as the link between midfield and attack.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Henrique and Paulinho 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 Igor, Ward-Prowse and Evanilson in to play. They can vary their attacks as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Ward-Prowse may sit a bit deeper allowing Igor to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF.
As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Evanilson starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great playing off the shoulder of the last man he is deadly in and around the box. A bag of energy and very strong we will also look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his lightning pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Igor, Paulinho or Henrique with Fuchs, Collins, Assunção and Evanilson to offer an aerial threat. Igor and Paulinho (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Substitutions: (75 mins) If winning, then 3 like for like subs – Wilmot for Fuchs, Danilo for Assunção and Kaio for Evanilson.
If losing (70 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Ward-Prowse with Kaio and Henrique with Veron. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
-------Assunção
Veron---Igor---Paulinho
----Kaio --Evanilson
Red Card Subs:
Keeper: Brenno for Júnior and take off Igor: 4-4-1
FB: Ngakia as direct replacement (LB/RB) and take off Igor: 4-4-1
CB: Wilmot as direct replacement and take off Igor: 4-4-1
CM: Danilo as direct replacement and take off Igor: 4-4-1
LW/RW/AM: Move Igor to LW/RW: 4-4-1
CF: Kaio as direct replacement and take off Igor: 4-4-1
*****If Igor red carded then use Paulinho
posted on 18/9/21
BRENTFORD v Watford
T. Silva, Grimaldo, Höjbjerg, Mertens
---------------------Simón
Livramento, Kjaer, Andersen, Maehle
---------------Kovacic, Laimer
Berardi-----------James----Saint-Maximin
--------------------Suárez
Subs: Kelleher, Lamptey, Ampadu, Gallagher, Isco, Immobile, Ibrahimovic
Captain: Kjaer
Free Kicks: Berardi/James
Penalties: Suárez (Ibrahimovic)
Our defensive unit consists of Simon Kjaer and Joachim Andersen paired up at centre-back, Tino Livramento at right-back and Joakim Maehle at left-back, with Mateo Kovacic and Konrad Laimer as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Kovacic and Laimer 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 Laimer can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Kovacic 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 Laimer's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Laimer running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will be dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Mateo Kovacic.
Kovacic 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 Kovacic such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Domenico Berardi, James Rodríguez and Allan Saint-Maximin as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez 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 Kovacic or Laimer, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Livramento and Maehle can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Kovacic and Laimer can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Domenico Berardi and Allan Saint-Maximin, who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers, will cut inside or make runs into the box.
James Rodríguez, our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders. James 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 with his quick flicks and one-touch passing, will combine exceptionally well with Berardi, Saint-Maximin & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.
Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Berardi, James & Saint-Maximin to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.
Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suárez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.
All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.
Subs on 75 mins
Gallagher on for Laimer and Ibrahimovic on for Suárez
Double substitution - full on combativeness in midfield from Gallagher and a real focal point for the attacking midfielders in Ibrahimovic in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line.
🟥 Move to a 441 formation. Sacrifice (unless sent off himself) James; for any of Kelleher (GK), Lamptey (RB/RW/LB - LB not his natural position but he'd do a job there), Ampadu (DM/CB), Isco (AM/LW), Immobile (CF)
posted on 20/9/21
ARSENAL Wolves
-------------------- M. Maignan --------------------
------- Kounde --- J. Stones --- Tapsoba -------
Hakimi --- T. Partey --- Tielemans --- J. Alba
-------------------- N. Barella ---------------------
------------ P. Dybala --- Aubameyang ----------
Subs: Onana, Alba, Guimaraes, Paqueta, Maddison, M. Diaby, Calvert-Lewin
We are at home and should be winning this game. Tino doesn’t seem to like me, but I have nothing but respect for him as a manager - life’s too short and I have no idea what his problem was last week. Our players will be fired up for this one following the off the pitch trouble Tino has appeared to forcefully drum up for the week leading up to this one, perhaps all mind games - we hope - or there must be something else going on. We do our talking on the pitch.
Wolves have some good players, but I can’t help but feel a lot of individuals that may struggle to perform consistently to a high level as a team. We have excellent ball players across the pitch and an extremely strong core, we will use this to dominate the game, but keep the spaces tight between players. Our quality on the ball in the 3 CBs and 3 CMs should see us dominate whilst their lazy forwards wait for the ball and leave their midfield drowning in our quality.
Maignan – The Milan stopper is one of the best in the world at the moment in his position. In possession he has the back three to pass into, or skip a player and clip it wide to the marauding wing backs.
Hakimi – The Moroccan is one of the worlds best right backs, His qualities ensure he can offer us a dynamic outlet in possession and a strong defensive unit to combat what Wolves throw at us. As he advances up the right in an attacking sense, he has the freedom of that wing, with Dybala as the RS who likes to come inside with the ball ahead of him, this gives that right flank a serious double threat on the inside and out. On overlap he has one of the best final balls around, capable of scoring himself or picking out two brilliant finishers in that box of Dybala and Aubameyang.
Jules Kounde - One of the best in this role. Reads the game incredibly well. He has experience at right back and as a RCB, he gives Hakimi that protection needed to get forward. His technical ability on the ball will be a real asset to spring tactical diagonal balls to Alba / Aubameyang - this will break the Wolves shape and create chaos.
Tapsoba – Tapsoba has been brilliant when placed alongside calm defenders, so we have prepared the perfect environment for him today. Alba as an outlet ahead of him and Aubameyang as a longer outball. Equally he can carry the ball further himself, through the middle and work with the CMs. He’s also extremely strong and tall and will partner well with Kounde and Stones from a defensive point of view. Again in his perfect role at LCB.
Stones - This guy has really stepped up for club and country in recent months and here for his debut we are giving him the freedom of the central CB - he’s brilliant on the ball and reads the game exceptionally well. They have dangerous attackers and he is in the middle of that for his experience to help guide two of the best young CBs in world football alongside him.
Alba - One of the best left backs in the world over the last 10 years, Alba knows Neymar and Ronaldo well, whoever is on his side he will be able to combine with Tapsoba to stop. He’s been selected over Chilwell and Saka for that speed and experience today. He will also offer the outlet out of defence, an overlap to Aubameyang who will cut inside when in possession. Defensively he has the pace, experience and tactical nous to snuff out what Wolves can throw at us.
Partey – Partey has been chosen for his physical dominance and ability to turn and play at pace. The dynamic midfielder has the qualtity and experience to add to our midfield. With the attacking players ahead of him, Partey will sit and marshall the right half space, allowing Hakimi more attacking freedom. Partey has played at right back before so this is well suited. He will sit at the heart of midfield both in and out of possession, offering a shield to the defence and helping to nullify Wolves. Ball winning midfielder today.
Tielemans – Tielemans will dictate that left side of the midfield. Very calm on the ball, looking to progress and carry the ball through the lines when received from the central defenders. He can combine with Alba on the left too in order to create an overload. He is a master of slowing or quickening the tempo of a game. Will look to play the deep lying playmaker role today.
Barella - Barella is one of the best midfielders in Serie A and has just won Euro 2020. In this game we’ve given him more freedom to get forward and create - he has two CMs and three CBs behind him, so we want him to use his technical ability to combine with Dybala and the wing backs to create attacking overloads.
Dybala – An elegant forward, we expect to have possession so we’ve chosen a forward who consistently breaks deep blocks for club and country. A fantastic link man, he has pace either side in Alba and Hakimi and ahead in Aubameyang - Barrella for that close combination play.
Aubameyang - The furthest forward of our team, he will use his energy to pressure the ponderous Wolves defenders and look to snap up mistakes. He will sniff out chances that Dybala, Barella and the wing backs create / cross for him to do what he does best. The left half space is his and this is the area he excels in most.
SUBS
After 60 (all scenarios) - Calvert-Lewin for Aubameyang
If winning
After 60 – Guimaraes for Tielemans
If not winning
After 60 – Paqueta for Tielemans (on fire in recent months, more B2B and goal threat)
After 80 (if losing) – M. Diaby for Tapsoba (433)
posted on 20/9/21
Newcastle 4-3-3 / 2-3-5
_____________Mendy
Tanganga___Matip____VVD____Shaw
____________Casemiro
_______Llorente_____Kessie
Salah_________Lewa___________Olmo
Subs: Fabian, Christensen, Damsgaard, Naby, Madueke, Silva, Pedro Goncalves
Today I’d like to take complete control of midfield, holding possession and stretch their back line while outnumbering every area of the middle third and final third of the pitch. Our full backs will play as inverted fullbacks assuming the role as box to box and pivoting midfielders, thereby pushing our midfielders further forwards creating a 5 man attack.
______________Mendy
__________Matip_____VVD_______
____Tang_____Casemiro____Shaw
Salah____Llorente___Kessie______Olmo
_______________Lewa______________
By doing so I will always have an extra man in midfield, including wide passing options, creating overloads. It will also help us stretch the field wider as I would expect opposition players to drift in-field to try and mitigate the presence of the extra bodies in midfield leaving wide areas for our wide players to exploit. As such the wide players will be given instruction so hug the touchline when waiting to receive the ball, then they can cut in and play their natural game but providing pass options initially is a must.
I fully expect us to create difficulty for the opposition in assessing exactly how and where to cover space and how to effectively pressure the ball. Create pass options to drag players out of position when they struggle to cope with the extra man in midfield exploiting gaps between the lines.
Our attacks will be taking a very vertical approach which allows the attacking midfielders to receive the ball in space allowing us to hurt them. Our version of a vertical approach is passing the ball up and down the field, with players inviting pressure as they receive and release the ball thereby creating a gap for another player to move into to receive a recycled pass. Eventually a path to goal will appear and it’ll be up to the players to exploit that playing their natural games. The whole point of this system is about opening greater space in between the lines for the attacking midfielders to receive. The attacking midfielders will also be expected to break the lines and make runs beyond the striker to find space higher up the pitch creating goal-scoring opportunities. The fullbacks therefore have many options to pass to, the 9, the 10s, and out wide depending on the natural movements of the players.
Defensive stability is very important to the way we want to play. One of the rules ultimately in football is you cannot score if you don’t have the ball, so we aim to keep the ball as much as possible with the ongoing ball recycling process of trying to drag players out of position finding space to exploit. When the opposition do gain possession they immediately face a block of five in the middle and our third of the pitch, quickly changing back to a standard 4-5-1 in two flat lines (plus the striker up top). Doing so will allow us to effectively defend our wide areas stopping any crosses coming in while congesting the middle enough for minimal gaps to appear between the lines. We press less to minimise the risk of gaps appearing but instead rely on cutting passing lanes and options. Once possession is regained, we immediately progress up the pitch and revert back to 2-3-5. The central defensive triangle of both CBs and the DM are good in the air capable of winning plenty of duels in the air as well as on the ground, in addition of course to their exceptional passing ability. It is important to have players that occupy those three positions that have on-the-ball intelligence, astute awareness of how to cover space in transition, and an aerial presence.
Subs.
65 mins - Naby on Kessie off. Fresh legs.
70 mins losing/drawing - Pedro G on Llorente off. Better finisher in the box from midfield.
75 mins losing/drawing - Silva on Casemiro off. Better presence up top in a 4-4-2.
75 mins winning - Fabian on Llorente off. Fresh legs while not losing creative quality.
posted on 20/9/21
MAN UNITED vs Liverpool
------------------------------------Dragowski---------------------------------
--------------Fofana--------Upamecano--------J Gomez-----------
-----------------------------Ndidi---------Valverde------------------------
Dest--------------------------------------------------------------------Reguilon
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------Raphinha------Greenwood---------Rashford---------------
Subs - Gulasci, Tchoucameni, Aouar, Ødegaard, Kulusevski, Pulisic, Martinelli
CAPTAIN - VALVERDE
CK'S - RAPHINHA
FK'S - RAPHINHA
PENALTIES - RASHFORD
We HATE our opponents this week! It's as simple as that. Liverpool have been a thorn in our ends for far too long and we need to take them down a peg or two. Their manager is cool tho
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. Fofana and Gomez will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to stop any attacks that go down their wings. Upamecano in the middle will marshall the defence and look to snuff out any attacks from the oppo strikers. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.
WINGBACKS
Dest and Reguilon are playing as wingbacks today. They will both have the freedom to bomb up and down their flanks. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM's will be helping you a lot aswell. Gomez and Fofana will be ready as the outside CB's to help you clear up any loose balls etc. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. One of our DM's will come over to mark the oppo winger who has the ball incase they use the overlapping fullbacks. I want both wingbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..
Defence Mids
Ndidi + Valverde
These 2 will be the main enforcers to protect the defence and to control the central midfield. Ndidi will be the midfield destroyer. He will help the wingbacks in defending against oppo wingers and will also look to put a lock on the oppo AM to stop him dictating play. Valverde will be the b2b engine who will be given the freedom to attack. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings and try and play some quick one two's. Valverde will be allowed to stretch his legs and run with the ball from deep if there is space to do so in the centre of the pitch. When out of possession drop deep next to Ndidi and try and intercept the ball.
Wingers
Raphinha + Rashford
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Rashford will be looking to cut in from the left and Raphinha likewise who will cut in from the right. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back into the centre of the pitch to one of our DM's or play quick one two's with our wingbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for Greenwood to attack. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack. .
Striker
Mason Greenwood
The baby faced assassin will be leading the line for us today. He has got the strength and pace to play the role and he will have plenty of support in attack. Be vary of crosses into the box and try and get in front of your marker. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. I want Greenwood and Rashford to interchange positions with each other from time to confuse the oppo defence.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Ødegaard for Ndidi and Kulusevski for Raphinha to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
-------------------------------------Dragowski-----------------------
---------------Fofana---------Upamecano--------Gomez----------
-------------------------------------Valverde--------------------------------------
Dest-------------------------------------------------------------------Reguilon
----------------------------------Odegaard----------------------------------------
----------Kulusevski------Greenwood--------Rashford----------
Subs if WINNING BY 60MINS
Take off Rashford and put on Tchoucameni in DM to offer more defensive protection. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Put on Ødegaard for Raphinha aswell as Ødegaard is very good at putting a shift in defensively.
--------------------------------------Drag-----------------------
--------------Fofana--------Upamecano--------Gomez--------
Dest--------Valverde----------Ndidi----------Tchou---------Reguilon
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------Odegaard-------------------------------------
-----------------------------------Greenwood-----------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Kulusevski on for Raphinha
Martinelli on for Rashford
Ødegaard on for Valverde
posted on 20/9/21
-------------------- Ederson -------------------
B.Pavard -- De Ligt --- Ramos -- A.Sandro
-------------------- Fabinho ------------------
---------- De Bruyne --- P.Pogba ------------
L.Messi ---------- S.Aguero -------- G.Jesus
Subs:
Ramsdale, E.Garcia, R.Neves, J.Sancho, L.Sane, Havertz, Cavani
Like a well oiled machine this team continues to find a way to win after a fantastic victory last time out against a very strong Wolves team.
We return back to home comforts today and welcome the return of De Bruyne who will be keen to put on a show with Pogba beginning to open up a lead in the goals & assists race.
Security has been tight ahead of this fixture with a few dodgy looking Yorkshiremen removed from the training ground this week, still we expect Lubo will no doubt casting his beading little eyes over these tactics prior to submitting his team in order to gain a tactical edge. Unfortunately for him there is none and we are happy to detail why;
Home and form advantage:
Unlike in real life we have managed to turn this part of North London into an absolute fortress this season. Big guns Chelsea and Leicester have both left empty handed and we expect to put this dirty Leeds side to the sword. Our form of 5 straight wins has also instilled a belief that we will find a way to win regardless of who we’re up against.
If they go 3-4-3:
A quick scout of Leeds previous set up shows their go to formation is 343 in some variation. Going with this set up today is tactical suicide. Our midfield trio of KDB, Pogba & Fabinho are in fine form and about as good a trio as you’re likely to find. Up against a midfield two we will simply overwhelm them, Pogba and KDB are passmasters whilst Fabinho also has a penchant for goal. We’ll look to overload them, short sharp passing always looking for the open man. With time and space Pogba & KDB have the end product to quickly take the game away from the opposition.
Another mismatch is that it will leave our front three man for man against their back three. Whilst they have a strong aerial presence the likes of Maguire has the turning speed of an oil tanker whilst D.Carlos is never far from an accident waiting to happen. We go with a deadly front three. One on one Messi is devastating, Aguero’s movement enables him to lose his marker in the blink of an eye whilst Jesus is godly.
We look to retain possession, in doing so they’ll constantly be forced to track back meaning they’ll get penned into a 5-4-1. This will allow us to create pressure with wave after wave of attacking phases. KDB and Pogba are both capable of threading the ball through the eye of a needle in the final third, Messi only needs a split second to create half a yard of space and finish, Aguero requires you to have eyes in the back of your head with his incredible movement whilst Jesus has the pace and workrate to tire any defender into a mistake. We create countless problems, tire them out both physically and mentally creating a lapse in concentration to open the floodgates. The fresh legs and strength of our subs really enables us to put the game to bed in the latter stages of the game.
If they go 4-3-3:
If after reading the above Lubo decides to change his set up and go 4-3-3 then even better. It’ll mean we match up man for man where we feel have superior strength, meaning that if we beat a man we quickly have an overload to exploit. We play at a high tempo and look for an early goal which will immediately put them on the back foot. Again dominating the midfield will be crucial and with twin AM’s we create problems galore with our attacking intent. Similar to above we look to wear them down, the difference being that instead of their wingbacks dropping back it’ll be their wingers having to track back into area’s they don’t want to be. If they get caught cheating we’re in and it also means that Kane will be left isolated and we all know when he’s not getting the service he becomes anonymous, taking away their biggest weapon.
General tactics:
Irrespective of their set up our tactics stays the same. Ball retention, get the ball into our midfield trio and make the opposition work. Short sharp quick tempo passing as we look to run them into the ground, if they try to compact this area then KDB and Pogba open up their range of passing and look to get the ball forwards quickly to exploit the space in behind.
Defensively we want to stick to a tight back four. Our fullbacks sitting in alongside our CB’s leaving no space for them to exploit down the flanks. They have a strong attack but we look to take their legs away from them with our ball retention. We keep their wingers down the line and don’t let them cut inside. Kane is a formidable striker but has a deserved reputation for not turning up in big games. We stick Ramos on him, one of the best in the business his reading of the game is second to none. Get physical, Kane doesn’t have the pace to run in behind which should enable Ramos to keep him in his pocket but in any event De Ligt will be alongside to sweep up any balls over the top of pick up the second striker if they go with a front two. Starved of possession we make it a frustrating afternoon for their attack.
As we wear them down we look to exploit their tired legs with our options off the bench. The fresh legs of Sane and Sancho are a defenders worst nightmare as we bring the rapid pair on for the final 20 minutes. A switch to 4-2-3-1 allows us to play a front three of Sancho, Jesus, Sane with Messi operating in the hole as a #10 as we look to put them to the sword.
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Aguero and Pogba off, Sancho and Sane on. 4-2-3-1.
85 mins: KDB off, R.Neves on. Twin DM alongside Fabinho.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Aguero & Jesus off, Sancho & Sane on. Injection of speed & quality as the flying wingers play either side of Messi in a deadly front three.
posted on 20/9/21
Comment deleted by Article Creator
posted on 20/9/21
No Chelsea tactics this week, stop posting them
posted on 20/9/21
rof post them on wolves or liverppols page
posted on 21/9/21
---------------------Meslier
-------Carlos----Maguire---Hernandez
Walker---Jorginho-----SMS-----------Digne
-----Chiesa-------Kane--------Depay
Woodman
White
Pellegrini
Castagne
Isak
Foden
Zaha
A tough game for us today, as we make the trip to the Toilet Bowl Stadium, but buoyed from our win last week, we hope that we possess the quality to upset the apple cart in one of the week’s late kick-offs. It will be a tough league debut for Illan Meslier, but we are more than capable in his ability to come in and replace Neuer. Lucas Digne also returns, facilitating our transition to a 3-4-3, adding the extra body defensively to deal with Tottenham’s stacked attacking options. In practice, out of possession, the system is more likely to reflect a 5-2-3, as attacking opportunities for our wing backs will probably be fairly slim. Instead, I want to see us revert to a counter attacking system. We need to start strongly, and try to get ourselves on the ball, and frustrate them with early possession, waiting for the fickle Spurs fans to turn on their own team. I want to see our usual 2 touch pass-and-move system in these early stages, making the opposition work in the press, to try and tire them out in the early stages, and draw their lines out, so that there will be more space to exploit in behind.
Defensively, I think we have a solid back three that compliments each other well. Maguire is our bruiser at the heart of it, and I want to see him man-marking the main opposition goal threat, sticking to him like glue, and cutting out high crosses and aerial balls forward. A bit of rough and tumble is always fair game in these encounters. With Hernandez and Carlos either side of him, he should always be supported by a covering defender, capable of nipping in behind should he get turned, and allowing us to double up on their line leader. In other areas of the defenesive unit, I want to see Digne and Walker man-marking the opposition wide-men, also, but again, they can be supported in this effort by their CB, who can push out to support them should we be getting overloaded in these areas. Jorginho is another option here, as I want to see him shuttling across the line in front of the defence, supporting the FBs should we being overloaded in the wide areas. SMS will provide most of the covering running in the middle to accomodate this, and his engine should provide us with a willing runner and presser. Less of his usual vertical dynaism today, and more of the horizontal stuff, though when we break at pace he does have the license to push us out, so we don’t remain entirely under the cosh.
In terms of releasing the ball, Chiesa and Depay should both deepish to provide the outball, sticking to the touchline where possible, though that can all change when they get on the ball. Both players are very talented at transitioning play from the middle of the pitch into the final third, with their aptitude for direct running, pace, and skills. Kane will keep himself central, to play off these attacking flair units, between the goalposts, where he is most potent. There isn’t a defence in the league that shouldn’t be scared of this front three, so if Tottenham provide us any room to hit them, then these players are the ones to take advantage. Both Depay and Chiesa are more comfortable operating as inside forwards, so this is what we will see today, with conventional wing play out of the window. I want to see direct runs at their defence, putting them on the back foot. SMS can support these, but his box to box runs will need to be strictly watched, and not too enthusiastic, so as to not leave ourselves overly exposed at the back. Similar rules can apply to Digne and Walker, who I will allow the license to support the attack when the opportunity presents itself, but never together, so as not to expose ourselves.
In terms of when the ball is lost in these positions, the high press will be slightly more reserved this week. Depay and Chiesa should drop to the half way line, and engage the press from there, whilst Kane will make sure that their CBs don’t spend too much time on the ball. The important thing is that we keep our defensive shape further down the pitch, and I trust the lads to maintain this through the ninety minutes.
Substitutions
If winning
Chiesa off for Pellegrini 75 mins
A switch of formation to a 5-3-2, with Depay operating as the movement striker alongside Kane. Pellegrini and SMS will sit either side of Jorgy, to provide the willing runs and fresh legs.
Depay off for Isak 80 mins
Fresh legs up top to support Kane and potentially kill the game with another goal.
If losing/drawing
Carlos off for Foden 70 mins
Switch to a 4-2-3-1, which isn’t throwing too much at them, but will hopefully maintain our defensives footing, whilst providing us a more natural playmaker going forward.
Chiesa off for Zaha 75 mins
Some fresh legs on the RW, and what defender in the world will want to see Wilfried Zaha coming on after dealing with Federico Chiesa for 75 mins.
posted on 21/9/21
------------------------ J.Oblak -------------------------
J.Cancelo ---- Bonucci ---- Romero ---- Robertson
----- Camavinga --- F.de Jong --- Bellingham ------
--- Mbappe ---------- Haaland ---------- Grealish ---
Pope, Mendes, Bissouma, L.Bailey, Mahrez, Musiala, Malen
We play possession football, especially the midfield where we want to dominate, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, up against it but our trio has everything we need to stop them controlling the game, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with the midfield ahead of them harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and our midfield will be in and around the half way line, Haaland slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow us to dictate play, defend from the front, 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.
Romero picks up the CF he wont let much passed him, Bonucci spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, both powerful boys so keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, look to intercept quickly, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get to our midfield quickly, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass to those in front to hit them with pace, both must attack high balls to get the ball away from the opposition big men. Fullbacks keep the wingers quiet, stop their attacks. 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!!, Driving passed the wingers to gain that extra body in the opp half, If either get caught up field I want the midfielders to help them out by filling the gaps so we don't get exposed, this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. CBs to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and de Jong sitting back.
We have a classy young midfield trio that has the lot. de Jong is our deepest midfielder sitting just in front of the CB's he will dictate play hopefulyy allowing the other two to do the running, he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, they have undoubted quality in there midfield and I want him to be quick to the challenge, having a player like de Jong allows more time for Camavinga and Bellingham, he is a cool head, he 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, he will drop in between the two CBS to pick up the ball and start from the back, 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 spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, 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. Bellingham & Camavinga will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defence as best as possible, in possession get it to the front 3/4 but also look for fullbacks 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. Bellingham and Camavinga move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Both are essential to our style of play, they are the link between defence and attack, as we break quickly they will look to set up our front three and push on, look to receive a pass and drive on. They will drop back at times to pick it up and will look to their dribbling capabilities to get them around players, and into the danger area to unleash a powerful drive. When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. After the pass they can make up the extra man further forward as de Jong stays and covers. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on. When defending this is a tight 3 man midfield.
Our wingers are extremely quick and skillfull, 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 our defenders are superb long ball passers, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks, however, the movement up front between Grealish and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing youngsters Bellingham and Camavinga to pick their moments to move into space. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power/pace and the other wingers 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 Haaland and the rest that have made their way into the danger area so they can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality at times, , we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers one of whom at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside depending which side we are attacking from, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain - Bonucci
Penalties - Haaland
Free Kicks - Grealish
Corners - Grealish
Losing -
65 Mins - Mahrez for Bellingham he goes RW, Mbappe up top 442/424, Leon Bailey for Grealish,adds a super amount of pace down the left hand side
Winning -
75 Mins - Bissouma for Bellingham, he goes into the centre of the 3 becoming a proper DM, L.Bailey for Grealish
Drawing -
65 Mins - L.Bailey for Grealish
75 Mins - N.Mendes for Robertson, adding more pace down that left hand side
78 Mins - D.Malen for Bellingham, he goes up top 442/424
posted on 21/9/21
Johnstone on the bench instead of Pope(injured)
posted on 25/9/21
Attacking 4-4-2
We go with an attacking team, playing with a high tempo in attack. A fluid front four with real quality and pace. We apparently lacked goals (even though Lautaro would’ve outscored Lukaku if he’d taken pens) so add Benzema to play with rather than replace Lautaro. Both are excellent dropping deep to get on the ball and creating which is hugely important for our formation.
City have a great Cm, but with injuries they have weaknesses in defence, out wide and in goal. So we look to target their weakest cbs and space out wide with our formation overload their back 3/4. We also have a very strong physical team, we look to bully City and control the game. Get balls out wide and crosses in - their keeper won’t like that.
We deliberately go with strong defensive fb on the right, in possession we look for Theo to bomb forward down the wing and Militao to narrow to form a back 3. In midfield Bruno then has freedom to come inside, and gives us a 3-5-2 formation in possession ensuring we are not outnumbered in midfield and can take the game to City. Get the attackers in between the lines. Goretzka up supporting and creating.
The fluidity to our team will be a key tactic in pulling opposition players out of possession.
We aim to gain control by overloading their defence, our attackers pushing them back, we’ll have Bruno giving us a third man in Cm pushing our forwards on to their defence. Importantly we have two forwards who will drop deep to find pockets of space linking the play and creating.
I’m form so no hanging about we look to attack, getting in behind and target them out wide, get balls in the box, getting down the outside for a cut back/cross or coming inside to space to shoot/cut back.
Two intelligent cms key to our plan, Rodri dictating the tempo and spreading the play with Goretzka playing box to box and linking the play. Up top Lautaro has the pace and energy to buzz around Benzema who has the quality and intelligence to link with him, they drop deep looking to drag defenders out of position creating space for the other striker or wingers to get in. Bruno behind with freedom will be the spark looking to create something, he is fantastic at coming inside and crossing from the left and with two forwards to find today.
Theo the only fb that gets forward, Militao plays at rb for his pace and defensive strength, while adding a set piece threat, he always stays back as 3rd cb. Theo bombs forward down the wing.
We direct our attacks out wide in final 3rd and play quickly and direct. We have a front four full of pace, looking to stretch the opposition and create space for other attackers to exploit.
Rodri plays zonally in front of cbs, Goretzka who presses the play. Similar in attack, Rodro plays deepest covering and creating from deep. We have a defence full of pace and great energy in front so play a balanced/middle line.
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 high tempo play.
We have a cm duo who can both drop deep to offer an option and collect the ball from defence. Likewise a fluid front four, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space. As we move forward we get quick one twos in the opposition half.
Set-pieces will be important we have giants in the air to get forward in Marquinhos, Militao, Laporte, Goretzka, Rodri, Theo and Benzema plus Lautaro who love a header, and fantastic delivery from Bruno where we can bully Chelsea’s midgets. Rodri generally stays back with Sterling though so we’ve not too many forward.
————————————— Allison
Militao —— Marquinhos —— Laporte —— T.Hernandez
———————— Goretzka —— Rodri
Sterling —————————————————— B.Fernandes
————————- Lautaro —— Benzema
Subs. Henderson, R.James, Alaba, Rice, J.Felix, Gnabry, S.Mane
Defending
When we lose possession the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. As they’re doing this everyone gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press as soon as they get into middle 3rd. Stop them breaking and press them relatively high up the park (not as high as usual since back line is slightly deeper, ensuring no space between the lines).
Laporte the man marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his pace and intelligence to sweep up. In midfield, Thiago plays zonally in front of cbs, with Goretzka ball side. The wingers narrow in front to the side of play City are attacking, in spaces on either side of their cms. In a position to block passing lanes central or wide.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, put them under pressure to force a mistake. Then break quickly when we do win the ball.
As City get into our half, the wide players drop deep to add protection in front of the fb and next to the two cms. Closing down the space, narrowing to the side of play. Lautaro drops behind Benzema sitting on their deepest Cm.
Subs.
If winning after 70 mins bring on Mane for Lautaro. More control and energy in midfield, 4-3-3
If winning after 75 mins bring on Rice for Rodri. Fresh legs, and control to see game out.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Felix for Bruno. Fresh pace in attack.
If drawing after 70 mins bring on Mane and R.James for Lautaro and Militao. More control 4-3-3, James on as we look to attack wings and double up on their fbs.
If drawing after 80 mins bring on Felix for Goretzka.
If losing after 65 mins bring on James and Mane for Militao and Lautaro. 4-2-3-1. Bruno behind Benz, more pace and width.
If losing after 75 mins bring on Felix for Goretzka.
posted on 25/9/21
Watford: Week 7 (Home to Wolves)
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: Assunção
Team:
--------------Júnior
Dodô--Collins—Fuchs---Abner
-------------Assunção
------Matheus----Igor G
Henrique---------------Paulinho
-------------Evanilson
SUBS: Brenno, Lewis, Wilmot, Pyerre, De Paula, Arezo, Kaio
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: Júnior is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: Assunção 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. Matheus and Igor G will play just in front of Assunção. Matheus will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Igor G 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 Henrique and Paulinho 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 Igor G, Matheus and Evanilson in to play. They can vary their attacks by going wide or cutting inside as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Matheus may sit a bit deeper allowing Igor G to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF. As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Evanilson starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great big old fashioned centre forward. We will look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. An eye for a pass and not afraid to have a go from distance. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his power pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Matheus, Paulinho or Henrique with Collins, Fuchs, Assunção and Evanilson to offer an aerial threat. Igor G and Paulinho (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Evanilson
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Wilmot for Fuchs, Kaio for Evanilson and De Paula for Matheus, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 80 minutes) Arezo for Matheus and Kaio for Henrique. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Kaio and Arezo offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
-------------Assunção
Arezo---Igor G---Paulinho
--------Evanilson---Kaio
posted on 26/9/21
Chelsea v BRENTFORD
Berardi, Grimaldo, Guehi, Livramento
🟥 Laimer
-----------------------Simón
Lamptey, Andersen, T Silva, Maehle
--------------Kovacic, Höjbjerg
Bernardeschi-----Isco----Saint-Maximin
------------------------Suárez
Subs: Kelleher, Kjaer, Koopmeiners, Gallagher, Mertens, Immobile, Ibrahimovic
Captain: Thiago Silva
Free Kicks: Bernardeschi/Isco
Penalties: Suárez (Ibrahimovic)
Our defensive unit consists of Joachim Andersen and Thiago Silva paired up at centre-back, Tariq Lamptey at right-back and Joakim Maehle at left-back, with Mateo Kovacic and Pierre-Emile Höjbjerg as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Kovacic and Höjbjerg 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 Höjbjerg can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Kovacic 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 Höjbjerg's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Höjbjerg running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will be dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Mateo Kovacic.
Kovacic 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 Kovacic such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Federico Bernardeschi, Isco and Allan Saint-Maximin as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez 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 Kovacic or Höjbjerg, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Lamptey and Maehle can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Kovacic and Höjbjerg can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Federico Bernardeschi and Allan Saint-Maximin, who are excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers, will cut inside or make runs into the box.
Isco, our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders. Isco 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 with his quick flicks and one-touch passing, will combine exceptionally well with Bernardeschi, Saint-Maximin & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.
Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Bernardeschi, Isco & Saint-Maximin to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.
Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suárez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.
All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.
Subs on 75 mins
Mertens on for Saint-Maximin and Ibrahimovic on for Suárez
Double substitution - acceleration, pace and sublime dribbling from Mertens and a real focal point for the attacking midfielders in Ibrahimovic during the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line.
posted on 26/9/21
ARSENAL Leeds
-------------------- M. Maignan --------------------
------ J. Stones --- Tapsoba --- Tierney -------
Pereira ---- T. Partey --- Barella ----- J. Alba
------- B. Saka ---- P. Dybala --------------------
------------------------------ Aubameyang -------
Subs: Onana, Chilwell, Paqueta, Tielemans, Smith Rowe, M. Diaby, Calvert-Lewin
We want to continue our recovery in form with a big result here. Leeds have good players, but I feel there are areas we can take advantage of, particularly in defence. We’ve shifted to a wider front 3 today to expose those wide side area weaknesses in their defence. We also want to outnumber them in midfield and dictate the game. With three ball playing central defenders and a technically sound midfield and two forwards very good in possession and combination play, we think we can do this and with confidence. We also have our talisman Dybala dropping in to link midfield and attack. We’ve packed the team with players excellent in transitions and with very good ball retention skills - this is so we can win those crucial battles and survive and play through any press from Leeds.
Maignan – The Milan stopper has excelled in the 2 year and earned his move to Milan. He’s confident in claiming crosses and in playing from the back. In possession he has the back three to pass into, or skip a player and clip it wide to the marauding wing backs.
Pereira – The Portuguese wingback is back to his best and ready to step in today. In a back five he has the freedom to do what he does best and attack. He has experience of playing as a winger too so feel this is a role well suited for him. We’ve put Stones behind him today to feed him down that right channel. Between Partey and Stones they can cover any space he leaves when attacking - but he also has great recovery pace to snatch the ball back quickly or get back
Tierney - Tierney is a warrior and comes in to play LCB today as he does for Scotland. He reads the game incredibly well and is aggressive. He has experience at left and as a RCB, he gives Pereira that protection needed to get forward. His technical ability on the ball will be a real asset to spring tactical diagonal balls to Alba / Aubameyang - this will break the Leeds shape and create chaos.
Tapsoba – Tapsoba has been brilliant when placed alongside calm defenders, so we have prepared the perfect environment for him today. Alba as an outlet ahead of him and Aubameyang as a longer outball. Equally he can carry the ball further himself, through the middle and work with the CMs. He’s also extremely strong and tall and will partner well with Tierney and Stones from a defensive point of view.
Stones - This guy has really stepped up for club and country in recent months and here for his debut we are giving him the freedom of the central CB - he’s brilliant on the ball and reads the game exceptionally well. They have dangerous attackers and he is in the middle of that for his experience to help guide two of the best young CBs in world football alongside him.
Alba - Whoever is on his side he will be able to combine with Tierney to stop. He’s been selected for that speed and experience today. He will also offer the outlet out of defence, an overlap to Aubameyang who will cut inside when in possession. Defensively he has the pace, experience and tactical nous to snuff out what Leeds can throw at us. In possession, the presence of Tierney behind him provides Alba with the freedom to push forward and influence technically.
Partey – Ball winning midfielder: Partey has been chosen for his physical dominance and ability to turn and play at pace. The dynamic midfielder has the quality and experience to add to our midfield. With the attacking players ahead of him, Partey will sit and marshall the right half space, allowing Pereira more attacking freedom. Partey has played at right back before so this is well suited. He will sit at the heart of midfield both in and out of possession, offering a shield to the defence and helping to nullify Leeds. Ball winning midfielder today.
Barella – Deep lying playmaker: Barella will dictate that left side of the midfield. Very calm on the ball, looking to progress and carry the ball through the lines when received from the central defenders. He has Partey to sit deepest and mop up and three CBs behind him, and he should be the conductor. He can combine with Alba on the left too in order to create an overload. He is a master of slowing or quickening the tempo of a game. Will look to play the deep lying playmaker role today.
Saka - Ball carrying wide attacking midfielder: His ability to carry the ball and final end product makes him vital here - he will help us in the fast transitions to carry that ball forward, look for neat one-two’s with Dybala and then get his head up to find his teammate Aubameyang in the middle. At his best on this right side where he can cut in on his stronger left foot and finish. Him cutting inside onto his left creates room for Pereira to overlap also.
Dybala – False 9: An elegant forward, we expect to have possession so we’ve chosen a forward who consistently breaks deep blocks for club and country. A fantastic link man, he has pace either side in Alba and Pereira and ahead in Aubameyang - Saka for that close combination play.
Aubameyang - Pressing forward: The furthest forward of our team, he will use his energy to pressure the ponderous Leeds defenders and look to snap up mistakes. He will sniff out chances that Dybala, Saka and the wing backs create / cross for him to do what he does best. The left half space is his and this is the area he excels in most.
SUBS
After 60 (all scenarios) - Tielemans for Barella - fresh legs in that crucial role.
If winning
After 65 – Paqueta for Dybala - Auba move to CF, Paqueta to LAM and a more 433 with more ball retention quality and ability to retain ball better and fresh legs.
If not winning
After 65 – Paqueta for Partey (on fire in recent months, more B2B and goal threat)
After 80 (if losing) – Calvert-Lewin for Tierney (433/424)
posted on 26/9/21
-------------------------- Remiro --------------------------
-------- Manolas ------ S.de Vrij ------ Kamara --------
Mazraoui ------ N.Kante ----- T.Kroos ------ R.Gosens
--------------------------- B.Silva --------------------------
----------------- Lukaku --------- Werner ----------------
Bazanu, M.Cash, Chilwell, Prowse, Buendia, Watkins, Zaniolo
When we don't have the ball, we will press high up the pitch, conceding very little space, B.Silva will look to steal the ball within the attacking third and hopefully, quickly get it to those ahead of him. We do not give them any time on the ball and our front 2 prevent their defence hanging on to it too long or trying to play form the back as we pressurise them all the time.
If they do get to our half then we have a strong back 3 and double pivot ahead to prevent play through the middle, meaning they will need to push wide, whichever side they attack from tho I want B.Silva to push to that side again to close them down and support the wingbacks, lots of pace in the front three to get at players.
When we have the ball it starts from the back moving the ball around between defence and centre midfield until the moment arrives when a pass can be made through to the front line, , there is no rush, if they come pressing we simply move it to the wide areas for them to bomb down the line and look to either cut it back or get a pass into the front three.
Remiro is our sweeper keeper, he always makes himself big, I want him involved with the defence playing out, if he has the ball I want him to find players especially the wingbacks when we are ready to attack
Manolas and Kamara, Cover the wingbacks when they have pushed forward and take the ball out of defence, use there positional sense well as they may be out paced., must do this with confidence, if they lose the ball then all numbers back to cover, if they are being pressurised then a simple pass even back to the keeper and start again, stay wide (depending on what side) to cover wingbacks if they are forward.
de Vrij - He will press the opposition striker, when we lose the ball he needs to be on top of the CF very quickly, he must intercept everything, but he has the experience to do this, don't take any risks as the CF will also be on him so move it quickly when he gets it.
Mazraoui and Gosens, must work very hard, they have great work rate but this must done for the whole game, get down the line, get the crosses in, two great forwards to aim for, don't worry so much about whats behind you as their is plenty cover, I don't mean forget your defence duties, just play with a bit of freedom, crosses, one-twos, cut backs and all with pace to hurt them.
Although Kante's primary role in front of the defence is to control possession and then start an attacking phase, 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 the No 10/SS is also a main focus, he will 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.
Kroos has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for the front 3, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running he is expected to do and he does a lot. 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..
B.Silva is in a free role I want him to dictate proceedings in the final third, either playing the through ball to the front two or use the wingers, pass in between the lines and give them something to run onto as the drive passed the defender, making late runs into the box and look for any loose ball to have a pop at goal, he, Silva is a great finisher so look to make late runs into the area and latching onto crosses from wide areas, defending wise, I want him to harass who ever has the ball in that area, get it and move it forward as quickly as possible, also can draw players into him, therefore winning a lot of free kicks
Werner I want to be making all the runs behind the defence, a tirless worker always making it hard for defenders, I want him to drift wide and pull defenders away, quick and skillfull, look to move out to create an outlet for the wingbacks to use or indeed link with B.Silva to get Lukaku away on goal, he and Lukaku both fantastic in the air, so while they aim for Lukaku, Werner & Silva will be making the late runs into the danger area and with a head start look to get up early and attack the crosses coming in. Again, really put the pressure on their back line, they are great going forward but today, pretty weak at the back
Lukaku, is our out an out No.9, fox in the box, a bully and powerful striker, he is there to finish off chances created by other, I want him always on the last man, no defending required from him, always ready to pounce, if however he cant get in on goal he has plenty round him to lay it off to, or just a quick pass and look to get into space where he can get his shot off, end of, he is in to score goals and that is what he shall do.
Captain - de Vrij
Pens - Lukaku
Free Kicks - B.Silva
Corners - B.Silva
Losing -
65 Mins - Watkins for Mazraoui, B.Silva goes to RM, Watkins to RCF 3-4-3, Prowse for Kroos for fresh legs in the centre
Winning -
75 Mins - Prowse for Werner, he goes into CM, Kante drops back a it 5311, Zaniolo for Silva
Drawing -
70 Mins - Zaniolo for Silva, Watkins for Werner, Cash for Mazraoui straight swaps, fresh legs
posted on 27/9/21
Newcastle 3-4-2-1
—————— Mendy
——— Dias - Matip - Andreas C
Trent - Llorente - Casemiro - Shaw
————— Salah - Son
——————— Lewa
Subs: Kessie, Modric, Andre S, Naby, Tomori, Gundogan, Bowen
Today is all about controlling midfield and playing off the front man, while maintaining defensive balance. Not particularly playing for possession or without just sort of go with the flow.
In our build up and attacking phases we will have our wing backs push very high up the pitch to create width in the first moments of the build up. This will force them to defend in a wider block to cover this threat which in turn will create space centrally for us to exploit and progress the ball. Central defenders will split wide with one of the two deepest central midfielders dropping deep to give a passing option to the man in possession. The use of a central midfielder in this manner is designed to provide a passing option beyond the first line of pressure from the opposition. It’ll allow us to move the ball at angles vertically through the press of the opposition and allowing one of our midfielders to escape the shadow of their midfielders to receive the ball in space.
We will always use a double pivot to act as the base of midfield. These two will provide security in the attacking phase but they will also screen the defensive unit when the opposition are attacking. In using two players in this pivot position we see the versatility to allow one to rotate into advanced positions when in possession while the other retains a deeper position. When in possession you will rarely see these players operating on the same line as one another. Instead, they will tend to be staggered with the ball near player deeper. This allows the ball to be played into the double pivot and then played forward to the second player in the pivot, remember the importance of verticality for each player in possession. Being staggered in their line also allows them to pull the opposition midfielders out of position allowing our attacking midfielders to profit from that.
Verticality is key to our system, it is of paramount importance. Our players will look for the vertical pass in the first instance. Obviously this is not always possible which means some lateral passing will come in, but this is designed only to move the opposition out of position to create vertical passing lanes that will allow the ball to be progressed forward. Our attacking players will play their natural game and take up positions between the lines of the opposition allowing vertical passes to be players into dangerous spaces.
In the final third, in particular, we will look to overload the centre of the field before playing quick vertical passes that bypass the opposition defensive block allowing us to create numerous opportunities on their goal. When the ball is played into our striker, the attacking midfielders are immediately on their bikes going beyond their already stretched defensive line, remembering the role of our wing backs. In moving so many players into high areas of the pitch when in possession of the ball we make it very difficult for the oppositions defensive block. By moving our players in between their defensive lines we create an advanced platform from which we can threaten them.
Defensively we press systematically. Front three as the first line of the press with the attacking midfielders focusing on their deeper centre midfielders. We shift as a block side to side to the side that the focus their play. Wings backs drop into a back five.
Subs
65 mins - Kessie on Casemiro off. Fresh legs.
70 mins losing/drawing - Modric on Llorente off. Struggling to break them down so we need to stretch them.
75 mins losing/drawing - Andre S on Son off. Need to gain bodies in the box.
75 mins winning - Gundogan for Llorente. Calm things a bit.
posted on 27/9/21
------------------- Ederson -----------------
Emerson -- De Ligt --- Ramos -- Ferland
------------------- Fabinho ------------------
--------- De Bruyne --- P.Pogba -----------
L.Messi --------- G.Jesus --------- L.Sane
Subs:
Ramsdale, A.Sandro, P.Torres, R.Neves, Sancho, Havertz, Aguero
The boys are absolutely flying and we look to continue are fine form for the trip away to Liverpool. Whilst they are the opposite end of the table it's a game we won’t be taking lightly.
Competition for places is currently huge with every player knowing that they need to be at the top of their game to keep their place in the side. Leroy Sane gets rewarded for his fine form with a place in the starting line up and will be keen to put on a masterclass.
We aim to start fast, get at them from the first whistle and put the game to bed early. They’re a very youthful side that probably need a couple of season to mature so we really want to stamp down our authority early and let our superior quality shine. It will also mean that a red card will little impact on the result if we can put the game to bed early and build a cushion.
Tactically we continue to play on the front foot as we go for goals. Central to our success will be our midfield as we go with the perfectly balanced trio of De Bruyne, Pogba & Fabinho. We look to dominate this area of the field, allowing us to play on the front foot, retaining possession and dictating the play.
As we dominate possession we look to pen them in, creating wave after wave of attacking phases as we apply the pressure. KDB and Pogba are both capable of threading the ball through the eye of a needle in the final third, Messi only needs a split second to create half a yard of space and finish, Jesus requires you to have eyes in the back of your head with his incredible movement whilst Sane has the pace and workrate to tire any defender into a mistake. We create countless problems, tire them out both physically and mentally creating a lapse in concentration to open the floodgates. Once we smell blood we have player that are capable of quickly taking the game away from them as we go for goals.
Due to the abundance of attacking quality it's important that have a solid defence and rely on our watertight CB duo of Ramos & De Ligt. Very much the master and the apprentice with both natural born leaders. They are missing their main man Icardi up top and starved of possession we want to make it a frustrating afternoon for their attackers.
Defence:
We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Ramos will mark. Master of the dark arts he's strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game with the tools to deal with any opponent. De Ligt will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top.
Our fullbacks will stick tight to their wingers, both with bags of pace we see them down the line and don’t let them cut infield. Both have quality on the ball and we want them to hit the channels early as we look to get Sane and Messi in behind.
Midfield:
Midfield is where we possess the perfect trio to take the game to the opposition. Fabinho will be our anchor operating as a DM. A fantastic reader of the game we want him to sit in front of our defence, breaking up the opposition play and getting the ball forward early.
De Bruyne and Pogba speak for themselves. When on it they are truly a world class pairing. Their range of passing is sublime and they'll be spraying round the ball round majestically all afternoon.
They'll be our chief creators, picking apart the opposition and playing that killer pass in the final third. Both also possess a great strike from range, if the opposition drop off then both have license to go for goal.
Forwards:
Movement, movement, movement. The key to breaking down the opposition will be the movement of our front three. Jesus plays centrally but also has license to drift to the flank and interchange with Messi. This will make it almost impossible for them to implement any sort of man marking tactic but also creates chaos in their backline. Varane is their marquee man however we give him a defensive nightmare. The pace of Jesus in behind will force him track his runs, taking him out of position and creating a huge hole for Messi to exploit when he cuts infield. He’ll also have to deal with the pace of Sane down the left flank once he gets past their FB, when he comes across to cover if will leave Jesus and Messi one on one, a quick sliderule ball and they are in.
Their fullbacks our a potential weakness and we look to exploit any deficiencies in this area. Sane will play as a conventional winger, an absolute speed merchant we want him to take his man on and whip balls across the face of the goal for Messsi or Jesus to tap home. On the other flank we look to isolate Messi one on one against their LB. Go on their man, waltz past him and fire off a short or look to play in Jesus or Sane. De Bruyne and Pobga will also be making advanced runs from midfield creating the option of a cutback for one of them to slot home.
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Pogba off, Neves on. Twin DM alongside Fabinho.
80 mins: Jesus off, Havertz on.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Jesus & Pogba off, Aguero & Sancho on. 4-2-2-2 with Sane & Sancho on the wings and Messi & Aguero up top. Goals.
Red card scenario:
In all scenario’s we revert to a 4-4-1 formation. Jesus will be replaced with one of the below whilst our wingers drop back in a 4 man midfield. Little change from a tactical perspective as we form a tight unit and pick off the opposition on the break as they commit men forward.
------------------ Ederson ------------------
Emerson - De Ligt -- S.Ramos - Ferland
L.Sane -- Fabinho -- De Bruyne - Pogba
------------------ L.Messi ------------------
GK – Ramsdale
FB – A.Sandro
CB - P.Torres
CM - Neves
WG – Sancho
CF - Aguero
posted on 27/9/21
MAN UNITED VS Newcastle
-----------------------------------Dragowski-----------------------
Dest-----------Upamecano-----------Fofana----------Reguilon
--------------------------Ndidi----------------Aouar-------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Raphinha---------------------Wirtz-----------------------Rashford
--------------------------------Greenwood--------------------------------
Subs - Gulácsi, J Gomez, Tchoucameni, Ismaila Sarr, Ødegaard, Pulisic, Martinelli
CAPTAIN - RASHFORD
CK'S - RAPHINHA
FK'S - WIRTZ
PENALTIES - RASHFORD
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Upamecano and Fofana bring a lot of strength and pace to the defence. Upamecano will marshal the defence and Fofana 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. Ndidi will be covering for them when they go attacking.
Dest and Reguilon are playing as fullbacks today. Start the game off with a conservative mindset and try not too attack too much, but as the game goes on you will have more freedom. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM's will be helping you a lot aswell. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. One of our DM's will come over to mark the oppo winger who has the ball incase they use the overlapping fullbacks. I want both fullbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..
Defence Mids
Ndidi + Aouar
Ndidi 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 to Aouar. Also be on the lookout for the runs of Rashford/Raphinha and thread dangerous through balls to them.
Aouar will be playing as a b2b CM today. He will pick the ball up from deep and use his technique and vision to find the runs of our attacking players and thread deadly passes to them. Play quick passes forward and use your agility to outmanoeuvre the oppo players. Play 1 2 quick passes with your teammates and make penetrating runs from deep. When not in possession of the ball I want him to drop deep in central midfield and try and intercept any passes the oppo will make. Shoot if you have a chance to.
Wingers
Raphinha + Rashford
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Rashford will be looking to cut in from the left and Raphinha likewise who will cut in from the right. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back into the centre of the pitch to one of our DM's or play quick one two's with our fullbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for Greenwood to attack. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack. .
Attack Mid
Florian Wirtz
Wirtz will be playing just behind Greenwood 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
Mason Greenwood
The baby faced assassin will be leading the line for us today. He has got the strength and pace to play the role and he will have plenty of support in attack. Be vary of crosses into the box and try and get in front of your marker. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. I want Greenwood and Rashford to interchange positions with each other from time to confuse the oppo defence.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Martinelli for Aouar and Sarr for Raphinha to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212 and play the below formation. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
----------------------------------Dragowski--------------------------------
Dest-------Upamecano-------------Fofana---------Reguilon
--------------------------------------Ndidi---------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sarr-------------------------------------------------------------Martinelli
------------------------------------Wirtz-------------------------------
-------------------Rashford------------Greenwood-------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Wirtz and put on Gomez in CB. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Tchoucameni on for Aouar aswell to offer more defensive protection.
----------------------------------------Drag--------------------------------
Dest-------Upamecano------Fofana------Gomez--------Reguilon
-----------------------------Ndidi--------------Tchou-----------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------Raphinha---------------Greenwood----------------Rashford----
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Sarr on for Raphinha
Ødegaard on for Wirtz
Pulisic on for Rashford
Fresh legs to bring on.
posted on 27/9/21
Watford vs Wolves (GW7)
Injuries:
Nelson Semedo
Lorenzo Insigne
Owen Wijndal
Gianluigi Donnarumma
Fifth away game of the season in the opening seven fixtures, clocking up the miles, we’re having a terrible start to the season and any hopes of breaking into the top-four have gone already. Gonna be a long old season for the boy from the black-country, we’re not taking Elsie and his young guns lightly but this has now become a must win game already.
Fast paced, one touch passing today as we look to over-run our south American hosts, impose our character on the game and look to our big performers to deliver, get a win and start to rebuild.
…………………………….Pickford……………………..
Hoever……Koulibaly….Romagnoli……Spinazzola
……………………………..Busquets…………………
………………….Verratti………….Wijnaldum………
Griezmann………………Ronaldo…………………Neymar
Subs: Turati, Soyuncu, Soumare, Gourna, Doku, Vlahovic, Milenkovic.
On paper we have a strong side, but footy unfortunately isn’t played on paper, so that’s a waste of twenty-one words.
Really disappointing defeat last week against Arsenal, I offered my resignation in disgust but for some perverse reason I’m still here.
Elsie has built a great setup at The Gap, but to a man we’re more experienced and we need to pull it together now, dominate possession and dictate the tempo, go against the home advantage and form slots and get the job done.
Pickford comes into the side, and is criminally underrated by many based purely on his noncey T-rex style arms, good shot stopper as long as it’s not “top bins”. Decent distribution and with a lot of ball players in the side he has his freedom of choice to go long or short. Just play sensibly we don’t need to be chasing the game.
The back-line are a nice blend of pace and physicality, Hoever is a top young talent and will be given the space and freedom to get forward and support the attack, defensively, just standard generic stuff, keep it disciplined don’t dive in, stand your man up and force him down the line.
Spinazzola is a great athlete, rapid as something that’s really quick (Fan emptying into this GF?) will be given free licence to get up the pitch and attack Watfords RB, his presence out there will enable Neymar to come inside more, defensively, same as Hoever, stand your man up don’t dive in etc etc.
Koulignoli, other than sounding like a weird pasta dish, have the makings of a very good, Roma the Milan captain and part of a side that’s only conceded 4 goals in his 5 league games and Koulibaly conceding just 2 goals in 6 games, Incidentally Kouli has 2 goals and an assist so far in Serie A.
Both are big strong athletes and comfortable on the ball, which is perfect for our possession based higher line, as we look to take the sting out of the hornets.
Our game plan today is definitely possession heavy, we know we have the better side (no offence) but we have to earn that right to win the game, and that has to be done through control, and more specifically controlling the midfield, so with that in mind (the following stats are from Whoscored)
Busquets is the anchor-man, vastly experienced and still one of the very best in this role, will just sit today and give our full-backs the cover needed to get forwards and stretch the hornets.
86% pass success rate in a p!sh poor Barca side, would be far greater in this side, as we move Watford about like pieces on a chess board. 1.7 and 1.2 for tackles and interceptions to, show he still has the defensive nous to drive this side onwards.
Verratti and Wijnaldum both play B2B today, the higher defensive line automatically pushes the rest of the side higher up the pitch and this gives Tenacious V more opportunity to influence the game.
91.1% pass accuracy, 3.5 dribbles completed and 2.5 tackles per game show that Verratti can influence the game all over the pitch, the short sharp passes between Verratti and Busquets would be akin to a heavyweight boxer softening up his opponent with a barrage of jabs, creating the spaces for the KO blow.
Wij is much less involved in the intricate passing triangles but with an average of 30 passes a game and a completion rate of 88.2% , he’s not exactly poor on the ball, but what this man brings is a goal-scoring threat from the middle.
So in short, we have a midfield-trio that are tight at the back, comfortable on the ball and can chip in with goals, our strike-force gets the plaudits but it’s this trio that wins us games (occasionally)
The Trident:
Griezzer gets a start today as an Inside-right, has his full-back running the over-lap, very good with both feet but predominantly a left-pegger suits us just fine, can either slip the ball through for our RB to whip in or can cut inside and bang one with his left peg, the joy of him being “inverted” is that he can play in Ronaldo without having to break his stride to release the ball, we want him on the little give and go’s, the link up play between our front-line should be worth the admission fee.
Neymar is a wonderfully two footed player, and the dynamic of giving him a right-footed left back to work off has a strange chemistry about it but one that should cause damage down the Watford right, as Neymar stays wide and Spina comes in off the line, looking for the pull back, once Neymar pulls it back he can then continue his run into the box, causing some overloads on the far side. That’s where the danger is for Watford, how can they really mark Griezzer/Ronaldo/Neymar and still check the runs from our FB’s let alone the late runs from Wijnaldum.
Ronaldo is meant to be slowing down isn’t he? But 3 in 3 since his return to the prem only tells half the picture, whilst the stats are tangible it’s the other things like the aura about him that make him such a threat, Watfords defenders will have the fear factor about letting him get a yard away from them, it’s this extra vigilance that’s the undoing as it does then mean Neymar and Griezmann can find that yard of space instead.
Subs 65 Mins
Doku > Griezmann, an out and out winger, and pace abuser comes into the side, his speed against tiring legs could be carnage.
Vlahovic > Ronaldo, 4 goals in 6 Serie A appearances for the young Serbian hitman, Whilst Ronaldo is impossible to replace, he offers a decent alternative.
Soumare > Busquets, like for like in the engine room
posted on 27/9/21
-------------------Neuer
------Carlos---Maguire---Hernandez
Walker---SMS----Jorginho-------Digne
---------------Pellegrini
-----------Kane------Depay
Meslier
White
Castagne
Phillips
Foden
Chiesa
Isak
A change of shape for today’s game, as we take on a tough Arsenal side. I’ve decided to match up with JET’s traditional 3-5-2, as I think it allows for us to go man-for-man in key positions. We want to stake our claim in midfield today, and I believe that we have picked a trio that combines, tenacity, energy, and technical skill in a perfect blend. Defensively, I have opted for the back three to give us a man over on their attack, and hope that the pace of the two wide CBs will counter the pace in the attack posed by the opposition. We have also shifted to the two up top, but the versatility afforded by Depay shouldn’t make this too much of a problem, as he is perfectly adept slotting inside and operating as part of an attacking two, as he demonstrates when away on international duty.
Defensively, the shape is very important. Arsenal prefer to operate with an attacking two, with both capable of drifting away from the centre and into open spaces and free pockets. As such, we cannot afford to have our shape pulled apart, whilst also not wanting to provide them too much space. In a change to the usual system, oit will, today, be the two wide CBs who do the man-for-man, as I believe their increased meanuverability skills will lend themselves better to dealing with more mobile attackers. Maguire will operate as the sweeping defender, using his physicality to throw himself in the way of any attackers who wriggle free. I don’t mind Hernandez or Carlos following their player (within reason, I don’t want them being pulled into midfield), and when one does, the defense should shift to accommodate for this, so that nobody is left isolated. In this sense, they operate as a unit. Jorginho will be the deepest of our midfielders, and I want to see him sitting on their more advanced CM. Jet tends to operate with one midfielder serving as the link between defence and attack, so Jorginho will work on this player, sitting on them, and not allowing them the time or space to dictate the play. By doing this, we hope to limit the service into their attacking players through central areas. Another key worry for us are Arsenal’s WBs, as JET usually uses them to provide attacking width. In Digne and Walker we have opted for quick, well-balanced options, and they will sit wide, and look to limit the involvement of the attacking play in this area, keeping the WBs as wide as they can, and limiting service. We believe that it will be possible to isolate these players, as they seem to lack supporting options, aside from the attacking players being pulled wide, which limits the actual threat in the box.
In terms of moving the ball out from the back, we want to constrict the field, pulling Arsenal’s players into the middle, before quickly breaking it into the wider areas. In Depay, we have a player who is at home both through the middle and out wide, so I want to see him peeling away from their defender, and pushing into the channels quickly, to exploit the attacking nature of their WBs. With Digne and Walker both given license to attack, these areas will be the key out-ball for us today. In the defensive third, I want to see clean, two-touch football, with the ball moved quickly and crisply to limit the chances of defensive mistakes. With Jorginho and SMS in front, and Neuer behind, the defenders should never be short on options to help us retain possession. SMS and Pellegrini will both be operating as B2B midfielders (with Pellegrini playing slightly more advanced), so we can also look to utilise these players to help break the ball up the pitch.
In the attacking third, we will be seeing Depay operating as a support striker, operating both through the middle and through the channels. This will make him hard for the opposition to deal with, as they will struggle to go man-for-man with him. It also facilitates us creating overloads in key positions, with Depay pushing out wide to support the WBs, and doubling up on their isolated wide players. If CBs or CMs are deployed to support them, then it will create more space in the middle for our marauding midfield players. Kane is our biggest goal threat, so he will keep himself between the posts, and look to jump on any spaces created by their defence being tugged out of position. Pellegrini and SMS will both be providing support runs, getting in and around the penalty area to make themselves a nuisance, and are both capable of providing wide support, to really cause an overload in our favour,
By commiting a lot of bodies forward, we need to make sure that our reaction in the press is quick and swift. The attacking WBs should instantly attach themselves to their opposite numbers, tracking them up and down the line, and allowing this to be a limited source of attacking opportunity, whilst Pellegrini and SMS will both find their man in midfield, with Pellegrini sitting on their deepest lying midfielder, whilst SMS will take the opposing B2B (this can change during the game, to help conserve the energy levels, as both should be comfortable operating in the other’s role), whilst Kane and Depay will lead the high press against the opposition CBs, forcing them into long balls that will be mopped up by our defensive behemoths, or into mistakes high up the pitch, allowing us to retain possesion and continue our attacks.
Substitutions
If winning
Depay off for Phillips 80 mins
Switch to a 3-4-2-1, with Phillips and Jorginho in the deeper roles, and SMS and Pellegrini just in front, operating as dual B2B players
Walker off for Castagne 85 mins
Fresh legs at RWB.
If losing/drawing
Pellegrini off for Foden 65 mins
The same formation, but with a more conventional 10 than an additional B2B, Foden will sit higher up the pitch, and operate as a further support forward to Kane.
Carlos off for Chiesa 75 mins
Switch to a 4-2-3-1, with Chiesa and Depay on the flanks, and Foden at 10, gives us some more natural width to target their flagging WBs.
Digne off for Isak 85 mins
Switch again to a 3-2-3-2, with Isak operating as a support striker to Kane.
posted on 28/9/21
LIVERPOOL vs spurs
Injuries:
Morgan Gibbs-White
Jens Cajuste
Mauro Icardi
Calvin Stengs
Home game against everyone’s favourite Liverpool fan TAB (sorry Ludes but saying 2nd favourite wouldn’t have the same impact)
Bit of a hiding for nothing this one as they’re probably the best team in the division and on a ridiculous run of wins on the bounce, so the only way to try and get anything out of this game is just to stifle them, kill any of the gaps and get bodies behind the ball. As the great Sam Allardyce once said (The only England manager with a 100% win rate) you start the game with 1 point, if you end the game still with that point you haven’t done bad.
………………………………lloris………………………….
………………………………Varane…………………………..
Trippier……….Schuurs….…Botman…..Zinchenko
Adama………………Tonali………….McKennie………..Neto
………………………………..Leao……………………………
Subs: Trubin, Dumfries, Ake, Willock, Belotti, Kelechi, James
So with the above in mind we’re bringing back the libero. Varane is the perfect candidate to do this role, he’s quick physically and mentally, can read the game better than most, but more importantly he’s comfortable in the possession and in true Libero style, will step out of defence and add extra weight into the midfield, allowing us to have 3 central midfielders (when we have the ball) and still maintaining a solid defensive line.
We know we can’t out-gone Spurs, not many can, so the best way to defend against them is to keep the ball, we know that Spurs midfield unit can damage us (with the ball) but we also know they’re not necessarily the best with getting the ball back so we can with good game management slow the game down and disrupt their rhythm taking any momentum out of the game. If they get the overloads they’re looking for then do the right thing, take a man out 35+yards out, make sure the ref blows, I know it’s not the “Liverpool way” but Spurs are gonna have to earn the win.
Lloris may be having a torrid time adjusting to Nuno-ball, but he’s still a very good keeper, vastly experienced and a great asset to the side, decent with ball to feet and that’s the main thing as he looks to play out and continue the ball retention theme.
The Defence:
Varane – Libero, will sit behind the back-line, fighting fires, bring the ball out of the back-line and join the midfield for retention, when we lose the ball or score, then he resets back to behind the line.
Trippier/Zinchenko, play their natural games today, Trippier will push on and add numbers down the flank, Zinchenko will be more restrained and not cross half-way, but he has great long passes so if the quick counter is on he can pick the long switch balls. Defensively they’re gonna be up against it today but they’re both pretty quick so can just jockey the man where possible, if he’s done ya then wipe him out.
Botman is the muscle at a very decent 6ft3 anything coming into the box aerially he’s the first man. Good on the ball too so will look to join in the passing routes as we take the sting out of the game.
Schuurs also 6ft 3 but he’s the second ball winner, his main job will be to man mark the central striker.
Botman deals with balls into the box, Schurrs marks the central striker, and Varane fire fights by switching left to right and doubling up with our FB on whichever flank is most threatened, it’s easier with a designated sweeper as the central two have clear designated roles so there is no communication error.
Adama/Neto are lightening quick, they’ll stay wide to peg back Spurs FB’s and stop them advancing too far up the pitch, as we’re possession based so our back four will go higher than usual, these two will also push up, Neto is a tricky little fecker and if he can get a 1v1 vs the RB then he can get some joy for us today, Adama is just a bull of a player, in a leg race the Spurs LB is toast, so we want to manoeuvre the ball into that area of the pitch and create some overloads where possible. Spurs won’t want to push too high as giving either of these two a head start kills them.
Tonali is the playmaker, he gets a hard time being labelled the second coming of Pirlo but he adds so much more steel to the side than the great Andrea ever could, another 6-footer will look to use that frame to shield the ball and keep us on the front foot, we know that whatever combination TAB uses in the engine it’s a tall order, but this lad’s a pure baller, goals and assists already this season for Milan plus a solid worth ethic.
Mckennie has all the key ingredients to be a top player as he matures, strong and athletic, decent on the ball and chips in with goals in big games, needs to add the consistency but it’ll come, he goes B2B today as he looks to link up with our front-man and add some numbers in the sours box.
Leao – May be our 4th striker, but he gets the nod today, blistering pace, great technical ability and just over 6ft1” mean he has all the key skills to lead the line for us, 2 goals in 6 games for Milan so far, he can be the perfect springboard for our attacks, The pace that he,Adama and Neto bring mean that we can get men in behind that solid but sluggish defence, Spurs shouldn’t get this all their own way today.
Set-Pieces – Varane,Schurrs,Botman,Leao,Tonali all clear 6ft and all go in the box, Trippier to take them and whip them in.
Red-Card:
If it’s a CB no change, we’ll go with a back four.
Any other position Schurrs makes way and the appropriate sub comes off the bench to replace him
Subs 65 mins:
Kelechi > Leao
James > Adama
One sub in the tank in case of the red card being mine
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