The Hidden Harmony: Maximizing Output Through Strategic #9 And #10 Dynamics – Tactical Theory

Two weeks ago, our tactical theory article on the relationship between the #9 and #10 hit the website.

Initially, this was supposed to be a stand-alone article.

After watching some of Europes best pairings, it was clear this wasnt possible.

A second instalment was needed.

And thats where we find ourselves today.

This tactical theory piece continues our investigation of the relationship between the modern #9 and #10.

As the role has evolved, the game has produced unique relationships fitting the key qualities of the players in those positions into a cohesive joint venture.

Moving through this weeks tactical analysis, we’ll start with combination play and pinning the oppositions backline to create space between the lines.

Turning to Manchester City, well look at an example of how a creative #10 can play off of a target man and poacher, interpreting the role of the #9  as more fixed than fluid.

Finally, we’ll turn to positional rotations in more fluid #9 and #10 partnerships.

Between the two articles, the objective is to differentiate ways to incorporate interactions between a #9 and #10 within ones own environment.

Combination Play and pinning to create BTLs

One of the key concepts to cover in this piece is how the #9 and #10 can coordinate their starting positions and movements to impact the organisation of the oppositions lines.

These are instances in which the two players are not directly involved in ball progression, but more so creating space to play into higher up the pitch.

Essentially, theyre creating better attacking conditions for their teammates.

Once their teammates can play forward, thats when our two focus positions come alive.

The examples weve chosen here offer one look that starts with more space between the lines while the second focuses on a more vertically compact opponent.

We turn to Chelsea for our first example.

High up the pitch, Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson are occupying three Everton defenders.

Looking at the Everton backline, their body shape shows that they are concerned with a ball played in behind and are conceding some ground to the Chelsea attackers.

As Palmer and Jackson continue to push forward, the gap between Evertons backline and midfielders expands.

That creates space to play forward into Palmer.

Once the ball goes into Palmer, thats where the socio-affective superiority comes into play.

With Palmer on the ball facing forward, Jackson offers a run forward into the same vertical line as his teammate.

Seeing that Palmer needs an immediate option, Jackson adapts his run to of