Julio Vaccari: Marcelo Bielsa’s former analyst’s tactics at Defensa y Justicia – tactical analysis

Julio Vaccari’s path to becoming Defensa y Justicia’s manager is a unique one. The 42-year-old began his career working for none other than Marcelo Bielsa. As a video analyst, helping Bielsa’s famously extensive and detailed methodology, Vaccari first joined the former Premier League manager at La Liga’s Athletic Bilbao. He then followed El Loco to Olympique Marseille in Ligue 1 before parting ways and becoming a part of Gabriel Heinze’s staff at Godoy Cruz, Argentinos Juniors, and Vélez Sarsfield.

Vaccari references Heinze and Bielsa as the biggest contributors to his football ideas and in his first job at Defensa y Justicia, these are definitely becoming clear. Julio claims his football to be one of position rather than possession. Like Heinze and Bielsa, he enjoys attacks with verticality and speed. In his first 18 matches, the Argentinian coach has only lost two of them. Early into the 2023 Liga Pro, Defensa y Justicia are already challenging at the top of the table.

This tactical analysis will provide an in-depth breakdown of Julio Vaccari’s tactics at Defensa y Justicia so far. With Bielsa and Heinze as references, this analysis will also examine how the 42-year-old’s tactics compare to his mentors.

Construction

The Halcón are far from a possession-based side, with just 49.91% possession this season. Similarly, 16.51% of their 346.56 passes per 90 are long passes, already indicating a significant verticality with the ball. In fact, they average more forward passes per 90 (129.89) than lateral passes per 90 (117), a common trend in direct teams. Finally, Defensa also average 71.22 progressive passes per 90. Considering Vaccari’s men do not average many passes per 90, this figure is rather significant.

It is clear Vaccari wants his players to be direct with the ball, looking to break lines and progress forward quickly and with intensity. How is this carried out though? Let’s take a look.

Defensa mainly use a 4-3-3 in possession. Their structure tends to be quite expansive, with wingers initially remaining wide and high. Additionally, the fullbacks are instructed to maximise width and remain wide as well. While the two centre-backs split the goalkeeper, the midfield three become the heart of the structure.

This shape can be identified below. Although, as Vaccari claimed, his team is quite positional, there is a notable fluidity in this shape which enhances the effectiveness of their vertical approach.

The single pivot plays a very significant role, especially in the earlier stages of possession. Usually 25-year-old Kevin Gutiérrez, the defensive midfielder will begin very close to the back four, providing immediate support in possession. He is in charge of providing outlets, like the scenario below, as well as directing the build-up.