After an incredibly successful last two seasons, which have seen him soar from Segunda Division to Europa League football, it was no surprise to see Rubi topping the lists of several headhunters this summer. Real Betis were the fortunate side to poach the coach, taking him from Espanyol.
His philosophy, similar in many ways to that of Quique Setien, who he replaces, will be considered in this tactical analysis. For many, Betis will be seen as a step up for Rubi, despite leaving a club in Europe for one who finished below his team last season. It is certainly the biggest challenge he has faced to date, but it is one that he seems well prepared for.
Formation
Rubi has developed a reputation for his flexibility in tactical approaches and formations. His clear favourite though is a 4-3-3. Setting up with a rigid bank of four is a particularly essential element of his philosophy. The set-up in front of that line can change, but the back four is essential to the defensive strategy of Rubi. With a rigid line, typically protected by a holding midfielder, the two other midfielders have more freedom to move forwards and support the attack.
In the front line, there is significant variation. At times, the front line is built up of a central striker and two wingers, though at others there are more central strikers to support the main man in attack. This variety is a key aspect of Rubi’s philosophy, frequently looking to make changes and leave opposition baffled by the change in approach to unsettle their organisation.
As a coach, you have to know how to mix things up, is one of the lines from Rubi which has most excited Real Betis fans this summer. When making changes, the most frequent options to mix up are with 4-4-2 or 4-1-4-1, adding further defensive solidity against more robust attacking outfits.
Early signs in
