In this tactical analysis, we will explore the five types of off-the-ball movement that Marcelo Bielsa identifies and teaches as the foundation for generating passing lines, sustaining ball circulation, and breaking defensive structures.
For Bielsa tactics, the game is not limited to the ball possessor; the active and conscious participation of players without the ball is key to destabilising and dominating the match.
Every movement, trajectory, and body profile is designed to benefit the possessor and open new options for progression.
This concept is especially relevant in Bielsa’s model for two fundamental reasons.
On one hand, it supports his idea of protagonism and territorial dominance, where the team must keep the ball in the opponent’s field and force them to retreat.
On the other hand, it demands high technical, physical, and cognitive mastery from the player since these movements must be executed with precision, timing, and constant repetition to generate advantages and maintain game fluidity.
“When you have the ball, you have to get free… the more we get free, the more fluid the circulation will be”.
Marcelo Bielsa (2015).
Throughout this text, we will break down the five variants of off-the-ball movement that Bielsa teaches and applies in his teams: dropping with a turn, receiving behind the rival, receiving at the rival’s side, counter-anticipation reception, and receiving behind with an aerial pass.
We will support the analysis with quotes from Bielsa himself, theoretical references from Paco Seirul·lo, and practical examples from Marcelo Bielsa coaching Uruguay to understand how these forms build a tactical language that articulates collective movement.
Marcelo Bielsa Style Of Play & Principles Of Off-The-Ball Movement
For Bielsa, off-the-ball movement is not simply running toward a free space, but a complex tactical action responding to clear objectives within his game philosophy.
“I believe in protagonism, in taking the initiative, in making the game happen in the opponent’s field, in possessing the ball and avoiding the opponent taking it, in recovering it quickly and taking away their minute of possession”.
Marcelo Bielsa (2015)
Bielsas Uruguay Width & Depth.
This idea determines the type of player Bielsa selects and trains.
He prefers offensive profiles who feel comfortable participating in ball circulation and have the capacity to take risks, without neglecting the specific demands of each tactical function.
