Dribbling has long been one of football’s most eye-catching actions—a burst of creativity capable of shifting momentum in an instant. This tactical analysis examines how dribbling serves as a strategic mechanism within various systems and styles of play, focusing on the roles of Rafael Leão at AC Milan, Jamal Musiala at Bayern Munich, Ousmane Dembélé at Paris Saint-Germain, and the...
As we have seen with many of Europe's top teams this season, attacking wingers can often be the difference-makers in close matches. With many teams defending deep, inside their own defensive third, and crowding out the central areas, having a player who can go by a full-back and take defenders...
The act of receiving the ball to feet has become almost second nature. From grassroots football to the professional elite, this pass-to-feet dynamic has evolved into the base unit of build-up play. In this tactical analysis, we will examine how this stylistic evolution is reshaping attacking behaviour across modern systems....
Sir Alex Ferguson once said, 'Attack wins games, defence wins titles'. However, for coaches like Alexander Blessin and José Bordalás, who are not in the ideal position to win titles with their current teams, the legendary quote can be changed to 'attack wins you games, defence keeps you in the...
Inter Milan's run to the 2024/2025 UEFA Champions League final is likely to spark discussion around back-three formations. The hype around the back-three isn't new, but this season, many of the teams using it are showing that they deserve the spotlight, particularly in the way they defend and play out of possession. The...
The art of build-up under pressure is a fundamental aspect of modern football, especially for teams facing aggressive, high-pressing opponents. More than just a method to progress the ball, it represents a philosophy of play that transforms defensive risk into attacking opportunity. In this analysis, we’ll explore how top teams create structures, support...
Creative attacking wingers are experiencing a renaissance at the top level of European football, a welcome departure from the modern game's ever-increasing robotism. The best example of this is the form of Barcelona’s young talisman from La Masia, Lamine Yamal, who lit up the UEFA Champions League knockout stages. Another...
Football is an ever-changing sport, with no two seasons ever being the same, and the game constantly evolving. As each year passes, new players are discovered, teams alter their appearances, and emerging coaches seek to add their stamp to the game. The other aspect that changes year-on-year is the tactics...
Much has been written about the benefits of making runs in behind the last line of defence, with most of this directed at attackers or players on the last line of the defence. This is a perpetual action for these players, and regardless of whether or not they always receive...
The evolution of inverted full-backs stands as one of the most significant tactical innovations of the past decade. Born from the need to manipulate central spaces and enhance control during the possession phase, this role has transformed the approach to deep build-up play and the creation of numerical superiority in...
Who is Paolo Maldini? Few players can boast the longevity of having matched up against both Maradona and Cristiano Ronaldo. In fact, only one player comes to mind. His name is Paolo Maldini. Though he played in a different era, Il Capitano's brilliance on the pitch leaves us with timeless...
Who is Paolo Maldini? Few players can boast the longevity of having matched up against both Maradona and Cristiano Ronaldo. In fact, only one player comes to mind. His name is Paolo Maldini. Though he played in a different era, Il Capitano's brilliance on the pitch leaves us with timeless...
The Shift To 4-2-4 Formation In recent times, certain formations have become the convention for deployment, as they are conducive to meeting the tactical demands of modern football. The 4-3-3 formation, for example, somewhat phased out the regular 4-4-2 formation due to its numerical superiority in midfield. By extension, the...
Possession exercises are a well-used tool for coaches and are common in training sessions at all levels of the game. Increasingly, these exercises are now replicating real game scenarios rather than generic setups and rules designed primarily to work the technical elements of keeping possession. By adding the tactical element...
This session will aim to create opportunities for players to work on attacking transition principles. We will encourage them to initially seek to break lines and play forward into players who have support. However, we will also encourage them to recognise when this isn’t possible and instead have them retain...
In modern football, the choice between a back three and a back four is crucial in shaping a team's tactical balance. Both formations have advantages, each offering distinct benefits depending on the team's needs, playing style, and the match context. A back three provides greater central coverage and depth, allowing...
Having players quickly react to a loss of possession is an issue that can plight even teams at the highest level in the game. When coaching this aspect of the game, it is often useful to constantly have transition moments throughout other sessions. Defensive transition can be a sub-focus in...
Whether playing against a high press or a low block, the centre-back's role is key in the build-up phase and breaking the first line of pressure. Playing out from the back involves much more than simply being comfortable on the ball. The modern centre-back must be equipped in various ways...
This tactical theory will analyse recent trends concerning how goalkeepers are utilised. Long gone are the days of goalkeepers simply being considered the last line of defence. They are now instrumental in implementing the tactical philosophy of the game's elite coaches. Two recent trends that are on the rise are...
In League Two this season, the top seven features six sides that predominantly play a five-at-the-back formation. Doncaster Rovers are the only exception; however, they have also switched to this system for certain games. For comparison, in League One only three of the playoff sides play this shape, two of...
