Why have defending champions Molde endured a poor start to the 2023 Eliteserien season? – scout report

The 2023 Eliteserien is currently in full swing, and Bodø/Glimt is dominating the top of the table, as we highlighted in a recent analysis piece.

While Glimt appears to be comfortable in leading the title race, the defending champions, Molde FK, have had a somewhat disappointing start to the season. After 12 games, they have suffered five losses, which is three more than their total losses in the entire 2022 season. Molde has enjoyed significant domestic success in recent years, securing five Eliteserien titles since 2011, including two under the guidance of former player and Manchester United legend Ole Gunnar Solskjær.

As the title suggests, in this tactical analysis, which will take the form of a scout report, we will analyse current manager Erling Moes tactics at the Aker Stadion and look into why Molde FK finds themselves 15 points off the pace already this season.

Preferred formations

As we can see from the graphic above, Erling Moe mostly opts to use a 3-5-2 formation, which of course can easily become a 5-3-2 should he require. This is the formation that Molde have used over the course of the last two seasons meaning they have implemented a specific tactical style that Moe wants to stick with. 

Erling Moe may prefer to use this formation as it provides a balance between defence and attack. The presence of three central defenders offers a solid defensive foundation, reducing the risk of being outnumbered at the back. This ensures better protection against opposing attackers and increases overall defensive stability. Moreover, the central midfielders in the formation provide support both defensively and offensively, contributing to a well-rounded team structure.