For the first time in many years, 4-4-2 has returned as La Ligas formation of choice in 2019/20.
After years of domination from 4-3-3, which is still the case in the big teams like Barcelona and Real Madrid, only two La Liga sides did not use 4-4-2 as one of their three most used formations in 2019/20, with more than half using the formation as their first choice more than any other shape.
Whats more, is that it has brought consistency to La Liga in terms of tactics.
The six La Liga sides who were most consistent in their tactical shape all boasted 4-4-2 as their primary formation, with three different sides using it for over 80% of minutes played.
This tactical analysis will examine this approach and how La Liga teams use this strategy.
The analysis of these tactics will provide insight into how different La Liga teams deployed 4-4-2 in 2019/20, featuring Atlético Madrid, Getafe, Villarreal, Levante, Eibar, and Alavés
La Liga Formations: 4-4-2 With Asymmetrical Midfielders
An asymmetrical midfield four is crucial in the 4-4-2 system deployed in Spain.
This lies in an approach where a midfield unit is highly structured, allowing only one wide midfielder freedom to push forward into attack, with the opposite winger drifting into a more central or defensive-minded role.
Two of the best examples are sides that focus defensively, Atlético Madrid and Getafe, which have clear tactical philosophies under Diego Simeone and José Bordálas.
Javi Calleja also deployed a similar approach, albeit with a less structured and more fluid system, at Villarreal as they climbed up the table into Europa League spots following the restart.
As can be seen here, particularly in the case of Atlético Madrid, one wide midfielder plays in a more advanced position.
4-4-2 formations in la liga 2019/20: Club Atlético de Madrid & Getafe C.f
As can be seen here, Atlético provides a good example.
Koke plays on the right, with usually either him or Saúl operating as the narrow wide midfielder.
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