Positions and tactics have actually become really fluid in contemporary football. This short post will explain the factors behind this.
Maybe one of the most used football formations over the last ten years, the 4-3-3 is a classic strategy that features effective offensive characteristics that are hard to beat. This tactic is deemed one of the most popular offensive football formations, and for good reasons. The genius in this formation is all to do with the synergy between the midfield and the offensive line. While there are different variations of the 4-3-3, many count on one defensive midfielder and 2 attacking midfielders that support the wingers and the centre forward. The midfield position appears like an inverted triangle with the defensive midfielder staying near the back line. This allows for more defensive strength in the case of unexpected and fast counterattacks, something that the AC Milan former US owner is likely knowledgeable about. In order for this formation to flourish, the wingers and centre forward need to be technically-skilled in terms of shooting and crossing.
Extensively considered one of the first and most reliable defensive football formations, the 4-4-2 is a tactic that is still common to this day. What makes this formation more effective than other defensive strategies is how balanced it is. This is since the four midfielders tend to occupy and control the midfield by retaining possession of the ball. In so doing, they manage the pace of the game and decide when to push forward and when to fall back. In the attacking stance, 2 midfielders advance up the pitch to feed the centre forwards through balls and accurate crosses that can make a distinction in the area. Long balls sent from the midfield and even defense can likewise be used, something that the Aston Villa former owner would understand. When defending, the midfield stance changes into an arch that works as a secondary barrier or layer of defense that covers the back line.
There are some essential aspects that influence the manager's vision and gameplan, some are internal while others are external. For example, ranking on the table and thinking about the team's objectives for the season are primary elements to remember. Clubs that are looking to secure a spot within the leading 4 endeavour to win as many games as possible, especially against direct competitors who have comparable objectives. This is why the best football formations are often the ones that prioritise long-term goals instead of specific matches. Internally, the availability of certain players in essential positions can typically indicate what tactics to go for. This is simply since there are specific strategies in football that only work in the existence of key players with a particular skillset. This is another reason that injuries can be incredibly disruptive, forcing coaches to consider alternative plans, something that the Crystal Palace former owner is likely familiar with.