Introduction
In this article, we will analyze one of the most impressive teams in Europe at the start of this season: Bayern Munich, managed by Vincent Kompany. The former player and now coach has successfully implemented a high-level associative playing style, reflected in commanding results that speak to his success. Below, we break down the keys to the Bavarian team’s game.
High Pressing
Firstly, we highlight Bayern Munich’s performance in high pressing when the opposing team tries to build-up. This involves a coordinated block pressure, where typically the striker and one of the wingers pin down the central defenders. As the opponent makes their initial passes, Bayern adopts a very aggressive stance, concentrating several players in that area to close off potential passing lanes to the ball carrier. Kompany’s block pressure is meticulously worked on. On the ball side, players engage in more individualized defending, while those farther away occupy intermediate positions between opponents, ensuring defensive balance and being ready to provide quick cover if the opposing team manages to surpass the first line of pressure. Additionally, Bayern Munich maintains a numerical superiority (+1) in the defensive line to better secure the protection of that space and avoid dangerous attacks.
Slide1
In this action, Kane (ST) and Olise (RW) pin down the central defenders of Dinamo Zagreb.
Slide2
Additionally, Gnabry (LW) and Pavlovich (CM) position themselves between opponents, maintaining defensive balance and being prepared to provide quick cover.
Numerical Superiority in the Middle
Another key aspect of Bayern Munich’s offensive performance is the numerical superiority generated in midfield to break lines and progress vertically. Kompany positions the full-backs close to the opponent’s holding midfielders, especially when the opposing team defends in a low or medium block. This not only creates numerical advantages in midfield, allowing them to find free players, but also grants more freedom to advanced midfielders to drop back and exploit spaces behind the defense. At the same time, the wingers have more space to stay wide, receive the ball, and face one-on-one situations.
Bayern Munich – Numerical Superiority in the middle
In this example, we can see how Davies (LB) moves into the inner space to create a numerical advantage during the build-up phase.
Slide4
In this example, we can see Bayern Munich rotation of players to form a square, ensuring numerical superiority in the middle of the pitch.
Attacking the Space
Regarding the offensive phase, it is important to highlight the role of the advanced midfielders. In Kompany’s system, these players enjoy great freedom of movement, allowing them to frequently attack the spaces behind the opposing defense. They can accurately identify the right moments to do so, such as when the ball carrier is not being pressured or when a wide gap is created in the opposing defensive line. These gaps are often triggered by the movements of striker Harry Kane, one of the key players for Bayern Munich under Kompany. Furthermore, as a team, they demonstrate a notable ability to adjust their timing and attack the space without falling into an offside position.
Slide5
In this play, we see how Thomas Müller (AM) attacks the space behind the defensive line.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bayern Munich under Vincent Kompany stands out for its great versatility in attack, being a highly powerful team offensively and a true delight for football fans. Additionally, their high, intense, and well-structured pressing aims to regain possession of the ball as quickly as possible. Undoubtedly, it is a team with outstanding tactical work and a high level of execution in both phases of the game.
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