Xabi Alonso began shaping a distinctive tactical identity at Real Madrid, built on a flexible 3-4-1-2 system that balances structural discipline with creative freedom. This analysis examines how redefined roles are starting to reshape the team’s dynamics. Still in its early stages, Alonso’s project shows promise, but integrating all the stars into a coherent, balanced system remains the key challenge ahead.
Under Luis Enrique, Ousmane Dembélé has evolved from a traditional winger into a multifunctional player within PSG’s tactical structure. Crowned the 2025 Ballon d'Or winner, his role now includes responsibilities as an inside forward, advantage creator, and false nine—key functions that have shaped him into the most influential player in world football.
Want to know how to become a successful football coach? Discover 10 essential tips every coach should follow to become more effective, respected, and impactful—on and off the pitch. From leadership skills to team cohesion, this article highlights the key principles behind long-term coaching success.
Explore the key offensive fundamentals your wingers must master—from 1v1 duels and 2v1 combinations to recovering width and recycling possession. Learn how the Ekkono Method structures the winger’s role to ensure both individual brilliance and tactical discipline in the final third.
Mastering passing priorities for midfielders is essential for effective offensive organization. Learn how to identify the best receivers, evaluate risk versus reward, and disguise your tactical intentions to dominate possession and create goal-scoring opportunities.
Under Roberto De Zerbi, Olympique de Marseille has undergone a tactical evolution centered on fluid build-up play, intelligent spacing, and third-man combinations. From a flexible 3-4-3 base to intricate positional rotations and a bold approach to breaking high presses, this analysis dives into the Italian coach’s philosophy and how it’s redefining Marseille’s identity in Ligue 1.
What makes a great training week? In this article, we explore the key elements that shape the design of an effective microcycle — from player development stages to the structures that influence performance. Whether you're coaching youth or adult players, understanding how to balance physical, cognitive, emotional, and tactical demands is essential for maximizing growth and results.
After Mbappé's departure, Luis Enrique has transformed PSG into a tactically dynamic powerhouse. From fluid shape-shifting between a 4-3-3 and 3-4-3 to the evolution of Ousmane Dembélé as a central creative force, this analysis breaks down the Spanish coach’s philosophy and how it’s reshaping the Parisian giants.
The build-up phase in soccer is a critical moment that sets the foundation for a team’s offensive structure. It requires precise coordination, technical execution, and a clear understanding of how to navigate opposition pressure. While there are various ways to build from the back, teams must adapt their approach based on the type of pressing applied by the opponent. The three types of pressing strategies we can face during goal-kick build-ups are individual pressing, hybrid pressing, and block pressing. Each presents unique challenges that demand specific tactical solutions. In this article, we will explain how to adapt the build-up to each type of pressing.
Florian Wirtz is one of Europe's most exciting attacking midfielders, known for his technical skills, tactical intelligence, and ability to exploit defensive gaps. This analysis explores his ability to receive the ball in tight spaces, create passing lanes, and attack dangerous areas. This makes him a key player for Bayer Leverkusen and the German national team, and potentially a future superstar.
