#  @LamdarhriAchraf ACHRAF ACHRAF posts on X about madrid, real madrid, in the, space the most. They currently have [-------] followers and [---] posts still getting attention that total [-----] engagements in the last [--] hours. ### Engagements: [-----] [#](/creator/twitter::1359594175386288134/interactions)  - [--] Week [-------] -12% - [--] Month [-------] -37% - [--] Months [---------] +157% - [--] Year [---------] +670% ### Mentions: [--] [#](/creator/twitter::1359594175386288134/posts_active)  - [--] Week [--] +34% - [--] Month [---] +41% - [--] Months [---] +30% - [--] Year [-----] +39% ### Followers: [-------] [#](/creator/twitter::1359594175386288134/followers)  - [--] Week [-----] +0.21% - [--] Month [-----] +2.70% - [--] Months [-----] +48% - [--] Year [-----] +227% ### CreatorRank: [-------] [#](/creator/twitter::1359594175386288134/influencer_rank)  ### Social Influence **Social category influence** [champions league](/list/champions-league) #5306 [travel destinations](/list/travel-destinations) 38.68% [la liga](/list/la-liga) #3425 [premier league](/list/premier-league) 14.62% [bundesliga](/list/bundesliga) 4.72% [finance](/list/finance) 1.42% [celebrities](/list/celebrities) 0.94% [countries](/list/countries) 0.47% [musicians](/list/musicians) 0.47% **Social topic influence** [madrid](/topic/madrid) #2716, [real madrid](/topic/real-madrid) #1739, [in the](/topic/in-the) 17.45%, [space](/topic/space) 14.15%, [manchester united](/topic/manchester-united) 11.79%, [barcelona](/topic/barcelona) 9.43%, [block](/topic/block) 8.96%, [united](/topic/united) 5.66%, [defensive](/topic/defensive) #88, [more than](/topic/more-than) 4.72% **Top accounts mentioned or mentioned by** [@managingmadrid](/creator/undefined) [@lamdarhriachraf](/creator/undefined) [@fathallimo](/creator/undefined) [@randrmcf](/creator/undefined) [@jonmackenzie](/creator/undefined) [@1992paby](/creator/undefined) [@mrinmoyroy2003](/creator/undefined) [@saiftfp](/creator/undefined) [@laligamichael](/creator/undefined) [@ksanhory97](/creator/undefined) [@aziztactics](/creator/undefined) [@optaanalyst](/creator/undefined) [@mhassanfootball](/creator/undefined) [@betweentheposts](/creator/undefined) [@_babadragon](/creator/undefined) [@huytrieu2701](/creator/undefined) [@le11parisien](/creator/undefined) [@coachramoslive](/creator/undefined) [@thedevilsdna](/creator/undefined) [@laligalavo](/creator/undefined) **Top assets mentioned** [Ferguson plc (FERG)](/topic/$ferg) ### Top Social Posts Top posts by engagements in the last [--] hours "Against Sociedad Real Madrid relied heavily on Up Back & Through passing sequences to create artificial transitions especially from the left. Vinicius Jr & Camavinga counter-mvts & positions swapping & Gonzalo Garcia forward runs generated spaces in LHS for progression" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2023084115768062413) 2026-02-15T17:16Z [----] followers, 10.4K engagements "Keeping the ball more than it requires hinders Real Madrid. Mastantuono & Arda Guler are among the players who have to improve in taking action in less time. Xabi Alonso pointed at this after the Marseille game. For example here Mastantuono has a large space on his left side to nudge the ball across before Alvaro Garcia arrives. Also he has space on his right to turn and pass backward immediately or pass with his outside backward after receiving. However Mastantuono decides to wait to try to nutmeg Garcia which results in a possession loss and transition for Rayo Vallecano. It's not only" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2018435898241691926) 2026-02-02T21:26Z [----] followers, 40K engagements "IMHO this scene is one of the manifestations of the Too-Much-Talent-Effect. Dean Huijsen carries around. Brahim Diaz and Vinicius Junior drag the RB and CB across. Hence the diagonal passing lane between Huijsen and Mbapp. Vinicius Jr pulled out Le jeune and looks to punish the space behind. However Mbapp decides to dribble past Mendy and generate a shooting angle for himself. He fails and throws a good attacking sequence in the bin. The Too-Much-Talent-Effect resides in superstars putting their personal interests and records before the team which leads to an internal competition among the" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2018773292312662375) 2026-02-03T19:47Z [----] followers, 41K engagements "Diagonal passes are one of the most efficient tools to exploit a team shuffling their blocks across. Here Manchester United Escadinhas (staircase) allows a smooth diagonal passing circulation between Dalot Casemiro & Mbeumo. Also the body orientation of Casemiro (Diagonality affordance) enables him to let the ball run diagonally across his body and flick it on to Mbeumo. If Mbeumo here released the layoff accurately to Cunha Luke Shaw would swim freely in space on the left side. https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2019118634749083757 https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2019118634749083757" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2019118634749083757) 2026-02-04T18:39Z [----] followers, 39.1K engagements "I think Joshua Zirkzee can smooth this diagonal close-proximity combinational play that Michael Carrick is trying to instill. His clean touches enable him to link and thread from first-time passes flick-ons and layoffs in clogged areas plus the 360-degree fluid space the diagonality offers. Diagonal passes are one of the most efficient tools to exploit a team shuffling their blocks across. Here Manchester United Escadinhas (staircase) allows a smooth diagonal passing circulation between Dalot Casemiro & Mbeumo. Also the body orientation of Casemiro (Diagonality https://t.co/59o89qSS3r" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2019492205023441089) 2026-02-05T19:23Z [----] followers, 12.4K engagements "Manchester United players On Ball Value. I want to focus more on Lisandro Martinez. I don't think Man Utd could perform the same way when he's not available in deep buildup or in settled play. Line breakers long & medium range passing & cunning to evade pressure" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2019789716271308947) 2026-02-06T15:06Z [----] followers, 57.6K engagements "I think there is more than that IMO. Post Amorim I think there is more emphasis on diagonality (Diagonal passes Diagonal dribbles diagonal movements) and this improves the combinational play thanks to the diagonality affordances in terms of body orientation to receive release and the options available around the receivers. Also that imposes more questions to the opponents in terms of how to defend against those diagonal combos given that it's not something usual. Sesko's first Goal vs Burnley from the buildup to the goal is a good example of this" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2019916722690458053) 2026-02-06T23:30Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "There is so much emphasis on central penetration initiated by Lisandro Martinez line breakers. They enable Manchester United to access the space BTLs for Mbeumo Cunha and Bruno to thread passes. However Man Utd takes some average quality decisions and shots IMO" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2020133233564807360) 2026-02-07T13:51Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "A blend of: Wide overload close proximity & 1st touch combinations; Players taking optimal positions between the gaps; Diagonal connections in which Casemiro is the point of intersection; Nobody in traffic is square; everybody is on the half-turn;" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2020422352572698875) 2026-02-08T09:00Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Opponents easily drag Manchester City 4-diamond-2 across and then they find a free backward option to switch the ball to the far side where the opposition far side FB and winger overload Man City far side FB. Real Madrid had Valverde & Liverpool has Szoboszlai to do so" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2020539477454712856) 2026-02-08T16:45Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Real Madrid had Carreras & Vinicius Jr overloading Matheus Nunes. Liverpool has Kerkez & Gakpo vs Nunes as well. Also Kerkez has space in front of Man City backline to cut inside & go against City momentum in shifting across and exploit the gaps that appear within tye shift" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2020539481657381299) 2026-02-08T16:45Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "From Goalkicks Guehi & Khusanov split wide alongside Donnarumma which means markers are wide. Ahead Rodri & Bernardo Silva operate in close proximity and Rodri leans toward the right to vacate the left for O'Reilly to drop. The question: Why Donnarumma boot the ball long" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2020554296471781496) 2026-02-08T17:44Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "The central connections is the route for Real Madrid to break through Valencia 5-4-1 low-block. Finding Mbapp around one of the CBs gives him the chance to go both ways. He can cut in to shoot or find the RB arriving late or go outside & shoot" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2020597102292902389) 2026-02-08T20:34Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Valencia - Real Madrid analysis is live I discuss: Valencia exposes RMA second balls problems; RMA off-ball movements to unlock central routes; RMA diamond and low/medium fraitlies; RMA baiting Valencia forward to nip the game in the bud; https://betweentheposts.net/valencia-real-madrid-los-blancos-break-the-mestalla-curse-0-2/ https://betweentheposts.net/valencia-real-madrid-los-blancos-break-the-mestalla-curse-0-2/" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2020898312967086542) 2026-02-09T16:31Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "I think Carrick made a good decision to make Cunha start the high press sequences and Mbeumo react based on where the play is to be funneled. Against Fulham the left side wasn't covered properly. Dorgu offers intensity; his lateral shift was on time against Manchester City" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2020958329678463304) 2026-02-09T20:29Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Fulham posed many problems to Manchester United's high press by stretching their midfield line by expanding the distances between Berge Iwobi & Smith Rowe. Also Smith Rowe dropping & darting wide pulled Casemiro wide. So Fulham was easily shifting the ball across" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2020959203683406078) 2026-02-09T20:33Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Manchester United (Michael Carrick) diagonality. The majority of the players are on the half-turn to receive. Diagonal passes from Lisandro Martinez Casemiro and Cunha break down the orthogonal low block of Tottenham. Casemiro Cunha and Bruno take places between the gaps. Half-turn receiving enables first-time touches to keep the ball rolling diagonally. Xavi Simons lateral shifting is ineffective plus Tottenham's lines are broken down in both directions. Cunha in a big space only has to adjust his body stance and make it parallel to the ball's path and pass it from first-time touch to Bruno." [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/2021147139548577899) 2026-02-10T09:00Z [----] followers, 14.3K engagements "The advantage of diagonal passing here is highlighted through Tottenham defending. As a defending team you have a chance when you blend lateral shifting vertical stepping-out & swarming to defend a diagonal pass. Even if Simons was on time in his lateral closing down Casemiro still had the chance to find Cunha or Bruno. Also If Romero stepped out to close down down Bruno the latter by only dummying his move to let the ball roll diagonally Mbeuno had the chance to make use of the space between Romero & Gray. Manchester United (Michael Carrick) diagonality. The majority of the players are on" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2021292472194789695) 2026-02-10T18:37Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Using Bryan Mbeumo as a false nine is good given how often he attacks the space in behind exploit the defenders blindsides transitional threat and I think is more reliable than the likes of Sesko & Zirkzee at this point. HOWEVER the direction Carrick drives Manchester United to by relying on central combinations close proximity first touches passes etc suits more someone like Zirkzee. It was obvious against Tottenham that Mbeumo found it a bit hard when it comes to first touch passes lay-offs and controlling the ball in traffic (BTLs) which led to miscontrols attacks delay etc" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2021301828218966220) 2026-02-10T19:14Z [----] followers, 31.1K engagements "RT @LamdarhriAchraf: The advantage of diagonal passing here is highlighted through Tottenham defending. As a defending team you have a ch" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/2021315184191504790) 2026-02-10T20:07Z [----] followers, [--] engagements "@FathalliMo I agree with the early crosses from the half spaces but on the right side it became a weakness for West Ham only after Diouf sub IMO. Also I would like to have Dalot over/underlapping more given how Amad/Mbeumo were off on the right but it wasn't the case" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2021353913535131717) 2026-02-10T22:41Z [----] followers, [----] engagements ".he narrows shrinks the space around the ballholder & has good timing in making his slides & blocks. Also he controls the distance between his feet depending on the situation (cross or shot). It's worth noting that his height (1.90 m) serves him well in such situations" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2021581928789344631) 2026-02-11T13:47Z [----] followers, [---] engagements "In the 1st scene there are some good attributes Leny Yoro displayed: Controlled deceleration helps him defend closer to Wilson; Curving his run to keep the passing lane between Wilson & Magassa blocked off: if the cutback is on Mbeumo is there to handle the situation" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2021586969600380970) 2026-02-11T14:07Z [----] followers, [---] engagements "I like that preparation from Florian Wirtz leading to hitting the far post. First he receives Gakpo pass with his right his first touch is the ball nudge toward his left. By doing this simple trick he sent Sadiki toward the right & generated space to shoot with his left" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2021689464809046098) 2026-02-11T20:55Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "There was a long build-up from Sunderland in which both FBs pushed high with Diarra Angulo and Brobbey swum in a large space BTLs with the latter pinning the Van Dijk & Konat. Sunderland can expose this weakness in Liverpool High press as they tend to go man-oriented with the FWs and mids and the backline remains pinned which means there is an opportunity to win aerial duels second balls and attack from there. https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2021694967169589702 https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2021694967169589702" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2021694967169589702) 2026-02-11T21:16Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Sunderland relied on it at the start of the second half with Angulo pinning Endo Diarra on Van Dijk and Brobbey to drop and engage in the aerial battles" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2021698024456482995) 2026-02-11T21:29Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Controlling the center of the pitch mixed with diagonal perception yields a fork in the road. The receiver can play with the flow enabling continuation or against the grain without leaving the path of the goal which forces defenders to hedge their bets and therefore creates gaps. That's the direction Michael Carrick wants Manchester United to head toward. However that cannot happen overnight. First it's because of the shift that occurred from Ruben Amorim (wing-oriented approach) to Michael Carrick (more emphasis on the center) which requires time for coaching training and adapting until it" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2021986254942773614) 2026-02-12T16:34Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Atltico Madrid exposes Barcelona highline and offside trap via late runs before the halfway line or players coming late from behind. Also on the counter Atltico tends to go toward one side and switch to the other where they have a numerical superiority around the FB" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2022044925425320061) 2026-02-12T20:27Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Simeone (the father) relies on Simeone (the son) to outpace Balde down the line (late run as well) and then square the ball toward the far post. Atltico Madrid have 100m sprinters on each side of the pitch. Yes having smart "Quicksilver"s is another way to break a highline" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2022052923736547716) 2026-02-12T20:59Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "RT @LamdarhriAchraf: This is an article on why Barcelona's Hansi Flick high line offside trap high press & IP play are related. When one" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/2022379224573546777) 2026-02-13T18:35Z [----] followers, [--] engagements "RT @LamdarhriAchraf: Overcarrying delayed passes standing for too long on the ball and overcomplicating things hindered Manchester Unite" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2022807060060971313) 2026-02-14T22:55Z [----] followers, [--] engagements "It's better for Atltico Madrid to stop pressing high up the pitch the way they did. Because Barcelona with the 4+2 shape go with a diagonal outside the shape of ATM and then they enter the inside via another diagonal with Sorloth just watching comfortably pierce through" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2022063954231800084) 2026-02-12T21:43Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "This is an article on why Barcelona's Hansi Flick high line offside trap high press & IP play are related. When one of these aspects is subpar anything that follows will be subpar as well. It's like the domino effect. The fall of the 1st piece usually leads to the fall of the dominoes. Risk And Reward In Hansi Flick's Universe A tactical look at how opponents find solutions to Barcelona and Hansi Flick high press and high defensive line. How there is a fine thread between collapse and perfection in such a system. Link in replies. https://t.co/aQImuTd38F Risk And Reward In Hansi Flick's" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2022359108054393203) 2026-02-13T17:15Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Elite defense from Leny Yoro in 1v2 situations. Keeps checking his shoulders to maintain his body between the ball & the passing option (passing lane blocked off) As the threat gets closer & the intentions of the ball holder become clear" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2021581925329047918) 2026-02-11T13:47Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Real Madrid build-up is: Carreras carrying the ball from out to in & breaking Sociedad lines down. Or Camavinga doing the same with the hope of him not taking an extra touch or nudge in the process. Otherwise Real Madrid is short of solutions" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2022773959322742863) 2026-02-14T20:44Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Definitely Manchester United needs to add a left winger to the list of profiles that the team needs. Dorgu will be beneficial in certain games to provide these out-in runs against medium block for instance. I think Shea Lacey is a good back-up for Amad Diallo on the right" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2023813685140222408) 2026-02-17T17:35Z [----] followers, [--] engagements "Risk And Reward In Hansi Flick's Universe A tactical look at how opponents find solutions to Barcelona and Hansi Flick high press and high defensive line. How there is a fine thread between collapse and perfection in such a system. Link in replies" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/1982072743223853419) 2025-10-25T13:12Z [----] followers, 27.7K engagements "Real Madrid: A mixed bag. My biggest Newsletter. On Real Madrid OOP issues (lane coverage hybrid press low block shambles) buildup vs man-oriented and hybrid presses outswinging corners attacking medium and low blocks (problems and solutions) and more. Link in replies. https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2007547287493300501 https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2007547287493300501" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/2007547287493300501) 2026-01-03T20:19Z [----] followers, 84.3K engagements "Gonzalo Garcia has work to do in terms of first contact cushioning the ball controlling it with the pressure on his back for a layoff. Barcelona CBs find it easy to unbalance him drive to play easy passes to defend miscued balls etc" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2010435426356748415) 2026-01-11T19:35Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Main Areas Jude Bellingham has to improve in his game: Scanning because he loses so many balls opportunities to shoot just because he didn't check his shoulders; Stop keeping the ball for too long carrying more than what the situation requires;" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2013724546147225945) 2026-01-20T21:25Z [----] followers, 14.7K engagements "Delaying attacks by holding on the ball too much over-carrying looking for the difficult options are common aspects shared on Cunha Bruno Amad and Mbeumo and impact negatively the decision-making and give West Ham time to recover their defensive shape and solidity" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2021338760194175079) 2026-02-10T21:41Z [----] followers, 19.4K engagements "Overcarrying delayed passes standing for too long on the ball and overcomplicating things hindered Manchester United vs West Ham in settled possession or in transitions. Delaying attacks by holding on the ball too much over-carrying looking for the difficult options are common aspects shared on Cunha Bruno Amad and Mbeumo and impact negatively the decision-making and give West Ham time to recover their defensive shape and solidity. Delaying attacks by holding on the ball too much over-carrying looking for the difficult options are common aspects shared on Cunha Bruno Amad and Mbeumo and" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2022747663100182617) 2026-02-14T18:59Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "There was an improvement by the end of the first half IMO using Gonzalo Garcia or Vinicius Jr deeper movement to bait Sociedad backline forward and release Carreras in space behind. Tchouamni problem persists as he's most of the time static unless when he faces the play" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2022777768887423391) 2026-02-14T20:59Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "The balance is the key. When a coach brings in complementary profiles with quality the team has a big chance to deliver. Gonzalo Garcia pins and pushes the backline rearward and acts as a target. Vinicius Jr carries dribbles and runs from the left. Valverde carries and runs from the right Arda Guler BTLs does the playmaking BTLs. Trent operates as a deep playmaker offering long & medium passing range quality (the same for Huijsen). Carreras attacks the space in behind and breaks down the lines via his out-in carries/passes. Camavinga develops the play from deep and connects in congested" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2022795995005022653) 2026-02-14T22:12Z [----] followers, 14.2K engagements "Camavinga & Vinicius Jr off-ball vertical and horizontal rotations vacated the LHS for Carreras out-in carries or passes. This cannot be done without a striker keeping the center-backs pinned & attacking depth. A balance between ball to feet & space attacking players is needed" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2023084118469431607) 2026-02-15T17:16Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Real Madrid's left side dynamics against Real Sociedad. Against Sociedad Real Madrid relied heavily on Up Back & Through passing sequences to create artificial transitions especially from the left. Vinicius Jr & Camavinga counter-mvts & positions swapping & Gonzalo Garcia forward runs generated spaces in LHS for progression. Against Sociedad Real Madrid relied heavily on Up Back & Through passing sequences to create artificial transitions especially from the left. Vinicius Jr & Camavinga counter-mvts & positions swapping & Gonzalo Garcia forward runs generated spaces in LHS for progression" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2023102214886342902) 2026-02-15T18:28Z [----] followers, 45.4K engagements "Real Madrid - Real Sociedad analysis is up: Overload the left to isolate Arnold on the right; RMA up back & through patterns; Sociedad wide CBs to generate space around RMA 1st line of pressure; RMA subpar diamond lateral shift; La Real fluid IP; https://betweentheposts.net/real-madrid-real-sociedad-los-blancos-momentum-gain-before-benfica-4-1/ https://betweentheposts.net/real-madrid-real-sociedad-los-blancos-momentum-gain-before-benfica-4-1/" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2023114881579307503) 2026-02-15T19:19Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Real Madrid's Up Back and Through patterns. Bait the opponent forward create separation to bounce the pass off to a free player and release a runner behind. Final decisions and the quality of the final pass need improvement though. Against Sociedad Real Madrid relied heavily on Up Back & Through passing sequences to create artificial transitions especially from the left. Vinicius Jr & Camavinga counter-mvts & positions swapping & Gonzalo Garcia forward runs generated spaces in LHS for progression. Against Sociedad Real Madrid relied heavily on Up Back & Through passing sequences to create" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2023761964380340732) 2026-02-17T14:10Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Then RMA has a problem with midfielders jogging back notably Tchouamni which leaves the space around the penalty area accessible for the opposition players coming from behind to capitalise on crosses/cutbacks" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2014738877160755416) 2026-01-23T16:35Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Looking at Villarreal and Real Madrid midfielders it becomes clear that difference between both is having someone like Dani Parejo. Displays a very rare state of calm under pressure (nonchalant) offers pausa simple short passes that provide quality and add value to the play" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2015170756213170347) 2026-01-24T21:12Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Villarreal - Real Madrid analysis is up I discuss: RMA overload in midfield; Moleiro inside-Valverde free to switch to the left side; Late step-outs freed Moreno & paved the road for Villarreal to progress; Switches of play turnovers & transitions; https://betweentheposts.net/villarreal-real-madrid-arbeloas-honeymoon-continues-0-2/ https://betweentheposts.net/villarreal-real-madrid-arbeloas-honeymoon-continues-0-2/" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2015401320664973795) 2026-01-25T12:28Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "The Newcastle - Aston Villa game is the game of "who wins his duels and is dominant physically will come out victorious" Too much verticality. Again Aston Villa showed how easy to pull apart Newcastle 4-5-1 low block. Pull out one of the mids overload the other two CBs unable to step up on time First time touch combinations BTLs. https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2015431346467025227 https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2015431346467025227" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2015431346467025227) 2026-01-25T14:27Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "The same problems against Aston Villa. Except for crosses Newcastle are out of solutions. https://x.com/i/status/2004670415470547344 Newcastle and Manchester United have similar problems IMO: Cannot control games despite Newcastle have the personnel to do so it's an Eddie Howe problem IMO; Struggle when there aren't big spaces to attack; Short of solutions against Low Blocks. https://x.com/i/status/2004670415470547344 Newcastle and Manchester United have similar problems IMO: Cannot control games despite Newcastle have the personnel to do so it's an Eddie Howe problem IMO; Struggle when there" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2015436707236040898) 2026-01-25T14:48Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "IMO Manchester United have some problems: Standing on the ball string correct passes which had gotten better after that long off-ball period. Attacking with numbers to secure better ball circulation chance creation more threat more corners" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2015475900758782250) 2026-01-25T17:24Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Manchester United & Michael Carrick: Pace Power Penetration Unpredictability. That's How Sir Alex Ferguson and Rene Meulensteen set the team up back then" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2015493761623589000) 2026-01-25T18:35Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "I may seem these days like I'm putting too much criticism on Barcelona. BUT watching & rewatching their games (especially vs Real Sociedad PSG and Sevilla) it becomes clear to me that Barcelona find so many struggles against man2man high pressing systems" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1978479963432001681) 2025-10-15T15:15Z [----] followers, 175.3K engagements "When Real Madrid was low/mid-blocking by the book" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2009400216340906358) 2026-01-08T23:01Z [----] followers, 13.2K engagements "The concept of diagonality being well implemented unlocks spaces through associative combinations and quick ball circulation. One of the two essentials to break through a low block. Barcelona with Hansi Flick is one of the best examples to study. Here against Real Madrid Barcelona lined up in a 4-2-3-1 diagonally. The affordances are as follows: Lamine Yamal is isolated against Alvaro Carreras on the far side. Inside diagonals from first time passes are possible here as De Jong and Pedri pull out Bellingham and Camavinga whereas Raphinha pins the CBs for Lewandowski to drop into free space." [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2011145302841958499) 2026-01-13T18:36Z [----] followers, 25.2K engagements "Manchester United set wide traps on Manchester City left side exploiting Alleyne miscued passes to Ak. Michael Carrick read Pep Guardiola hybrid pressing mechanisms well rendering them predictable to trigger City vulnerabilities in the transitional moments. A Thread 🚨" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2013180691408629972) 2026-01-19T09:24Z [----] followers, 29K engagements "I would like to highlight that in the era of Modric Kroos and Casemiro Real Madrid had a high level of athleticism that's lacking right now in the same area of the pitch. Back then Real Madrid had midfielders who: Were great at changing directions (agile comfortable in their lateral movements) without losing balance and control. Were good at changing their pace (acceleration and deceleration). Elite in ballistic control (what's related to control the ball arriving at high velocity during quick and intense situations to cushion and wedge it to maintain possession under pressure). Were flexible" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2014106451736752160) 2026-01-21T22:42Z [----] followers, 19.2K engagements "Barcelona's goal against Real Madrid in the league game is a good example of what Arda Guler lacks when he operates in deeper positions. Initially the ball was with Huijsen on RMA's left side while Guler was positioned behind him. Within [--] seconds Arda Guler made [--] scans along the way which is perfect as he mapped the pitch and identified the pressure source. Also as the ball cut its way toward him his body orientation was "side-on" preparing to receive with an open stance. However he directed his first touch toward his own goal. Nothing was wrong here as he still had Huijsen as an option to" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2014406362818617383) 2026-01-22T18:34Z [----] followers, 18.5K engagements "To protect his left side Arga Guler leaned his weight heavily in that direction. This moves his center of mass outside his base of support leaving his right side completely undefended. As a reaction Pedri shifted to press Arda Guler from his right side (weaker foot). Thus Arda Guler lost the ability to maintain lateral momentum. Instead of driving his legs into the ground to resist Pedri Guler's legs became static. So he was standing rather than anchoring. When Pedri changed his angle to snap the ball Guler's torso crumpled. His core is soft; the force of Pedri's bump is not transferred to" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2014406369365921852) 2026-01-22T18:34Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Horizontal and vertical compactness in a zonal defense are non-negotiables. Against Monaco there was an island between the Real Madrid midfield line & (Vinicius Jr-Mbapp) line. As a result Monaco was able to overload the space around Arda Guler. When Real Madrid was low/mid-blocking by the book. https://t.co/ignKY4m24T When Real Madrid was low/mid-blocking by the book. https://t.co/ignKY4m24T" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2014727354719871006) 2026-01-23T15:50Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "The eye test suggests that Manchester United especially under Michael Carrick overload the left side combine in close proximity and then switch to the far side where usually Dalot & Diallo outnumber the opposite FB or one of them in 1v1 situations. Also the ball can go from the left to the center to one of the midfielders or the center-backs notably Casemiro or Lisandro Martinez to ping balls over the top to a runner in behind (Dorgu Mbeumo) after baiting the opposition forward. https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2016148645934973285 https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2016148645934973285" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016148645934973285) 2026-01-27T13:57Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Manchester United under Ruben Amorim. Too much emphasis on wide combinations crosses and working the ball around. There were some overloads on one side to isolate the other and put the wingbacks in crossing situations" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016159230781206867) 2026-01-27T14:39Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Good ideas from Michael Carrick in the buildup. Man Utd Wingers tuck in so FBs have room to push on and drag Arsenal Wingers backward. Narrow pivots and wide CBs alongside Lammens. The goal is to invite Odegaard to press and generate space for Lisandro to advance. This isn't achievable by only pushing Timber up to drag Kvaratskhelia backward and vacate the space for Saliba to carry the ball onward. But it also required Saliba & Kiwior splitting wide and Raya stepping between them to generate an overload in the 1st line that's 1). https://t.co/jDNQjq665Z This isn't achievable by only pushing" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016244771929444589) 2026-01-27T20:19Z [----] followers, 14.7K engagements "Fair to Odegaard who was quick to recover and retreat. This becomes noticeable with Man Utd when they are in congested areas. Close proximity and passes from first-time touches combined with Lisandro & Dorgu's ability to shield/retain the ball to escape traffic" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016252680079904991) 2026-01-27T20:51Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "It's so subpar how Vinicius Junior play the ball with his head. He literally jumps and let his forehead intersect with the ball's path with any use of his neck no body re-orientation to direct the ball toward the net. Really I haven't seen something like that" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016622025037529573) 2026-01-28T21:18Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Real Madrid players with 4+ Possession losses against Benfica: Dean Huijsen: [--] losses; Jude Bellingham: [--] losses; Arda Guker: [--] losses; Tchouamni: [--] losses; Federico Valverde: [--] losses; Franco Mastantuono: [--] losses; Vinicius Jr: [--] losses; Kylian Mbapp [--] losses; There is no way for a team to exert and establish control when the players cannot do the basics: In possession pass the ball play weighted accurate and simple passes. Losing possession means running more to regain it. Real Madrid loses possession and don't run. There is no way for a team to exert and establish control when the" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016636161104515308) 2026-01-28T22:15Z [----] followers, 16K engagements "If Real Madrid wants to continue with the same strategy of "we aren't willing to do the dirty work out of possession" then keeping the ball for long stretches in the game seems to be the solution according to how Florentino Perez and his assistants think. In other words Real Madrid needs to replicate the 2016-17 season. Center-backs and a defensive midfielder who can cover large spaces and central midfielders and an attacking midfielder who don't lose the ball at all. Someone like Casemiro's profile who swings across to cover behind the wingers and fullbacks who push on. A Modric Kroos and" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016876833938006401) 2026-01-29T14:11Z [----] followers, 27.7K engagements "@MrinmoyRoy2003 I'm just thinking loudly. In another place it has to be this + a committed team OOP" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016882717921575056) 2026-01-29T14:34Z [----] followers, [---] engagements "@Rand_RMCF After the 3-peat players were saturated. Plus the change of the coach" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016885041641537648) 2026-01-29T14:44Z [----] followers, [---] engagements "Benfica's first goal against Real Madrid was a result of a combination of a lackadaisical attitude subpar positioning from some players and poor decision-making. Here is a short breakdown of Real Madrid's rest defense" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016947078904082531) 2026-01-29T18:50Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "First I think this is an acceptable rest defense structure: close distances to counterpress & Valverde offering minimum width on the right side. Huijsen leans toward the ball side to lock it. However Asencio must keep a close position with Benfica striker" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016947093596721289) 2026-01-29T18:50Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "The first problem is when Vinicius Jr tucks inside Carreras doesn't retreat immediately to close down Prestianni. So Benfica generates a 2v1 situation around Mbapp. Carreras behind Prestianni gives the latter the space between the former & Huijsen to carry & pass" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016947103176561105) 2026-01-29T18:50Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "The second problem was Mastantuono's laziness (not tracking back) & lack of spatial awareness to let Schjelderup run & swim in space. Resultantly Valverde must work his way back (a large distance) to catch Schjelderup. Opponent unmarked & central space exposed" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016947107505053713) 2026-01-29T18:50Z [----] followers, [---] engagements "The third problem was Asencio opting for sliding as a solution in the 1st place. Here Benfica counters down the wide channel. Delaying the counter driving Prestianni toward the flanks & blocking off the passing lane toward the center would give the players time to recover" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016947112685056437) 2026-01-29T18:50Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "However Asencio didn't time his sliding tackle. Prestianni decelerated letting Asencio dive in to access the space in front. Asencio stood up with his torso excessively forward & fell over himself. Prestianni carries forward crosses Schjelderup goal" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016947117952999678) 2026-01-29T18:50Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "@Saif_tfp My bad when I was typing I was so focused on why Carreras didn't retreat behind Prestianni. That's the mistake which sets off the cascading effect" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2016959434501611862) 2026-01-29T19:39Z [----] followers, [---] engagements "@LaLigaMichael I think if it wasn't Juan Garcia this year the media would've Bury Cubarsi alive with some of his mistakes. Mistakes at his age are something normal to happen to learn. But in Barca situation rn success relying on young minimum of Mistakes are a must" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2017303969740017804) 2026-01-30T18:28Z [----] followers, [---] engagements "Under Carlo Ancelotti: There wasn't something called OOP RMA was behind in time with Mbapp or without him with Kroos Modric or without them. Xabi Alonso had to: Implement a good OOP strategy (he did Marseille high press Man City low/mid block both he played one of Mbapp & Vini Jr) Make this unbalanced squad to bypass high-presses and qttack well. Win trophies while doing the 1st & 2nd points. Alonso is a young (very good) coach inherited a young squad. The plan should be: building the foundation for long term sustainability. Alonso didn't have time to implement his ideas and didn't have a" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2017317441852805227) 2026-01-30T19:22Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "@KSanhory97 Your criticism is very vague; elaborate more because I don't understand what you mean (the context) by isolating the individual from the group or from the equation" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2017378831917625436) 2026-01-30T23:26Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "I agree with your points and if you navigate through my profile you'll find I addressed RMA players' problems on & off the ball. However my point is a bit broader as I draw from both the coach & the player perspectives. How Alaba & Rudiger looked better with Pep Flick & Tuchel Because there is a coach whose ideas (system) maximise the players' strengths & minimise their weaknesses. I've never said Ancelotti is the only one responsible here it's a combination. For example Rudiger wouldn't have to defend large spaces if the high press started well (I'm not saying he doesn't have to)" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2017392109641138492) 2026-01-31T00:18Z [----] followers, [---] engagements "I like how Zubimendi often wins his aerial duels by quickly reading the situation and anticipating a win on the first contact with the ball. When he needs to jump he has the power that gives him that height and momentum on the leap. No wonder Arteta (Jover) put in the box" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2017628706773086219) 2026-01-31T15:59Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "This becomes a problem for Manchester United. Morgan Rogers and Kevin Santos when they cut inside they are supplied with a huge space and time to prepare and pick their shots accurately. The far side angle coverage is a weakness & put the GK in tough situations to handle" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2017990683437453315) 2026-02-01T15:57Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "You just have to give credit to what Bernardo Silva provides. One of the most intelligent players out there versatile offers solutions in the buildup & progression & can retain the ball under pressure. OOP he doesn't stop running aware of angles to block off passing lanes" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2018003520876691511) 2026-02-01T16:48Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Elche - Barcelona analysis is up: Barca baits Elche man-oriented press to hit the space behind; Barca off-ball movements & diagonal combinations; Elche overloads & late runners to break down Barca highline & offside trap; Clash of direct Attacks; https://betweentheposts.net/elche-barcelona-a-clash-of-direct-attacks-1-3/ https://betweentheposts.net/elche-barcelona-a-clash-of-direct-attacks-1-3/" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2018348971505181090) 2026-02-02T15:41Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "I think Vinicius Junior and Lamine Yamal rely on trivela passes more compared to other wingers with Lamine Yamal doing so in abundance and more with precision. Against medium blocks it is one of the most effective weapons to release late runners in space. Against low blocks it serves as a crossing tool. Both count on Trivelas to compensate for their non-existent weak foot. I think both miss a lot of balls when trying to pass with the outside of their strong foot due to how they have to adjust their body orientation and stance based on the situation plus they need to make sure the pass is" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2018372294431613016) 2026-02-02T17:13Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Why did Barcelona generate [----] xG against Elche It was a game of direct quick attacks. Elche provided Barcelona with the ingredients. A m2m high press allowing Barcelona space & time to thread and rotate. In other words Elche allowed Barcelona to create separation" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2018389653007560860) 2026-02-02T18:22Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "The process is: one of Barca backline players jumps on the ball holder the rest have to shuffle across & adjust their positions according to the player who steps out. If the play is on the def half the halfway line is the ref; if not the potential passing option is the ref" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2018404562034446756) 2026-02-02T19:22Z [----] followers, [---] engagements "Here Kound jumps onto Valera; the rest swing across and adjust their positions based on the STs who are the passing options for Valera. However committing a late runner changes the equation. Cubarsi & Garcia cannot track Rodriguez simply because they can't see him" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2018405194837504385) 2026-02-02T19:24Z [----] followers, [---] engagements "Only Balde who has Rodriguez in his sight. Balde is in a dilemma: follow Rodriguez or stay put. In both cases the offside trap & high line are broken down. In the 1st case Balde might have the chance to prevent Rodriguez from accessing high-value positions by delaying" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2018406089834832204) 2026-02-02T19:28Z [----] followers, [---] engagements "@Rand_RMCF Adam Wharton provides what you mentioned. Chema Andres presents your 1st point. I need to watch him more" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2018509976474361877) 2026-02-03T02:20Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Watching Manchester United with Michael Carrick two aspects that stand out to me are: diagonality & overloads. The out-of-possession stuff needs work to be done though. A big newsletter is coming soon. Subscribe to get it sent directly to your inbox. https://lamdarhri.substack.com/ https://lamdarhri.substack.com/" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2019120411385188698) 2026-02-04T18:46Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "@aziztactics Excellent analysis Aziz. The Dorgu-Cunha swap Berge-Iwobi-ESR widening the distance between them made it very hard for Man Utd mids to keep up. Also it was hard tracking Fulham rotations and keeping +1 at the backline" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2019393902726324657) 2026-02-05T12:53Z [----] followers, [---] engagements "The positional fluidity of Manchester United help the team to find inroads either via long passes in space & in 1v1 situations (Mbeumo or Diallo vs one of the defenders) Also Bruno position around Tottenham midfield (wide) & Amad Diallo tucking inside enabled the out-in passes" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2020122273571574169) 2026-02-07T13:07Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Rayan Vitor Goal vs Aston Villa: Diagonal dribbling: space on the defender sides; Defender (Lucas Digne) keeps dropping: space to advance; Quick feet speed of changing the direction de-centering of the hips" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2020228195233198206) 2026-02-07T20:08Z [----] followers, [--] engagements "@Jon_Mackenzie I think this is more about Tottenham defending in a 5-2-3 shape and Man Utd committing the 10s to drop around the midfield line and overload it. The buildup before Sesko's 1st GA vs Burnley is another example of this" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2020275524728496132) 2026-02-07T23:16Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "@Jon_Mackenzie Yes this is the idea in deeper zones for Michael Carrick. And I think it worked in the majority of the cases using the long way or exploiting the opposition momentum when shuffling across and hitting those diagonals" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2020281097289138605) 2026-02-07T23:38Z [----] followers, [---] engagements "Inigo Perez as an Oliver Glasner replacement at Crystal Palace may be a good fit. I think Crystal Palace will be quite similar to Bournemouth with Idoni Iraola: Hybrid Pressing Ideas and Direct Football attacks. Good coach to come up with ideas to put problems for big teams" [X Link](https://x.com/LamdarhriAchraf/status/2012171183290990790) 2026-01-16T14:32Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Real Madrid: A mixed bag. My biggest Newsletter. On Real Madrid OOP issues (lane coverage hybrid press low block shambles) buildup vs man-oriented and hybrid presses outswinging corners attacking medium and low blocks (problems and solutions) and more. Link in replies. https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2007547287493300501 https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2007547287493300501" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/2007547287493300501) 2026-01-03T20:19Z [----] followers, 84.3K engagements "Manchester United Arsenal: tactical analysis; How Ruben Amorim set the team up to build through around and over Arsenal's high press. What did change in Man Utd's buildup dynamics. 🧵Thread🔴⚪" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1957385382800060532) 2025-08-18T10:13Z [----] followers, 523.3K engagements "Playing with minus [--] is a calamity in football. You play with 11vs10 OOP. Now imagine [--] players are just passengers. It's 11vs8. The opp have [--] free men. Now add the passive press it turns out a walk in a park. That's the story of Real Madrid since Mbapp have joined" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1943055550985470379) 2025-07-09T21:11Z [----] followers, 112.6K engagements "Manchester United looked compact sitting in a medium block swinging between 5-4-1/5-3-2/4-4-2 shapes. The idea actually was good rendering the team less exposed but it seemed that the players esp the front ones were still not well-drilled enough because of the complex roles they had in terms of closing off passing lanes into the center passing off players (jumping on time) and preventing Sunderland from generating the 3v2 overload. Another thing to mention is when Mbeumo jumped from the second line to make it look like a 5-3-2 shape. But the three in midfield were positioned toward the left" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1974491125483200653) 2025-10-04T15:05Z [----] followers, 93.5K engagements "Real Sociedad attempted to target the right side isolate a player there against Alvaro Carreras and then play the cross or cutback. However too many crossing attempts ended outside. Why It's because Carreras brilliance in adjusting his legs spreading depending on the situation. If it's a cross he times his intervention to block the delivery off. If it's a cutback the distance between his legs is optimal to prevent the ball from continuing it's path. What's a defender Real Madrid secured" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1966883295586644337) 2025-09-13T15:14Z [----] followers, 34.2K engagements "Adam Wharton Ismaila Sarr Eberechi Eze Philippe Mateta Marc Guehi Daniel Munz are top quality and it's only matter of time that some of them will take a step forward. Adam Wharton cutting off passes and immediately sliding a pass behind to a runner amazing. Mateta is a boss in the air runs in behind holds the play well physically strong off ball movements are top. Eberechi Eze owns that LHS and there are a few who are at the same level" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1954571212668940576) 2025-08-10T15:51Z [----] followers, 54.6K engagements "Good structure here from Real Madrid. All the [--] channels are occupied with narrow fullbacks. The distribution across and along the pitch enables good counterpressing" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1958184974630236444) 2025-08-20T15:10Z [----] followers, 108.4K engagements "✍ Bournemouth - Manchester City: How Iraola exploited Guardiola System. ➖Bournemouth High Press and Triggers; ➖Bournemouth rotations down the left side; ➖Semenyo and Kerkez were a hindrance against Walker; ➖Guardiola tactical tweaks in the 2nd Half. Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1853006855418593602) 2024-11-03T09:30Z [----] followers, 93.4K engagements "Real Madrid generated [--] high turnovers against Marseille with [--] ending with a shot. A high-risk approach Xabi Alonso adopted given the reward that was produced. HOWEVER Marseille also exploited RMA high-press to get into high-value areas. 🚨 A Thread⚪🔵" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1968350879368532458) 2025-09-17T16:26Z [----] followers, 114.8K engagements "✍ Liverpool vs Chelsea: How both teams exploit each other's weaknesses: Tactical Analysis. ➖Cheslea Central progression with 3-2-2-3 shape; ➖Caicedo and Gusto impacts; ➖Liverpool surprising 4-2-4 low-mid block; ➖Liverpool's quick attacks. Thread #LIVCHE" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1848303148978315741) 2024-10-21T09:59Z [----] followers, 65.3K engagements "I think that Real Madrid lacks that ball security Toni Kroos and Luka Modric provided both in terms of carrying and especially while passing and circulating the ball. And it's so obvious in the final third" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1985819533253255547) 2025-11-04T21:20Z [----] followers, 13.4K engagements "✍Barcelona high press had no answer to Inter constantly generating diagonal passing lanes. Esp in the 2nd half Inter displayed a masterclass in quick diagonal passing sequences with perfect body orientation from players to receive pass & free space. 🧵Short tactical thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1918346192947236911) 2025-05-02T16:45Z [----] followers, 58.1K engagements "Xavi Hernndez's struggles at Barcelona weren't due to Messi's departure Lamine Yamal's young age to take the torch or Barcelona's lack of cash. They were part of the problem. It was more because of Xavi's inexperience rigid positional style and predictability. Xavi Hernndez profiles as an elite coach. Positional play idea inverted fullbacks presses man-to-man defends 4-4-2. All different but similar styles to Arsenal Liverpool Chelsea Bayern PSG Struggles at Barca = Messi left Yamal only [--] had no money. Tough moment. Xavi Hernndez profiles as an elite coach. Positional play idea inverted" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1975319624775573971) 2025-10-06T21:57Z [----] followers, 55.2K engagements "Xavi Hernndez profiles as an elite coach. Positional play idea inverted fullbacks presses man-to-man defends 4-4-2. All different but similar styles to Arsenal Liverpool Chelsea Bayern PSG Struggles at Barca = Messi left Yamal only [--] had no money. Tough moment" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1975265380831809635) 2025-10-06T18:22Z 196.8K followers, 135.5K engagements "Real Madrid man-marking high press against Barcelona to funnel the play sideways. Camavinga shrinks the space so Balde cannot dribble or pass diagonally (even if he passes to Torres Militao gets tight on him) Vertical passing lane is the only option between Balde & Rashford. Camavinga as a right winger served Real Madrid in the high press as he was good at offering no space to Balde for the majority of the game to push the ball into space and break Real Madrid's lines via carries. Also IMO he was good at closing down the diagonal passing lanes Camavinga as a right winger served Real Madrid in" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1983174479149957329) 2025-10-28T14:10Z [----] followers, 55.7K engagements "Camavinga as a right winger served Real Madrid in the high press as he was good at offering no space to Balde for the majority of the game to push the ball into space and break Real Madrid's lines via carries. Also IMO he was good at closing down the diagonal passing lanes obliging Balde to play vertical passes to Rashford who also failed to create separation with Valverde. HOWEVER Barcelona found inroads by circulating the ball from their left to right side to trigger Vinicius Jr.'s jump toward Pau Cubarsi and intentionally free Jules Kound. And it's safe to say Vinicius Jr still hasn't" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1982864816801710115) 2025-10-27T17:39Z [----] followers, 56.1K engagements "Manchester City & Pep Guardiola came out victorious against Manchester United & Ruben Amorim. HOWEVER Man City Out-of-possession strategy has left question marks considering the flaws that appeared in the game. Wide overloads gaps BTLs FBs were pinned ETC A Thread 🔵🔴" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1967543926874599562) 2025-09-15T11:00Z [----] followers, 86K engagements "I think Newcastle's man-to-man high press with Livramento pushing on to mark Kound and Burn shifting across toward Raphinha was effective either forcing Barcelona wide or long. However when sitting in a 4-5-1 low block Barcelona found some inroads mainly by making the Newcastle trio in mid shift across while Fermin Lopez targeted the blindside of one of the mid BTLs. F. Lopez's smart off-ball movement BTLs was the key to accessing Raphinha or the wide option in general for Barcelona" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1968767626781303184) 2025-09-18T20:02Z [----] followers, 27.8K engagements "This is one of the best high-press strategies I've seen this season. This is one of Athletic Bilbao's shapes vs Arsenal's buildup. Arsenal were able to progress sometimes. And that was through fast first-time touches and quick interchanges to bypass Bilbao's high press" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1968009637187424425) 2025-09-16T17:50Z [----] followers, 35.1K engagements "✍Real Madrid - Dortmund: some tactical takeaways: How Xabi Alonso set the team to exploit the weaknesses of Dortmund's 5-3-2 block. How off-ball movements served Real Madrid well to create space. 🧵 Mini thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1942284102004019496) 2025-07-07T18:06Z [----] followers, 45K engagements "Como (Cesc Fabregas) was a pain to Lazio (Mauricio Sarri). Como brought Fabregas' flexible playing style into reality In & Out of possession. Off-ball movement and smooth mobility to open up passing lanes through & around Lazio's high press/mid-block. 🧵A Thread🔵⚪" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1960774943743869301) 2025-08-27T18:42Z [----] followers, 49.2K engagements "Real Madrid brought in Xabi Alonso from Liverpool in 2009/10 then sold him to Bayern Munich in 2014/15 and bought Toni Kroos in the same window. Both Kroos and Alonso share similarities of controlling the rhythm unmatchable passing range tactical intelligence positioning one touch play etc All of a sudden they decided to play without a player with such qualities in 2024/25. Apparently Real Madrid are going on the same road again for 2025/26" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1952823052506435604) 2025-08-05T20:04Z [----] followers, 38.1K engagements "Manchester United🤝Diagonality. It does wonders. The concept of diagonality has to be one of the main themes in Manchester United's play. Ruben Amorim needs to do more in this regard to make this team well-drilled in these situations. Why Because it generates [--] cases IMO and in both the space behind defenses is the The concept of diagonality has to be one of the main themes in Manchester United's play. Ruben Amorim needs to do more in this regard to make this team well-drilled in these situations. Why Because it generates [--] cases IMO and in both the space behind defenses is the" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1957162214391210289) 2025-08-17T19:26Z [----] followers, 47.4K engagements "The concept of diagonality has to be one of the main themes in Manchester United's play. Ruben Amorim needs to do more in this regard to make this team well-drilled in these situations. Why Because it generates [--] cases IMO and in both the space behind defenses is the target. Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes enabled the diagonality concept: The former came short & drew Hill (Bournemouth pivot) which meant Bruno could enter the free zone BTLs (Billing lateness also played a part in Bruno being free); Amad Diallo also dropped and drew the backline https://t.co/r2DSvhTNOQ Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1950967872316121385) 2025-07-31T17:12Z [----] followers, 41.8K engagements "One thing I would like to address that I usually don't speak or discuss here. Real Madrid has only one chance to catch teams like Paris Saint-Germain Bayern Munich Manchester City Liverpool Arsenal and Barcelona in terms of how modern football is managed implemented and coached. That opportunity is XABI ALONSO" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1988617140597829642) 2025-11-12T14:37Z [----] followers, 64.7K engagements "✍Bayer Leverkusen generated [---] PPDA and a field tilt of 85.5% against Bayern Munich. It was utter suffocation from Xabi Alonso Boys and a full commitment to a man-oriented approach to force Bayern Munich to play an uncomfortable game. Here's an example of what it looked like" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1892624028839387326) 2025-02-20T17:15Z [----] followers, 72.3K engagements "Bayern Munich's high press was so intense. Look at Jonathan Tah's position here. Bayern generated some turnovers. Also PSG arrived in the final third on the right Upamecano & Laimer switched positions to enable the former to defend vs Kvaratskhelia or Olise tracked back" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1941544714064494907) 2025-07-05T17:08Z [----] followers, 33.5K engagements "✍ Arsenal - Paris Saint-Germain: Battle of brains (Arteta vs Enrique) PSG exploits Arseanl hybrid press; Arteta tweaks improved Arsenal high press; Arsenal central overload to progress; Lewis-Skelly was the key to Arsenal progression & chance creation. 🧵 Tactical Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1917607160395055366) 2025-04-30T15:49Z [----] followers, 62.7K engagements "The game Barcelona lost vs Atltico Madrid in La Liga was one of the best games I've watched this season. One of the fewest games when a team delivered the best to dismantle a low block & penetrate Atltico defensive unit. Barcelona lacked efficiency in front of goal but. We played more than [---] minutes against Atletico Madrid this season. We lost one. We drew one. We won two. And yet I felt Barcelona were superior in every single one despite everything. And no that's not a dig at Cholo Simeone; Atleti are great. But Bara are better. We played more than [---] minutes against Atletico Madrid this" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1908181984997789751) 2025-04-04T15:36Z [----] followers, 14.7K engagements "We played more than [---] minutes against Atletico Madrid this season. We lost one. We drew one. We won two. And yet I felt Barcelona were superior in every single one despite everything. And no that's not a dig at Cholo Simeone; Atleti are great. But Bara are better" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1908059918214582724) 2025-04-04T07:31Z 41K followers, 30.4K engagements "✍Juventus vs Inter: Tactical Analysis Juventus struggles to put a stop to Inter positional rotations; Inter man2man marking worked but it had its repercussions when Juventus bypassed it; Aggressive Juventus in the 2nd half; Cambiaso role in the buildup 🧵 Tactical Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1891499142460973415) 2025-02-17T14:45Z [----] followers, 44.7K engagements "When I see wingers like Coman Saka Martinelli Kvaratskhelia Dembl Giuliano Simeone etc press like mad dogs & track their way back I find no excuses for other wingers who are just lethargic and cost their teams in these off-ball phases. Bayern Munich Kompany is top OOP. Bayern Munich counterpress has been nothing more than perfect in the opening [--] mins. Close distances CBs getting tight and intense vs ST or #10 when they dropped deep. No playermaker is better than a good counterpress: always remember Jurgen Klopp quote. Bayern Munich counterpress has been nothing more than perfect in the" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1939430731773604338) 2025-06-29T21:08Z [----] followers, 68.4K engagements "Bayern Munich counterpress has been nothing more than perfect in the opening [--] mins. Close distances CBs getting tight and intense vs ST or #10 when they dropped deep. No playermaker is better than a good counterpress: always remember Jurgen Klopp quote" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1939417230954881169) 2025-06-29T20:14Z [----] followers, 39.1K engagements "A Long Post About Real Madrid and Xabi Alonso The game against Mallorca was totally different from Osasuna and Real Oviedo. Jagoba Arrasate plateformed Mallorca in a way to exploit Real Madrid's high press. No preseason and not enough time to train the team for Xabi Alonso and yet he has to deliver results. Osasuna and Real Oviedo saw Real Madrid play against low blocks. There were problems in unlocking these defensive units but there were also some promising points that the team lacked under the old regime. The promising points are as follows: 🟢Intensity is approximately in every" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1962508482223001980) 2025-09-01T13:30Z [----] followers, 38K engagements "✍ Brighton & Hove Albion F.C under Fabian Hrzeler coaching: Tactical Analysis. ➖Build-Up phase Patterns; ➖Chances creation; ➖Pressing high; ➖Setting in a block. In-depth Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1859175033253290234) 2024-11-20T10:00Z [----] followers, 55.6K engagements "✍Against Bournemouth Liverpool always found the spare man due to the trio in midfield and Luis Diaz as a false #9 never stopped strolling which was bewildering for the Cherries. Let's assess Liverpool's strategy in generating free players. 🧵Short Tactical Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1886008727934767547) 2025-02-02T11:08Z [----] followers, 43.9K engagements "✍Manchester City vs Real Madrid: Tactical Analysis. Man City 2-3-5 caused pbs to RMA high press mid-block; RMA wide progression; Both teams exploited each other Off-ball lapses. Both teams translated their appraoch & their definition of space. 🧵Tactical Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1889655547726610593) 2025-02-12T12:39Z [----] followers, 44.8K engagements "Lack of pressure on the ball from Liverpool facilitates Chelsea's buildup. Not only that but Enzo Fernndez coming deep down the LHS makes Chelsea overload Liverpool in midfield. Gakpo tended to follow Gusto inside but Chelsea could work the ball out near the flanks as they also had a 2v1 situation" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1974521419531763947) 2025-10-04T17:06Z [----] followers, 23K engagements "Xabi Alonso post-Barcelona game mentioned that Camavinga supported Real Madrid in the progression phase. Not only that but Camavinga Arda Guler & Bellingham offer versatility & dynamism so they were outlets in bypassing Barcelona's high press. 🚨 Thread ⚪🔴" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1983520462853541895) 2025-10-29T13:05Z [----] followers, 22.4K engagements "How to dismantle an intense man2man press. Inzaghi is one of the coaches who has answers to Gasperini's heavy man-oriented approach through positional rotations to manipulate the markers and vacate spaces Inzaghi wants his team to arrive at. Let's take a look at this sequence" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1902062612780876256) 2025-03-18T18:20Z [----] followers, 27.8K engagements "Finally got some time to re-watch Manchester United vs Brighton. This was one of the sequences of how to deal with man-marking high press. Brighton CBs split wide so the distance between Bruno and Dunk is big enough to unlock the combination between Verbruggen Dunk and what comes after" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1983605833708556742) 2025-10-29T18:44Z [----] followers, 37.7K engagements "Real Madrid "OVERLOAD TO ISOLATE" pattern. This was a repeated play against Levante. Mbapp had the freedom to roam and he was usually the one who joined the crew on the right to work the ball out to the left via short sharp passes. In this sequence Mbapp shifted toward the left side so Fran Garcia drifted inside and Vinicius Jr behind on the LHS" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1971610323971936512) 2025-09-26T16:18Z [----] followers, 19K engagements "Real Madrid's buildup didn't change against Atltico Madrid. 4-2-2-2 shape in which Guler dropped & inverted next Bellingham & Vinicius Jr narrowed inside. ATM high press was as follows: Alvarez and Sorloth jumped on CBs and covered with their shadows Valverde & Tchouamni; Koke split RMA DPs; Nico Gonzalez & Simeone engaged with the FBs; Barrios on Bellingham Hancko on Guler with ATM keeping +1 at the backline. The problem with RMA was Courtois hoofing inaccurate long balls while there were wide inroads to opt for" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1972320202445541675) 2025-09-28T15:19Z [----] followers, 39.6K engagements "Watching back Real Madrid vs Mallorca game Valverde provided defensive coverage for Arnold whenever the latter pushed high up the pitch. Mallorca would easily exploit the space behind Arnold had Valverde not positioned himself behind and recovered quicklyonthecounter" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1962113301820645636) 2025-08-31T11:20Z [----] followers, 29.5K engagements "This is how Man Utd's high press looked at the start. Amad and Diallo push on to engage with Fulham FBs. Casemiro advances next to Cunha to mark the DPs. Bruno against the King (#10) whereas the rest occupy Fulhams front three" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1959952488112517426) 2025-08-25T12:14Z [----] followers, 39.1K engagements "This is how PSG mid-block looked: Pressure on the ball is a must; m2m press keeping +1 at the backline; Kvaratskhelia tracks back Valverde near the touchlines; The double coverage at the backline is secured by Dou cutting the direct passing lane between Rudiger & F. Garcia" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1943354781268836487) 2025-07-10T17:01Z [----] followers, 35K engagements "Look at the space in front of PSG backline. Chelsea generates here a 2v1 situation with Enzo Frenandez and Neto on Hakimi. Marquinhos' attention is drawn by Enzo Fernandez and Joao Pedro looks to exploit the space between PSG CBs to combine. Also Vitinha drops and allows. Take this sequence for example. Gonzalo Garcia wide pulls out Nuno Mendes the same goes with Arda Guler drawing Fabian Ruiz across. As a result Real Madrid widens PSG's RHS. Normally Kvaratskhelia has to drop and fill the gap but he doesn't. Hence Valverde comes from. https://t.co/N45gKSVgRv Take this sequence for example." [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1944495268684267847) 2025-07-13T20:32Z [----] followers, 29K engagements "Take this sequence for example. Gonzalo Garcia wide pulls out Nuno Mendes the same goes with Arda Guler drawing Fabian Ruiz across. As a result Real Madrid widens PSG's RHS. Normally Kvaratskhelia has to drop and fill the gap but he doesn't. Hence Valverde comes from" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1944135603378868567) 2025-07-12T20:43Z [----] followers, 31.1K engagements "Barcelona's diagonal play is simple but very effective. A 4-2-3-1 buildup shape in which Pedri & De Jong drop deeper to bait their markers forward & the ball-side winger (Rashford) drops & offers width. So the ST (Ferran Torres) can move into the stretched space BTLs to lay the ball off" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1974142824854552658) 2025-10-03T16:01Z [----] followers, 34K engagements "2-3-5 for Manchester City caused problems for Real Madrid 4-4-2 shape as Pep Guardiola set-up overlaoded RMA midfield (5v4) At the beginning RMA dealt with KDB Akanji penetrative runs but from the left side Gvardiol was really a headache (City 1st goal)" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1889419744119304685) 2025-02-11T21:02Z [----] followers, 38K engagements "Dortmund reluctance to give up +1 at the back facilitated Real Madrid buildup & progression. I think this started vs Pachuca but the red card made Tchouamni play as CB. So Real Madrid shape in the build-up was 4-2-1-2. Vs Dortmund it was 4-2-2-2. Valverde was a free man" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1941924204825190462) 2025-07-06T18:16Z [----] followers, 22.9K engagements "Manchester United problem in the final third against Arsenal was attacking the box with few numbers. Not only that but that will impact the following phases and the counterpress as the players are very distant. When Dalot overlapped Mbeumo the former cut the ball back but nobody was there to capitalize" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1957458162077818965) 2025-08-18T15:02Z [----] followers, 37.3K engagements "Real Madrid is still going through growing pains and is still hunting the team in every big game. The new signings in Dean Huijsen and Alvaro Carreras plus Arda Guler (from the bench to a regular player week in week out) still need adaptation to the pressure that comes with such situations especially while having the ball on their feet. There was so much insecurity in possession due mainly to mispasses lacking that composure the old veterans have developed over the years of operating under these stressful and draining atmospheres cognitively and mentally. Having watched Liverpool vs Aston" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1985831625977184514) 2025-11-04T22:08Z [----] followers, 17.8K engagements "This sequence is a prime example. Arsenal committing numbers in the front line forced Newcastle very deep and allowed them space at the edge of the box. Timber to Eze who dribbled past Guimaraes. A quick combination (up back and over the top) between Eze Trossard and Zubimendi chipped over to Timber. Arsenal was so close to scoring here. Another thing to mention is how Saka and Calafiori narrowed inside horizontally with Gabriel and Saliba compressing vertically. Optimal structure to nip Newcastle's attempts to counterattack in the bud. Ebereche Eze provides Arsenal with so much access to" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1972421330839433601) 2025-09-28T22:01Z [----] followers, 23.6K engagements "Ebereche Eze provides Arsenal with so much access to zone [--]. Him Saka Trossard and Zubimendi operating in close proximity to thread quick passes inside Newcastle traffic is crucial to infiltrate the box" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1972346294942487009) 2025-09-28T17:02Z [----] followers, 27K engagements "Man Utd builds the attack in a 4+2 shape. Leny Yoro stands on the ball to invite pressure (degaard). Gyokeres Saka and Martinelli are ready to jump in case of a lateral or backward. Man Utd generates a 2v1 in midfield. One-touch play sequence takes place for Utd to progress. Zubimendi cannot join Rice because Mount drops deep and Arsenal wants to keep +1 in the backline" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1957385393537708163) 2025-08-18T10:13Z [----] followers, 93.4K engagements "✍ Bayer Leverkusen - Stuttgart: Tactical Analysis. ➖Wirtz & Boniface deep movements to create space behind Stuttgart backline; ➖Grimaldo in an inverted role allowed Hincapi to advance; ➖Bayer Leverkusen High press & Counter-press to generate goal-scoring chances. Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1852722267538489514) 2024-11-02T14:39Z [----] followers, 32.8K engagements "Watching Real Madrid's La Liga games and the UCL fixture it becomes clear why Xabi Alonso opted for Rodrygo against Marseille. With Vinicius Junior you get more chaotic moments maybe more unpredictability. But the trade-off at this moment will be his lack of awareness in the high-press especially when it comes to reloading the press from open play situations. And I said it under Carlo Ancelotti Real Madrid could start the high press effectively from static positions (goalkicks) the issue was when the opponent played the ball backward and Real Madrid had to start pressing again. OFC there is a" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1970181956630450406) 2025-09-22T17:42Z [----] followers, 21.4K engagements "The problem with PSG's OOP approach was usually the space around the single pivot mainly Vitinha. So when Fabian Ruiz and Joao Neves jump onto the opposite double pivot: Unai Emery flooded the BTLs with three 10s (McGinn Tielemans & Rogers) Arteta made Lewis-Skelly invert" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1944794635324240090) 2025-07-14T16:22Z [----] followers, 25.4K engagements "✍Real Madrid's out-of-possession vs Paris Saint-Germain has been nothing more than a shambles. Lack of commitment intensity hesitancy and tactical deficiencies played a big role in the poor performance of Xabi Alonso's team. 🧵Tactical thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1943712399908802858) 2025-07-11T16:42Z [----] followers, 31.7K engagements "Vinicius Jr wide and inviting Valencia RB expands the left half space for Bellingham runs coming from behind. It's why Bellingham finds himself in 1v1s in the box or when he's about to penetrate the box. Also it generates situation for Carreras underlaps" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1984718692039737457) 2025-11-01T20:26Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "✍ Inter - Arsenal: Tactical Analysis. ➖Arsenal fluidity down the right side; ➖Inter defensive solidity and fluidity in the buildup phase; ➖Taremi and Lautaro Martinez's deeper movements to help the progression. ➖Bisseck another world-class defender. Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1854525252207886641) 2024-11-07T14:04Z [----] followers, 35.9K engagements "One of the ideas Xabi Alonso (& I hope Ruben Amorim tries someday) is to make one of the sixes drop alongside the goalkeeper and allow the wide CBs to spread as situational FBs. It gives the AM license to drop like Wirtz does below and overload the opposition in the initial phase. I think Amad or Mbeumo will be crucial in this regard (Amad has already done it and it worked brilliantly)" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1952038761111417147) 2025-08-03T16:08Z [----] followers, 22.3K engagements "When reloading the press from an open play situation gaps between the lines appear as Man United go forward. In this example Arsenal kept playing backward which triggered Cunha & Mount to jump on. But the rest didnt follow up & Arsenal already had the numerical advantage in midfield" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1957754820313452913) 2025-08-19T10:41Z [----] followers, 21.3K engagements "I don't think Liverpool was good at the start of the season when it comes to OOP phases. And the UCL night against Atltico Madrid was another proof. Before substitutions in the second half Liverpool sat in a 4-4-2 diamond (high press or medium block) with Salah & Isak mainly jumping on the CBs or the ball side midfielder. Also the diamond tended to shuffle across to lock the ball side. And here Atltico Madrid tended to exploit this weakness. Gakpo usually started inside and jumped on Llorente when the play went wide. The latter exploited the momentum that Gakpo was arriving at to disrupt it" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1969099119206518883) 2025-09-19T17:59Z [----] followers, 21.8K engagements "✍ Brighton - Manchester City: Tactical Analysis. ➖How Brighton exploited Man City through the center (Between the lines); ➖How Man City progressed using Foden and Gndoan movements; ➖Brighton strikers' opposite movements. Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1855569490034979192) 2024-11-10T11:13Z [----] followers, 42.3K engagements "Some of Arsenal's shapes when they press Liverpool high up the pitch. I think they went m2m only when Gravenberch didn't step back between Konat & Van Dijk. Mainly Liverpool found wide avenues to work the ball out" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1962191348984865002) 2025-08-31T16:30Z [----] followers, 24K engagements "Liverpool's wide dynamics on the right side against Atltico Madrid were impressive and generated inroads to penetrate the box. It was more of: Frimpong lapping runs to drag Nico Gonzalez with him; Mohamed Salah stretches the pitch and attracts Gavi Galan; Wirtz joins Isak to pin the CBs. So Gallagher drops to cover the RHS as a reaction. And then the space BTLs is free for Salah to indent and for Gravenberch to receive and release" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1968620226376827204) 2025-09-18T10:16Z [----] followers, 29K engagements "✍Real Madrid's "hybrid press" has been exploited mainly in areas where a player is tasked with a dual role or through manipulating their lateral shifting. Here are [--] examples from Al Hilal & Salzburg games. More details coming very soon. 🧵Short thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1942984263957200933) 2025-07-09T16:28Z [----] followers, 28K engagements "I think Real Madrid's right side screams for an able winger in 1v1 situations. Brahim Diaz isn't the profile who has the qualitative superiority in these situations. Why does Real Madrid need that Because in 1v1s the winger can simply keep nudging the ball forward or attack the byline to push the opponent's block backward. So he can play it across or cut it back to the space around the penalty area. Mbapp did it in his first attempt against Cambiaso RMA flooded the box with numbers and dragged Juventus deep. As a result the space was at a premium at the edge of the box for Militao to strike." [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1981087789690003598) 2025-10-22T19:58Z [----] followers, 14.8K engagements "Crystal Palace 5-2-3 shape OOP. Eze Mateta & Sarr close off passing lanes with Hughes and Wharton engaging with Palmer & Caicedo. Guehi & Richards jumping onto Enzo & Cucurella in the half spaces. At the start Acheampong dribbled around Mateta breaking down the 1st line" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1957081348817977756) 2025-08-17T14:05Z [----] followers, 30K engagements "Another thing I would like to touch on is Donnarumma ball playing ability. I know it was his first game and it was a Manchester Derby. BUT there were some instances where he had the simple passing option in midfield but he went long or opted for a different choice. Look at this example. Manchester City has [--] outfield players+Donnarumma vs [--] players from Manchester United. Also he has Foden dropping deep into an island thanks to Man Utd subpar high press. But he opts for playing it over Mbeumo to O'Reilly to access Foden whereas a simple pass between Mbeumo and Bruno would give City time and" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1967640180988232169) 2025-09-15T17:22Z [----] followers, 71.1K engagements "I actually admire from where Arteta had taken Arsenal and where they are now. I enjoy how they defend along and across the pitch. Coming to how they attack I think the quantity of 1v1s they generate and the players they have to put in these situations enable them to access high quality areas (cut back zones dangerous crossing situations when they pinned their opponents (vs Newcastle second half as an example)) and as a result they generate so many setpieces or their distribution around the box allow them to swarm in second wave (counterpress) strike and again generate setpieces. Arsenal's" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1984331472648438191) 2025-10-31T18:47Z [----] followers, 27.5K engagements "Arsenal's style ignoring set plays: 🔴 Huge 1v1 threat ⚪ 1st for low + mid build up 🔴 Strong in duels 2nd for second balls ⚪ 2nd for preventing opp build up 🔴 Effective organised press & defend high Maybe some work to do in defensive transitions but this is a complete team" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1984295480537317677) 2025-10-31T16:24Z [----] followers, 61.6K engagements "Welcome Xabi Alonso. Real Madrid with Xabi Alonso in the Club World Cup. An analytical look at Real Madrid's in possession dynamics against Al Hilal Pachuca RB Salzburg and Juventus. Link in replies" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1941511811553226864) 2025-07-05T14:57Z [----] followers, 61.6K engagements "Manchester City hybrid press with Rico Lewis jumping on Brenan Johnson & Spence based on which side Tottenham tries to progress. Stones Dias and Ait Nouri (Ak) shifts across with Nico Gonzalez dropping to the backline or at least moving close to the defense" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1959233946513801637) 2025-08-23T12:39Z [----] followers, 17K engagements "✍ Arsenal- Liverpool: Tactical Analysis ➖Partey inversion Trossard deeper movements and Havertz & Merino shifting across; ➖Liverpool's off-ball shape enabled Saka to go 1v1 against Robertson; ➖Liverpool hurt Arsenal on the counter. Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1850841172849148057) 2024-10-28T10:04Z [----] followers, 29.9K engagements "The TL is full of: Arteta forced Guardiola to defend in 5-4-1 low block. Never saw a coach EVER limited Guardiola like that. These statements may hold some truth but not the whole truth IMO. Because it totally ignores the spatiotemporal context of both teams the situation of both coaches (the group of players they have at this moment who needs to adapt more to the new state of the PL who passed through major changes and has to adapt and deliver at the same time) I think if we take these conditions and criteria into consideration it becomes more logical why Guardiola opted for such a game" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1969824949016674778) 2025-09-21T18:04Z [----] followers, 20.9K engagements "No Sunrise Without Shadows For Xabi Alonso. An 8000+ word piece on Real Madrid games vs Marseille Levante & Atltico Madrid. How Xabi Alonso is changing RMA playing style. How the players are coping with the new regime. Defensive lapses Areas of improvement. Link in replies" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1977387315044504055) 2025-10-12T14:54Z [----] followers, 33.3K engagements "✍Against Atalanta Inzaghi set Inter up so they could generate space through positional rotations to bypass Atalanta's man-oriented press. Not only that but Inter has been able to access the free man through Thuram dropping deeper and 3rd man-combinations. 🧵Short Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1902392907501310159) 2025-03-19T16:13Z [----] followers, 39.5K engagements "Also Girona had tools to break through Barcelona's press. Using Miguel Gutirrez's inversion to progress and taking advantage of Gerard Martin's vacated spot because of him pushing up to participate in the press. Girona was close to opening the score from such a pattern" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1906453771380560189) 2025-03-30T21:09Z [----] followers, 32.2K engagements "✍ Barcelona - Real Madrid: some tactical patterns of both teams. Barcelona inside diagonals; Real Madrid exploits Barcelona's high press through direct passes toward the fullbacks; Real Madrid's late runs to avoid the offside trap 🧵 Short Tactical Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1916947315572539488) 2025-04-28T20:07Z [----] followers, 18.5K engagements "✍ Real Madrid - Dortmund: How Nuri Sahin's Boys Exploited Real Madrid's Ineffective Press tactical analysis. ➖Mbapp Bellingham don't close the passing lane when jumping over their markers leaving their back vulnerable; ➖Real Madrid midfielders got outnumbered. Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1849055983936385127) 2024-10-23T11:51Z [----] followers, 33.2K engagements "Xabi Alonso with Real Madrid check this sequence: Striker comes deeper to unlock the inside diagonal combination & generate space behind; Far side winger (Vini Jr) pins the opposite RB; CM (Valverde) ready for the countermovement with the ST (Gonzalo Garcia)" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1939014695970611539) 2025-06-28T17:35Z [----] followers, 21.9K engagements "@MHassanFootball 2016/2017 Real Madrid was one of the best sides with the ball. A midfield that can control any game on the most terrifying grounds ever. Multiple sources of threat. Collective and individual supremacy. The best pressing systems failed to halt RMA Buildup" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1910383001923387585) 2025-04-10T17:22Z [----] followers, [----] engagements "Man Utd Amorim buildup intends to bait the opponent forward and then work the ball out via quick one-touch passing sequences. Or via long balls win the second ball and then release runners in space behind the opposition's backline. It wasn't different vs Arsenal" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1957385387287917029) 2025-08-18T10:13Z [----] followers, 27.3K engagements "✍ Liverpool - Bayer Leverkusen: A game full of tactical tweaks between Alonso & Slot Tactical Analysis. ➖Leverkusen high-press delayed Liverpool buildup; ➖Wirtz Frimpong & Palacios off movements to bypass Liverpool press; ➖Diaz as a false nine was the answer. Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1854928705212076362) 2024-11-08T16:47Z [----] followers, 31.5K engagements "✍ When scouting or analysing a game I try to focus more on splitting actions into time-space characteristics: Position Moment Direction & Speed. It helps to understand the micro level of football actions. Example from Barcelona-Real Madrid [----] SuperCup. 🧵 Short Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1946988935080534346) 2025-07-20T17:41Z [----] followers, 16.5K engagements "Some of Paris Saint-Germain shapes in possession. All PSG shapes served both IP & OOP goals. A good distribution around the box allowed PSG to smoothly circulate the ball & open gaps through Liverpool's 4-2-4 shape OOP. PSG setup protects the central and inside channels" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1897392576040460736) 2025-03-05T21:03Z [----] followers, 31K engagements "✍Once Rangnick said A little bit of pressing is like a little bit pregnant. Either you are pregnant or not. Either you want to play pressing or not." With Ancelotti Real Madrid is a little bit pregnant. Part 1: Real Madrid's High Press. 🧵Tactical Thread" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1915438473223250392) 2025-04-24T16:11Z [----] followers, 29K engagements "Scouting Dean Huijsen: The Spanish Chill Center-Back. The long-awaited article is up. An in-depth big scouting report for an adept fullback. Taking a nuanced look at Real Madrid's new signing his play style analytics passing value and a lot more. Link in replies" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1932824755532419326) 2025-06-11T15:38Z [----] followers, 67.5K engagements "Nico Gonzlez will bring some of Rodri & Sergio Busquets' attributes to the scene. Receiving in tight space; Good Physicality in challenges; Ball carrying with close control; Prioritizes positioning to read the game rather than opting for a tackle in the 1st place" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1886773527933550618) 2025-02-04T13:47Z [----] followers, 18.4K engagements "It has become a trend to see Real Madrid bait opponents forward and secure depth to stretch the space between the lines. As all these conditions are in place Courtois chips the ball into a player dropping off. Once that player receives a domino effect takes place. I 100% agree more with Jon here. Bait the opponents forward secure depth and create gaps between the lines. In this instance Real Madrid DP deliberately moved deeper to bait their markers forward and stretch Marseilles vertically. As a result the space between the lines https://t.co/NQjdcyOH05 I 100% agree more with Jon here. Bait" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1971257248539345059) 2025-09-25T16:55Z [----] followers, 17.3K engagements "I 100% agree more with Jon here. Bait the opponents forward secure depth and create gaps between the lines. In this instance Real Madrid DP deliberately moved deeper to bait their markers forward and stretch Marseilles vertically. As a result the space between the lines was expanded and free for the tens to receive the chip. Vs zonal structures space used to open out around the first line of build up which smart teams could use to push opponents deep. Now opponents aren't willing to be squeezed so they push up. Space is now between the midfield and defensive lines. Vs zonal structures space" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1970547784622149812) 2025-09-23T17:56Z [----] followers, 34.5K engagements "The Manchester City - Bournemouth game was *a bit* transitional for Pep Guardiola's team. I think it served the characteristics of the players Guardiola has fielded and how he deployed them. I think it also allowed Man City to sit in a medium block and give Bournemouth the ball which is something I guess Iraola's team is not used to. On the other side Man City didn't find themselves pinning Bournemouth back (which is hard to do) and conceding transitions due to a sub-par counterpress and inability to win duels. City with less than 50% possession at home to Bournemouth. We're not in Kansas" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1985090967620194670) 2025-11-02T21:05Z [----] followers, 26.9K engagements "City with less than 50% possession at home to Bournemouth. We're not in Kansas anymore Toto" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1985076111504470062) 2025-11-02T20:06Z 98.8K followers, 66.2K engagements "These are the issues Hansi Flick has to address in the international break: Buildup against aggressive man-marking systems; Rest Defense; Offside trap is a double edged sword; High press because Barcelona allowed teams to progress comfortably" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1974874003270697263) 2025-10-05T16:27Z [----] followers, 26.2K engagements "Barcelona zone 14's weakness is due to: 1- High press doesn't start well; 2- High defensive line as a result is broken down; 3- Barcelona midfielders shift across to provide wide support or are pushed backward; 4- Zone [--] is vacated. Barcelona need to improve their zonal coverage when they fall into a mid- to low block. They barely get punished for it because of how often they dominate possession and how aggressive the defensive line is. Zone [--] is frequently vacated or underloaded because the central Barcelona need to improve their zonal coverage when they fall into a mid- to low block. They" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1983221432189395435) 2025-10-28T17:16Z [----] followers, 29.3K engagements "Barcelona need to improve their zonal coverage when they fall into a mid- to low block. They barely get punished for it because of how often they dominate possession and how aggressive the defensive line is. Zone [--] is frequently vacated or underloaded because the central midfielders have to shift across to help the fullbacks. Teams that have enough technical quality and patience to pin Barcelona back and not fall into the bait of attacking space quickly can really hurt Barcelona. It should be the wingers who cover the ball-side half-space or wing; you need the midfielders to screen in front" [X Link](https://x.com/MeiaArmador__/status/1916476281023070271) 2025-04-27T12:55Z 26.3K followers, 71.3K engagements "When Burnley matched Manchester United's shape 5-2-3 (Larsen dropped into the backline) Ruben Amorim's team struggled to progress via short (ball on the ground) passes. They either found Leny Yoro to chip long passes or Bayindir himself. And I don't think it's something good" [X Link](https://x.com/anyuser/status/1961806281527730363) 2025-08-30T15:00Z [----] followers, 23.8K engagements Limited data mode. Full metrics available with subscription: lunarcrush.com/pricing
@LamdarhriAchraf ACHRAF
ACHRAF posts on X about madrid, real madrid, in the, space the most. They currently have [-------] followers and [---] posts still getting attention that total [-----] engagements in the last [--] hours.
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- [--] Year [---------] +670%
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- [--] Month [-----] +2.70%
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CreatorRank: [-------] #
Social Influence
Social category influence champions league #5306 travel destinations 38.68% la liga #3425 premier league 14.62% bundesliga 4.72% finance 1.42% celebrities 0.94% countries 0.47% musicians 0.47%
Social topic influence madrid #2716, real madrid #1739, in the 17.45%, space 14.15%, manchester united 11.79%, barcelona 9.43%, block 8.96%, united 5.66%, defensive #88, more than 4.72%
Top accounts mentioned or mentioned by @managingmadrid @lamdarhriachraf @fathallimo @randrmcf @jonmackenzie @1992paby @mrinmoyroy2003 @saiftfp @laligamichael @ksanhory97 @aziztactics @optaanalyst @mhassanfootball @betweentheposts @_babadragon @huytrieu2701 @le11parisien @coachramoslive @thedevilsdna @laligalavo
Top assets mentioned Ferguson plc (FERG)
Top Social Posts
Top posts by engagements in the last [--] hours
"Against Sociedad Real Madrid relied heavily on Up Back & Through passing sequences to create artificial transitions especially from the left. Vinicius Jr & Camavinga counter-mvts & positions swapping & Gonzalo Garcia forward runs generated spaces in LHS for progression"
X Link 2026-02-15T17:16Z [----] followers, 10.4K engagements
"Keeping the ball more than it requires hinders Real Madrid. Mastantuono & Arda Guler are among the players who have to improve in taking action in less time. Xabi Alonso pointed at this after the Marseille game. For example here Mastantuono has a large space on his left side to nudge the ball across before Alvaro Garcia arrives. Also he has space on his right to turn and pass backward immediately or pass with his outside backward after receiving. However Mastantuono decides to wait to try to nutmeg Garcia which results in a possession loss and transition for Rayo Vallecano. It's not only"
X Link 2026-02-02T21:26Z [----] followers, 40K engagements
"IMHO this scene is one of the manifestations of the Too-Much-Talent-Effect. Dean Huijsen carries around. Brahim Diaz and Vinicius Junior drag the RB and CB across. Hence the diagonal passing lane between Huijsen and Mbapp. Vinicius Jr pulled out Le jeune and looks to punish the space behind. However Mbapp decides to dribble past Mendy and generate a shooting angle for himself. He fails and throws a good attacking sequence in the bin. The Too-Much-Talent-Effect resides in superstars putting their personal interests and records before the team which leads to an internal competition among the"
X Link 2026-02-03T19:47Z [----] followers, 41K engagements
"Diagonal passes are one of the most efficient tools to exploit a team shuffling their blocks across. Here Manchester United Escadinhas (staircase) allows a smooth diagonal passing circulation between Dalot Casemiro & Mbeumo. Also the body orientation of Casemiro (Diagonality affordance) enables him to let the ball run diagonally across his body and flick it on to Mbeumo. If Mbeumo here released the layoff accurately to Cunha Luke Shaw would swim freely in space on the left side. https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2019118634749083757 https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2019118634749083757"
X Link 2026-02-04T18:39Z [----] followers, 39.1K engagements
"I think Joshua Zirkzee can smooth this diagonal close-proximity combinational play that Michael Carrick is trying to instill. His clean touches enable him to link and thread from first-time passes flick-ons and layoffs in clogged areas plus the 360-degree fluid space the diagonality offers. Diagonal passes are one of the most efficient tools to exploit a team shuffling their blocks across. Here Manchester United Escadinhas (staircase) allows a smooth diagonal passing circulation between Dalot Casemiro & Mbeumo. Also the body orientation of Casemiro (Diagonality https://t.co/59o89qSS3r"
X Link 2026-02-05T19:23Z [----] followers, 12.4K engagements
"Manchester United players On Ball Value. I want to focus more on Lisandro Martinez. I don't think Man Utd could perform the same way when he's not available in deep buildup or in settled play. Line breakers long & medium range passing & cunning to evade pressure"
X Link 2026-02-06T15:06Z [----] followers, 57.6K engagements
"I think there is more than that IMO. Post Amorim I think there is more emphasis on diagonality (Diagonal passes Diagonal dribbles diagonal movements) and this improves the combinational play thanks to the diagonality affordances in terms of body orientation to receive release and the options available around the receivers. Also that imposes more questions to the opponents in terms of how to defend against those diagonal combos given that it's not something usual. Sesko's first Goal vs Burnley from the buildup to the goal is a good example of this"
X Link 2026-02-06T23:30Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"There is so much emphasis on central penetration initiated by Lisandro Martinez line breakers. They enable Manchester United to access the space BTLs for Mbeumo Cunha and Bruno to thread passes. However Man Utd takes some average quality decisions and shots IMO"
X Link 2026-02-07T13:51Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"A blend of: Wide overload close proximity & 1st touch combinations; Players taking optimal positions between the gaps; Diagonal connections in which Casemiro is the point of intersection; Nobody in traffic is square; everybody is on the half-turn;"
X Link 2026-02-08T09:00Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Opponents easily drag Manchester City 4-diamond-2 across and then they find a free backward option to switch the ball to the far side where the opposition far side FB and winger overload Man City far side FB. Real Madrid had Valverde & Liverpool has Szoboszlai to do so"
X Link 2026-02-08T16:45Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Real Madrid had Carreras & Vinicius Jr overloading Matheus Nunes. Liverpool has Kerkez & Gakpo vs Nunes as well. Also Kerkez has space in front of Man City backline to cut inside & go against City momentum in shifting across and exploit the gaps that appear within tye shift"
X Link 2026-02-08T16:45Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"From Goalkicks Guehi & Khusanov split wide alongside Donnarumma which means markers are wide. Ahead Rodri & Bernardo Silva operate in close proximity and Rodri leans toward the right to vacate the left for O'Reilly to drop. The question: Why Donnarumma boot the ball long"
X Link 2026-02-08T17:44Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"The central connections is the route for Real Madrid to break through Valencia 5-4-1 low-block. Finding Mbapp around one of the CBs gives him the chance to go both ways. He can cut in to shoot or find the RB arriving late or go outside & shoot"
X Link 2026-02-08T20:34Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Valencia - Real Madrid analysis is live I discuss: Valencia exposes RMA second balls problems; RMA off-ball movements to unlock central routes; RMA diamond and low/medium fraitlies; RMA baiting Valencia forward to nip the game in the bud; https://betweentheposts.net/valencia-real-madrid-los-blancos-break-the-mestalla-curse-0-2/ https://betweentheposts.net/valencia-real-madrid-los-blancos-break-the-mestalla-curse-0-2/"
X Link 2026-02-09T16:31Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"I think Carrick made a good decision to make Cunha start the high press sequences and Mbeumo react based on where the play is to be funneled. Against Fulham the left side wasn't covered properly. Dorgu offers intensity; his lateral shift was on time against Manchester City"
X Link 2026-02-09T20:29Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Fulham posed many problems to Manchester United's high press by stretching their midfield line by expanding the distances between Berge Iwobi & Smith Rowe. Also Smith Rowe dropping & darting wide pulled Casemiro wide. So Fulham was easily shifting the ball across"
X Link 2026-02-09T20:33Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Manchester United (Michael Carrick) diagonality. The majority of the players are on the half-turn to receive. Diagonal passes from Lisandro Martinez Casemiro and Cunha break down the orthogonal low block of Tottenham. Casemiro Cunha and Bruno take places between the gaps. Half-turn receiving enables first-time touches to keep the ball rolling diagonally. Xavi Simons lateral shifting is ineffective plus Tottenham's lines are broken down in both directions. Cunha in a big space only has to adjust his body stance and make it parallel to the ball's path and pass it from first-time touch to Bruno."
X Link 2026-02-10T09:00Z [----] followers, 14.3K engagements
"The advantage of diagonal passing here is highlighted through Tottenham defending. As a defending team you have a chance when you blend lateral shifting vertical stepping-out & swarming to defend a diagonal pass. Even if Simons was on time in his lateral closing down Casemiro still had the chance to find Cunha or Bruno. Also If Romero stepped out to close down down Bruno the latter by only dummying his move to let the ball roll diagonally Mbeuno had the chance to make use of the space between Romero & Gray. Manchester United (Michael Carrick) diagonality. The majority of the players are on"
X Link 2026-02-10T18:37Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Using Bryan Mbeumo as a false nine is good given how often he attacks the space in behind exploit the defenders blindsides transitional threat and I think is more reliable than the likes of Sesko & Zirkzee at this point. HOWEVER the direction Carrick drives Manchester United to by relying on central combinations close proximity first touches passes etc suits more someone like Zirkzee. It was obvious against Tottenham that Mbeumo found it a bit hard when it comes to first touch passes lay-offs and controlling the ball in traffic (BTLs) which led to miscontrols attacks delay etc"
X Link 2026-02-10T19:14Z [----] followers, 31.1K engagements
"RT @LamdarhriAchraf: The advantage of diagonal passing here is highlighted through Tottenham defending. As a defending team you have a ch"
X Link 2026-02-10T20:07Z [----] followers, [--] engagements
"@FathalliMo I agree with the early crosses from the half spaces but on the right side it became a weakness for West Ham only after Diouf sub IMO. Also I would like to have Dalot over/underlapping more given how Amad/Mbeumo were off on the right but it wasn't the case"
X Link 2026-02-10T22:41Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
".he narrows shrinks the space around the ballholder & has good timing in making his slides & blocks. Also he controls the distance between his feet depending on the situation (cross or shot). It's worth noting that his height (1.90 m) serves him well in such situations"
X Link 2026-02-11T13:47Z [----] followers, [---] engagements
"In the 1st scene there are some good attributes Leny Yoro displayed: Controlled deceleration helps him defend closer to Wilson; Curving his run to keep the passing lane between Wilson & Magassa blocked off: if the cutback is on Mbeumo is there to handle the situation"
X Link 2026-02-11T14:07Z [----] followers, [---] engagements
"I like that preparation from Florian Wirtz leading to hitting the far post. First he receives Gakpo pass with his right his first touch is the ball nudge toward his left. By doing this simple trick he sent Sadiki toward the right & generated space to shoot with his left"
X Link 2026-02-11T20:55Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"There was a long build-up from Sunderland in which both FBs pushed high with Diarra Angulo and Brobbey swum in a large space BTLs with the latter pinning the Van Dijk & Konat. Sunderland can expose this weakness in Liverpool High press as they tend to go man-oriented with the FWs and mids and the backline remains pinned which means there is an opportunity to win aerial duels second balls and attack from there. https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2021694967169589702 https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2021694967169589702"
X Link 2026-02-11T21:16Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Sunderland relied on it at the start of the second half with Angulo pinning Endo Diarra on Van Dijk and Brobbey to drop and engage in the aerial battles"
X Link 2026-02-11T21:29Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Controlling the center of the pitch mixed with diagonal perception yields a fork in the road. The receiver can play with the flow enabling continuation or against the grain without leaving the path of the goal which forces defenders to hedge their bets and therefore creates gaps. That's the direction Michael Carrick wants Manchester United to head toward. However that cannot happen overnight. First it's because of the shift that occurred from Ruben Amorim (wing-oriented approach) to Michael Carrick (more emphasis on the center) which requires time for coaching training and adapting until it"
X Link 2026-02-12T16:34Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Atltico Madrid exposes Barcelona highline and offside trap via late runs before the halfway line or players coming late from behind. Also on the counter Atltico tends to go toward one side and switch to the other where they have a numerical superiority around the FB"
X Link 2026-02-12T20:27Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Simeone (the father) relies on Simeone (the son) to outpace Balde down the line (late run as well) and then square the ball toward the far post. Atltico Madrid have 100m sprinters on each side of the pitch. Yes having smart "Quicksilver"s is another way to break a highline"
X Link 2026-02-12T20:59Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"RT @LamdarhriAchraf: This is an article on why Barcelona's Hansi Flick high line offside trap high press & IP play are related. When one"
X Link 2026-02-13T18:35Z [----] followers, [--] engagements
"RT @LamdarhriAchraf: Overcarrying delayed passes standing for too long on the ball and overcomplicating things hindered Manchester Unite"
X Link 2026-02-14T22:55Z [----] followers, [--] engagements
"It's better for Atltico Madrid to stop pressing high up the pitch the way they did. Because Barcelona with the 4+2 shape go with a diagonal outside the shape of ATM and then they enter the inside via another diagonal with Sorloth just watching comfortably pierce through"
X Link 2026-02-12T21:43Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"This is an article on why Barcelona's Hansi Flick high line offside trap high press & IP play are related. When one of these aspects is subpar anything that follows will be subpar as well. It's like the domino effect. The fall of the 1st piece usually leads to the fall of the dominoes. Risk And Reward In Hansi Flick's Universe A tactical look at how opponents find solutions to Barcelona and Hansi Flick high press and high defensive line. How there is a fine thread between collapse and perfection in such a system. Link in replies. https://t.co/aQImuTd38F Risk And Reward In Hansi Flick's"
X Link 2026-02-13T17:15Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Elite defense from Leny Yoro in 1v2 situations. Keeps checking his shoulders to maintain his body between the ball & the passing option (passing lane blocked off) As the threat gets closer & the intentions of the ball holder become clear"
X Link 2026-02-11T13:47Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Real Madrid build-up is: Carreras carrying the ball from out to in & breaking Sociedad lines down. Or Camavinga doing the same with the hope of him not taking an extra touch or nudge in the process. Otherwise Real Madrid is short of solutions"
X Link 2026-02-14T20:44Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Definitely Manchester United needs to add a left winger to the list of profiles that the team needs. Dorgu will be beneficial in certain games to provide these out-in runs against medium block for instance. I think Shea Lacey is a good back-up for Amad Diallo on the right"
X Link 2026-02-17T17:35Z [----] followers, [--] engagements
"Risk And Reward In Hansi Flick's Universe A tactical look at how opponents find solutions to Barcelona and Hansi Flick high press and high defensive line. How there is a fine thread between collapse and perfection in such a system. Link in replies"
X Link 2025-10-25T13:12Z [----] followers, 27.7K engagements
"Real Madrid: A mixed bag. My biggest Newsletter. On Real Madrid OOP issues (lane coverage hybrid press low block shambles) buildup vs man-oriented and hybrid presses outswinging corners attacking medium and low blocks (problems and solutions) and more. Link in replies. https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2007547287493300501 https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2007547287493300501"
X Link 2026-01-03T20:19Z [----] followers, 84.3K engagements
"Gonzalo Garcia has work to do in terms of first contact cushioning the ball controlling it with the pressure on his back for a layoff. Barcelona CBs find it easy to unbalance him drive to play easy passes to defend miscued balls etc"
X Link 2026-01-11T19:35Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Main Areas Jude Bellingham has to improve in his game: Scanning because he loses so many balls opportunities to shoot just because he didn't check his shoulders; Stop keeping the ball for too long carrying more than what the situation requires;"
X Link 2026-01-20T21:25Z [----] followers, 14.7K engagements
"Delaying attacks by holding on the ball too much over-carrying looking for the difficult options are common aspects shared on Cunha Bruno Amad and Mbeumo and impact negatively the decision-making and give West Ham time to recover their defensive shape and solidity"
X Link 2026-02-10T21:41Z [----] followers, 19.4K engagements
"Overcarrying delayed passes standing for too long on the ball and overcomplicating things hindered Manchester United vs West Ham in settled possession or in transitions. Delaying attacks by holding on the ball too much over-carrying looking for the difficult options are common aspects shared on Cunha Bruno Amad and Mbeumo and impact negatively the decision-making and give West Ham time to recover their defensive shape and solidity. Delaying attacks by holding on the ball too much over-carrying looking for the difficult options are common aspects shared on Cunha Bruno Amad and Mbeumo and"
X Link 2026-02-14T18:59Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"There was an improvement by the end of the first half IMO using Gonzalo Garcia or Vinicius Jr deeper movement to bait Sociedad backline forward and release Carreras in space behind. Tchouamni problem persists as he's most of the time static unless when he faces the play"
X Link 2026-02-14T20:59Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"The balance is the key. When a coach brings in complementary profiles with quality the team has a big chance to deliver. Gonzalo Garcia pins and pushes the backline rearward and acts as a target. Vinicius Jr carries dribbles and runs from the left. Valverde carries and runs from the right Arda Guler BTLs does the playmaking BTLs. Trent operates as a deep playmaker offering long & medium passing range quality (the same for Huijsen). Carreras attacks the space in behind and breaks down the lines via his out-in carries/passes. Camavinga develops the play from deep and connects in congested"
X Link 2026-02-14T22:12Z [----] followers, 14.2K engagements
"Camavinga & Vinicius Jr off-ball vertical and horizontal rotations vacated the LHS for Carreras out-in carries or passes. This cannot be done without a striker keeping the center-backs pinned & attacking depth. A balance between ball to feet & space attacking players is needed"
X Link 2026-02-15T17:16Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Real Madrid's left side dynamics against Real Sociedad. Against Sociedad Real Madrid relied heavily on Up Back & Through passing sequences to create artificial transitions especially from the left. Vinicius Jr & Camavinga counter-mvts & positions swapping & Gonzalo Garcia forward runs generated spaces in LHS for progression. Against Sociedad Real Madrid relied heavily on Up Back & Through passing sequences to create artificial transitions especially from the left. Vinicius Jr & Camavinga counter-mvts & positions swapping & Gonzalo Garcia forward runs generated spaces in LHS for progression"
X Link 2026-02-15T18:28Z [----] followers, 45.4K engagements
"Real Madrid - Real Sociedad analysis is up: Overload the left to isolate Arnold on the right; RMA up back & through patterns; Sociedad wide CBs to generate space around RMA 1st line of pressure; RMA subpar diamond lateral shift; La Real fluid IP; https://betweentheposts.net/real-madrid-real-sociedad-los-blancos-momentum-gain-before-benfica-4-1/ https://betweentheposts.net/real-madrid-real-sociedad-los-blancos-momentum-gain-before-benfica-4-1/"
X Link 2026-02-15T19:19Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Real Madrid's Up Back and Through patterns. Bait the opponent forward create separation to bounce the pass off to a free player and release a runner behind. Final decisions and the quality of the final pass need improvement though. Against Sociedad Real Madrid relied heavily on Up Back & Through passing sequences to create artificial transitions especially from the left. Vinicius Jr & Camavinga counter-mvts & positions swapping & Gonzalo Garcia forward runs generated spaces in LHS for progression. Against Sociedad Real Madrid relied heavily on Up Back & Through passing sequences to create"
X Link 2026-02-17T14:10Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Then RMA has a problem with midfielders jogging back notably Tchouamni which leaves the space around the penalty area accessible for the opposition players coming from behind to capitalise on crosses/cutbacks"
X Link 2026-01-23T16:35Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Looking at Villarreal and Real Madrid midfielders it becomes clear that difference between both is having someone like Dani Parejo. Displays a very rare state of calm under pressure (nonchalant) offers pausa simple short passes that provide quality and add value to the play"
X Link 2026-01-24T21:12Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Villarreal - Real Madrid analysis is up I discuss: RMA overload in midfield; Moleiro inside-Valverde free to switch to the left side; Late step-outs freed Moreno & paved the road for Villarreal to progress; Switches of play turnovers & transitions; https://betweentheposts.net/villarreal-real-madrid-arbeloas-honeymoon-continues-0-2/ https://betweentheposts.net/villarreal-real-madrid-arbeloas-honeymoon-continues-0-2/"
X Link 2026-01-25T12:28Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"The Newcastle - Aston Villa game is the game of "who wins his duels and is dominant physically will come out victorious" Too much verticality. Again Aston Villa showed how easy to pull apart Newcastle 4-5-1 low block. Pull out one of the mids overload the other two CBs unable to step up on time First time touch combinations BTLs. https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2015431346467025227 https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2015431346467025227"
X Link 2026-01-25T14:27Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"The same problems against Aston Villa. Except for crosses Newcastle are out of solutions. https://x.com/i/status/2004670415470547344 Newcastle and Manchester United have similar problems IMO: Cannot control games despite Newcastle have the personnel to do so it's an Eddie Howe problem IMO; Struggle when there aren't big spaces to attack; Short of solutions against Low Blocks. https://x.com/i/status/2004670415470547344 Newcastle and Manchester United have similar problems IMO: Cannot control games despite Newcastle have the personnel to do so it's an Eddie Howe problem IMO; Struggle when there"
X Link 2026-01-25T14:48Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"IMO Manchester United have some problems: Standing on the ball string correct passes which had gotten better after that long off-ball period. Attacking with numbers to secure better ball circulation chance creation more threat more corners"
X Link 2026-01-25T17:24Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Manchester United & Michael Carrick: Pace Power Penetration Unpredictability. That's How Sir Alex Ferguson and Rene Meulensteen set the team up back then"
X Link 2026-01-25T18:35Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"I may seem these days like I'm putting too much criticism on Barcelona. BUT watching & rewatching their games (especially vs Real Sociedad PSG and Sevilla) it becomes clear to me that Barcelona find so many struggles against man2man high pressing systems"
X Link 2025-10-15T15:15Z [----] followers, 175.3K engagements
"When Real Madrid was low/mid-blocking by the book"
X Link 2026-01-08T23:01Z [----] followers, 13.2K engagements
"The concept of diagonality being well implemented unlocks spaces through associative combinations and quick ball circulation. One of the two essentials to break through a low block. Barcelona with Hansi Flick is one of the best examples to study. Here against Real Madrid Barcelona lined up in a 4-2-3-1 diagonally. The affordances are as follows: Lamine Yamal is isolated against Alvaro Carreras on the far side. Inside diagonals from first time passes are possible here as De Jong and Pedri pull out Bellingham and Camavinga whereas Raphinha pins the CBs for Lewandowski to drop into free space."
X Link 2026-01-13T18:36Z [----] followers, 25.2K engagements
"Manchester United set wide traps on Manchester City left side exploiting Alleyne miscued passes to Ak. Michael Carrick read Pep Guardiola hybrid pressing mechanisms well rendering them predictable to trigger City vulnerabilities in the transitional moments. A Thread 🚨"
X Link 2026-01-19T09:24Z [----] followers, 29K engagements
"I would like to highlight that in the era of Modric Kroos and Casemiro Real Madrid had a high level of athleticism that's lacking right now in the same area of the pitch. Back then Real Madrid had midfielders who: Were great at changing directions (agile comfortable in their lateral movements) without losing balance and control. Were good at changing their pace (acceleration and deceleration). Elite in ballistic control (what's related to control the ball arriving at high velocity during quick and intense situations to cushion and wedge it to maintain possession under pressure). Were flexible"
X Link 2026-01-21T22:42Z [----] followers, 19.2K engagements
"Barcelona's goal against Real Madrid in the league game is a good example of what Arda Guler lacks when he operates in deeper positions. Initially the ball was with Huijsen on RMA's left side while Guler was positioned behind him. Within [--] seconds Arda Guler made [--] scans along the way which is perfect as he mapped the pitch and identified the pressure source. Also as the ball cut its way toward him his body orientation was "side-on" preparing to receive with an open stance. However he directed his first touch toward his own goal. Nothing was wrong here as he still had Huijsen as an option to"
X Link 2026-01-22T18:34Z [----] followers, 18.5K engagements
"To protect his left side Arga Guler leaned his weight heavily in that direction. This moves his center of mass outside his base of support leaving his right side completely undefended. As a reaction Pedri shifted to press Arda Guler from his right side (weaker foot). Thus Arda Guler lost the ability to maintain lateral momentum. Instead of driving his legs into the ground to resist Pedri Guler's legs became static. So he was standing rather than anchoring. When Pedri changed his angle to snap the ball Guler's torso crumpled. His core is soft; the force of Pedri's bump is not transferred to"
X Link 2026-01-22T18:34Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Horizontal and vertical compactness in a zonal defense are non-negotiables. Against Monaco there was an island between the Real Madrid midfield line & (Vinicius Jr-Mbapp) line. As a result Monaco was able to overload the space around Arda Guler. When Real Madrid was low/mid-blocking by the book. https://t.co/ignKY4m24T When Real Madrid was low/mid-blocking by the book. https://t.co/ignKY4m24T"
X Link 2026-01-23T15:50Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"The eye test suggests that Manchester United especially under Michael Carrick overload the left side combine in close proximity and then switch to the far side where usually Dalot & Diallo outnumber the opposite FB or one of them in 1v1 situations. Also the ball can go from the left to the center to one of the midfielders or the center-backs notably Casemiro or Lisandro Martinez to ping balls over the top to a runner in behind (Dorgu Mbeumo) after baiting the opposition forward. https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2016148645934973285 https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2016148645934973285"
X Link 2026-01-27T13:57Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Manchester United under Ruben Amorim. Too much emphasis on wide combinations crosses and working the ball around. There were some overloads on one side to isolate the other and put the wingbacks in crossing situations"
X Link 2026-01-27T14:39Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Good ideas from Michael Carrick in the buildup. Man Utd Wingers tuck in so FBs have room to push on and drag Arsenal Wingers backward. Narrow pivots and wide CBs alongside Lammens. The goal is to invite Odegaard to press and generate space for Lisandro to advance. This isn't achievable by only pushing Timber up to drag Kvaratskhelia backward and vacate the space for Saliba to carry the ball onward. But it also required Saliba & Kiwior splitting wide and Raya stepping between them to generate an overload in the 1st line that's 1). https://t.co/jDNQjq665Z This isn't achievable by only pushing"
X Link 2026-01-27T20:19Z [----] followers, 14.7K engagements
"Fair to Odegaard who was quick to recover and retreat. This becomes noticeable with Man Utd when they are in congested areas. Close proximity and passes from first-time touches combined with Lisandro & Dorgu's ability to shield/retain the ball to escape traffic"
X Link 2026-01-27T20:51Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"It's so subpar how Vinicius Junior play the ball with his head. He literally jumps and let his forehead intersect with the ball's path with any use of his neck no body re-orientation to direct the ball toward the net. Really I haven't seen something like that"
X Link 2026-01-28T21:18Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Real Madrid players with 4+ Possession losses against Benfica: Dean Huijsen: [--] losses; Jude Bellingham: [--] losses; Arda Guker: [--] losses; Tchouamni: [--] losses; Federico Valverde: [--] losses; Franco Mastantuono: [--] losses; Vinicius Jr: [--] losses; Kylian Mbapp [--] losses; There is no way for a team to exert and establish control when the players cannot do the basics: In possession pass the ball play weighted accurate and simple passes. Losing possession means running more to regain it. Real Madrid loses possession and don't run. There is no way for a team to exert and establish control when the"
X Link 2026-01-28T22:15Z [----] followers, 16K engagements
"If Real Madrid wants to continue with the same strategy of "we aren't willing to do the dirty work out of possession" then keeping the ball for long stretches in the game seems to be the solution according to how Florentino Perez and his assistants think. In other words Real Madrid needs to replicate the 2016-17 season. Center-backs and a defensive midfielder who can cover large spaces and central midfielders and an attacking midfielder who don't lose the ball at all. Someone like Casemiro's profile who swings across to cover behind the wingers and fullbacks who push on. A Modric Kroos and"
X Link 2026-01-29T14:11Z [----] followers, 27.7K engagements
"@MrinmoyRoy2003 I'm just thinking loudly. In another place it has to be this + a committed team OOP"
X Link 2026-01-29T14:34Z [----] followers, [---] engagements
"@Rand_RMCF After the 3-peat players were saturated. Plus the change of the coach"
X Link 2026-01-29T14:44Z [----] followers, [---] engagements
"Benfica's first goal against Real Madrid was a result of a combination of a lackadaisical attitude subpar positioning from some players and poor decision-making. Here is a short breakdown of Real Madrid's rest defense"
X Link 2026-01-29T18:50Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"First I think this is an acceptable rest defense structure: close distances to counterpress & Valverde offering minimum width on the right side. Huijsen leans toward the ball side to lock it. However Asencio must keep a close position with Benfica striker"
X Link 2026-01-29T18:50Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"The first problem is when Vinicius Jr tucks inside Carreras doesn't retreat immediately to close down Prestianni. So Benfica generates a 2v1 situation around Mbapp. Carreras behind Prestianni gives the latter the space between the former & Huijsen to carry & pass"
X Link 2026-01-29T18:50Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"The second problem was Mastantuono's laziness (not tracking back) & lack of spatial awareness to let Schjelderup run & swim in space. Resultantly Valverde must work his way back (a large distance) to catch Schjelderup. Opponent unmarked & central space exposed"
X Link 2026-01-29T18:50Z [----] followers, [---] engagements
"The third problem was Asencio opting for sliding as a solution in the 1st place. Here Benfica counters down the wide channel. Delaying the counter driving Prestianni toward the flanks & blocking off the passing lane toward the center would give the players time to recover"
X Link 2026-01-29T18:50Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"However Asencio didn't time his sliding tackle. Prestianni decelerated letting Asencio dive in to access the space in front. Asencio stood up with his torso excessively forward & fell over himself. Prestianni carries forward crosses Schjelderup goal"
X Link 2026-01-29T18:50Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"@Saif_tfp My bad when I was typing I was so focused on why Carreras didn't retreat behind Prestianni. That's the mistake which sets off the cascading effect"
X Link 2026-01-29T19:39Z [----] followers, [---] engagements
"@LaLigaMichael I think if it wasn't Juan Garcia this year the media would've Bury Cubarsi alive with some of his mistakes. Mistakes at his age are something normal to happen to learn. But in Barca situation rn success relying on young minimum of Mistakes are a must"
X Link 2026-01-30T18:28Z [----] followers, [---] engagements
"Under Carlo Ancelotti: There wasn't something called OOP RMA was behind in time with Mbapp or without him with Kroos Modric or without them. Xabi Alonso had to: Implement a good OOP strategy (he did Marseille high press Man City low/mid block both he played one of Mbapp & Vini Jr) Make this unbalanced squad to bypass high-presses and qttack well. Win trophies while doing the 1st & 2nd points. Alonso is a young (very good) coach inherited a young squad. The plan should be: building the foundation for long term sustainability. Alonso didn't have time to implement his ideas and didn't have a"
X Link 2026-01-30T19:22Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"@KSanhory97 Your criticism is very vague; elaborate more because I don't understand what you mean (the context) by isolating the individual from the group or from the equation"
X Link 2026-01-30T23:26Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"I agree with your points and if you navigate through my profile you'll find I addressed RMA players' problems on & off the ball. However my point is a bit broader as I draw from both the coach & the player perspectives. How Alaba & Rudiger looked better with Pep Flick & Tuchel Because there is a coach whose ideas (system) maximise the players' strengths & minimise their weaknesses. I've never said Ancelotti is the only one responsible here it's a combination. For example Rudiger wouldn't have to defend large spaces if the high press started well (I'm not saying he doesn't have to)"
X Link 2026-01-31T00:18Z [----] followers, [---] engagements
"I like how Zubimendi often wins his aerial duels by quickly reading the situation and anticipating a win on the first contact with the ball. When he needs to jump he has the power that gives him that height and momentum on the leap. No wonder Arteta (Jover) put in the box"
X Link 2026-01-31T15:59Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"This becomes a problem for Manchester United. Morgan Rogers and Kevin Santos when they cut inside they are supplied with a huge space and time to prepare and pick their shots accurately. The far side angle coverage is a weakness & put the GK in tough situations to handle"
X Link 2026-02-01T15:57Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"You just have to give credit to what Bernardo Silva provides. One of the most intelligent players out there versatile offers solutions in the buildup & progression & can retain the ball under pressure. OOP he doesn't stop running aware of angles to block off passing lanes"
X Link 2026-02-01T16:48Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Elche - Barcelona analysis is up: Barca baits Elche man-oriented press to hit the space behind; Barca off-ball movements & diagonal combinations; Elche overloads & late runners to break down Barca highline & offside trap; Clash of direct Attacks; https://betweentheposts.net/elche-barcelona-a-clash-of-direct-attacks-1-3/ https://betweentheposts.net/elche-barcelona-a-clash-of-direct-attacks-1-3/"
X Link 2026-02-02T15:41Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"I think Vinicius Junior and Lamine Yamal rely on trivela passes more compared to other wingers with Lamine Yamal doing so in abundance and more with precision. Against medium blocks it is one of the most effective weapons to release late runners in space. Against low blocks it serves as a crossing tool. Both count on Trivelas to compensate for their non-existent weak foot. I think both miss a lot of balls when trying to pass with the outside of their strong foot due to how they have to adjust their body orientation and stance based on the situation plus they need to make sure the pass is"
X Link 2026-02-02T17:13Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Why did Barcelona generate [----] xG against Elche It was a game of direct quick attacks. Elche provided Barcelona with the ingredients. A m2m high press allowing Barcelona space & time to thread and rotate. In other words Elche allowed Barcelona to create separation"
X Link 2026-02-02T18:22Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"The process is: one of Barca backline players jumps on the ball holder the rest have to shuffle across & adjust their positions according to the player who steps out. If the play is on the def half the halfway line is the ref; if not the potential passing option is the ref"
X Link 2026-02-02T19:22Z [----] followers, [---] engagements
"Here Kound jumps onto Valera; the rest swing across and adjust their positions based on the STs who are the passing options for Valera. However committing a late runner changes the equation. Cubarsi & Garcia cannot track Rodriguez simply because they can't see him"
X Link 2026-02-02T19:24Z [----] followers, [---] engagements
"Only Balde who has Rodriguez in his sight. Balde is in a dilemma: follow Rodriguez or stay put. In both cases the offside trap & high line are broken down. In the 1st case Balde might have the chance to prevent Rodriguez from accessing high-value positions by delaying"
X Link 2026-02-02T19:28Z [----] followers, [---] engagements
"@Rand_RMCF Adam Wharton provides what you mentioned. Chema Andres presents your 1st point. I need to watch him more"
X Link 2026-02-03T02:20Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Watching Manchester United with Michael Carrick two aspects that stand out to me are: diagonality & overloads. The out-of-possession stuff needs work to be done though. A big newsletter is coming soon. Subscribe to get it sent directly to your inbox. https://lamdarhri.substack.com/ https://lamdarhri.substack.com/"
X Link 2026-02-04T18:46Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"@aziztactics Excellent analysis Aziz. The Dorgu-Cunha swap Berge-Iwobi-ESR widening the distance between them made it very hard for Man Utd mids to keep up. Also it was hard tracking Fulham rotations and keeping +1 at the backline"
X Link 2026-02-05T12:53Z [----] followers, [---] engagements
"The positional fluidity of Manchester United help the team to find inroads either via long passes in space & in 1v1 situations (Mbeumo or Diallo vs one of the defenders) Also Bruno position around Tottenham midfield (wide) & Amad Diallo tucking inside enabled the out-in passes"
X Link 2026-02-07T13:07Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Rayan Vitor Goal vs Aston Villa: Diagonal dribbling: space on the defender sides; Defender (Lucas Digne) keeps dropping: space to advance; Quick feet speed of changing the direction de-centering of the hips"
X Link 2026-02-07T20:08Z [----] followers, [--] engagements
"@Jon_Mackenzie I think this is more about Tottenham defending in a 5-2-3 shape and Man Utd committing the 10s to drop around the midfield line and overload it. The buildup before Sesko's 1st GA vs Burnley is another example of this"
X Link 2026-02-07T23:16Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"@Jon_Mackenzie Yes this is the idea in deeper zones for Michael Carrick. And I think it worked in the majority of the cases using the long way or exploiting the opposition momentum when shuffling across and hitting those diagonals"
X Link 2026-02-07T23:38Z [----] followers, [---] engagements
"Inigo Perez as an Oliver Glasner replacement at Crystal Palace may be a good fit. I think Crystal Palace will be quite similar to Bournemouth with Idoni Iraola: Hybrid Pressing Ideas and Direct Football attacks. Good coach to come up with ideas to put problems for big teams"
X Link 2026-01-16T14:32Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Real Madrid: A mixed bag. My biggest Newsletter. On Real Madrid OOP issues (lane coverage hybrid press low block shambles) buildup vs man-oriented and hybrid presses outswinging corners attacking medium and low blocks (problems and solutions) and more. Link in replies. https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2007547287493300501 https://twitter.com/i/web/status/2007547287493300501"
X Link 2026-01-03T20:19Z [----] followers, 84.3K engagements
"Manchester United Arsenal: tactical analysis; How Ruben Amorim set the team up to build through around and over Arsenal's high press. What did change in Man Utd's buildup dynamics. 🧵Thread🔴⚪"
X Link 2025-08-18T10:13Z [----] followers, 523.3K engagements
"Playing with minus [--] is a calamity in football. You play with 11vs10 OOP. Now imagine [--] players are just passengers. It's 11vs8. The opp have [--] free men. Now add the passive press it turns out a walk in a park. That's the story of Real Madrid since Mbapp have joined"
X Link 2025-07-09T21:11Z [----] followers, 112.6K engagements
"Manchester United looked compact sitting in a medium block swinging between 5-4-1/5-3-2/4-4-2 shapes. The idea actually was good rendering the team less exposed but it seemed that the players esp the front ones were still not well-drilled enough because of the complex roles they had in terms of closing off passing lanes into the center passing off players (jumping on time) and preventing Sunderland from generating the 3v2 overload. Another thing to mention is when Mbeumo jumped from the second line to make it look like a 5-3-2 shape. But the three in midfield were positioned toward the left"
X Link 2025-10-04T15:05Z [----] followers, 93.5K engagements
"Real Sociedad attempted to target the right side isolate a player there against Alvaro Carreras and then play the cross or cutback. However too many crossing attempts ended outside. Why It's because Carreras brilliance in adjusting his legs spreading depending on the situation. If it's a cross he times his intervention to block the delivery off. If it's a cutback the distance between his legs is optimal to prevent the ball from continuing it's path. What's a defender Real Madrid secured"
X Link 2025-09-13T15:14Z [----] followers, 34.2K engagements
"Adam Wharton Ismaila Sarr Eberechi Eze Philippe Mateta Marc Guehi Daniel Munz are top quality and it's only matter of time that some of them will take a step forward. Adam Wharton cutting off passes and immediately sliding a pass behind to a runner amazing. Mateta is a boss in the air runs in behind holds the play well physically strong off ball movements are top. Eberechi Eze owns that LHS and there are a few who are at the same level"
X Link 2025-08-10T15:51Z [----] followers, 54.6K engagements
"Good structure here from Real Madrid. All the [--] channels are occupied with narrow fullbacks. The distribution across and along the pitch enables good counterpressing"
X Link 2025-08-20T15:10Z [----] followers, 108.4K engagements
"✍ Bournemouth - Manchester City: How Iraola exploited Guardiola System. ➖Bournemouth High Press and Triggers; ➖Bournemouth rotations down the left side; ➖Semenyo and Kerkez were a hindrance against Walker; ➖Guardiola tactical tweaks in the 2nd Half. Thread"
X Link 2024-11-03T09:30Z [----] followers, 93.4K engagements
"Real Madrid generated [--] high turnovers against Marseille with [--] ending with a shot. A high-risk approach Xabi Alonso adopted given the reward that was produced. HOWEVER Marseille also exploited RMA high-press to get into high-value areas. 🚨 A Thread⚪🔵"
X Link 2025-09-17T16:26Z [----] followers, 114.8K engagements
"✍ Liverpool vs Chelsea: How both teams exploit each other's weaknesses: Tactical Analysis. ➖Cheslea Central progression with 3-2-2-3 shape; ➖Caicedo and Gusto impacts; ➖Liverpool surprising 4-2-4 low-mid block; ➖Liverpool's quick attacks. Thread #LIVCHE"
X Link 2024-10-21T09:59Z [----] followers, 65.3K engagements
"I think that Real Madrid lacks that ball security Toni Kroos and Luka Modric provided both in terms of carrying and especially while passing and circulating the ball. And it's so obvious in the final third"
X Link 2025-11-04T21:20Z [----] followers, 13.4K engagements
"✍Barcelona high press had no answer to Inter constantly generating diagonal passing lanes. Esp in the 2nd half Inter displayed a masterclass in quick diagonal passing sequences with perfect body orientation from players to receive pass & free space. 🧵Short tactical thread"
X Link 2025-05-02T16:45Z [----] followers, 58.1K engagements
"Xavi Hernndez's struggles at Barcelona weren't due to Messi's departure Lamine Yamal's young age to take the torch or Barcelona's lack of cash. They were part of the problem. It was more because of Xavi's inexperience rigid positional style and predictability. Xavi Hernndez profiles as an elite coach. Positional play idea inverted fullbacks presses man-to-man defends 4-4-2. All different but similar styles to Arsenal Liverpool Chelsea Bayern PSG Struggles at Barca = Messi left Yamal only [--] had no money. Tough moment. Xavi Hernndez profiles as an elite coach. Positional play idea inverted"
X Link 2025-10-06T21:57Z [----] followers, 55.2K engagements
"Xavi Hernndez profiles as an elite coach. Positional play idea inverted fullbacks presses man-to-man defends 4-4-2. All different but similar styles to Arsenal Liverpool Chelsea Bayern PSG Struggles at Barca = Messi left Yamal only [--] had no money. Tough moment"
X Link 2025-10-06T18:22Z 196.8K followers, 135.5K engagements
"Real Madrid man-marking high press against Barcelona to funnel the play sideways. Camavinga shrinks the space so Balde cannot dribble or pass diagonally (even if he passes to Torres Militao gets tight on him) Vertical passing lane is the only option between Balde & Rashford. Camavinga as a right winger served Real Madrid in the high press as he was good at offering no space to Balde for the majority of the game to push the ball into space and break Real Madrid's lines via carries. Also IMO he was good at closing down the diagonal passing lanes Camavinga as a right winger served Real Madrid in"
X Link 2025-10-28T14:10Z [----] followers, 55.7K engagements
"Camavinga as a right winger served Real Madrid in the high press as he was good at offering no space to Balde for the majority of the game to push the ball into space and break Real Madrid's lines via carries. Also IMO he was good at closing down the diagonal passing lanes obliging Balde to play vertical passes to Rashford who also failed to create separation with Valverde. HOWEVER Barcelona found inroads by circulating the ball from their left to right side to trigger Vinicius Jr.'s jump toward Pau Cubarsi and intentionally free Jules Kound. And it's safe to say Vinicius Jr still hasn't"
X Link 2025-10-27T17:39Z [----] followers, 56.1K engagements
"Manchester City & Pep Guardiola came out victorious against Manchester United & Ruben Amorim. HOWEVER Man City Out-of-possession strategy has left question marks considering the flaws that appeared in the game. Wide overloads gaps BTLs FBs were pinned ETC A Thread 🔵🔴"
X Link 2025-09-15T11:00Z [----] followers, 86K engagements
"I think Newcastle's man-to-man high press with Livramento pushing on to mark Kound and Burn shifting across toward Raphinha was effective either forcing Barcelona wide or long. However when sitting in a 4-5-1 low block Barcelona found some inroads mainly by making the Newcastle trio in mid shift across while Fermin Lopez targeted the blindside of one of the mid BTLs. F. Lopez's smart off-ball movement BTLs was the key to accessing Raphinha or the wide option in general for Barcelona"
X Link 2025-09-18T20:02Z [----] followers, 27.8K engagements
"This is one of the best high-press strategies I've seen this season. This is one of Athletic Bilbao's shapes vs Arsenal's buildup. Arsenal were able to progress sometimes. And that was through fast first-time touches and quick interchanges to bypass Bilbao's high press"
X Link 2025-09-16T17:50Z [----] followers, 35.1K engagements
"✍Real Madrid - Dortmund: some tactical takeaways: How Xabi Alonso set the team to exploit the weaknesses of Dortmund's 5-3-2 block. How off-ball movements served Real Madrid well to create space. 🧵 Mini thread"
X Link 2025-07-07T18:06Z [----] followers, 45K engagements
"Como (Cesc Fabregas) was a pain to Lazio (Mauricio Sarri). Como brought Fabregas' flexible playing style into reality In & Out of possession. Off-ball movement and smooth mobility to open up passing lanes through & around Lazio's high press/mid-block. 🧵A Thread🔵⚪"
X Link 2025-08-27T18:42Z [----] followers, 49.2K engagements
"Real Madrid brought in Xabi Alonso from Liverpool in 2009/10 then sold him to Bayern Munich in 2014/15 and bought Toni Kroos in the same window. Both Kroos and Alonso share similarities of controlling the rhythm unmatchable passing range tactical intelligence positioning one touch play etc All of a sudden they decided to play without a player with such qualities in 2024/25. Apparently Real Madrid are going on the same road again for 2025/26"
X Link 2025-08-05T20:04Z [----] followers, 38.1K engagements
"Manchester United🤝Diagonality. It does wonders. The concept of diagonality has to be one of the main themes in Manchester United's play. Ruben Amorim needs to do more in this regard to make this team well-drilled in these situations. Why Because it generates [--] cases IMO and in both the space behind defenses is the The concept of diagonality has to be one of the main themes in Manchester United's play. Ruben Amorim needs to do more in this regard to make this team well-drilled in these situations. Why Because it generates [--] cases IMO and in both the space behind defenses is the"
X Link 2025-08-17T19:26Z [----] followers, 47.4K engagements
"The concept of diagonality has to be one of the main themes in Manchester United's play. Ruben Amorim needs to do more in this regard to make this team well-drilled in these situations. Why Because it generates [--] cases IMO and in both the space behind defenses is the target. Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes enabled the diagonality concept: The former came short & drew Hill (Bournemouth pivot) which meant Bruno could enter the free zone BTLs (Billing lateness also played a part in Bruno being free); Amad Diallo also dropped and drew the backline https://t.co/r2DSvhTNOQ Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes"
X Link 2025-07-31T17:12Z [----] followers, 41.8K engagements
"One thing I would like to address that I usually don't speak or discuss here. Real Madrid has only one chance to catch teams like Paris Saint-Germain Bayern Munich Manchester City Liverpool Arsenal and Barcelona in terms of how modern football is managed implemented and coached. That opportunity is XABI ALONSO"
X Link 2025-11-12T14:37Z [----] followers, 64.7K engagements
"✍Bayer Leverkusen generated [---] PPDA and a field tilt of 85.5% against Bayern Munich. It was utter suffocation from Xabi Alonso Boys and a full commitment to a man-oriented approach to force Bayern Munich to play an uncomfortable game. Here's an example of what it looked like"
X Link 2025-02-20T17:15Z [----] followers, 72.3K engagements
"Bayern Munich's high press was so intense. Look at Jonathan Tah's position here. Bayern generated some turnovers. Also PSG arrived in the final third on the right Upamecano & Laimer switched positions to enable the former to defend vs Kvaratskhelia or Olise tracked back"
X Link 2025-07-05T17:08Z [----] followers, 33.5K engagements
"✍ Arsenal - Paris Saint-Germain: Battle of brains (Arteta vs Enrique) PSG exploits Arseanl hybrid press; Arteta tweaks improved Arsenal high press; Arsenal central overload to progress; Lewis-Skelly was the key to Arsenal progression & chance creation. 🧵 Tactical Thread"
X Link 2025-04-30T15:49Z [----] followers, 62.7K engagements
"The game Barcelona lost vs Atltico Madrid in La Liga was one of the best games I've watched this season. One of the fewest games when a team delivered the best to dismantle a low block & penetrate Atltico defensive unit. Barcelona lacked efficiency in front of goal but. We played more than [---] minutes against Atletico Madrid this season. We lost one. We drew one. We won two. And yet I felt Barcelona were superior in every single one despite everything. And no that's not a dig at Cholo Simeone; Atleti are great. But Bara are better. We played more than [---] minutes against Atletico Madrid this"
X Link 2025-04-04T15:36Z [----] followers, 14.7K engagements
"We played more than [---] minutes against Atletico Madrid this season. We lost one. We drew one. We won two. And yet I felt Barcelona were superior in every single one despite everything. And no that's not a dig at Cholo Simeone; Atleti are great. But Bara are better"
X Link 2025-04-04T07:31Z 41K followers, 30.4K engagements
"✍Juventus vs Inter: Tactical Analysis Juventus struggles to put a stop to Inter positional rotations; Inter man2man marking worked but it had its repercussions when Juventus bypassed it; Aggressive Juventus in the 2nd half; Cambiaso role in the buildup 🧵 Tactical Thread"
X Link 2025-02-17T14:45Z [----] followers, 44.7K engagements
"When I see wingers like Coman Saka Martinelli Kvaratskhelia Dembl Giuliano Simeone etc press like mad dogs & track their way back I find no excuses for other wingers who are just lethargic and cost their teams in these off-ball phases. Bayern Munich Kompany is top OOP. Bayern Munich counterpress has been nothing more than perfect in the opening [--] mins. Close distances CBs getting tight and intense vs ST or #10 when they dropped deep. No playermaker is better than a good counterpress: always remember Jurgen Klopp quote. Bayern Munich counterpress has been nothing more than perfect in the"
X Link 2025-06-29T21:08Z [----] followers, 68.4K engagements
"Bayern Munich counterpress has been nothing more than perfect in the opening [--] mins. Close distances CBs getting tight and intense vs ST or #10 when they dropped deep. No playermaker is better than a good counterpress: always remember Jurgen Klopp quote"
X Link 2025-06-29T20:14Z [----] followers, 39.1K engagements
"A Long Post About Real Madrid and Xabi Alonso The game against Mallorca was totally different from Osasuna and Real Oviedo. Jagoba Arrasate plateformed Mallorca in a way to exploit Real Madrid's high press. No preseason and not enough time to train the team for Xabi Alonso and yet he has to deliver results. Osasuna and Real Oviedo saw Real Madrid play against low blocks. There were problems in unlocking these defensive units but there were also some promising points that the team lacked under the old regime. The promising points are as follows: 🟢Intensity is approximately in every"
X Link 2025-09-01T13:30Z [----] followers, 38K engagements
"✍ Brighton & Hove Albion F.C under Fabian Hrzeler coaching: Tactical Analysis. ➖Build-Up phase Patterns; ➖Chances creation; ➖Pressing high; ➖Setting in a block. In-depth Thread"
X Link 2024-11-20T10:00Z [----] followers, 55.6K engagements
"✍Against Bournemouth Liverpool always found the spare man due to the trio in midfield and Luis Diaz as a false #9 never stopped strolling which was bewildering for the Cherries. Let's assess Liverpool's strategy in generating free players. 🧵Short Tactical Thread"
X Link 2025-02-02T11:08Z [----] followers, 43.9K engagements
"✍Manchester City vs Real Madrid: Tactical Analysis. Man City 2-3-5 caused pbs to RMA high press mid-block; RMA wide progression; Both teams exploited each other Off-ball lapses. Both teams translated their appraoch & their definition of space. 🧵Tactical Thread"
X Link 2025-02-12T12:39Z [----] followers, 44.8K engagements
"Lack of pressure on the ball from Liverpool facilitates Chelsea's buildup. Not only that but Enzo Fernndez coming deep down the LHS makes Chelsea overload Liverpool in midfield. Gakpo tended to follow Gusto inside but Chelsea could work the ball out near the flanks as they also had a 2v1 situation"
X Link 2025-10-04T17:06Z [----] followers, 23K engagements
"Xabi Alonso post-Barcelona game mentioned that Camavinga supported Real Madrid in the progression phase. Not only that but Camavinga Arda Guler & Bellingham offer versatility & dynamism so they were outlets in bypassing Barcelona's high press. 🚨 Thread ⚪🔴"
X Link 2025-10-29T13:05Z [----] followers, 22.4K engagements
"How to dismantle an intense man2man press. Inzaghi is one of the coaches who has answers to Gasperini's heavy man-oriented approach through positional rotations to manipulate the markers and vacate spaces Inzaghi wants his team to arrive at. Let's take a look at this sequence"
X Link 2025-03-18T18:20Z [----] followers, 27.8K engagements
"Finally got some time to re-watch Manchester United vs Brighton. This was one of the sequences of how to deal with man-marking high press. Brighton CBs split wide so the distance between Bruno and Dunk is big enough to unlock the combination between Verbruggen Dunk and what comes after"
X Link 2025-10-29T18:44Z [----] followers, 37.7K engagements
"Real Madrid "OVERLOAD TO ISOLATE" pattern. This was a repeated play against Levante. Mbapp had the freedom to roam and he was usually the one who joined the crew on the right to work the ball out to the left via short sharp passes. In this sequence Mbapp shifted toward the left side so Fran Garcia drifted inside and Vinicius Jr behind on the LHS"
X Link 2025-09-26T16:18Z [----] followers, 19K engagements
"Real Madrid's buildup didn't change against Atltico Madrid. 4-2-2-2 shape in which Guler dropped & inverted next Bellingham & Vinicius Jr narrowed inside. ATM high press was as follows: Alvarez and Sorloth jumped on CBs and covered with their shadows Valverde & Tchouamni; Koke split RMA DPs; Nico Gonzalez & Simeone engaged with the FBs; Barrios on Bellingham Hancko on Guler with ATM keeping +1 at the backline. The problem with RMA was Courtois hoofing inaccurate long balls while there were wide inroads to opt for"
X Link 2025-09-28T15:19Z [----] followers, 39.6K engagements
"Watching back Real Madrid vs Mallorca game Valverde provided defensive coverage for Arnold whenever the latter pushed high up the pitch. Mallorca would easily exploit the space behind Arnold had Valverde not positioned himself behind and recovered quicklyonthecounter"
X Link 2025-08-31T11:20Z [----] followers, 29.5K engagements
"This is how Man Utd's high press looked at the start. Amad and Diallo push on to engage with Fulham FBs. Casemiro advances next to Cunha to mark the DPs. Bruno against the King (#10) whereas the rest occupy Fulhams front three"
X Link 2025-08-25T12:14Z [----] followers, 39.1K engagements
"This is how PSG mid-block looked: Pressure on the ball is a must; m2m press keeping +1 at the backline; Kvaratskhelia tracks back Valverde near the touchlines; The double coverage at the backline is secured by Dou cutting the direct passing lane between Rudiger & F. Garcia"
X Link 2025-07-10T17:01Z [----] followers, 35K engagements
"Look at the space in front of PSG backline. Chelsea generates here a 2v1 situation with Enzo Frenandez and Neto on Hakimi. Marquinhos' attention is drawn by Enzo Fernandez and Joao Pedro looks to exploit the space between PSG CBs to combine. Also Vitinha drops and allows. Take this sequence for example. Gonzalo Garcia wide pulls out Nuno Mendes the same goes with Arda Guler drawing Fabian Ruiz across. As a result Real Madrid widens PSG's RHS. Normally Kvaratskhelia has to drop and fill the gap but he doesn't. Hence Valverde comes from. https://t.co/N45gKSVgRv Take this sequence for example."
X Link 2025-07-13T20:32Z [----] followers, 29K engagements
"Take this sequence for example. Gonzalo Garcia wide pulls out Nuno Mendes the same goes with Arda Guler drawing Fabian Ruiz across. As a result Real Madrid widens PSG's RHS. Normally Kvaratskhelia has to drop and fill the gap but he doesn't. Hence Valverde comes from"
X Link 2025-07-12T20:43Z [----] followers, 31.1K engagements
"Barcelona's diagonal play is simple but very effective. A 4-2-3-1 buildup shape in which Pedri & De Jong drop deeper to bait their markers forward & the ball-side winger (Rashford) drops & offers width. So the ST (Ferran Torres) can move into the stretched space BTLs to lay the ball off"
X Link 2025-10-03T16:01Z [----] followers, 34K engagements
"2-3-5 for Manchester City caused problems for Real Madrid 4-4-2 shape as Pep Guardiola set-up overlaoded RMA midfield (5v4) At the beginning RMA dealt with KDB Akanji penetrative runs but from the left side Gvardiol was really a headache (City 1st goal)"
X Link 2025-02-11T21:02Z [----] followers, 38K engagements
"Dortmund reluctance to give up +1 at the back facilitated Real Madrid buildup & progression. I think this started vs Pachuca but the red card made Tchouamni play as CB. So Real Madrid shape in the build-up was 4-2-1-2. Vs Dortmund it was 4-2-2-2. Valverde was a free man"
X Link 2025-07-06T18:16Z [----] followers, 22.9K engagements
"Manchester United problem in the final third against Arsenal was attacking the box with few numbers. Not only that but that will impact the following phases and the counterpress as the players are very distant. When Dalot overlapped Mbeumo the former cut the ball back but nobody was there to capitalize"
X Link 2025-08-18T15:02Z [----] followers, 37.3K engagements
"Real Madrid is still going through growing pains and is still hunting the team in every big game. The new signings in Dean Huijsen and Alvaro Carreras plus Arda Guler (from the bench to a regular player week in week out) still need adaptation to the pressure that comes with such situations especially while having the ball on their feet. There was so much insecurity in possession due mainly to mispasses lacking that composure the old veterans have developed over the years of operating under these stressful and draining atmospheres cognitively and mentally. Having watched Liverpool vs Aston"
X Link 2025-11-04T22:08Z [----] followers, 17.8K engagements
"This sequence is a prime example. Arsenal committing numbers in the front line forced Newcastle very deep and allowed them space at the edge of the box. Timber to Eze who dribbled past Guimaraes. A quick combination (up back and over the top) between Eze Trossard and Zubimendi chipped over to Timber. Arsenal was so close to scoring here. Another thing to mention is how Saka and Calafiori narrowed inside horizontally with Gabriel and Saliba compressing vertically. Optimal structure to nip Newcastle's attempts to counterattack in the bud. Ebereche Eze provides Arsenal with so much access to"
X Link 2025-09-28T22:01Z [----] followers, 23.6K engagements
"Ebereche Eze provides Arsenal with so much access to zone [--]. Him Saka Trossard and Zubimendi operating in close proximity to thread quick passes inside Newcastle traffic is crucial to infiltrate the box"
X Link 2025-09-28T17:02Z [----] followers, 27K engagements
"Man Utd builds the attack in a 4+2 shape. Leny Yoro stands on the ball to invite pressure (degaard). Gyokeres Saka and Martinelli are ready to jump in case of a lateral or backward. Man Utd generates a 2v1 in midfield. One-touch play sequence takes place for Utd to progress. Zubimendi cannot join Rice because Mount drops deep and Arsenal wants to keep +1 in the backline"
X Link 2025-08-18T10:13Z [----] followers, 93.4K engagements
"✍ Bayer Leverkusen - Stuttgart: Tactical Analysis. ➖Wirtz & Boniface deep movements to create space behind Stuttgart backline; ➖Grimaldo in an inverted role allowed Hincapi to advance; ➖Bayer Leverkusen High press & Counter-press to generate goal-scoring chances. Thread"
X Link 2024-11-02T14:39Z [----] followers, 32.8K engagements
"Watching Real Madrid's La Liga games and the UCL fixture it becomes clear why Xabi Alonso opted for Rodrygo against Marseille. With Vinicius Junior you get more chaotic moments maybe more unpredictability. But the trade-off at this moment will be his lack of awareness in the high-press especially when it comes to reloading the press from open play situations. And I said it under Carlo Ancelotti Real Madrid could start the high press effectively from static positions (goalkicks) the issue was when the opponent played the ball backward and Real Madrid had to start pressing again. OFC there is a"
X Link 2025-09-22T17:42Z [----] followers, 21.4K engagements
"The problem with PSG's OOP approach was usually the space around the single pivot mainly Vitinha. So when Fabian Ruiz and Joao Neves jump onto the opposite double pivot: Unai Emery flooded the BTLs with three 10s (McGinn Tielemans & Rogers) Arteta made Lewis-Skelly invert"
X Link 2025-07-14T16:22Z [----] followers, 25.4K engagements
"✍Real Madrid's out-of-possession vs Paris Saint-Germain has been nothing more than a shambles. Lack of commitment intensity hesitancy and tactical deficiencies played a big role in the poor performance of Xabi Alonso's team. 🧵Tactical thread"
X Link 2025-07-11T16:42Z [----] followers, 31.7K engagements
"Vinicius Jr wide and inviting Valencia RB expands the left half space for Bellingham runs coming from behind. It's why Bellingham finds himself in 1v1s in the box or when he's about to penetrate the box. Also it generates situation for Carreras underlaps"
X Link 2025-11-01T20:26Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"✍ Inter - Arsenal: Tactical Analysis. ➖Arsenal fluidity down the right side; ➖Inter defensive solidity and fluidity in the buildup phase; ➖Taremi and Lautaro Martinez's deeper movements to help the progression. ➖Bisseck another world-class defender. Thread"
X Link 2024-11-07T14:04Z [----] followers, 35.9K engagements
"One of the ideas Xabi Alonso (& I hope Ruben Amorim tries someday) is to make one of the sixes drop alongside the goalkeeper and allow the wide CBs to spread as situational FBs. It gives the AM license to drop like Wirtz does below and overload the opposition in the initial phase. I think Amad or Mbeumo will be crucial in this regard (Amad has already done it and it worked brilliantly)"
X Link 2025-08-03T16:08Z [----] followers, 22.3K engagements
"When reloading the press from an open play situation gaps between the lines appear as Man United go forward. In this example Arsenal kept playing backward which triggered Cunha & Mount to jump on. But the rest didnt follow up & Arsenal already had the numerical advantage in midfield"
X Link 2025-08-19T10:41Z [----] followers, 21.3K engagements
"I don't think Liverpool was good at the start of the season when it comes to OOP phases. And the UCL night against Atltico Madrid was another proof. Before substitutions in the second half Liverpool sat in a 4-4-2 diamond (high press or medium block) with Salah & Isak mainly jumping on the CBs or the ball side midfielder. Also the diamond tended to shuffle across to lock the ball side. And here Atltico Madrid tended to exploit this weakness. Gakpo usually started inside and jumped on Llorente when the play went wide. The latter exploited the momentum that Gakpo was arriving at to disrupt it"
X Link 2025-09-19T17:59Z [----] followers, 21.8K engagements
"✍ Brighton - Manchester City: Tactical Analysis. ➖How Brighton exploited Man City through the center (Between the lines); ➖How Man City progressed using Foden and Gndoan movements; ➖Brighton strikers' opposite movements. Thread"
X Link 2024-11-10T11:13Z [----] followers, 42.3K engagements
"Some of Arsenal's shapes when they press Liverpool high up the pitch. I think they went m2m only when Gravenberch didn't step back between Konat & Van Dijk. Mainly Liverpool found wide avenues to work the ball out"
X Link 2025-08-31T16:30Z [----] followers, 24K engagements
"Liverpool's wide dynamics on the right side against Atltico Madrid were impressive and generated inroads to penetrate the box. It was more of: Frimpong lapping runs to drag Nico Gonzalez with him; Mohamed Salah stretches the pitch and attracts Gavi Galan; Wirtz joins Isak to pin the CBs. So Gallagher drops to cover the RHS as a reaction. And then the space BTLs is free for Salah to indent and for Gravenberch to receive and release"
X Link 2025-09-18T10:16Z [----] followers, 29K engagements
"✍Real Madrid's "hybrid press" has been exploited mainly in areas where a player is tasked with a dual role or through manipulating their lateral shifting. Here are [--] examples from Al Hilal & Salzburg games. More details coming very soon. 🧵Short thread"
X Link 2025-07-09T16:28Z [----] followers, 28K engagements
"I think Real Madrid's right side screams for an able winger in 1v1 situations. Brahim Diaz isn't the profile who has the qualitative superiority in these situations. Why does Real Madrid need that Because in 1v1s the winger can simply keep nudging the ball forward or attack the byline to push the opponent's block backward. So he can play it across or cut it back to the space around the penalty area. Mbapp did it in his first attempt against Cambiaso RMA flooded the box with numbers and dragged Juventus deep. As a result the space was at a premium at the edge of the box for Militao to strike."
X Link 2025-10-22T19:58Z [----] followers, 14.8K engagements
"Crystal Palace 5-2-3 shape OOP. Eze Mateta & Sarr close off passing lanes with Hughes and Wharton engaging with Palmer & Caicedo. Guehi & Richards jumping onto Enzo & Cucurella in the half spaces. At the start Acheampong dribbled around Mateta breaking down the 1st line"
X Link 2025-08-17T14:05Z [----] followers, 30K engagements
"Another thing I would like to touch on is Donnarumma ball playing ability. I know it was his first game and it was a Manchester Derby. BUT there were some instances where he had the simple passing option in midfield but he went long or opted for a different choice. Look at this example. Manchester City has [--] outfield players+Donnarumma vs [--] players from Manchester United. Also he has Foden dropping deep into an island thanks to Man Utd subpar high press. But he opts for playing it over Mbeumo to O'Reilly to access Foden whereas a simple pass between Mbeumo and Bruno would give City time and"
X Link 2025-09-15T17:22Z [----] followers, 71.1K engagements
"I actually admire from where Arteta had taken Arsenal and where they are now. I enjoy how they defend along and across the pitch. Coming to how they attack I think the quantity of 1v1s they generate and the players they have to put in these situations enable them to access high quality areas (cut back zones dangerous crossing situations when they pinned their opponents (vs Newcastle second half as an example)) and as a result they generate so many setpieces or their distribution around the box allow them to swarm in second wave (counterpress) strike and again generate setpieces. Arsenal's"
X Link 2025-10-31T18:47Z [----] followers, 27.5K engagements
"Arsenal's style ignoring set plays: 🔴 Huge 1v1 threat ⚪ 1st for low + mid build up 🔴 Strong in duels 2nd for second balls ⚪ 2nd for preventing opp build up 🔴 Effective organised press & defend high Maybe some work to do in defensive transitions but this is a complete team"
X Link 2025-10-31T16:24Z [----] followers, 61.6K engagements
"Welcome Xabi Alonso. Real Madrid with Xabi Alonso in the Club World Cup. An analytical look at Real Madrid's in possession dynamics against Al Hilal Pachuca RB Salzburg and Juventus. Link in replies"
X Link 2025-07-05T14:57Z [----] followers, 61.6K engagements
"Manchester City hybrid press with Rico Lewis jumping on Brenan Johnson & Spence based on which side Tottenham tries to progress. Stones Dias and Ait Nouri (Ak) shifts across with Nico Gonzalez dropping to the backline or at least moving close to the defense"
X Link 2025-08-23T12:39Z [----] followers, 17K engagements
"✍ Arsenal- Liverpool: Tactical Analysis ➖Partey inversion Trossard deeper movements and Havertz & Merino shifting across; ➖Liverpool's off-ball shape enabled Saka to go 1v1 against Robertson; ➖Liverpool hurt Arsenal on the counter. Thread"
X Link 2024-10-28T10:04Z [----] followers, 29.9K engagements
"The TL is full of: Arteta forced Guardiola to defend in 5-4-1 low block. Never saw a coach EVER limited Guardiola like that. These statements may hold some truth but not the whole truth IMO. Because it totally ignores the spatiotemporal context of both teams the situation of both coaches (the group of players they have at this moment who needs to adapt more to the new state of the PL who passed through major changes and has to adapt and deliver at the same time) I think if we take these conditions and criteria into consideration it becomes more logical why Guardiola opted for such a game"
X Link 2025-09-21T18:04Z [----] followers, 20.9K engagements
"No Sunrise Without Shadows For Xabi Alonso. An 8000+ word piece on Real Madrid games vs Marseille Levante & Atltico Madrid. How Xabi Alonso is changing RMA playing style. How the players are coping with the new regime. Defensive lapses Areas of improvement. Link in replies"
X Link 2025-10-12T14:54Z [----] followers, 33.3K engagements
"✍Against Atalanta Inzaghi set Inter up so they could generate space through positional rotations to bypass Atalanta's man-oriented press. Not only that but Inter has been able to access the free man through Thuram dropping deeper and 3rd man-combinations. 🧵Short Thread"
X Link 2025-03-19T16:13Z [----] followers, 39.5K engagements
"Also Girona had tools to break through Barcelona's press. Using Miguel Gutirrez's inversion to progress and taking advantage of Gerard Martin's vacated spot because of him pushing up to participate in the press. Girona was close to opening the score from such a pattern"
X Link 2025-03-30T21:09Z [----] followers, 32.2K engagements
"✍ Barcelona - Real Madrid: some tactical patterns of both teams. Barcelona inside diagonals; Real Madrid exploits Barcelona's high press through direct passes toward the fullbacks; Real Madrid's late runs to avoid the offside trap 🧵 Short Tactical Thread"
X Link 2025-04-28T20:07Z [----] followers, 18.5K engagements
"✍ Real Madrid - Dortmund: How Nuri Sahin's Boys Exploited Real Madrid's Ineffective Press tactical analysis. ➖Mbapp Bellingham don't close the passing lane when jumping over their markers leaving their back vulnerable; ➖Real Madrid midfielders got outnumbered. Thread"
X Link 2024-10-23T11:51Z [----] followers, 33.2K engagements
"Xabi Alonso with Real Madrid check this sequence: Striker comes deeper to unlock the inside diagonal combination & generate space behind; Far side winger (Vini Jr) pins the opposite RB; CM (Valverde) ready for the countermovement with the ST (Gonzalo Garcia)"
X Link 2025-06-28T17:35Z [----] followers, 21.9K engagements
"@MHassanFootball 2016/2017 Real Madrid was one of the best sides with the ball. A midfield that can control any game on the most terrifying grounds ever. Multiple sources of threat. Collective and individual supremacy. The best pressing systems failed to halt RMA Buildup"
X Link 2025-04-10T17:22Z [----] followers, [----] engagements
"Man Utd Amorim buildup intends to bait the opponent forward and then work the ball out via quick one-touch passing sequences. Or via long balls win the second ball and then release runners in space behind the opposition's backline. It wasn't different vs Arsenal"
X Link 2025-08-18T10:13Z [----] followers, 27.3K engagements
"✍ Liverpool - Bayer Leverkusen: A game full of tactical tweaks between Alonso & Slot Tactical Analysis. ➖Leverkusen high-press delayed Liverpool buildup; ➖Wirtz Frimpong & Palacios off movements to bypass Liverpool press; ➖Diaz as a false nine was the answer. Thread"
X Link 2024-11-08T16:47Z [----] followers, 31.5K engagements
"✍ When scouting or analysing a game I try to focus more on splitting actions into time-space characteristics: Position Moment Direction & Speed. It helps to understand the micro level of football actions. Example from Barcelona-Real Madrid [----] SuperCup. 🧵 Short Thread"
X Link 2025-07-20T17:41Z [----] followers, 16.5K engagements
"Some of Paris Saint-Germain shapes in possession. All PSG shapes served both IP & OOP goals. A good distribution around the box allowed PSG to smoothly circulate the ball & open gaps through Liverpool's 4-2-4 shape OOP. PSG setup protects the central and inside channels"
X Link 2025-03-05T21:03Z [----] followers, 31K engagements
"✍Once Rangnick said A little bit of pressing is like a little bit pregnant. Either you are pregnant or not. Either you want to play pressing or not." With Ancelotti Real Madrid is a little bit pregnant. Part 1: Real Madrid's High Press. 🧵Tactical Thread"
X Link 2025-04-24T16:11Z [----] followers, 29K engagements
"Scouting Dean Huijsen: The Spanish Chill Center-Back. The long-awaited article is up. An in-depth big scouting report for an adept fullback. Taking a nuanced look at Real Madrid's new signing his play style analytics passing value and a lot more. Link in replies"
X Link 2025-06-11T15:38Z [----] followers, 67.5K engagements
"Nico Gonzlez will bring some of Rodri & Sergio Busquets' attributes to the scene. Receiving in tight space; Good Physicality in challenges; Ball carrying with close control; Prioritizes positioning to read the game rather than opting for a tackle in the 1st place"
X Link 2025-02-04T13:47Z [----] followers, 18.4K engagements
"It has become a trend to see Real Madrid bait opponents forward and secure depth to stretch the space between the lines. As all these conditions are in place Courtois chips the ball into a player dropping off. Once that player receives a domino effect takes place. I 100% agree more with Jon here. Bait the opponents forward secure depth and create gaps between the lines. In this instance Real Madrid DP deliberately moved deeper to bait their markers forward and stretch Marseilles vertically. As a result the space between the lines https://t.co/NQjdcyOH05 I 100% agree more with Jon here. Bait"
X Link 2025-09-25T16:55Z [----] followers, 17.3K engagements
"I 100% agree more with Jon here. Bait the opponents forward secure depth and create gaps between the lines. In this instance Real Madrid DP deliberately moved deeper to bait their markers forward and stretch Marseilles vertically. As a result the space between the lines was expanded and free for the tens to receive the chip. Vs zonal structures space used to open out around the first line of build up which smart teams could use to push opponents deep. Now opponents aren't willing to be squeezed so they push up. Space is now between the midfield and defensive lines. Vs zonal structures space"
X Link 2025-09-23T17:56Z [----] followers, 34.5K engagements
"The Manchester City - Bournemouth game was a bit transitional for Pep Guardiola's team. I think it served the characteristics of the players Guardiola has fielded and how he deployed them. I think it also allowed Man City to sit in a medium block and give Bournemouth the ball which is something I guess Iraola's team is not used to. On the other side Man City didn't find themselves pinning Bournemouth back (which is hard to do) and conceding transitions due to a sub-par counterpress and inability to win duels. City with less than 50% possession at home to Bournemouth. We're not in Kansas"
X Link 2025-11-02T21:05Z [----] followers, 26.9K engagements
"City with less than 50% possession at home to Bournemouth. We're not in Kansas anymore Toto"
X Link 2025-11-02T20:06Z 98.8K followers, 66.2K engagements
"These are the issues Hansi Flick has to address in the international break: Buildup against aggressive man-marking systems; Rest Defense; Offside trap is a double edged sword; High press because Barcelona allowed teams to progress comfortably"
X Link 2025-10-05T16:27Z [----] followers, 26.2K engagements
"Barcelona zone 14's weakness is due to: 1- High press doesn't start well; 2- High defensive line as a result is broken down; 3- Barcelona midfielders shift across to provide wide support or are pushed backward; 4- Zone [--] is vacated. Barcelona need to improve their zonal coverage when they fall into a mid- to low block. They barely get punished for it because of how often they dominate possession and how aggressive the defensive line is. Zone [--] is frequently vacated or underloaded because the central Barcelona need to improve their zonal coverage when they fall into a mid- to low block. They"
X Link 2025-10-28T17:16Z [----] followers, 29.3K engagements
"Barcelona need to improve their zonal coverage when they fall into a mid- to low block. They barely get punished for it because of how often they dominate possession and how aggressive the defensive line is. Zone [--] is frequently vacated or underloaded because the central midfielders have to shift across to help the fullbacks. Teams that have enough technical quality and patience to pin Barcelona back and not fall into the bait of attacking space quickly can really hurt Barcelona. It should be the wingers who cover the ball-side half-space or wing; you need the midfielders to screen in front"
X Link 2025-04-27T12:55Z 26.3K followers, 71.3K engagements
"When Burnley matched Manchester United's shape 5-2-3 (Larsen dropped into the backline) Ruben Amorim's team struggled to progress via short (ball on the ground) passes. They either found Leny Yoro to chip long passes or Bayindir himself. And I don't think it's something good"
X Link 2025-08-30T15:00Z [----] followers, 23.8K engagements
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