đź”´ Team Analysis
Liverpool’s new build-up approach and in which way it is efficient
▫️TAA , the conductor
▫️The role of interiors
▫️Fabinho-TAA relation in the build-up
THREAD 🧵⤵️
Liverpool’s new build-up approach and in which way it is efficient
▫️TAA , the conductor
▫️The role of interiors
▫️Fabinho-TAA relation in the build-up
THREAD 🧵⤵️
In build-up, we can see some concrete evolutions from Jurgen Klopp, by implementing Alexander Arnold as the conductor of Liverpool’s build-up phase. Relying on his extreme pass quality, he can pass the ball from the center and create many advantages on flanks.
Other interesting aspect when Liverpool has to face the opponent’s press. Arnold comes off midfield and moves between Van Djik and Konaté. This allows Konaté to get wide positions, and ease out ball circulation, especially under pressure
But when Arnold or even Fabinho drops on the defensive line to have this numerical superiority, that’s where interiors role is important. Whether it be Curtis Jones or Elliott, they must attack the space left by midfielders to compensate, and move around it
Having incorporated TAA in midfield allowed many aspects : first, Fabinho can drop in defense without being jeopardized. Second, Liverpool can put more players on the flank. Third, TAA passes, even under pressure, ease out switches of play.
The third point is very important. We all know TAA’s cross ability when he receives the ball in the last 25 meters, a bit on the right. But now, as I said, when you have this quarterback at the core of midfield, you can find Salah or Eliott because of that pass quality.
The difference now is TAA passes are exploited from the inside of midfield in direction of flanks and wingers, not the opposite. And I personnally think it’s better, because Fabinho can now focus on his moves and his positioning.
I spoke about the role of interiors, at the core of what Klopp demands from his new approach. TAA or Fabinho drops have to be covered. That’s a thing. But more than that, they also should attack this space left, so TAA can do the inverted run and destroy the lines to attack fast.
We even saw Van Djik replacing TAA when he wants to go on the right flank. Alexander-Arnold has more freedom in this phase of build-up, and strongly influenced the way Liverpool plays now. But always have in mind : 3 in defense and 2 in midfield. Roles above positions.
With this animation, Liverpool creates more space and outnumber the opponent is easier to do. However, I want to see this with a team which press with far more intensity than Spurs on Sunday, and also the score really helped Liverpool to establish this approach.
To conclude, this new approach has several advantages, brings more control for the Reds in midfield. I think replacing Arnold at the core of build-up strategy is a relevant idea, and also including more Jones and Elliott with their moves (drop-offs…)
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