How Chelsea lost against Milan in pre-season

SeB · August 2, 2012

I decided to have a close look on Emanuelson's goal against us. Even if it's pre-season, this is basically a situation we used to face in the past and that we'll be likely to face again next season. And I willingly chosed a catchy cliché title

First of all I try to summarize what Villas Boas wanted to d, what he didn't manage to do. Then I spoke about D Matteo's approach at the end of the season. To end the 1st part I summarize the pre-season, the lineups and some of my concerns based of last season and this pre season.

In the second part I cut the goal sequence in 15 images that I try to explain with a schematic representation.

And in the third part I try to have a wider look on the 4-2-3-1 shape, the difference with 4-3-3 and then a short description of the players able to play in the CAM role and who can act as a 3rd midfielder when the ball is lost.

My conclusion which is my own point of view puts on the table the fact that the 4-3-3 and the density that it allows in midfield may be made necessary by itself at one stage of the season. And also because it's the shape in which our most consistant performer for one and a half year is the most confortable.

Here's the link (sorry, french)

http://mypremierleag...-en-pre-saison/

And here's a spoiler lol

______________

I think we could discuss here the pros and cons of different shapes (mostly 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3 we'll be likely to use next season) keeping in mind the idea of global balance, with a coherent defensive basis and with enough attacking link between the lines as well

Blue-in-me-Veins · August 2, 2012

too many threads..........time to merge them.

GhanaBoy · August 2, 2012

The 4-3-3 is the way to go. As it gets the best out of the players we have at hand. In my previous post I have talked about Ramires inability to pass, and control the ball which would make him an option for the 4-2-3-1 but in a 4-3-3 , or 4-3-2-1 heserves as a very important player. Both interms of his deffensive and offensive capabilities , his drive( deep piercing runs), and his energy which in tern gives us a certain tempo to our game (plus a plan . His lack of composure with the ball can be fixed with the inclusion of Mata on his side of the field ( Hazard-Torres-Mata) as he will roam and be creative on that side while Ramires would add the energy and overlapping runs( both through the middle and around the Spaniard) Not to mention do all the deffensive work ( tracking back etc..) that Mat lacks when he is played on the wing.

: 4-3-3: 4-( oscar-mikel-Ramires)- ( Hazard-Torres-Mata)

PS: Ramires has been called by Brasil for an International friendly lets see how he and Oscar are played together by Mano Manezes.

manpe · August 2, 2012

Too bad it's in French, would have been an excellent read I imagine.

Heisenberg · August 2, 2012

Je lis

laura90 · August 2, 2012

Too bad it's in French, would have been an excellent read I imagine.

Hope this can help.

HOW CHELSEA LOST AGAINST MILAN IN PRE - SEASON

Chelsea was playing its fourth preseason meeting at its mercantile summer tour to promote the United States. If the goal of a pre-season at a big club is primarily to return the group to a physically homogeneous given the delayed return from holiday (due to competitions by the International) and the arrival of recruits, it also acts as first developer tactic early in the season regarding the establishment collective. MyPremierLeague offers a novel approach by dissecting a goal with fifteen patterns.

1. State of Play in Chelsea

2. The goal in 15 frames

3. Lessons and Perspectives

State of Play in Chelsea

The departure of Carlo Ancelotti after a 2011 season below that achieved last year (championship and cup double) despite a second place in the Championship, Chelsea decided to entrust the keys to the club in a former supervisor of the opposition at the time of Jose Mourinho, Andre Villas Boas, who became the darling of the media and placed under the spotlight after his historic quadrupled his first full season with Porto (1) (a ')

This former student of Bobby Robson comes the wallet full of sketches tactics and game ideas that convinced Abramovich to raise the termination clause of the manager at the age of 33 years. Inspired by the Dutch school, "AVB" really likes 4-3-3, possession of a game based on a block and a high dynamic pressing. His lack of experience and decisions dryly written down (2) will weaken its position at the club especially as his tactics does not gradually as the season progresses, producing week after week comedy shows on the phases of including defensive transition. At the juncture where Chelsea were to enter the knockout lanes of the FA Cup and Champions League (3) and on the "run in" Championship, the London club returns the Portuguese and replace it with his now ex-Deputy Roberto Di Matteo (4).

Returning to the basic tactics in all areas of the game (4-3-3 to 4-2-3-1 passage, reducing the space between the lines and stopped work on phases), Di Matteo will enjoy overwhelming motivation of the group as and as trophies approach to win the FA Cup and the Champions League especially at the price of bravery on 90 minutes and hyper defensive tactics. Where some see a result, the end of Championship will be played in flip-flops with no intention of taking the initiative of the result, leading to a sixth place that will ultimately inconsequential because of the qualification (essential point of view financial) automatic Champions League final victory gained.

The departure of Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou and Jose Bosingwa opened the door to a renewal and strengthening of the workforce with the arrival of Eden Hazard (Lille OSC, € 35), Marko Marin (W. Bremen, 7.5M €) and Oscar (I. Porto Alegre, € 25, who missed the tour due to participation in the London Olympics). After a late season 2012 and performed selective piecemeal, Roberto Di Matteo must now demonstrate that it can develop a coherent game plan on how long after getting a one-year contract plus an option year.

If the preseason allowed to see the changing of young players like Lukaku (holds four meetings during this time), Sam Hutchinson, Lucas Piazon (scoring against PSG) or Nathaniel Chalobah, Todd Kane, Josh McEachran and Jamal Blackman, it is gradually replaced by teams start becoming closer with an 11 least types of substitutions during a game

However, the guideline is not obvious to grasp and the first lessons of this pre-season already reporting problems recurring in the recent past, namely a lack of organization on the defensive transition phases or propensity too large to concede chances. The Blues have not succeeded in making the matches, while some sequences have shown the need to have a player capable of putting his foot on the ball (nipping in the bud the idea of bringing a fanciful offensive compartment), d Others have emphasized especially the void between offensive attacks rare sequences placed handle and hand created on 4 meetings.

Conceding its second straight loss against an opponent affordable (after the MLS All Star, 3-2) AC Milan face a "jet-laggué" (5) despite a consistent starting composition on paper; Chelsea Di Matteo (surprisingly quiet on the bench) seems clearly running without a clear improvement is notable for the series of meetings.

The purpose of this analysis seems to show the defensive mistakes that can not be compensated or caught by the uneven distribution of incoherent and spots between defensive players losing possession.

__________

(1) : Super Portugal, Championship, Portuguese Cup and UEFA Europa League 2011

(1 '): See Chelsea FC Season Review & Preview

(2) : The media will be meat and drink of the conflict between the Portuguese and the "frameworks" including Frank Lampard's locker room, now more than the first player lying on the game sheets. Villas Boas will also restrict access to the building's main training center at Cobham only professional players while sending Alex and Nicolas Anelka, awaiting departure, train with the reserves.

(3) : After a draw at home to pitiful Birmingham City (1-1) and a heavy defeat in Naples in consequence 1/8th final of the Champions League (1-3).

(4): 119 games for 15 goals between 1996 and 2002, winning the FA Cup in 1997 and 2000, the League Cup in 1998 and the 1998 Cup Winners Cup and European Super Cup 1998. Chelsea assistant since the beginning of season 2011/2012.

(5) : AC Milan began his preparation and Chelsea played after a meeting in Germany a few days earlier.

Following a release of Marco Amelia reached the head by Ramires, the ball arrives at the feet of Bakaye Traore. Frank Lampard leaves the Malian middle while Marin puts to lock the angle passes inwards. Bakaye Traore transmits Igniazio Abate.

Step 1

Kevin Prince Boateng wins and just call for the ball between the lines. Having seen the appeal of his partner, the Ghanaian is served by Abate. David Luiz out of the defensive line (light blue dotted arrow) to play the duel. The ball returns to Marko Marin (dotted gray).

It is interesting to note in this picture that John Obi Mikel is in the center of the circle representing their area of play in this situation. Aligned "double pivot" with Frank Lampard, Mikel posirionnement covers of his captain. Thus, it also keeps an eye on Boateng and Montolivo while Ramires is close to Nocerino (blue bubble). This strategic positioning of Nigeria and especially the rapid response of David Luiz does not require that Mikel slides instead of Luiz to compensate for his release from the defensive line, visible dotted light blue.

At the top of the image appears Branislav Ivanovic marking Stephen El Shaarawy (invisible). The Italo-Egyptian adopts a very high position in order to occupy the Serbian side who should be attentive to its placement relative to the line of defense.

Step 2

Marko Marin plays directly on Frank Lampard, David Luiz continues its climb to complete the triangle. At the prospect of launching an offensive, Ramires is projected forward quickly with the aim of bringing the surplus with its characteristics races forward ("late run", which corresponds to an arrival launched Late in the penalty area, marked by the blue dotted arrow).

John Obi Mikel finds herself equidistant from Boateng, Montolivo and Nocerino now on it must ensure that any remaining cover of Lampard.

Step 3

David Luiz to Marko Marin pass that attempts to take the ball but it is properly enclosed by Abate passes and gets the ball. Until the loss of control of Marin, Ramires continues its forward stroke.

Step 4

Abate restarts behind Daniele Bonera receding to pass his guard. Although the attack is aborted, Frank Lampard (in square teal) who recovered the captain's armband a few minutes earlier indicated its partners to mount the block and positioned above. Eden Hazard triggers its pressing on Daniele Bonera (thick arrows).

Igniazio Abate will replace Marin while continuing his run. Near the center circle, Ramires continues to advance. Ricardo Montolivo returns to its penalty area.

Step 5

Daniele Bonera passes Marco Amelia who is awaiting a second stimulus solution as Fernando Torres and Mario Yepes Ramires monitor and Djamel Mesbah (blue bubbles). Abate will replace Igniazio while Daniele Bonera proposes a solution recovery. Eden Hazard during its continuous pressing, Ricardo Montolivo changes direction and is positioned at the forefront of the green triangle. Frank Lampard fires its dry spell and the Italian environment.

Step 6

Amelia goes to Ricardo Montolivo which transmits a key to Daniele Bonera. As the keeper of AC Milan did not choose to restart on Yepes (who had taken a step back), Fernando Torres to trigger a dry Montolivo.

Step 7

Daniele Bonera can find Abate before him, Frank Lampard its momentum will block the angle changes from side to Montolivo (orange corner). Marin puts in not hunted to block the angle passes (orange corner) to Traore and inside the field. Torres continues his laundry while Hazard was replace.

Step 8

While Frank Lampard and Marko Marin are placed to block transmission to the interior by passes (orange corner), Abate has field before him and takes his lane with the ball (red double arrow). Lampard reacted to the decision of the Italian (thick dotted line) but is too far away to intervene.

Step 9

Boateng picks up again from its position and comes to ask below. David Luiz had remained in contact with the Ghanaian, he goes back to his old position and is now in the opposing half. Bakaye Traoré puts as Mikel who followed the Malian.

Note the replacement of Nocerino to the center circle while Ramires stopped (in the yellow star).

The opportunity to eliminate an opposing defender (central, additionally) in his own half is too good; Boateng plays of his body (orange curve) and neutralizes David Luiz without touching the ball that continues to race ahead.

Step 10

The ball arrives on Paulo Ferreira puisqu'Urby Emanuelson has not felt the blow, too busy staring at the geometric patterns of the lawn, the Dutch did not anticipate the feint of Boateng. The situation presented to John Obi Mikel plot thickens as Luiz is out of position (position "default" is the blue dot). Ramires would begin the replacement of materialized by the yellow arrow, yet it remains fixed in its position. Result, John Obi Mikel can not compensate for the release of David Luiz because it must monitor (red bubbles) Traore and Nocerino that reverses direction and moves towards the axis of the right field.

This creates an abnormal area (dotted orange) where Mikel can position themselves (the dotted blue squares moving materialize if Mikel Ramires was descended from a line) but which is totally free Emanuelson marking the outposts.

Checking the placement of Branislav Ivanovic, Gary Cahill takes a step back in order to intervene if the ball reaches Emanuelson. His new project area is green (to work on a player facing him), positioned lower, it may trigger the offside trap as he is the leader of this defense and specialist exercise. (1)

Paulo Ferreira made the choice to restart straight forward and chose Frank Lampard at the expense of Marko Marin in the gap formed by Boateng and Traore (green band). The blue dots indicate the three options available to the Portuguese side.

Step 11

Frank Lampard is back in the game, the lack of automatic instinctive with his new partners and Marine Hazard (both summer signings non-English speakers) that no captain does alert (phylacteries) of the explosive output of Montolivo (thick red dashed ). Ramires is always proudly planted near the center circle and let Mikel still torn between three players (Nocerino, Traore and Emanuelson).

The proximity of Frank Lampard prevents swapping of Paulo Ferreira and David Luiz, the speed of the action leaves not used to replace David Luiz backwards. The two Lusophone retreating toward their goal, David Luiz in the most perfunctory of ways by walking and Paulo Ferreira as default positioning top of Luiz Ferreira does not come to "tighten" Boateng (both players would then have been a line two players, or a range of passes, instead of a "cameraman" covered by a player back).

The Brazilian defender is in front of his goal when he should be back on the Boateng to prevent it from returning.

Step 12

Montolivo opposed with his leg and the ball comes on Boateng (dotted gray) while trying to replace Luiz crash (blue dots). While the Brazilian had to paste the Ghanaian middle (yellow dots), Boateng has now Luiz space and no longer trying to make a facade of opposition between the ball and the goal. This plan illustrates the broader problem situation that Mikel can not intercalate into the red zone since then leave the inside free since Ramires did not make his return on defensive Nocerino (yellow arrow). His case is hopeless; of two possible solutions (decline in the area or stay there), two situations lead to intractable imbalance faced.

If Mikel was positioned in the red zone, Boateng would send the ball to Nocerino who would be in an ideal situation; launched against three defenders isolated whose two extremes are positioned on the outside of their marking. The previous frame, we see Ferreira put backwards leaving Emanuelson covered by Gary Cahill in front of the Interstate 96 (Highway 2 × 5-way through Miami) in direction of the goal of Cech. At the top of the image, we see a similar investment of Branislav Ivanovic.

Already hampered by the high positioning of the striker Milan, it is also possible to link the tactical mistakes of his Serbian frequent changes of position for several seasons, alternating between the right hinge and the right back position.

Stephan El Shaarawy starts a diagonal run (red) which instinctively activates the departure of Branislav Ivanovic (blue dots) that work will be to catch up with her two meters behind.

Step 13

Gary Cahill stepped back to be master of the offside line for his team, he began to realize the movement of the offside trap (dashed blue squares) before Boateng transmits the ball. This tactic involves quick exit just before the start of the ball, so it requires a synchronization failure watch since it is difficult (especially for a central defender) to make a sudden change of direction to head back to his goal; the backlog at the start are rarely recovered thirty yards away.

A split second later and Gary Cahill's maneuver would have succeeded in reaching the line of yellow spots while putting offside before the pass Emanuelson Boateng. But the Englishman has not seen the reverse stroke of Ivanovic who finds himself at the orange dotted line at the start of the ball and is a few decimetres Emanuelson (if one can consider Ivanovic Cahill cover the Dutch with their heads)

That triggered the trap out of play, Cahill is no longer in a position to cover, leaving Boateng with a huge range to find Emanuelson (green triangle). Since Mikel has chosen to protect the interior, Boateng therefore chooses the depth. Transmission Password exactly where Mikel would set upon return of Ramires.

Milan striker El Shaarawy performs a movement of school with a run in S allowing it to gain speed on the first loop, keep the speed on the side passage along the offside line and then change again Executive in due course.

Step 14

English defender (who missed Euro 2012 because of broken jaw) is totally disillusioned by seeing the play to continue. He thought lie last defender (dotted yellow) at the start of the ball. Since the wizard does not raise his flag, Cahill changes direction while Prince Boateng launched Urby Emanuelson depth.

Ferreira marks a slight pause, seeing his teammate claim a bench and thus takes even further behind.

Note the passivity of the two former Benfiquistes Ramires and Luiz (in the yellow stars) that did not move a hair.

El Shaarawy is always at stake and accelerates towards the goal.

END OF ACTION

Following the action constitutes a training exercise against 2 of 2 perfectly realized by the attackers Milanese (assuming Ferreira is now out of the race). Seeing the late Gary Cahill and therefore benefiting from being at full speed for about twenty yards, Ivanovic made the choice to try to intersect the trajectory of Emanuelson.

The lack of automation of the pair-Ivanovic Cahill (aligned only 6 times in this configuration in the Championship last season) likely explains why Cahill then does not cross the path of the Serbian (light blue, that the English would from doing) to return to the El Shaarawy happy with the vertical stroke to the left can now fully demarcated.

The Dutch managed to drag the ball to his teammate by eliminating two defenders at once.

Because, Petr Cech comes out of his goal. Ivanovic then moves to the goal line, Cahill comes to "cover" out of Petr Cech. The Italo-Egyptian attempts to wrap the ball but Cech pushes his attempt to shoulder, the ball reaches Emanuelson can now finally taking against Ivanovic to walk.

_________________

(1) In 2010/2011, Gary Cahill was an important link in the organization of his Bolton team. Aligned to 4-4-2 and focusing its game on ball possession and perpetual motion, this system required a high defensive line where English has been particularly successful in "winning" 53 offsides or opposing the second best total in the championship behind Fabio Coloccini (62).

We had already spent a Brief from the situation of Bolton (in comparison with that of Blackburn) during the winter. Due to the loss of key players and injuries in their squad, Owen Coyle has returned to more basic direct this season, as his main concerns lay in the density of his midfield. However, we note that Wheater and Knight are yet in a good position with their 36 and 19 games off "earned".

While Villas Boas had developed a high defense that malfunctioned on the first part of season, winter recruitment Cahill is due to this faculty. However, the return similar (relatively speaking) to direct more fundamental led Chelsea to play lower court's Portuguese manager then wait patiently error opponent without taking the initiative under the leadership of Roberto Di Matteo. Which may explain the total of nine (!) Sets out "won" by the International English on the season.

LESSONS AND PERSPECTIVES

The organization is the key, if this precept applies in most situations on land, by its necessity is emphasized to the extent it would face a classic situation. Dropping out of an offensive player causes the output of a defender of his line of defense, all creating a space that must be compensated (since this is an avenue to achieve a diagonal run for a player outside).

The Chelsea midfielder is organized into double pivot on this situation. Unlike 4-3-3 (4-1-2-2-1) that allows a rule from midfield and permanent protection of the "back four" for one day between the defense line and environment field, the 4-2-3-1 gives way to another division of labor.

The double pivot consists of a pair of midfielders we want the fullest possible to transform the defensive midfielder by trade in another offensive player, leaving the axis of the midfield players to two, not three. An example of this implementation is the German team whose pair Khedira-Schweinsteiger had included a player who will push its shares and to project forward component and a more defensive player assigned to cover the climbs her partner. The range of expertise of these two players makes a timely reversal of roles in different situations.

Thus, the situation can be extremely simplified by imagining the two midfielders attached by a rope. In the 4-3-3, the defensive midfielder's role is to work with his central defenders, it's the middle runner mounted to compensate for the support player (or "box-to-box). An illustration of this organization can be the mid-Mikel Ballack-Lampard in 2009/2010 whose roles were precisely these.

In the 4-2-3-1, the medium to defensive component (the difference in terminology is the broader role of that player, but also able to boost to get support) works primarily with his partner of "double pivot ". Primarily responsible for the cover of his partner, his compensation outputs defenders can not be achieved if the lines are sufficiently close to each other and the game of musical chairs can be done fairly quickly. Here, Mikel can not slip into the space created by the outputs of Luiz if a midfielder (Ramires) down one line, which was not the case.

From the perspective of an application of this system of 4-2-3-1 on the season, Roberto Di Matteo must strike a balance and weigh the pros and cons between a loss of dominance of middle ground to more support to offensive players. The key is also in the volume game of attacking midfielder and his ability to turn into the third midfielder on defensive transition phases.

Juan Mata played the second half of the season at that position but has (logically, for a first season in England) not yet demonstrated an ability to set foot on the ball and influence the game by mastering the pace. The Spanish environment is hampered by its low propensity to keep the ball, why is the fact that further enhance its ability to speed the game Mata seems predestined to a role of attacking midfielder launched its habitats from the center circle (similar to the role asked Ashley Young against Switzerland at Wembley a year ago)

According to the rumors at Stamford Bridge, Eden Hazard had obtained his manager an axial position in this game system (identical to that with which he played most of the season with Lille). However, although it is one of the players most physically sharpened, Hazard has not demonstrated the ability to get low enough not to fall back quickly on the first match of the tour. Just like most of his chances against Seattle ten days ago, this is a chain and a rapid turnover in the middle of the opponent's half Belgian middle made the difference.

Roberto Di Matteo began the meeting with the Portuguese Raul Meireles in this position of attacking midfielder. At its good post-winter with Liverpool, the middle hipster made a remarkable display of its management area by making it available at the right time at right place and finding himself in position to finish the action. This season, Meireles was more disturbed by the apparent absence of instructions to his post which has made for interesting debut (playing in a mobile relay key) players scattered among all the spots in the midfield.

His late season will be punctuated with brilliant performances, however, when the towers of the Champions League to a position more akin to that of a third midfielder in front of two others. However due to its later recovery (semi-finalist of the Euro with Portugal), Portuguese has not succeeded in making this meeting, due to its replacement by halftime while Marko Marin Eden slipping hazard in the axis.

With rookie Brazilian Oscar (able to play this role), Di Matteo has a new solution for this post. However it must find a collective cohesion (absent at the end of last season as evidenced by far too many opportunities granted) while reflecting on the use of Ramires . If the midfield is guilty of non-withdrawal of this action, it is nonetheless an essential part of his team for a year and a half. Its position on the right side protects the right side of the corridor defensively as he compensates the imbalance caused by dézonages Mata (to do this, the medium comes to work in the central-right side leaving the corridor, this Malouda on the left that is when he plays). However, its ability to conduct cons going up and the ball piercing the curtain opponent is underused in this position.

To the extent that Chelsea has rarely been successful without an efficient Ramires for two years, letting its importance, it is not excluded that the 4-3-3 is to reimpose itself after the start of the season.

manpe · August 2, 2012

@laura90, it's probably an automatic translation? I'd rather learn French. But thanks anyway, I might read it if I find the strength.

Peace. · August 2, 2012

Nice article Seb. Qui plus est écrit dans un bon style et bon français

Can you tell me your point of view on this 4-2-3-1, especially on the midfield-two ? I am curious about what you think... Because I doubt it will well work. Indeed, I believe the fact Mikel and Lampard aren't complementary enough, specially in term of mobility, will cost us. And I was surprised you didn't speak more about Lampard's positionning in your article. In your analyse, it appears to me he is way too high on the pitch (he deserts the place where he is supposed to be) and thus leave space in the midfield...

TorontoChelsea · August 2, 2012

@laura90, it's probably an automatic translation? I'd rather learn French. But thanks anyway, I might read it if I find the strength.

What??? If you don't read this in English, you will miss amazing sentences like "Frank Lampard is back in the game, the lack of automatic instinctive with his new partners and Marine Hazard (both summer signings non-English speakers) that no captain does alert (phylacteries) of the explosive output of Montolivo (thick red dashed ).

wj818 · August 3, 2012

Nice article and really informative too.

I do question whose gonna play in those double pivot role and would wanna know who would you guys choose? IMO Mikel and Lampard neither have the legs to cover or tackle, and their defensive positioning is in doubt too. Also, they tend to delay the release of our attackers, by passing sideways and that natural instinct of securing the possession first and star building the attack from the defense (Post-Mourhino-syndrome) , sometimes does leave those runs upfront wasted. (one example is : Torres pace and intelligent runs were fully capitalized (some might say exploited) by Gerrard (even Alonso) whose long and direct passes that usually originated from deep in their own half, whereas since joining Chelsea, Torres receives the ball pretty late, that combined with the added pressure to prove himself, he tries to be direct and goes for a one on one, but since the opponents defense is pretty set by then, he succumbs to other players even though he manages to go past one. Even Anelka changed his style of play, and started to drift low to receive the ball, while sacrificing one his biggest asset running behind defenders with those intelligent runs. Surely We cant let that happen to Torres can we?)

I know I'm being Harsh to lamps but you guys have to agree Lamps was never renowned for his long passing, rather for being a box to box scoring midfielder which still can be used in a three man midfield when we have a extra man, but not in 4-2-3-1. And as you all know about Mikel's forward passing skill, keeping that in mind, Isnt it logical to at least put one midfielder who has the vision and the tendency to release the ball forward quickly and accurately? Let me remind you that our transition from being in possession deep in our own half to attacking the other end usually breaks up or slows down due to the lack of holding players with vision and passing technique, like Schweinsteiger, Alonso, Modric, or even Xavi, all of them have that natural attacking mindset while the other is more defensive. Although Frank did prove he can adapt to that position, but all the odds are against him, not only his legs a wearing off, but the style of play we are aiming for "the sexy football' is much fast pace than the Mourhino era style of play ( which frankly speaking is very slow compared to our new vision) and im afraid it will be too much for him plus the position (holding midfielder) really doesn't suit his game since it will demand so much more of chasing, running and closing down from our two midfielders, not to forget positioning and tackling, And we need those two midfielders to get as much time as they can get and make a solid foundation since communication between them will be key. So I would rather use Lamps experience like Sir Alex did with Giggs instead of making him the starting first 11.

Personally, I always saw Mikel's potential, and hoped he would one day, fullfill his destiny. But as each season passes, my faith in him dies a little, as we witness just a glimpse of his talent, but it never seems to reach the pinnacle. He comes second to none when it comes to shielding the ball, twisting and turning away from pressure or distributing the ball in midfield ( Sadly, mostly sideways), and sadly thats all the good things i can think about him. As a player who is fighting for a position as a defensive midfielder, he hardly has any defensive attributes, or has shown us yet. He doesnt have pace (Remember against Inter milan in the UCL), his tackles for a defensive midfielder is horrible, although he does show good positioning and reading of the game sometimes, he still is very inconsistent and sometimes downright lazy, which is shown time and time again by our back four getting no protection from him, as his timed tackle fails to break yet another attack. Yes! the potential is there, and yes!! we haven't given him the series of games he might need, (might turn out to be like Lucas Levi, who knows?) but that said he has to improve too at least defensively and get a little more pace, forget the offensive weakness, it would be too much to ask for. Luckily, for him due to the lack of proper DMF, this might be the year he will get chances, But failing to impress this time around, will be costly, and i bet he would end up like Kalou if we dont sell him that is.

Trying to wrap it up, Lamps and Mikel can still prove themselves and fight for their respective positions, like every other player, since we are still in "The Transition Season 2" But Im looking forward to see if Oscar (though he plays a more attacking role) can adjust to one of the holding midfielder role, I knw his dubbed 'The next Kaka" but his passing skills reminds me of 'Xavi' And if all fails we can always revert back to 4-3-3, not bad at all!!

Paul1970 · August 3, 2012

Hope this can help.
HOW CHELSEA LOST AGAINST MILAN IN PRE - SEASON
Chelsea was playing its fourth preseason meeting at its mercantile summer tour to promote the United States. If the goal of a pre-season at a big club is primarily to return the group to a physically homogeneous given the delayed return from holiday (due to competitions by the International) and the arrival of recruits, it also acts as first developer tactic early in the season regarding the establishment collective. MyPremierLeague offers a novel approach by dissecting a goal with fifteen patterns.
1. State of Play in Chelsea
2. The goal in 15 frames
3. Lessons and Perspectives
State of Play in Chelsea
The departure of Carlo Ancelotti after a 2011 season below that achieved last year (championship and cup double) despite a second place in the Championship, Chelsea decided to entrust the keys to the club in a former supervisor of the opposition at the time of Jose Mourinho, Andre Villas Boas, who became the darling of the media and placed under the spotlight after his historic quadrupled his first full season with Porto (1) (a ')
This former student of Bobby Robson comes the wallet full of sketches tactics and game ideas that convinced Abramovich to raise the termination clause of the manager at the age of 33 years. Inspired by the Dutch school, "AVB" really likes 4-3-3, possession of a game based on a block and a high dynamic pressing. His lack of experience and decisions dryly written down (2) will weaken its position at the club especially as his tactics does not gradually as the season progresses, producing week after week comedy shows on the phases of including defensive transition. At the juncture where Chelsea were to enter the knockout lanes of the FA Cup and Champions League (3) and on the "run in" Championship, the London club returns the Portuguese and replace it with his now ex-Deputy Roberto Di Matteo (4).
Returning to the basic tactics in all areas of the game (4-3-3 to 4-2-3-1 passage, reducing the space between the lines and stopped work on phases), Di Matteo will enjoy overwhelming motivation of the group as and as trophies approach to win the FA Cup and the Champions League especially at the price of bravery on 90 minutes and hyper defensive tactics. Where some see a result, the end of Championship will be played in flip-flops with no intention of taking the initiative of the result, leading to a sixth place that will ultimately inconsequential because of the qualification (essential point of view financial) automatic Champions League final victory gained.
The departure of Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou and Jose Bosingwa opened the door to a renewal and strengthening of the workforce with the arrival of Eden Hazard (Lille OSC, € 35), Marko Marin (W. Bremen, 7.5M €) and Oscar (I. Porto Alegre, € 25, who missed the tour due to participation in the London Olympics). After a late season 2012 and performed selective piecemeal, Roberto Di Matteo must now demonstrate that it can develop a coherent game plan on how long after getting a one-year contract plus an option year.
If the preseason allowed to see the changing of young players like Lukaku (holds four meetings during this time), Sam Hutchinson, Lucas Piazon (scoring against PSG) or Nathaniel Chalobah, Todd Kane, Josh McEachran and Jamal Blackman, it is gradually replaced by teams start becoming closer with an 11 least types of substitutions during a game
However, the guideline is not obvious to grasp and the first lessons of this pre-season already reporting problems recurring in the recent past, namely a lack of organization on the defensive transition phases or propensity too large to concede chances. The Blues have not succeeded in making the matches, while some sequences have shown the need to have a player capable of putting his foot on the ball (nipping in the bud the idea of bringing a fanciful offensive compartment), d Others have emphasized especially the void between offensive attacks rare sequences placed handle and hand created on 4 meetings.
Conceding its second straight loss against an opponent affordable (after the MLS All Star, 3-2) AC Milan face a "jet-laggué" (5) despite a consistent starting composition on paper; Chelsea Di Matteo (surprisingly quiet on the bench) seems clearly running without a clear improvement is notable for the series of meetings.
The purpose of this analysis seems to show the defensive mistakes that can not be compensated or caught by the uneven distribution of incoherent and spots between defensive players losing possession.
__________
(1) : Super Portugal, Championship, Portuguese Cup and UEFA Europa League 2011
(1 '): See Chelsea FC Season Review & Preview
(2) : The media will be meat and drink of the conflict between the Portuguese and the "frameworks" including Frank Lampard's locker room, now more than the first player lying on the game sheets. Villas Boas will also restrict access to the building's main training center at Cobham only professional players while sending Alex and Nicolas Anelka, awaiting departure, train with the reserves.
(3) : After a draw at home to pitiful Birmingham City (1-1) and a heavy defeat in Naples in consequence 1/8th final of the Champions League (1-3).
(4): 119 games for 15 goals between 1996 and 2002, winning the FA Cup in 1997 and 2000, the League Cup in 1998 and the 1998 Cup Winners Cup and European Super Cup 1998. Chelsea assistant since the beginning of season 2011/2012.
(5) : AC Milan began his preparation and Chelsea played after a meeting in Germany a few days earlier.
Following a release of Marco Amelia reached the head by Ramires, the ball arrives at the feet of Bakaye Traore. Frank Lampard leaves the Malian middle while Marin puts to lock the angle passes inwards. Bakaye Traore transmits Igniazio Abate.
Step 1
Kevin Prince Boateng wins and just call for the ball between the lines. Having seen the appeal of his partner, the Ghanaian is served by Abate. David Luiz out of the defensive line (light blue dotted arrow) to play the duel. The ball returns to Marko Marin (dotted gray).
It is interesting to note in this picture that John Obi Mikel is in the center of the circle representing their area of play in this situation. Aligned "double pivot" with Frank Lampard, Mikel posirionnement covers of his captain. Thus, it also keeps an eye on Boateng and Montolivo while Ramires is close to Nocerino (blue bubble). This strategic positioning of Nigeria and especially the rapid response of David Luiz does not require that Mikel slides instead of Luiz to compensate for his release from the defensive line, visible dotted light blue.
At the top of the image appears Branislav Ivanovic marking Stephen El Shaarawy (invisible). The Italo-Egyptian adopts a very high position in order to occupy the Serbian side who should be attentive to its placement relative to the line of defense.
Step 2
Marko Marin plays directly on Frank Lampard, David Luiz continues its climb to complete the triangle. At the prospect of launching an offensive, Ramires is projected forward quickly with the aim of bringing the surplus with its characteristics races forward ("late run", which corresponds to an arrival launched Late in the penalty area, marked by the blue dotted arrow).
John Obi Mikel finds herself equidistant from Boateng, Montolivo and Nocerino now on it must ensure that any remaining cover of Lampard.
Step 3
David Luiz to Marko Marin pass that attempts to take the ball but it is properly enclosed by Abate passes and gets the ball. Until the loss of control of Marin, Ramires continues its forward stroke.
Step 4
Abate restarts behind Daniele Bonera receding to pass his guard. Although the attack is aborted, Frank Lampard (in square teal) who recovered the captain's armband a few minutes earlier indicated its partners to mount the block and positioned above. Eden Hazard triggers its pressing on Daniele Bonera (thick arrows).
Igniazio Abate will replace Marin while continuing his run. Near the center circle, Ramires continues to advance. Ricardo Montolivo returns to its penalty area.
Step 5
Daniele Bonera passes Marco Amelia who is awaiting a second stimulus solution as Fernando Torres and Mario Yepes Ramires monitor and Djamel Mesbah (blue bubbles). Abate will replace Igniazio while Daniele Bonera proposes a solution recovery. Eden Hazard during its continuous pressing, Ricardo Montolivo changes direction and is positioned at the forefront of the green triangle. Frank Lampard fires its dry spell and the Italian environment.
Step 6
Amelia goes to Ricardo Montolivo which transmits a key to Daniele Bonera. As the keeper of AC Milan did not choose to restart on Yepes (who had taken a step back), Fernando Torres to trigger a dry Montolivo.
Step 7
Daniele Bonera can find Abate before him, Frank Lampard its momentum will block the angle changes from side to Montolivo (orange corner). Marin puts in not hunted to block the angle passes (orange corner) to Traore and inside the field. Torres continues his laundry while Hazard was replace.
Step 8
While Frank Lampard and Marko Marin are placed to block transmission to the interior by passes (orange corner), Abate has field before him and takes his lane with the ball (red double arrow). Lampard reacted to the decision of the Italian (thick dotted line) but is too far away to intervene.
Step 9
Boateng picks up again from its position and comes to ask below. David Luiz had remained in contact with the Ghanaian, he goes back to his old position and is now in the opposing half. Bakaye Traoré puts as Mikel who followed the Malian.
Note the replacement of Nocerino to the center circle while Ramires stopped (in the yellow star).
The opportunity to eliminate an opposing defender (central, additionally) in his own half is too good; Boateng plays of his body (orange curve) and neutralizes David Luiz without touching the ball that continues to race ahead.
Step 10
The ball arrives on Paulo Ferreira puisqu'Urby Emanuelson has not felt the blow, too busy staring at the geometric patterns of the lawn, the Dutch did not anticipate the feint of Boateng. The situation presented to John Obi Mikel plot thickens as Luiz is out of position (position "default" is the blue dot). Ramires would begin the replacement of materialized by the yellow arrow, yet it remains fixed in its position. Result, John Obi Mikel can not compensate for the release of David Luiz because it must monitor (red bubbles) Traore and Nocerino that reverses direction and moves towards the axis of the right field.
This creates an abnormal area (dotted orange) where Mikel can position themselves (the dotted blue squares moving materialize if Mikel Ramires was descended from a line) but which is totally free Emanuelson marking the outposts.
Checking the placement of Branislav Ivanovic, Gary Cahill takes a step back in order to intervene if the ball reaches Emanuelson. His new project area is green (to work on a player facing him), positioned lower, it may trigger the offside trap as he is the leader of this defense and specialist exercise. (1)
Paulo Ferreira made the choice to restart straight forward and chose Frank Lampard at the expense of Marko Marin in the gap formed by Boateng and Traore (green band). The blue dots indicate the three options available to the Portuguese side.
Step 11
Frank Lampard is back in the game, the lack of automatic instinctive with his new partners and Marine Hazard (both summer signings non-English speakers) that no captain does alert (phylacteries) of the explosive output of Montolivo (thick red dashed ). Ramires is always proudly planted near the center circle and let Mikel still torn between three players (Nocerino, Traore and Emanuelson).
The proximity of Frank Lampard prevents swapping of Paulo Ferreira and David Luiz, the speed of the action leaves not used to replace David Luiz backwards. The two Lusophone retreating toward their goal, David Luiz in the most perfunctory of ways by walking and Paulo Ferreira as default positioning top of Luiz Ferreira does not come to "tighten" Boateng (both players would then have been a line two players, or a range of passes, instead of a "cameraman" covered by a player back).
The Brazilian defender is in front of his goal when he should be back on the Boateng to prevent it from returning.
Step 12
Montolivo opposed with his leg and the ball comes on Boateng (dotted gray) while trying to replace Luiz crash (blue dots). While the Brazilian had to paste the Ghanaian middle (yellow dots), Boateng has now Luiz space and no longer trying to make a facade of opposition between the ball and the goal. This plan illustrates the broader problem situation that Mikel can not intercalate into the red zone since then leave the inside free since Ramires did not make his return on defensive Nocerino (yellow arrow). His case is hopeless; of two possible solutions (decline in the area or stay there), two situations lead to intractable imbalance faced.
If Mikel was positioned in the red zone, Boateng would send the ball to Nocerino who would be in an ideal situation; launched against three defenders isolated whose two extremes are positioned on the outside of their marking. The previous frame, we see Ferreira put backwards leaving Emanuelson covered by Gary Cahill in front of the Interstate 96 (Highway 2 × 5-way through Miami) in direction of the goal of Cech. At the top of the image, we see a similar investment of Branislav Ivanovic.
Already hampered by the high positioning of the striker Milan, it is also possible to link the tactical mistakes of his Serbian frequent changes of position for several seasons, alternating between the right hinge and the right back position.
Stephan El Shaarawy starts a diagonal run (red) which instinctively activates the departure of Branislav Ivanovic (blue dots) that work will be to catch up with her two meters behind.
Step 13
Gary Cahill stepped back to be master of the offside line for his team, he began to realize the movement of the offside trap (dashed blue squares) before Boateng transmits the ball. This tactic involves quick exit just before the start of the ball, so it requires a synchronization failure watch since it is difficult (especially for a central defender) to make a sudden change of direction to head back to his goal; the backlog at the start are rarely recovered thirty yards away.
A split second later and Gary Cahill's maneuver would have succeeded in reaching the line of yellow spots while putting offside before the pass Emanuelson Boateng. But the Englishman has not seen the reverse stroke of Ivanovic who finds himself at the orange dotted line at the start of the ball and is a few decimetres Emanuelson (if one can consider Ivanovic Cahill cover the Dutch with their heads)
That triggered the trap out of play, Cahill is no longer in a position to cover, leaving Boateng with a huge range to find Emanuelson (green triangle). Since Mikel has chosen to protect the interior, Boateng therefore chooses the depth. Transmission Password exactly where Mikel would set upon return of Ramires.
Milan striker El Shaarawy performs a movement of school with a run in S allowing it to gain speed on the first loop, keep the speed on the side passage along the offside line and then change again Executive in due course.
Step 14
English defender (who missed Euro 2012 because of broken jaw) is totally disillusioned by seeing the play to continue. He thought lie last defender (dotted yellow) at the start of the ball. Since the wizard does not raise his flag, Cahill changes direction while Prince Boateng launched Urby Emanuelson depth.
Ferreira marks a slight pause, seeing his teammate claim a bench and thus takes even further behind.
Note the passivity of the two former Benfiquistes Ramires and Luiz (in the yellow stars) that did not move a hair.
El Shaarawy is always at stake and accelerates towards the goal.
END OF ACTION
Following the action constitutes a training exercise against 2 of 2 perfectly realized by the attackers Milanese (assuming Ferreira is now out of the race). Seeing the late Gary Cahill and therefore benefiting from being at full speed for about twenty yards, Ivanovic made the choice to try to intersect the trajectory of Emanuelson.
The lack of automation of the pair-Ivanovic Cahill (aligned only 6 times in this configuration in the Championship last season) likely explains why Cahill then does not cross the path of the Serbian (light blue, that the English would from doing) to return to the El Shaarawy happy with the vertical stroke to the left can now fully demarcated.
The Dutch managed to drag the ball to his teammate by eliminating two defenders at once.
Because, Petr Cech comes out of his goal. Ivanovic then moves to the goal line, Cahill comes to "cover" out of Petr Cech. The Italo-Egyptian attempts to wrap the ball but Cech pushes his attempt to shoulder, the ball reaches Emanuelson can now finally taking against Ivanovic to walk.
_________________
(1) In 2010/2011, Gary Cahill was an important link in the organization of his Bolton team. Aligned to 4-4-2 and focusing its game on ball possession and perpetual motion, this system required a high defensive line where English has been particularly successful in "winning" 53 offsides or opposing the second best total in the championship behind Fabio Coloccini (62).
We had already spent a Brief from the situation of Bolton (in comparison with that of Blackburn) during the winter. Due to the loss of key players and injuries in their squad, Owen Coyle has returned to more basic direct this season, as his main concerns lay in the density of his midfield. However, we note that Wheater and Knight are yet in a good position with their 36 and 19 games off "earned".
While Villas Boas had developed a high defense that malfunctioned on the first part of season, winter recruitment Cahill is due to this faculty. However, the return similar (relatively speaking) to direct more fundamental led Chelsea to play lower court's Portuguese manager then wait patiently error opponent without taking the initiative under the leadership of Roberto Di Matteo. Which may explain the total of nine (!) Sets out "won" by the International English on the season.
LESSONS AND PERSPECTIVES
The organization is the key, if this precept applies in most situations on land, by its necessity is emphasized to the extent it would face a classic situation. Dropping out of an offensive player causes the output of a defender of his line of defense, all creating a space that must be compensated (since this is an avenue to achieve a diagonal run for a player outside).
The Chelsea midfielder is organized into double pivot on this situation. Unlike 4-3-3 (4-1-2-2-1) that allows a rule from midfield and permanent protection of the "back four" for one day between the defense line and environment field, the 4-2-3-1 gives way to another division of labor.
The double pivot consists of a pair of midfielders we want the fullest possible to transform the defensive midfielder by trade in another offensive player, leaving the axis of the midfield players to two, not three. An example of this implementation is the German team whose pair Khedira-Schweinsteiger had included a player who will push its shares and to project forward component and a more defensive player assigned to cover the climbs her partner. The range of expertise of these two players makes a timely reversal of roles in different situations.
Thus, the situation can be extremely simplified by imagining the two midfielders attached by a rope. In the 4-3-3, the defensive midfielder's role is to work with his central defenders, it's the middle runner mounted to compensate for the support player (or "box-to-box). An illustration of this organization can be the mid-Mikel Ballack-Lampard in 2009/2010 whose roles were precisely these.
In the 4-2-3-1, the medium to defensive component (the difference in terminology is the broader role of that player, but also able to boost to get support) works primarily with his partner of "double pivot ". Primarily responsible for the cover of his partner, his compensation outputs defenders can not be achieved if the lines are sufficiently close to each other and the game of musical chairs can be done fairly quickly. Here, Mikel can not slip into the space created by the outputs of Luiz if a midfielder (Ramires) down one line, which was not the case.
From the perspective of an application of this system of 4-2-3-1 on the season, Roberto Di Matteo must strike a balance and weigh the pros and cons between a loss of dominance of middle ground to more support to offensive players. The key is also in the volume game of attacking midfielder and his ability to turn into the third midfielder on defensive transition phases.
Juan Mata played the second half of the season at that position but has (logically, for a first season in England) not yet demonstrated an ability to set foot on the ball and influence the game by mastering the pace. The Spanish environment is hampered by its low propensity to keep the ball, why is the fact that further enhance its ability to speed the game Mata seems predestined to a role of attacking midfielder launched its habitats from the center circle (similar to the role asked Ashley Young against Switzerland at Wembley a year ago)
According to the rumors at Stamford Bridge, Eden Hazard had obtained his manager an axial position in this game system (identical to that with which he played most of the season with Lille). However, although it is one of the players most physically sharpened, Hazard has not demonstrated the ability to get low enough not to fall back quickly on the first match of the tour. Just like most of his chances against Seattle ten days ago, this is a chain and a rapid turnover in the middle of the opponent's half Belgian middle made the difference.
Roberto Di Matteo began the meeting with the Portuguese Raul Meireles in this position of attacking midfielder. At its good post-winter with Liverpool, the middle hipster made a remarkable display of its management area by making it available at the right time at right place and finding himself in position to finish the action. This season, Meireles was more disturbed by the apparent absence of instructions to his post which has made for interesting debut (playing in a mobile relay key) players scattered among all the spots in the midfield.
His late season will be punctuated with brilliant performances, however, when the towers of the Champions League to a position more akin to that of a third midfielder in front of two others. However due to its later recovery (semi-finalist of the Euro with Portugal), Portuguese has not succeeded in making this meeting, due to its replacement by halftime while Marko Marin Eden slipping hazard in the axis.
With rookie Brazilian Oscar (able to play this role), Di Matteo has a new solution for this post. However it must find a collective cohesion (absent at the end of last season as evidenced by far too many opportunities granted) while reflecting on the use of Ramires . If the midfield is guilty of non-withdrawal of this action, it is nonetheless an essential part of his team for a year and a half. Its position on the right side protects the right side of the corridor defensively as he compensates the imbalance caused by dézonages Mata (to do this, the medium comes to work in the central-right side leaving the corridor, this Malouda on the left that is when he plays). However, its ability to conduct cons going up and the ball piercing the curtain opponent is underused in this position.
To the extent that Chelsea has rarely been successful without an efficient Ramires for two years, letting its importance, it is not excluded that the 4-3-3 is to reimpose itself after the start of the season.

But it does`nt tell me where i can park my bike?

SeB · August 3, 2012

Nice article Seb. Qui plus est écrit dans un bon style et bon français
Can you tell me your point of view on this 4-2-3-1, especially on the midfield-two ? I am curious about what you think... Because I doubt it will well work. Indeed, I believe the fact Mikel and Lampard aren't complementary enough, specially in term of mobility, will cost us. And I was surprised you didn't speak more about Lampard's positionning in your article. In your analyse, it appears to me he is way too high on the pitch (he deserts the place where he is supposed to be) and thus leave space in the midfield...

I do think 4-2-3-1 is not the system suited to put the foot on the ball and keeping enough possession to consider we're going to dominate the play rather than being dependent of what the other team does. My problem is that we haven't an attacking midfielder with enough volume and MF abilities to be regarded as a 3rd midfielder

The consequence is that defensively we have two midfielders who'll always be in numerical inferiority against three most of the time, in the case I analysed, Mikel has to do the defensive work of two players. That's not possible.

Lampard's positionning is proper in that case. In double pivot you have one player whose role is to go forward (but less than if he is a B2B) to provide support. The "Lampard"' player has also to launch the pressing, or in that case, carry his team mates to come a little higher on the pitch (in this very case it's just in order not to stay too deep and allow a measured pressure on Milan's distribution)

Mikel has to cover Lampard anyway, his first role is always to position himself at the right distance on the line passing through Lampard and Cech's goal.

The fact Lampard gets high in this situation is completely normal, the double pivot is a kind of swing (balançoire lol) because we need link between the lines. That's not Domenech's France with our two DM who never left their zone in front of the CBs (and then 3 minutes to carry the ball in the adverse half :lol: )

Lampard is a former box-to-box whereas Mikel is a very mindful player (who respects his manager's instructions) who used to play in a specific completely defensive role in another system. That's the reason he was dropped out for Essien when Ancelotti switched to 4-4-2 after Torres' arrival.

And that's the reason why in this double pivot organisation, we have Lampard who is attacking minded and Mikel defensive minded, and the result is that it's almost everytime Lampard who instigates the pressing and provides support whereas Mikel stays behind.

But that's not a fatality, Lampard is a clever player and very intelligent tactically, able to control the rythm of the play. He's not the one who can give 5 50 yard diagonal passes per game anymore but he knows when and where to give the ball. At the moment he's the only player in the squad who understand games's rythm so well.

I do trust in Mikel otherwise but he's not likely to play in another role at the moment, because he's our only proper DM and the one who maintains a bit of balance even in systems we played where this concept seems completely out of consideration

In fact if the defense had to stay organised until the end, it would be to the AM to ask the ball deep and dicting/orientating the play. Or we haven't that kind of player. So the players has to play in consequence, that's why we face inbalance situations

My point is that 4-2-3-1 doesn't allow possession. Defensively to stay organised it requires the two midfielders to stay deep and then suffer because they cannot come out their position whereas they'll always face three players. It's the highway to a defensive minded system where the team is pushed back

Due to the absence of a "third midfielder" in front of those two, providing the link between midfield and attack (here via Lampard) creates an inbalance. We havent this kind of player, Meireles can play there (it's his best position) but clearly (like we saw with Portugal) if he has the vision, the realisation of his creative passing game is awful and wasteful.

In fact that's the reason why I'm not convinced by Di Matteo and his tactics since he took over. I'd have prefered him to leave on a high (or even come back as the assistant) whereas someone with a genuine tactical knowledge would took over.

He made a proper assistant job after he took over, to be honest if Villas Boas wasn't so pretentious or idealistic he could have made the same proper tactical changes

The Skipper · August 3, 2012

Oscar. Oscar. Oscar.

Oscar could be that third midfielder that comes deep to distribute play, as it's part of his natural game. He has enormous tendencies to drop deeper and search for the ball.

I don't want to expect too much from the kid but I have this nagging feeling that'll he'll become very important to how we play sooner than we'll expect.

In theory, a team of:

Torres

Mata - Hazard

Oscar (drifting, dropping deep)

Mikel - Ramires

Should work a treat, as it allows us the flexibility to change from a 4-2-3-1 to a 4-3-3 (or even 4-1-4-1, with Oscar and Ramires moving to the right) when required. It is quite similar to the tactics Brazil employ actually.

Mikel does the defensive work, Ramires is our flying B2B, ball winning midfielder who helps out in attacking and defensive phases (which is entirely possible due to his enormous stamina) and Oscar drifts and drops deeper to receive the ball (whilst allowing a front three of Torres - Mata - Hazard to inflict damage) if we're in possession and trying to keep it.

I do realise this prohibits Oscar a little from his natural attacking tendencies but he's an intelligent player - once he's released the ball he'll naturally move into a decent position to support the attack.

Like I said once again, I don't want to expect too much from the kid but I really do feel he'll be vital for us. It's the only way the team can operate effectively with all of its best players incorporated, if Oscar is the main link between the transitions of midfield to attack.

Peace. · August 3, 2012

Yeah, I know one of the two midfielders forming this midfield-two has to get high on the pitch (both to do the pressing work, and to be the link between the defense and attack), while the other Central-Defensive-Midfielder has to stay deep in order to provide a cover in front of the defense. And I neither question Lampard's capacity to read the game nor his tactical awareness. Actually, to my mnd, his past success is mainly due to his cleverness to read the game and to place himself in the right position at the right moment. But considering the state of our squad, and how players in front of him function, I think it is a mistake to go as high as he goes, thus leaving Mikel alone. If there was an Antonio Valencia at each wings, it wouldn't be bothering.

But this is the only point I disagree with you. Otherwise, on the formation I do share more or less the same point of view. Indeed, as you rightly pointed out, we do not have this advanced midfielder with enough volume to come deep and help out the two defensive midfielders (both to build the game and do the defensive duties). Mata comes deep, but he isn't good enough when it comes to achieve the defensive tasks. Oscar also seems to come deep in order to participate to the play, but just as Mata, I don't think he is the kind of player to have enough volume to produce a good enough defensive job (it might change, but for now it's how I see him). As a consequence, our midfield-two will be exposed, and will be confronted to three or four players ! Which is a lost battle. Adding to this the fact they lack mobility and speed (I don't know what do you think about this), one could picture our midfield being all over the place and be overtaken by events (because they can't cover enough ground).

Indeed, while playing in a 4-2-3-1 formation, Madrid, Bayern and Germany aren't defensive set-minded. Their respective midfield-two (i.e. : Alonso-Kheidira ; Gustavo-Schweinsteiger ; Kheidira-Schweinsteiger) are a lot more mobile, fast and agressive than ours. Which play a big role in them not being cornered in defense by the opposition's midfield. That's why I can see our 4-2-3-1 formation being a failure this season (granted we keep playing this way) : we neither have the wingers/ACM to help out in order to get the defensive job done, nor the defensive midfielders to palliate to our frail advanced midfield.

This formation wasn't being a weakness last season. We weren't pushed back, since we were already sitting deep in defense. But this season, we haven't as a aim to "save the day", therefore, parking the bus shouldn't be an option anymore. Well, if we still play a defensive football, I'll consider this season as a failure. So, as things stand, the 4-2-3-1 isn't the appropriated formation to play an offensive football / possession football. So yeah, just as you I don't think this formation is a good solution anymore...

P.S. We also share the same view on RDM.

Django · August 3, 2012

Am I the only one who thinks people are resting for too much hope on Oscar's young shoulders? He looks great and all, but he's 20 and coming to a new continent. Usually in these cases the first season is a settling in period.

SeB · August 18, 2012

Nice article and really informative too.
I do question whose gonna play in those double pivot role and would wanna know who would you guys choose? IMO Mikel and Lampard neither have the legs to cover or tackle, and their defensive positioning is in doubt too. Also, they tend to delay the release of our attackers, by passing sideways and that natural instinct of securing the possession first and star building the attack from the defense (Post-Mourhino-syndrome) , sometimes does leave those runs upfront wasted. (one example is : Torres pace and intelligent runs were fully capitalized (some might say exploited) by Gerrard (even Alonso) whose long and direct passes that usually originated from deep in their own half, whereas since joining Chelsea, Torres receives the ball pretty late, that combined with the added pressure to prove himself, he tries to be direct and goes for a one on one, but since the opponents defense is pretty set by then, he succumbs to other players even though he manages to go past one. Even Anelka changed his style of play, and started to drift low to receive the ball, while sacrificing one his biggest asset running behind defenders with those intelligent runs. Surely We cant let that happen to Torres can we?)
I know I'm being Harsh to lamps but you guys have to agree Lamps was never renowned for his long passing, rather for being a box to box scoring midfielder which still can be used in a three man midfield when we have a extra man, but not in 4-2-3-1. And as you all know about Mikel's forward passing skill, keeping that in mind, Isnt it logical to at least put one midfielder who has the vision and the tendency to release the ball forward quickly and accurately? Let me remind you that our transition from being in possession deep in our own half to attacking the other end usually breaks up or slows down due to the lack of holding players with vision and passing technique, like Schweinsteiger, Alonso, Modric, or even Xavi, all of them have that natural attacking mindset while the other is more defensive. Although Frank did prove he can adapt to that position, but all the odds are against him, not only his legs a wearing off, but the style of play we are aiming for "the sexy football' is much fast pace than the Mourhino era style of play ( which frankly speaking is very slow compared to our new vision) and im afraid it will be too much for him plus the position (holding midfielder) really doesn't suit his game since it will demand so much more of chasing, running and closing down from our two midfielders, not to forget positioning and tackling, And we need those two midfielders to get as much time as they can get and make a solid foundation since communication between them will be key. So I would rather use Lamps experience like Sir Alex did with Giggs instead of making him the starting first 11.
Personally, I always saw Mikel's potential, and hoped he would one day, fullfill his destiny. But as each season passes, my faith in him dies a little, as we witness just a glimpse of his talent, but it never seems to reach the pinnacle. He comes second to none when it comes to shielding the ball, twisting and turning away from pressure or distributing the ball in midfield ( Sadly, mostly sideways), and sadly thats all the good things i can think about him. As a player who is fighting for a position as a defensive midfielder, he hardly has any defensive attributes, or has shown us yet. He doesnt have pace (Remember against Inter milan in the UCL), his tackles for a defensive midfielder is horrible, although he does show good positioning and reading of the game sometimes, he still is very inconsistent and sometimes downright lazy, which is shown time and time again by our back four getting no protection from him, as his timed tackle fails to break yet another attack. Yes! the potential is there, and yes!! we haven't given him the series of games he might need, (might turn out to be like Lucas Levi, who knows?) but that said he has to improve too at least defensively and get a little more pace, forget the offensive weakness, it would be too much to ask for. Luckily, for him due to the lack of proper DMF, this might be the year he will get chances, But failing to impress this time around, will be costly, and i bet he would end up like Kalou if we dont sell him that is.
Trying to wrap it up, Lamps and Mikel can still prove themselves and fight for their respective positions, like every other player, since we are still in "The Transition Season 2" But Im looking forward to see if Oscar (though he plays a more attacking role) can adjust to one of the holding midfielder role, I knw his dubbed 'The next Kaka" but his passing skills reminds me of 'Xavi' And if all fails we can always revert back to 4-3-3, not bad at all!!

I agree on Torres lacking some quick service. But in my opinion if the DM can be expected to search him vertically, it has to be punctually. The role really intends to be the AM's one. I would like Hazard or Mata to show they're able to behave as a 3rd midfielder rather than a mobile attacking player.

They don't ask the ball deep enough (Mainly Hazard) and they're not able to hold the ball and dictate the tempo (Mata, his ball protection is poor, reason why he accelerates the play and frees the ball just before being closed down)

Torres' style of play has always been to ask the ball, he's not a natural goalscorer though that was the use that was made from him at Liverpool. Even if I would prefer it to be the AM's main game, if Torres leaves his position, I don't see a problem if there's presence in the box.

But that hard to conceive in a 4-2-3-1 in my opinion.

Though I agree with you about Lampard who doesn't seem to adapt to the role to provide the line in front of him, he still keeps running in the bow with late runs. But we cannot reproach him considering he manages to be as decisive as ever (less times in the box than 4-3-3 but still 16 goals last term). But he isn't able to make good returns anymore even if the intention put in the pressing is good (the current issue is the lack of synchronicity in pressing phasis)

I've always used to rate a player's form on his shooting, I think that's a really impressive scale: a player out of form will shoot like Torres at St Andrews in February whereas a player in good form will manage to have a floating shoot.

I clearly see an amelioration on Frank's shooting considering that in the recent past he rather used to kill pigeons. He may have a second youth

The problem is that his stock on trade is to make late runs in the box, he's still decisive. But that's not suited for 4-2-3-1.

I don't agree on your Mikel's view. I've always wondered (I dont aim at you) where comes from all the criticisms on players seeming slow but in the only aim to make the wisest choice. It's the same about defending players, especially DMs. Yes, English Football fans likes dirty tackles and sludge on shorts... But we don't judge a player on the amount of times he's asses on the ground. Especially defending players. A player ass on ground is a man down for the rest of the action

In Mikel's case, he barely tackles but he still manages to get one of the highest ratios with 83.33%. A good defender is a defender standing. Xabi Alonso said that he didn't consider tackling as an attribute but rather as a last solution where you cannot regain the ball with an other way. That doesn't mean you don't have to tackle but rather that when you tackle, it has to be punctually and you have to keep the ball under control.

Not seeing Mikel's ability to keep the ball on control à la Vieira when he slides is bad faith.

He had his bad games like everyone. But I don't get the regular targeted criticisms on some players. That's stupid but we don't face the same teams every week... Of course, sometimes players has their wrongs but we cannot deny the influence of the opposition.

We have to remind that since Carlo's second season, our whole tactical organisation is a wide joke. Mikel is an easy target because he's completely exposed and without many passing choices. The Anti Mikel plans are virtually weekly for two years.

I did watch the first half of the Community Shield yesterday, not only City's 3-4-3 managed to overcrown us in every zone but it also allowed more passing choices than out organisation. Plus, Mikel was targeted by Nasri (or Aguero) in his zone, with Yaya (mainly) coming out on him at times.

One of the advantages to coach on Saturdays is to miss a lot of games live to download them later. I can pause and watch them knowing the result. I noticed many times that Mikel's positionning is often perfect (distances with the players, that's a bit like Ballack, that's a matter of yards).

The main point is that his zone is crowded and that he cannot hold or cover everything without help. The example I tried to highlight with the Milan goal is a classic situation where with 2 or 3 different positionning, he has to chose the less worse knowing it won't prevent a situation with extra attackers and then often, a goal.

Passing is a matter of role, Busquets has 3 passing choices everytime he has the ball. We haven't the habit to dominate the play on some phasis, on others we clearly lack that 5th midfielder. There's no point attempting clueless diagonals, of course that's not how you win games but if you keep the ball (even being redundant) at least you don't conceide goals.

The "plays backward" point isn't relevant in my eyes. A player can be regarded as "playing backward" if he plays backward on a situation he clearly can plays forward. To be honest that's what you see on Sunday League Football... not in Premier League at the highest level. When you loose the ball in your own 30 yard at the high level you're very lucky not to conceide a goal less than 10 seconds later.

In Premier League 95% of time you will see a player without solutions passing backward or sideways. 5% of times will be a Brazilian's first month in England's coldest and rainiest place... lol

If Mikel was unable to play a more than 25 yard pass like Fellaini, he would have given all those punctual excellent deliveries forward (check CarefreeChronicles.com's "Mikel sideways passes" animated gifs).

On a personal plan I'd like to see Mikel in a more advanced role due to his wise ball utilsation, his ball retention or even his potential threat on set pieces (at least to fix defenders). But at the moment he's our only proper DM. Considering our offensive full backs gets forward, the axis has to be covered. Thus Mikel stays deep, hasn't many passing choices and cannot start to be creative. All he can do is to search punctually in the vericality in rupture play. Bue he just cannot gets forward due to his covering duties

Even if Oscar is a footballing brain, I don't see him elsewhere than on the right flank at the moment. I don't think he'll have a central role until November. He's different to Ramires, but when we remind his debuts in England Fhotball, if we can avoid Oscar the slaughterhouse it may be cool too lol

wj818 · September 15, 2012

I agree on Torres lacking some quick service. But in my opinion if the DM can be expected to search him vertically, it has to be punctually. The role really intends to be the AM's one. I would like Hazard or Mata to show they're able to behave as a 3rd midfielder rather than a mobile attacking player.
They don't ask the ball deep enough (Mainly Hazard) and they're not able to hold the ball and dictate the tempo (Mata, his ball protection is poor, reason why he accelerates the play and frees the ball just before being closed down)
Torres' style of play has always been to ask the ball, he's not a natural goalscorer though that was the use that was made from him at Liverpool. Even if I would prefer it to be the AM's main game, if Torres leaves his position, I don't see a problem if there's presence in the box.
But that hard to conceive in a 4-2-3-1 in my opinion.
Though I agree with you about Lampard who doesn't seem to adapt to the role to provide the line in front of him, he still keeps running in the bow with late runs. But we cannot reproach him considering he manages to be as decisive as ever (less times in the box than 4-3-3 but still 16 goals last term). But he isn't able to make good returns anymore even if the intention put in the pressing is good (the current issue is the lack of synchronicity in pressing phasis)
I've always used to rate a player's form on his shooting, I think that's a really impressive scale: a player out of form will shoot like Torres at St Andrews in February whereas a player in good form will manage to have a floating shoot.
I clearly see an amelioration on Frank's shooting considering that in the recent past he rather used to kill pigeons. He may have a second youth
The problem is that his stock on trade is to make late runs in the box, he's still decisive. But that's not suited for 4-2-3-1.
I don't agree on your Mikel's view. I've always wondered (I dont aim at you) where comes from all the criticisms on players seeming slow but in the only aim to make the wisest choice. It's the same about defending players, especially DMs. Yes, English Football fans likes dirty tackles and sludge on shorts... But we don't judge a player on the amount of times he's asses on the ground. Especially defending players. A player ass on ground is a man down for the rest of the action
In Mikel's case, he barely tackles but he still manages to get one of the highest ratios with 83.33%. A good defender is a defender standing. Xabi Alonso said that he didn't consider tackling as an attribute but rather as a last solution where you cannot regain the ball with an other way. That doesn't mean you don't have to tackle but rather that when you tackle, it has to be punctually and you have to keep the ball under control.
Not seeing Mikel's ability to keep the ball on control à la Vieira when he slides is bad faith.
He had his bad games like everyone. But I don't get the regular targeted criticisms on some players. That's stupid but we don't face the same teams every week... Of course, sometimes players has their wrongs but we cannot deny the influence of the opposition.
We have to remind that since Carlo's second season, our whole tactical organisation is a wide joke. Mikel is an easy target because he's completely exposed and without many passing choices. The Anti Mikel plans are virtually weekly for two years.
I did watch the first half of the Community Shield yesterday, not only City's 3-4-3 managed to overcrown us in every zone but it also allowed more passing choices than out organisation. Plus, Mikel was targeted by Nasri (or Aguero) in his zone, with Yaya (mainly) coming out on him at times.
One of the advantages to coach on Saturdays is to miss a lot of games live to download them later. I can pause and watch them knowing the result. I noticed many times that Mikel's positionning is often perfect (distances with the players, that's a bit like Ballack, that's a matter of yards).
The main point is that his zone is crowded and that he cannot hold or cover everything without help. The example I tried to highlight with the Milan goal is a classic situation where with 2 or 3 different positionning, he has to chose the less worse knowing it won't prevent a situation with extra attackers and then often, a goal.
Passing is a matter of role, Busquets has 3 passing choices everytime he has the ball. We haven't the habit to dominate the play on some phasis, on others we clearly lack that 5th midfielder. There's no point attempting clueless diagonals, of course that's not how you win games but if you keep the ball (even being redundant) at least you don't conceide goals.
The "plays backward" point isn't relevant in my eyes. A player can be regarded as "playing backward" if he plays backward on a situation he clearly can plays forward. To be honest that's what you see on Sunday League Football... not in Premier League at the highest level. When you loose the ball in your own 30 yard at the high level you're very lucky not to conceide a goal less than 10 seconds later.
In Premier League 95% of time you will see a player without solutions passing backward or sideways. 5% of times will be a Brazilian's first month in England's coldest and rainiest place... lol
If Mikel was unable to play a more than 25 yard pass like Fellaini, he would have given all those punctual excellent deliveries forward (check CarefreeChronicles.com's "Mikel sideways passes" animated gifs).
On a personal plan I'd like to see Mikel in a more advanced role due to his wise ball utilsation, his ball retention or even his potential threat on set pieces (at least to fix defenders). But at the moment he's our only proper DM. Considering our offensive full backs gets forward, the axis has to be covered. Thus Mikel stays deep, hasn't many passing choices and cannot start to be creative. All he can do is to search punctually in the vericality in rupture play. Bue he just cannot gets forward due to his covering duties
Even if Oscar is a footballing brain, I don't see him elsewhere than on the right flank at the moment. I don't think he'll have a central role until November. He's different to Ramires, but when we remind his debuts in England Fhotball, if we can avoid Oscar the slaughterhouse it may be cool too lol

Thanks for the reply, and sorry, I couldn't answer back earlier. but here is my reply, Coach

I believe you had me wrong, When I mentioned Mikel being slow, I didnt ask of him to be fast as a winger, and I do know that as a defending midfielder, you have to slowdown the on coming opponents attack, i didnt mean that either. I was rather stating the general pace, and I disagree with you when you said defenders dont need pace, because you do feel more comfortable playing a high line with luiz and cahill as centerbacks rather than having their slower teammates like terry and ivanovic, thats simply because of the pace thats in offer. Although not a priority, but having pace certainly helps defenders in recovering back among many other things, all im saying is, being a little faster wouldnt hurt.

I could have chosen a more discriptive word than 'tackle' maybe like 'a sliding tackle', but i didnt, cause I meant tackle as in whole, not him sliding his ass, (BTW Im not English either) I just want him to improve more defensively, though as you pointed out his positioning is near perfection, and I agree with you, but its 'getting the ball back', 'being more dominant and aggressive', that he needs to work on.

Before you stereotype me with people who have signed up for 'Anti Mikel Plan', Do understand that I speak out of frustration, not hatred like them. Reading back, I might have been excessively harsh to prove my point, but I stand by the need for him to improve defensively, being more consistent. Mikel has potential to become a great player, and has already gained so much experience for a young player, he just need to work on here and there.

IMO Pairing up with Frank Lampard, in the double pivot hasnt really helped Mikel either. Although due to their individual class, they manage to get by, their weakness never shown by the lower teams. But against tougher opponents, the lack of pace, energy and defensive capabilities is clearly seen and overrunned by the other team. But, keeping all the other options in mind, frank-mikel is the only proven and realistic option yet.

Anyway, I was wondering about frank- mikel not being able to synchronize the pressing phase. Is that like the diagram you had of one pressing higher while the other covered?

And if so, dont you think not being able to cover grounds (lack of pace, energy) might be a reason? plz do reply,

ps: Could you give me a link where I can download matches? and if its not too much to ask for, can you make a page of Chelsea vs Atl Madrid like the Ac Milan one? (missed the game, sadly)

Spike · September 15, 2012

It is much more simple than it seems. They just scored more goals than us.

Sign In

How Chelsea lost against Milan in pre-season

Recommended Posts

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Top Posters In This Topic

Popular Days

Top Posters In This Topic

Popular Days

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Join the conversation

0 members are here!