Here are some key points in relation to contemporary soccer, exploring important positions and skills.
Exactly how has the position of centre back progressed over the last few years? Well, many of the best teams in the world play with a high defensive line. This means that centre backs need to be confident with one-on-one defending, particularly doing opposition counter attacks. Therefore, pace and positional awareness are highly useful attributes for the modern centre back. Modern defenders also need to be highly confident with the ball at their feet, with leading football clubs typically deciding to play out from the back. Centre backs likewise have to be strong communicators, as they'll frequently be charged with arranging the back line. The Liverpool FC owner would acknowledge the value of signing leading centre backs, for example.
Just what are a few of the key skills required to be a top central midfielder? What do central midfielders need to bring to the best football teams in the world today? Well, firstly it is important to point out there are different approaches to the position. Some top central midfielders will be great all-rounders, whilst others will be renowned for their proficiency for specific roles. What is necessary is having the capability to precisely pass the ball. This might sound obvious, but you will often hear previous pro soccer players (some of whom have played for a few of the very best football teams of all time) emphasising the importance of doing the essentials well. Undoubtedly, a few of the key demands of the position are deceptively basic; getting the ball in tight pockets, taking up the right positions off the ball, and so on. Indeed, a leading central midfielder will belong to the engine of the side, both going forward and in defence. Some world class midfielders have the capacity to power through the opposition midfield; others are commemorated for the imagination they bring to their team. Throughout history, the best midfielders have actually also provided a goal threat, whether it through their shooting expertise or their capability to make late runs into penalty box. On the other hand, defensive midfielders are highly prized in the game today for the tactical structure they provide to their team. Playing just in front of the defence, they include additional security for the back line. Some top defensive midfielders will even periodically score goals for their side too.
When analysing the very best soccer teams in the world, it is interesting to keep in mind the number of sides play with a front 3. Setting up with a four-three-three offers the team with a triangular structure in attack; one central striker, and 2 wing forwards. However, in modern soccer, not unusual to see forwards playing in a front three swap positions, with this positional fluidity having the capability to agitate opposition defences. The former AC Milan US owner would acknowledge the importance of signing leading footballers, for instance, as would the former Aston Villa owner.