Xabi Alonso's Invincible Bayer Leverkusen Tactics
Formation & Player Roles
At the front, the team employs Boniface as the Pressing Forward (PF), a role that involves not only leading the line in terms of scoring but also putting pressure on opposing defenders, disrupting their play from the front. This is complemented by an Advanced Midfielder (AM), Hofmann, who supports the forward by finding spaces between the lines and linking play.
On the flanks, Wirtz operates as an Advanced Playmaker (AP) on the left, likely cutting inside to exploit spaces and create opportunities, while Frimpong plays as a traditional Winger (W) on the right, tasked with stretching the defense and delivering crosses.
In midfield, Xhaka anchors as the Deep-Lying Playmaker (DLP), controlling the tempo and distributing the ball, paired with Palacios as a Box-to-Box Midfielder (BBM), who provides energy, supporting both defensive duties and attacking drives.
The defensive setup includes Grimaldo as a Wing-Back (WB) on the left, offering width and an additional attacking outlet. Kossounou and Tapsoba are Ball-Playing Defenders (BPD), crucial for building play from the back and contributing to the team's possession strategy. Tah, positioned as a Full-Back (FB) on the right, balances defensive solidity with support in wider areas.
Tactical Instructions
The "Control" team mentality is central to this setup, emphasizing a style focused on maintaining possession, dictating the pace of the game, and methodically breaking down the opposition. This mentality is suited for teams that are confident in their ability to outplay opponents through tactical superiority and technical skill.
"Expressive" creative freedom grants players the license to innovate on the pitch. This setting encourages individual flair and improvisation, particularly in the final third, allowing skilled players to make decisive moves that can change the course of the game.
A "High" defensive line is indicative of a proactive defensive stance, positioning the team further up the field to compact the space and limit the opposition's room to maneuver. This approach is effective for teams that want to dominate possession and quickly regain the ball upon losing it.
"Closing Down: All Over" suggests a strategy where players are instructed to press opponents across the entire pitch, not just in their own half. This type of pressing is aimed at disrupting the opposition's play early and is typical of teams that wish to impose an intense, high-energy game.
"Committed" tackling indicates a robust and aggressive approach to challenges, with players expected to aggressively win back possession. This can increase the effectiveness of the press but also risks fouls and potentially yellow cards if not executed with discipline.
Attacking Instructions
Work Into Box is emphasized, suggesting a focus on controlled, patient build-up play to create high-quality scoring chances. This approach typically involves multiple passes to maneuver through tight defenses rather than relying on long shots or less constructed attacks.
Run At Defense indicates that players are encouraged to dribble directly at opponents, using individual skill and pace to unsettle the defense and create openings. This can be particularly effective in drawing multiple defenders and freeing up space for teammates.
