Tactics
A full-back who steps into midfield when the team has the ball, rather than overlapping out wide.
Popularised by Guardiola, the inverted full-back tucks inside to become a third midfielder, turning the team into a 3-2-5 in possession.
This move gives the side an extra body in build-up, frees the inverted wingers to stay high and wide and provides rest defence against the counter.
Not every full-back can do it: the role needs composure on tight touches, awareness of diagonal passing lanes and the ability to press centrally without losing balance.
Discover
False 9
A centre-forward who drops deep into midfield to drag defenders out of position and create space behind.
Gegenpressing
A high-intensity pressing scheme that tries to win the ball back within seconds of losing it, high up the pitch.
High line
Pushing the defensive line close to the halfway line to compress the pitch and sustain pressure.
Low block
Defending with all 10 outfield players compact inside your own half, inviting pressure to hit on the counter.
Counter-attack
A fast transition from defending to attacking, aimed at exploiting space before the opponent can regroup.
Tiki-taka
A short-passing, positional style that keeps possession and moves the opponent until gaps open.
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