There are numerous factors that affect the coach's approach when creating football strategies. More about this down below.
Commonly regarded among the oldest and most dependable defensive football formations, the 4-4-2 is a strategy that is still popular to this day. What makes this formation more effective than other defensive strategies is how balanced it is. This is because the four midfielders tend to inhabit and control the midfield by retaining possession of the ball. In so doing, they manage the pace of the game and choose when to push forward and when to fall back. In the offensive position, two midfielders advance up the pitch to feed the centre forwards through balls and accurate crosses that can make a distinction in the area. Long balls sent from the midfield and even defense can likewise be utilised, something that the Aston Villa former owner would know. When in defense mode, the midfield position changes into an arch that acts as a secondary barrier or layer of defense that covers the back line.
There are some essential elements that affect the coach's vision and gameplan, some are internal while others are external. For instance, ranking on the table and considering the team's goals for the season are main aspects to bear in mind. Clubs that are looking to secure a place within the leading 4 endeavour to win as many matches as possible, specifically versus direct contenders who have similar goals. This is why the best football formations are often the ones that prioritise long-term goals instead of specific matches. Internally, the presence of particular footballers in key positions can often inform what formations to go for. This is just since there are specific strategies in football that only work in the existence of key players with a particular skillset. This is another reason that injuries can be extremely disruptive, requiring coaches to think about alternative strategies, something that the Crystal Palace former owner is most likely knowledgeable about.
Maybe among the most used football formations over the last ten years, the 4-3-3 is a timeless strategy that includes effective attacking characteristics that are difficult to beat. This strategy is considered one of the most popular offensive football formations, and for good reason. The genius in this formation lies in the synergy between the midfield and the attacking line. While there are different variations of the 4-3-3, most rely on one defensive midfielder and 2 offensive midfielders that support the wingers and the centre forward. The midfield position appears like an inverted triangle with the defensive midfielder remaining near the back line. This enables more defensive solidity in the case of sudden and quick counterattacks, something that the AC Milan former US owner is likely familiar with. In order for this work to flourish, the wingers and centre forward need to be technically-skilled in regards to shooting and crossing.