A subtle shift in tactics has begun to solidify a team’s defense, making them noticeably tougher to break down. This newfound resilience isn’t just about grit; it’s fueled by a more potent attack, spearheaded by impactful new players who are creating a consistent stream of scoring opportunities.
However, a critical element remains a puzzle for the manager: consistently deploying players in roles that maximize their strengths within the established system. While the foundation is sound, unlocking the team’s full potential hinges on strategic personnel decisions.
Recent victories have begun to build momentum, a crucial ingredient for any team striving for improvement. A continued winning streak would not only alleviate pressure but also open the door to ambitious targets – a push for a top-six, or even a surprising challenge for the top four.
Despite the optimism, a reliance on a select few attacking stars remains a vulnerability. The team’s success is currently heavily weighted on the shoulders of these key players, making them a focal point for opposing defenses.
The arrival of new signings has undeniably injected quality into the squad, particularly in attack and in goal. Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo have quickly become influential figures, while the new goalkeeper has provided a significant upgrade in confidence and reliability.
Yet, a glaring area for improvement lies in the contribution from the wing-backs. Despite starting frequently, players like Diogo Dalot, Amad Diallo, and Patrick Dorgu have yet to deliver the consistent attacking output expected of their positions.
Historically, successful teams employing this formation have thrived on the dynamic contributions of their wing-backs, players who regularly contribute both goals and assists. The current lack of offensive threat from these positions is hindering the team’s overall potential.
The question lingers: are players being utilized in positions that truly suit their skillsets? A naturally right-footed player operating as a left wing-back, for example, may be limiting their effectiveness and hindering their ability to impact the game offensively.
The solution is clear: increased goals and assists from the wing-backs. These players are consistently positioned in dangerous attacking areas, and even a modest increase in their contribution would significantly elevate the team’s attacking prowess.
It’s not about demanding double-digit goal tallies, but rather a consistent stream of impactful plays – timely assists and well-taken goals – that can unlock defenses and swing games in their favor.
