Following the departure of Arne Slot, Liverpool’s head coach, Andoni Iraola’s introduction marked a significant shift in tactical approach. The initial period of pre-season matches has provided a crucial window into this new system, revealing a blend of intense possession and calculated aggression that contrasts sharply with the Klopp-era style. Initial results, particularly in Sunderland and Wrexham, suggest a departure from Liverpool’s customary, often fluid, passing game, replaced by a more direct, high-pressing strategy.
Iraola’s style is rooted in the principles of Marcelo Bielsa, the former Leeds United boss, and the Liverpool manager acknowledged this influence during a recent interview. The team’s early performances have been characterized by a relentless focus on quick transitions and a propensity for attacking down the flanks, leading to a significant increase in possession – a development that contrasts sharply with the team’s previous reliance on short passes.
Liverpool’s pre-season matches have yielded a concerning pattern. While the team has achieved a respectable 60.6% possession rate across these games, compared to Bournemouth’s average of 65% in the last season, the data reveals a considerable gap in possession numbers. This suggests a tactical challenge for Iraola’s team, particularly against teams adept at defending against their possession-based approach.
Iraola’s approach is notably distinct from Liverpool’s previous seasons, which often featured a more balanced blend of attacking and defensive tactics. The team’s early performances have been dominated by a high press, frequently committing players to challenging opponents’ shape.
Iraola’s tactical setup involves a deep-lying defensive structure, with four defenders and one or two midfielders deep, creating a physical barrier against opposition attacks. However, the team has demonstrated a willingness to incorporate forward runs and shifts, utilizing players like Szoboszlai and Nyoni to maintain possession and create space for attacking players.
Early evidence suggests a shift towards a two-v-two or three-v-three attacking formation, which is likely an adaptation of Bielsa’s tactical philosophy. The team’s early attempts to implement this have been successful, however, the key challenge for Iraola lies in balancing the intensity of the pressing with the need to maintain a competitive level of possession, considering Liverpool’s history of attacking dominance.
As the season progresses, the team’s reliance on high-pressing has been questioned, with reports indicating a potential move towards a more controlled, attacking style. Liverpool’s players are adapting to this new approach, and the rotation of players has been a key aspect of the strategy, with the full-backs increasingly playing as central midfielders. The full-back and winger combination has been particularly noteworthy, with the winger consistently moving into the final third, while the full-back remains further back.
Iraola’s tactical choices are closely aligned with a style reminiscent of Bielsa’s, which highlights the potential for a new era for the club. The initial results have been remarkably effective, offering a stark contrast to Liverpool’s previous defensive stability.
Indeed, the data points towards a significant tactical adjustment – a shift towards a more direct, high-pressing style that will be tested in the coming weeks. Liverpool’s first-half performance, though perhaps not as dominant as earlier in the season, suggests a clear intent to implement a new strategy, and the initial assessment indicates a considerable departure from their established methods. The team’s emphasis on physicality and tactical discipline will be crucial in navigating this new phase of the season.
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Source: BBC Football
