Thanks Mike! Potentially, though the transfer still puzzles me - Zinchenko's profile is so unique, he's one of the only players who could really fit this type of role.
Along with his City contract running up in 2024 and personal interests/motivation factoring in, I would like to think that there was an anticipated change from Pep and the coaching staff. Whether that was the emergence of Lewis, assurance over Cancelo's role, or something else, I'm not sure.
I do think that tactically - if this idea had been in Pep's mind for a while and it played a contributing factor in the Zinchenko move - it could have to do with Rodri playing on the left side of this in-possession double pivot. Since implementing this, Rodri has always played on the left side and especially yesterday against Chelsea, he drifted wide left at times. Just a thought, but if true it could explain why Zinchenko wouldn't fit the system as well as his profile may appear he does.
Hi Alex, just wanted to say I really enjoyed reading this. You have a gift for explaining complicated concepts in compelling and readily understandable terms. After many years away I got back into the Premier League (and FPL) this year and you've been one of my favorite Twitter follows all along. Much like Rico Lewis I'm sure the best is yet to come for you.
Just awesome Alex, I had no idea how eloquent you could be…….👏👏
Great analysis, Alex! Do you think the anticipated rise of Lewis is why Pep sold Zinchenko to Arsenal?
Thanks Mike! Potentially, though the transfer still puzzles me - Zinchenko's profile is so unique, he's one of the only players who could really fit this type of role.
Along with his City contract running up in 2024 and personal interests/motivation factoring in, I would like to think that there was an anticipated change from Pep and the coaching staff. Whether that was the emergence of Lewis, assurance over Cancelo's role, or something else, I'm not sure.
I do think that tactically - if this idea had been in Pep's mind for a while and it played a contributing factor in the Zinchenko move - it could have to do with Rodri playing on the left side of this in-possession double pivot. Since implementing this, Rodri has always played on the left side and especially yesterday against Chelsea, he drifted wide left at times. Just a thought, but if true it could explain why Zinchenko wouldn't fit the system as well as his profile may appear he does.
Hi Alex, just wanted to say I really enjoyed reading this. You have a gift for explaining complicated concepts in compelling and readily understandable terms. After many years away I got back into the Premier League (and FPL) this year and you've been one of my favorite Twitter follows all along. Much like Rico Lewis I'm sure the best is yet to come for you.
What a response mate, thank you so much. It really means a lot.
This is so in depth. Great article
Well done mate! Looking forward for more ❤️
I’d be interested to hear how this role differs from the role Lahm played for Guardiola at Bayern Munich.