Unleashing the Lions with a Back Three?
Potential upheaval within FC Bayern Munich's organizational structure in 1860.
Embrace the wild side as 1860 Munich ponders a shift in strategy this summer! Could the age-old tactical debate create a path to success for the lions?
Bye-bye to the outdated libero system, hello to the modern and stylish back four, a formation that's been a staple since the '90s. Offering defensive stability and numerous offensive variations, the back four holds a playful charisma of its own. In contrast, the back three, an elite and challenging base setup, shines with the potential of seven players orchestrating relentless attacks. The wing-backs, the masterminds of this clever formation, burst with promise both in defence and offence. With the three central defenders adopting a close-knit stance, perfection in coordination is vital.
1860 Munich: Glockner's Preference Leans Towards the Familiar
As summer approaches, even the debonair lions are grappling with the system question. The sporting hierarchy remains tight-lipped about the base formation to secure a stable spot in the rankings. Coach Patrick Glockner exhibits a pragmatic approach, having stabilized the shaky Giannikis team since January through the versatile 4-2-3-1 formation. In the second round, he switched to 4-4-2, boasting six victories during this phase.
Glockner's flirtation with the back three has been occasional, employing it only as a makeshift solution in tricky game situations. Two of the most crushing defeats came when former coach Giannikis, starved of personnel (missing key defenders Verlaat/Schifferl), took a gamble with a back three - at home against Verl (3-3-3-1) and in Saarbrücken (3-4-2-1) post-winter break.
Bayer Leverkusen: A Shining Example of Success with the Back Three
Despite a rough past, there's a strong case for the lions to switch their approach and embrace the legendary back three. Famed coaches Antonio Conte of Napoli and Xabi Alonso, 2020 champions with Leverkusen, are admirable role models in this new millennium. Will Glockner soon follow in their footsteps?
The Allure of the Playmaking Back Three
The modern and omnipotent 3-5-2 is the talk of the town, heralded as the formation of the future in tactical circles. For 1860's perspective, essential components for a back three transition appear to be present in their yet-to-be-finalized roster: three competent central defenders (Schifferl, Verlaat, Dulic), two defensive midfielders (Jacobsen and Maier or Deniz), a talented offensive number ten (Deniz or Guttau, if he extends), and the industrious and technically proficient wingers Kilian Jacob (left) and Tim Danhof (right). A goalkeeper is still needed, along with various backups.
Is the allure of the contemporary back three irresistible for the lions? Let's see if Glockner will roll the dice and join the back-three elite coaches!
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Further insights on the back three formation
A peek into its benefits and drawbacks:
Advantages:
- Agility: Allows quick transitions from defence to offence, particularly with wing-backs involved in both phases.
- Dominance in Defence: A strong central defensive structure can effectively counter aerial threats and counterattacks.
- Flank Power: Wing-backs play a vital role, providing both defensive cover and offensive support on the flanks.
Disadvantages:
- Exposure Out Wide: If wing-backs are caught too far forward, wings can be easily exploited, leading to counterattacks.
- Player Demands: Requires high fitness levels and tactical awareness from wing-backs and midfielders, which can be challenging to maintain throughout a match.
- Crowded Midfield: Five midfielders in a 3-5-2 can result in congestion, hindering creativity and passing effectiveness.
Swinging the Pendulum for 1860 Munich
The decision to adopt the back three depends on the team's coaches, player capabilities, training, and strategic goals. To incorporate the back three successfully, the lions must ensure the new strategy aligns with their strengths and objectives.
The back three formation, a formation that's witnessed success under famed coaches like Antonio Conte and Xabi Alonso, represents an intriguing option for 1860 Munich. With key components such as Schifferl, Verlaat, Dulic, Jacobsen, Maier, Deniz, Guttau, Kilian Jacob, and Tim Danhof potentially available, the lions could capitalize on the agility and defensive dominance offered by this tactic. However, exposing the flanks when wing-backs are too far forward and ensuring a balanced midfield could pose challenges that need careful addressing if they decide to make the switch.
