There are various factors that affect the coach's approach when developing football strategies. More about this down below.
Possibly one of the most used football formations over the last ten years, the 4-3-3 is a traditional strategy that includes effective attacking characteristics that are hard to beat. This tactic 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, many depend 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 strength when it comes to abrupt and fast counterattacks, something that the AC Milan former US owner is most likely knowledgeable about. In order for this work to flourish, the wingers and centre forward need to be technically-skilled in regards to shooting and crossing.
There are some crucial aspects that affect the coach's vision and gameplan, some are internal while others are external. For example, ranking on the table and thinking about the club's goals for the season are primary elements to bear in mind. Clubs that are wanting to secure a place within the top four endeavour to win as many matches as possible, specifically versus direct competitors who have comparable objectives. This is why the best football formations are typically the ones that prioritise long-lasting objectives instead of individual games. Internally, the availability of certain players in key positions can typically indicate what tactics to opt for. This is just since there are specific tactics in football that only work in the presence of key players with a specific skillset. This is another reason that injuries can be extremely disruptive, forcing coaches to consider alternative plans, something that the Crystal Palace former owner is most likely knowledgeable about.
Extensively considered one of the oldest and most trusted defensive football formations, the 4-4-2 is a strategy that is still prevalent to this day. What makes this formation more efficient than other defensive strategies is how well balanced it is. This is since the 4 midfielders tend to inhabit and control the midfield by keeping 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 stance, two midfielders advance up the field to feed the centre forwards through balls and accurate crosses that can make a difference in the box. Long balls sent out from the midfield and even defense can also be utilised, something that the Aston Villa former owner would understand. When defending, the midfield position changes into an arch that works as a secondary buffer or layer of defense that covers the back line.