Thread by @TalkinTactics

I was recently asked to look into the defensive 6-2-2 that Unai Emery has successfully deployed against Tottenham Hotspur & Brighton & Hove Albion.

A short thread:

#AVFC

Here is an example of the defensive shape.

Aston Villa drop into this shape when the opposition has controlled possession around Villa’s defensive third.

The reasons for this?

Teams generally create chances by going around (cross), over or through (runners in behind)….

When defending CROSSES, Villa can be aggressive in their pressure (to stop the cross) as they can be confident in having numbers back to defend their box.

The 6-2-2 can result in as many as 7 defenders inside the Pen Area.

Minimal space for the oppo. (Too many bodies = chaos?)

Playing through?

Villa drop deep so there is little room - in behind - & the Midfield/Front 2 try to ensure there is limited space in front of the back 6.

When applied correctly it can be very difficult to break down. There is room in the half space but few gaps to play into.

Teams now often attack by attacking the space between CB & Full Back. When playing against a back 6 this space doesn’t really exist…and the CBs can stay central, defending the box.

There isn’t much room to run into or the play the pass..

The shape also allows Villa’s defenders to be aggressive when the ball is played into attackers feet. They can release from their defensive line knowing that it won’t create too much of a gap (in theory).

Mings presses.

Villa’s 2 CFs should also offer a threat on transition.

This front foot defending can also be a negative & it is my main concern with the back 6. The defenders often press forwards but the full backs/wide players drop deep & the back line can become fragmented. This means it is possible for the oppo to play through/over..

Although it is still difficult.

As a full back, Ashley Young generally checks his inside for the offside line. He now has to check over both shoulders (which takes more time…) so he lacks confidence in the line…

You can see Buendia helping to play Kane onside in picture 2

And that is my other concern with the shape. Creative players can end up as the deepest defender. And making tackles/decisions inside their penalty area. This can easily lead to penalties, poor marking/positioning.

And it leaves them with a long run on attacking transitions.

The 6-2-2 can force the oppo wide, as it blocks off the centre. The opposition may then attempt to cross the ball, playing into the defending teams hands (5-7 players inside the box).

The back 6 can make it difficult to play through balls as there is little space to run/pass.

It is a very defensive/cautious formation. One I can see Villa using away from home and/or against the Top 6 sides.

I think it is one of those shapes. When it works it is fantastic. When it doesn’t there will be questions asked (why so defensive) as it does encourage pressure…