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Writer's pictureGary Curneen

Flexible Back Three Build-Up Shapes

This week on the MSC Breakdown, we take a look at ways that teams can become more flexible with their build-up shapes and potentially ask more difficult questions of the opponent in their press. Although back three systems can be extremely beneficial early in the build with the numerical advantage, we are seeing more pressing teams having success against square passes and lack of passing angles. So how do you change your shape, without discarding your system? That is the focus this week! If you enjoy Back Three work, we are excited to announce a live webinar on Coaching a Back Three Effectively on February 3rd with Bernat Mosquera joining us as special guest. You can register for the event here.


Please watch this week's MSC Breakdown below. If you enjoy the content, please 'like' and subscribe to our YouTube page.



You can also see the breakdown of each solution below:


Option 1:



  • Back three shift across to one side

  • Wide defender moves into traditional wing-back position

  • Wing-back can rotate or interchange with wide forward

  • Defenders in possession now have depth and passing angles

  • May provide opportunity to create overload or utilize half-spaces





Option 2:



  • Wide center backs split towards edge of 18-yard box

  • Center back moves higher into midfield area

  • Diamond is now created with the goalkeeper with the option of a second central midfielder to join and create a central overload

  • Potential opportunity for center backs to carry the ball in the build and look for penetrative passes into midfield

  • Higher players can utilize overloads in advanced spaces



Option 3:



  • Wide center back moves higher and inverts into midfield area

  • Other two center backs move to edge of 18-yard box and create passing angles

  • Initial overload is created in the second line with central midfielder and inverted defender

  • Wing-backs and forwards pay in advanced spaces to pin opposition defenders back

  • Opportunity to play progressive passes into higher players with support centrally underneath




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