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Writer's pictureGary Curneen

Tactical Ways to Use Your Goalkeeper in Attack

The role of the goalkeeper has changed significantly in the modern game. Over the last 20 years, we have seen the technical skillset advance and, as the game has evolved further tactically, the position has become crucial to the build. In this MSC Breakdown we take a look at the next potential evolution of the position and using the goalkeeper to help play against mid-blocks and solve compact defensive units that may be positioned a little closer to their own goal. In the video we look at three variation of shapes that coaches can use as they look to breakdown compact units and progress towards creating goalscoring opportunities.


Watch the full breakdown below. Please subscribe to our MSC YouTube page if you enjoy it.





Idea 1: Create a Back Three



  • With time on the ball and a numerical overload with the two center backs, the goalkeeper progresses up the pitch and the two center backs spilt

  • With 10-15 yards distances between goalkeeper and center backs, the opposition forward now has much more ground to cover to impact the play

  • Center backs can penetrate on the dribble or you can manipulate positions higher up the pitch

  • In this example, the full-backs move higher and the wide forwards move into the inside spaces

  • With an overload higher up the pitch and quick ball circulation, the attacking team can unbalance and progress into the final third for a goalscoring opportunity


Idea 2: Center Back Moves to Full-Back




  • Under the same conditions in the build, the goalkeeper now moves up and takes the place of one of the center backs, who moves to a wide position

  • Again, this creates a host of potential options in the wide spaces, with the potential to move wide forwards and full-backs into advanced and interior spaces

  • Once the ball is progressed and the opponent's are overloaded, the attacking team can now use their positioning to advance possession and create another goalscoring opportunity





Idea 3: Advance and Invert the Center Back





  • This picture is a similar set-up to the second idea, but now instead of taking an advanced wide position, the center back inverts alongside the holding midfielder

  • This has the potential to create a central overload and using that advantage to advance the ball into the final third with favorable numbers and positioning

  • There will be an emphasis on quick combination play here as the opponent's will likely adjust to fill the central spaces - therefore one-touch combination play may be useful

  • Although it's an unorthodox idea, it the center defender inside can help the number six protect the team in the transition once possession is lost





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