Where Have Italy’s Creative Geniuses Gone? Uncovering the Mysterious Decline of the ‘Fantasistas’ and ‘Playmakers
Is There Still a Place for Playmakers in Modern Football?
In modern football, where the emphasis is on intensity and the spread of build-up functions, is there still a place for playmakers? With the retirement of such great players as Toni Kroos and Thiago Alcantara, we wonder about the future of playmakers.
Football Intelligence Being Overlooked in Player Development
National team match analyst Renato Baldi shares his insights on the reasons why it is becoming more difficult to produce creative players in the world of calculation, from the perspective of training and the social environment.
Baldi emphasizes that the precision and cleanliness of play and build-up require not only high technique but also the ability to determine the optimal route to advance effectively based on the positioning of teammates and opponents on the pitch, and the play vision to imagine two or even three moves ahead. This requires scanning and peripheral vision, and the ability to constantly observe and understand the situation on the pitch.
Baldi believes that in recent years, Italy’s training programs have neglected the football intelligence aspect, focusing more on physical aspects such as intensity, speed, and impact. He cites the example of CB Caleb Okoli, who relies too much on physical ability, covering up mistakes in reading the ball or positioning with speed and strong impact.
The Risks of Relying on Physical Strength
Baldi warns that a playing style that relies on physical strength runs the risk of hitting a wall as players move up the ranks, especially in the development age group. He notes that even central midfielders, who have the most opportunities to take on the role of playmaker, require finesse in ball touch, quality of passes, positioning, and body direction when receiving a pass.
The Difference Between Rodri and Busquets
Baldi discusses the prototype of a midfielder who excels in modern football, citing Rodri as an example. He highlights the importance of intelligence, such as body orientation, reading, and play selection, in a midfielder’s game.
About the Author
Michio Katano is a journalist and translator who has lived in Alessandria, Northern Italy since 1995. He covers the society, economy, and culture behind football, conveying the appeal and depth of calcio in a deep and multifaceted way.
Image Credits: Footballista.jp