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