The Evolution of Football: From Bruising Teams to Open and Expansive Play

TLDROver the years, football has evolved from the days of bruising teams like Stoke City to a more open and expansive style of play. However, success doesn't always follow this approach, as seen with Southampton's relegation last year. The manager's job is to find a way to play that suits the team's specific qualities and improves the players. At Liverpool, Klopp implemented high-intensity, high-pressing football, but adapting to the new quality of players brought in required flexibility. There's no perfect way to play football; it's about finding the right approach for each team and creating a philosophy based on the players' qualities.

Key insights

⚽️Football has transitioned from a bruising style of play to a more open and expansive approach.

🔄Success in football doesn't solely depend on an open and expansive style of play.

🧠The manager's job is to find a way to play that suits the team's specific qualities.

🤝Adapting to the quality of new players requires flexibility in the team's approach.

🌐There's no perfect way to play football, but the right approach is tailored to each team.

Q&A

Has football always been played in an open and expansive style?

No, football has evolved from a more physical and bruising style of play to the current open and expansive approach.

Does playing open and expansive football guarantee success?

No, success in football depends on various factors, including the quality of players, tactical decisions, and other team dynamics.

What is the manager's role in determining the team's style of play?

The manager is responsible for adapting the team's style of play to suit the specific qualities of the players and maximize their potential.

How did Liverpool's style of play evolve under Klopp?

Liverpool under Klopp implemented a high-intensity, high-pressing style of play, but the team's approach had to adapt to the quality of new players brought in over the years.

Is there a one-size-fits-all approach to playing football?

No, each team has its own unique qualities and the playing style should be tailored to maximize those qualities.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Football has transitioned from a bruising style of play to a more open and expansive approach.

00:09Success in football doesn't solely depend on an open and expansive style of play.

00:18The manager's job is to find a way to play that suits the team's specific qualities.

00:24Adapting to the quality of new players requires flexibility in the team's approach.

00:30There's no perfect way to play football, but the right approach is tailored to each team.