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    How ‘brave’ Arsenal were denied by PSG in Champions League semi-final despite Arteta’s brilliant Kvaratskhelia plan

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    ARSENAL crashed out the Champions League to PSG despite Mikel Arteta’s bold tactical plan nearly paying off.The boss claimed the Gunners were the “better team” and the difference came in both boxes.Mikel Arteta’s bold plan so nearly workedCredit: GettyBut missed chances and Mikel Merino’s lack of goalscoring instinct proved costlyCredit: ReutersPSG have goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma and some other excellent movements from goalscorers Fabian Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi to thank.Meanwhile, Arsenal fans will be left scratching their heads again as to why the club refused to buy a striker.1. Striker LightEnough is enough – Arsenal need to spend big on a top quality No9 this summer.Last night, there was more than one occasion when Arsenal won it back high up the pitch and flooded towards the area.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut Mikel Merino inexplicably, even though he is not a striker, runs off to the left instead of going into the number nine position and when the cross comes in, there’s nobody there.Arsenal’s lack of a striker was clear to seeThey got into good areas but nobody was thereOther situations saw Declan Rice, who was covering so much ground, break into that area but make the wrong movements to lose the PSG defenders.Eventually, the Parisians began to welcome crosses and they made a whopping 43 clearances in the match – easy for centre-backs Marquinhos and Willian Pacho.A striker must be Arsenal’s one and only priority in the transfer window – if they had a centre-forward they could well be in the final.Most read in Champions LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS2. Brave ArtIt was relentless in the opening stages from Arsenal and they deserved a goal – front-foot, pressing high and aggression in the tackle.To help get Bukayo Saka running at PSG left-back Nuno Mendes, Jurrien Timber was playing like a right-sided No10.Mikel Arteta’s claim that PSG bench told him Arsenal were the better team over two legsWhen Arsenal had the ball deeper, William Saliba would shuffle across and Martin Odegaard would drop to receive it. It allowed Timber to go forward and then move wide to interchange with Saka.It presented PSG with a headache – does a midfielder follow the Dutchman and mean they lose their shape? Or do they allow him to go unmarked and double up on Mendes with Saka?The tactic forced danger man Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to do loads of defensive work.Timber deserves plenty of credit for playing the role so well and at times he was getting the ball between makeshift No9 Merino and Saka to overload the right.The bravery was nearly rewarded with an early goal – fair play to Arteta.Timber drifted forward and combined with SakaIt made Kvaratskhelia go the other way3. Incredible Donnarumma The Italian stopper won the tie for PSG. The save from Odegaard is as good as you’ll ever see a goalkeeper make. They should be playing it on loop at the their training ground because it was absolutely sensational. He doesn’t see the ball until it’s gone through two defenders and Odegaard can’t hit it any better. It’s going into the corner and it bounces just before it gets to him.He moves his feet, taking little steps on his line, like a tennis “split step” so he is ready to dive either way.Donnrumma’s save percentage is not that high compared to other keepers in the Champions League this season, but PSG’s dominance means few shots come at him and it shows how good he is to constantly stay alert.4. Ab FabRuiz goes under the radar but as an integral part of this PSG side and the Spain team that won the Euros last year, he should be spoken about among the best in the world.His overall play is unbelievable. But his movement for the goal is incredibly clever.PSG have a free-kick to be crossed from out wide and he lines up next to the Arsenal defence.Ruiz anticipated the ball dropping brilliantlyBut the Gunners are not deep enough and the delivery comes in too far from David Raya to claim and the defence have to flick a ball clear after charging back to their own goal to deal with it.Ruiz is smart enough to stay put on the edge of the box and anticipate a loose ball. His genius bit of movement away from the backline, which are going in the opposite direction, creates the space for him and the goal.His first touch and finish was spectacular5. Hak AttackHakimi was absolutely everywhere and he plays on the right by himself at times.This enables the right-winger ahead of him to drift inside and create overloads elsewhere on the pitch.Hakimi has all the attributes, but his game intelligence to move into areas that team-mates have vacated is extraordinary. Read More on The SunPSG progress the ball up the pitch by creating diamonds and the right-back is always a pass ahead.He bursts into inside areas when Desire Doue is wide or he overlaps and becomes the wide option if the winger is elsewhere.PSG use diamonds to progress the ballHakimi’s energy and intelligence to know when to move inside was exceptional More

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      How Arsenal can beat PSG and reach the Champions League final with star’s return and new pressing plan

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      ARSENAL face a make-or-break battle against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday.The Gunners are trailing in their Champions League semi-final battle after a 1-0 first-leg defeat at the Emirates.Arsenal are preparing for their biggest game in living memory against PSGCredit: GettySunSport’s tactics guru Dean Scoggins (right) explained how Arsenal can reach the Champions League finalCredit: The SunAnd Mikel Arteta’s men have it all to do as they look to overturn the deficit and book their place in the final.But just how can they go about achieving the seemingly-impossible?And just who will make the starting XI cut for Arsenal’s biggest game in memory?Here, SunSport’s tactics expert Dean Scoggins reveals all as he answers YOUR questions…READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSYSTEM CHANGE?Fan question: “Do Arsenal need to switch up their whole system in the second leg?”The short answer is no. It’s only half time. It’s game on.They don’t need to change the whole system but there’s a couple of subtle tweaks to make.PSG slot into three at the back and Hakimi goes to the right wing.Most read in FootballArsenal defended in a 4-4-2, with Odegaard joining the front man. It didn’t work.PSG’s diamonds meant they played out. I want to see Arsenal go man for man and be much braver on the press.The forwards go and the midfielders back it up, with the defenders also in a brave pressing shape.It could leave them vulnerable on the right. Do they bring Saka back in? It means Odegaard would go into a more natural position and Martinelli pushes on the left.PSG used clever wide diamond shapes to outplay Arsenal in the first legCredit: The SunThe Gunners’ pressing did not work and allowed PSG to cut through themCredit: The SunHakimi’s still a problem, but that’s where Lewis-Skelly comes in.He was unbelievable with his decision making in the first leg. He narrows off the midfield.So on paper, the system stays the same. But how they press and go from 4-3-3 to 4-4-2 needs to slightly adjust.In the first leg, when it came into the central area, they should have set Merino and Rice onto PSG and steal the ball. Villa saw joy there against PSG.Rice was getting dragged wide and out of those positions. They have to cut off the central channel by forcing PSG infield and setting a trap to win it back.Arsenal need to be brave and squeeze the centre of the fieldCredit: The SunA compact shape will stop PSG from controlling the heart of the fieldCredit: The SunPARTEY’S RETURNFan question: “How vital will Thomas Partey’s return be?”He will be vital. Partey can change this. But it’s not just about him coming back in. It’s about Rice being freed up.Rice and Merino were split in the first leg with PSG playing diamonds out wide. They went picking those players up and PSG exploited it down the middle.We will now see a much more balanced midfield with Partey, Rice and Odegaard.Merino will definitely not be in midfield and it will be a difficult decision for Arteta as to who is up front.Arsenal are a different beast with Thomas Partey in the teamCredit: The SunHe straight away allows midfield teammates to operate in their natural areasCredit: The SunI’d err on the side of Trossard starting and Merino coming on later.But Partey gives you so much and takes the sting out of the game.He also favours the right side of the field, Arsenal’s attacks come from there.Partey drifts in to block the counter-attack and slots back into position.Going forward, Rice comes in for a 2vs1. And the right-back will help Partey too, allowing Lewis-Skelly to invert.They end in a very compact defensive shape. Partey on and off the ball will make a huge difference.Partey gives the attacking players licence to go and play. Without him you lose two, because you lose Rice as well.Partey will provide stability and flexibility in midfieldCredit: The SunHe will also drift to the right as Arsenal look to exploit their favourite flankCredit: The SunARSENAL FULL-BACKSFan question: “Will Arsenal’s full-backs need to step up in the second leg?”Lewis-Skelly showed you can get physical with PSG and upset them. He doesn’t lose duels, it’s remarkable.His body shape, size, speed, low centre of gravity… he almost took that side of the field on his own.Lewis-Skelly frees up Martinelli with his positioning, and his decision-making is also fabulous.Myles Lewis-Skelly was sensational in the first legCredit: The SunHe will tuck in as Arsenal aim to exploit the other flankCredit: The SunOn the right, you want Saka picking up the ball with the full-back coming to meet him.Odegaard has to do a deeper-lying job too, let’s not let Saka do that job.Timber’s got to be better and step up. They need to stop the ball going into Kvaratskhelia’s feet and leaving him 1v1.I think you start with Timber and accept if he gets booked, you make the change for White.White is very good on the overlap and works well with Saka, so later in the game he will overlap and that’s the substitution.Arsenal can use their full-backs to outwit PSGCredit: The SunBukayo Saka’s success depends on the support he gets on the rightCredit: The SunDEANO’S VERDICTArsenal have to score first but it doesn’t mean they should go all guns blazing early on.They’ve got to be sensible and dampen the crowd down.PSG are the team under pressure at home so the first 15 minutes might end up being cagey, which suits Arsenal.Read More on The SunThey’ve got to be brave though. Raya’s long passes will come into it, as will set pieces.The longer the game goes on, the more it plays into Arsenal going through. Go hard or go home. More

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      How Arsenal can outsmart PSG in Champions League semi-final as Mikel Arteta faces Declan Rice dilemma

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      ARSENAL face Paris Saint-Germain in one of their most important games in recent history next week.The Gunners welcome PSG to the Emirates Stadium for the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday.Arsenal beat Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finalsCredit: GettyThe Gunners face PSG in the semi-finalsCredit: AFPAnd should they win across two games, they will reach the final of Europe’s elite competition for the first time in 19 years.It is certainly doable, given the club’s performance against Real Madrid earlier this month.But PSG will prove another tough test.In the latest edition of SunSport’s Tactics Exposed, our expert Dean Scoggins takes a look at how Arsenal can beat the Ligue 1 champions.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWILL PSG PLAY WITH A 4-3-3 FORMATION?Aston Villa showed in the second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals that you can get at PSG.On paper, they will play 4-3-3 with three midfielders in a triangle including Vitinha at the base.PSG usually start in a 4-3-3 formation but shift to a 3-2-5 on the attackAchraf Hakimi will be key for PSGCredit: AlamyHowever, that is rarely how a team ends up.PSG and Luis Enrique are massive disciples of the 3-2-5, so the 4-3-3 will convert very quickly into wide players going up, a centre forward going forward, midfielders joining in and a full back going in to make a 3-2-5 shape.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesManchester City and Arsenal both do it in the Premier League on a regular basis.The tactical flexibility of Achraf Hakimi in this situation is key, because what may happen is that whoever plays on the right – possibly Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doue or Ousmane Dembele – may go inside.’I already mentioned that twice’ – Mikel Arteta takes issue with reporter’s question as Arsenal title hopes all but endHakimi would then be the wide high man and the midfield player would stay inside.They’re very flexible, but it’s a rigid structure.PSG have an attacking shape that they want to play within.They will commit wide men right up on the line and try to maintain their width all the way through.PSG are not afraid to be direct – they will switch play a lot and they will try and target those wingers in behind.For Arsenal, the gaps to attack will be high and wide.PSG are very brave in possession. They are more than happy to take the ball under pressure in a bid to create more space for the attackers.Should Myles Lewis-Skelly play as a left-back for Arsenal, it is unlikely he will invert to the middle like he usually does, because the Parisians will have a field day on the wing with the remaining space.Mikel Arteta could go with Riccardo Calafiori or Jurrien Timber on the left with Ben White on the right because they are out-and-out full-backs.WILL RICE BE THE HOLDING MIDFIELDER?Thomas Partey will not feature for the Gunners in the first leg due to a one-match suspension.It leaves Arteta with a few dilemmas – not just about personnel.Declan Rice will have to adjust his position due to the absence of Thomas ParteyCredit: GettyEnrique absolutely loves the diamond shapeThe Arsenal boss could decide to play Mikel Merino next to Declan Rice in midfield.Or, Rice could push up next to Martin Odegaard, leaving the dilemma of who will be the holding man.It could be White, Timber or potentially Calafiori.But Arteta is risk averse. It’s very unlikely that he is just going to switch up a player that he hasn’t used in that position that much.Therefore, Merino will likely stay in midfield with Leandro Trossard moving into the No9 position.How do PSG combat that?Enrique absolutely loves the diamond shape – that’s why he likes that 3-2-5 formation.It means they can overload when moving forward.They want to create an overload so that opposition players are dragged in, leaving space behind for the attack.Rice will therefore have the job of his life moving across the pitch so that Arsenal’s full-backs don’t get dragged inside.DO PSG HAVE MOST ATTACKING THREATS?PSG are breathtaking going forward.They are so comfortable in every position. We could see any of Bradley Barcola, Kvaratskhelia, Doue and Dembele on the left – and then all of those in different positions.And because they regularly switch play during a game, it causes major problems for the defenders.The changes of positions out wide and into the middle will also be key.Read More on The SunIt’s not just the attackers that are the big threats, it’s Hakimi as well.That is why PSG are the hardest team in Europe to defend against right now.PSG have some of the best attacking players in EuropeCredit: Getty More

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      How Enzo Maresca can transform Chelsea to challenge for Premier League title with Nicolas Jackson freeing Cole Palmer

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      CAST our minds back to the first-half of the Premier League season and Chelsea were being talked about as Liverpool’s closest competitors.After 16 matches, the Blues had just been on a five-match winning streak and they were sat just three points behind Arne Slot’s side.Enzo Maresca is facing tactical problems at ChelseaCredit: RexNicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer are key to the Blues’ successCredit: GettyEnzo Maresca was asked about challenging for the league and he played down Chelsea’s chances, saying: “We are not in a title race. “It’s not about the pressure for the players, club or me. For me it’s just the reality.”We’re ahead of our expectations in terms of the way we are playing and points, as our mission for this season is to develop players and just try to do our very best.”I would like to have that kind of pressure… hopefully soon we can have that kind of title race pressure.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSince those comments, Chelsea’s form has dipped and they have fallen to sixth in the table, 22 points behind Liverpool.Maresca can still transform the club into title contenders but a lot needs to change.The boss has missed Nicolas Jackson through injury in recent months and they have been unable to replace his running in behind, lay-offs and combinations with Cole Palmer.Maybe another striker is needed in Jackson’s mould to share the workload and stop a drop-off if he gets injured again.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSIn the 3-0 win over West Ham, Maresca-ball was a joy to watch.Jackson can drop deep to combine and then spin in behind to drag defenders with him.How Ruben Amorim can fix Man United’s Garnacho problemThere is a “box” midfield for the striker to work with as the full-backs invert to form the deepest points of a square as Enzo Fernandez pushes higher.This frees up Palmer for him to work his magic and he can pick up pockets of space that Jackson frees up by pulling defenders away with his movement.Chelsea have not been the same without JacksonThey have missed his movement and link-up play with the midfieldChelsea were up there at the start of the season due to the inverted full-backs working wonders.Marc Cucurella and Malo Gusto impressed in the roles and Fernandez and Moises Caicedo were excellent. But Chelsea have been worked out and their play has become too focused in the middle of the pitch and predictable. The wingers are not good enough in one vs one situations.There is not enough creation from the wide players and they need a left-footer on the left who can go on the outside and take defenders on.With the full-backs inverted and the wingers cutting in – it is all far too narrow and Palmer then has no space in congested areas and his game is restricted.Chelsea’s games are being played in the width of the penalty box when someone must offer a threat on the flanks. Chelsea’s play has been too narrow and their wingers have not been direct enoughRuben Amorim at Manchester United and Thomas Tuchel with England have spoken about the need for direct wingers.Jamie Gittens, 20, is a target for Chelsea and they should break the bank to get him.Meanwhile, the other thing that must change at Stamford Bridge is the man between the sticks – Robert Sanchez is not good enough.He makes too many mistakes and his underwhelming passing has been putting pressure on the centre-backs.Read More on The SunMaresca wants his keeper to join the back line and become like an extra outfield player in possession.Sanchez has been shaky with the ball at his feet. The No1 at Chelsea must be a good shot stopper and be comfortable playing out.Chelsea should make a move for Jamie Gittens this summerCredit: Alamy More

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      How Ruben Amorim can fix Man Utd’s Alejandro Garnacho problem with key role vs Newcastle

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are set to visit high-flying Newcastle in one of their toughest tests of the season.The Toon Army have shown no signs of letting up with two wins out of two since they lifted the Carabao Cup to win their first domestic trophy in 70 years.Ruben Amorim will need to get his tactics right if United are to be successful at St James’ ParkCredit: GettyAlexander Isak headed home as Newcastle eased to a 2-0 win at Old TraffordCredit: ReutersAnd Ruben Amorim knows he will have to get his tactics spot on after being outwitted by Eddie Howe in a comfortable Newcastle win at Old Trafford back in December.In the latest episode of SunSport’s Tactics Exposed, our expert Dean Scoggins looks ahead to the big game…TOON OF SPACENEWCASTLE are very, very brave in the press and will try to turn the game into a midfield battle which they are confident of winning.Brazilian duo Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton will be asked to press high and ensure the majority of the game is played in the final Man Utd third.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSBut, unlike a lot of teams, the Magpies’ back four will continue to occupy deeper positions so as not to be beaten by a ball over the top.This could leave up to 60 yards of space to be patrolled by Sandro Tonali alone, which is where Bruno Fernandes comes into the picture.Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton will press high for NewcastleCredit: AlamyThere is a 60-yard space that Newcastle’s style of play leave openLEADING FROM THE FRONTIF Bruno Fernandes can occupy the space between the Newcastle midfield and defence, I don’t think the back four will follow him in.They would rather risk having space in front than behind.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKYou could then end up with a split defence with the two players on the left sticking back while those on the right come forward.If that happens, there will be a little offside line for the likes of Alejandro Garnacho to exploit.Bruno Fernandes should have plenty of space to operate inCredit: AlamyBruno Fernandes can hurt Newcastle if he occupies these kind of spacesMan Utd’s secret weapon in Treble-winning season revealed as star who played ‘bigger role than people give credit for’GARNA GO FOR ITTHERE has been a lot of talk about Man Utd dropping out-of-form Garnacho, but I can’t see it happening in this game.Amad Diallo is still injured and they have nobody else with the pace Ruben Amorim is looking for.And if United get things spot on, I can see Garnacho having a lot of success in this game.It will be up to Rasmus Hojlund or Joshua Zirkzee to keep the Newcastle defenders occupied and, from there, the team will need to get the ball to Garnacho quickly.If that happens, he will be able to do a lot of damage in a one-on-one battle with Kieran Trippier.But if the build-up is slower and involves a lot of passes, Fabian Schar or Jacob Murphy will be able to quickly double up on Garnacho to cover 34-year-old Trippier.Many are expecting Garnacho to be dropped, but I think he could turn his form around in this gameCredit: GettyGarnacho hasn’t been at his best this seasonGarnacho can get at Kieran Trippier in these areasFLICKING THE SWITCHONE card Newcastle could play is to switch the full-backs around, with Livramento a natural right-back and Trippier having played for England on the left.This would allow the 22-year-old ex-Southampton star to deal with the pacey threat of Garnacho and Dorgu, and Trippier to use his experience to keep his eye on the crafty Fernandes and the more defensive-minded right-back Noussair Mazraoui.It would also give Newcastle the chance to fire in-swinging crosses towards a Man Utd defence that has struggled in the air.Kieran Trippier (above) could move to the left to allow Tino Livramento to deal with the threat of GarnachoCredit: PAHEADS, YOU WINNEWCASTLE eased to victory at Old Trafford with two early headers from Alexander Isak and Joelinton, so the Man Utd defence will have to be on its toes in the North East.Though Harry Maguire is the best header of the ball in Ruben Amorim’s squad, I would like to see the Man Utd boss put Leny Yoro on dangerman Isak.The Swedish striker will normally look to receive knockdowns rather than challenge in the air, and Man Utd should try to avoid Maguire being caught in a foot race with him the way Virgil van Dijk was at Wembley.Therefore, I’d expect Maguire to play on either side of the back three and Yoro in the centre.Read More on The SunUnited will also be in with a much better chance of winning if Matthijs de Ligt is back to help Maguire deal with the aerial threat.And during set pieces, they will need to try to keep a high line to give as much space as possible for Andre Onana to come out and command his area.Harry Maguire will need to be at his best to combat Newcastle’s aerial threatCredit: GettyKieran Tripper could cause problems with crosses in from the left sideAndre Onana will have to come off his line and into the danger zone to claim crosses More

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      Why Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd system is broken and what they need to do with Alejandro Garnacho

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      THE Manchester Derby didn’t live up to its usual hype on Sunday as Man Utd and Man City played our a goalless bore draw.Despite excitement over what could have been a feisty clash, as it has been over the years, fans found themselves struggling to stay awake during the weekend’s big game.Manchester United and Man City played out a snooze-fest draw on SundayCredit: AlamyRuben Amorim’s United side failed to take advantage of their underachieving neighbours with issues all over the pitch.In the latest episode of SunSport’s Tactics Exposed, our expert DEAN SCOGGINS reveals what is broken about the Man Utd system.GARNACHO DRIVING ME AMADYou can’t help but think what Amad Diallo – and possibly even Anthony Elanga – would be doing in Alejandro Garnacho’s role in this Man Utd team.Unselfish runs are so important in football these days and opening up passing lanes too, but Garnacho does the opposite.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLJust 25 seconds into the game Garnacho had a fantastic opportunity to tee up Bruno Fernandes with a simple pass, but chose not to play the ball.Garnacho’s run-direction is often the wrong way. It’s not that he always goes left or always goes right, it’s that he doesn’t seem to have the awareness of what’s around him to make the right run.In Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 shape, Garnacho should be making runs to occupy defenders or make himself an option whenever Patrick Dorgu gets the ball.Instead, Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund seem to always make runs into the same central positions.Most read in FootballIt might be time to start to question whether the Argentine is understanding what is being asked of him by the new manager.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordAlejandro Garnacho chose not to play Bruno Fernandes in with a simple pass in the opening minuteGarnacho found himself in the same position as Rasmus Hojlund on multiple occasionsThe winger should be making unselfish runs to pull away defenders when Patrick Dorgu is on the ballOPEN THE DORGUDorgu worked really hard and he did fantastically well to get up and down the pitch to try and implement Amorim’s system.Amorim’s system means that overloading one side of the pitch can often leave a wing-back wide open on the other flank – a position Dorgu found himself in multiple times.However, his barnstorming runs were either not being spotted quick enough by his midfield teammates or Garnacho was getting in his way in the wide areas.United need to release Dorgu earlier so he can be the one to put the crosses in the box.Amorim’s side didn’t take advantage of Pep Guardiola’s narrow system.Had they defended narrow and then spread the ball wide when they attacked, United could have had more joy against their neighbours.Patrick Dorgu put in a shift down the left flank for Man UtdThe wing-back operated in all areas down the left sideHe wasn’t picked out when he found himself in spaceGarnacho was often getting in his way, not opening the space for Dorgu to run intoMan Utd’s system allowed for space on the wings against Man City’s narrow style, but they didn’t play the ball wide often enoughTRUST ISSUESMan Utd players don’t seem to be trusting the players behind them, causing trust issues that are hampering their performances. The attackers leading the press seem to not trust the midfielders behind them to do their job when it comes to marking the opposition.That makes them drop back and try to help out.However this, in turn, leads to the midfielders dropping back to mark the deeper men and means United’s back three are left marking nobody with very little pressure being put on the ball.Being pushed so far back means that when United win the ball back, they aren’t high enough up the pitch and they are no longer 1v1 with their opposite numbers.It also stops United from being able to transition quickly enough from defence into attack.The system doesn’t seem to be an issue, it could be more of a personnel problem. The Man Utd front line is dropping back to help the midfieldIt leaves the back three of United effectively marking nobodyWhen they do get the ball back they are too deep and outnumbered by the Man City defenceBRUNO… IT MAKES SENSEBruno Fernandes was really good against City, he was at the heart of every good move that United had. By playing him as one of the attacking three, you have his game intelligence to help them create opportunities and utilise the system.At the moment he doesn’t look like he wants to pass to Rasmus Hojlund and doesn’t have the runs off the ball from elsewhere to feed the passes.There were multiple occasions where Fernandes had the ball in central areas and everyone else was narrow too.If players move into wide areas then Fernandes could definitely be the key to unlocking more and finding the right passes.Bruno Fernandes was the best player on the pitch for Man Utd on SundayFernandes has been Man Utd’s best player this seasonSTRIKER LIGHTBoth Manchester clubs were light up top during the derby, but Man City had an excuse with their superstar striker Erling Haaland missing through injury.Meanwhile United had both Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee available to them and still didn’t manage to find the back of the net.Hojlund has scored just one goal in his last 24 games in all competitions, while Zirkzee only has a marginally better record with two goals in his last 22 appearances for United.Hojlund hasn’t been getting the service that he should be, given the issues that have already been highlighted, but his average position is baffling.The striker’s average position at half time was deeper than Manuel Ugarte’s.Read More on The SunThe Dane doesn’t push the defender back as much as he should and it seems like he has a lack of confidence when it comes to beating a defender 1v1.Zirkzee offered much more in terms of stretching the City defence, but he just isn’t fast enough to make his runs effective.Rasmus Hojlund was so deep throughout the gameIt has been a disappointing campaign for Hojlund More

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      Man Utd boss Amorim’s major Garnacho dilemma and why Marmoush is better pick than Haaland for Manchester derby explained

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      MANCHESTER UNITED go into Sunday’s derby showdown versus City desperate for a rare double over their fierce rivals.Ruben Amorim and Pep Guardiola both have some huge calls to make with their seasons not exactly going to plan.Ruben Amorim and Pep Guardiola face massive headaches ahead of Sunday’s Manchester derbyCredit: AFPWhat Ruben Amorim chooses to do with struggling Alejandro Garnacho could be keyCredit: APSerial champions City are desperately scrapping for a spot in the top four, while United are in the midst of one of their worst seasons ever.It’s a far cry from the 2011-12 season when the Manchester giants were battling all the way to the final day for the title, with Sergio Aguero’s last-gasp winner vs QPR sealing City’s first Premier League crown on goal difference.So, a slightly different encounter this time around, but a very important one for both sides.In the latest episode of SunSport’s Tactics Exposed, our expert DEAN SCOGGINS breaks down the key points for the derby.READ MORE SPORT STORIESWhy does Amorim keep playing Garnacho on the left?This is a hot topic for United. Alejandro Garnacho is infuriating fans because he’s getting in good positions.So often, United are doing a good job defensively, moving the ball into midfield. They were struggling to get the ball out from the back but they’ve improved.However, Garnacho is getting the ball in wide positions, where he likes it. When he receives the ball, he’s straight away faced up by his defender.He wants to run the defender inside, so you get a centre-back coming across and another centre-back comes in. The defence comes in, then you get a midfielder come back and he ends up in a traffic jam.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIn the Nottingham Forest game, Forest defended very deep on the edge of their own box and Garnacho had five or six shots from long-range, but none of them were clean – and that’s because he’s crowded out.Second thing: when he gets inside, he’s got a wing-back who likes to run. So Patrick Dorgu is going up the outside of him.’As a player yeah but…’ – Luke Littler forces Roy Keane to agree on Bruno Fernandes but Man Utd legend still makes digGarnacho has struggled on the left due to his habit of running into traffic jams, but could be more effective on the rightCredit: GettyThe number of times he’s making this run and Garnacho is not giving him the ball is infuriating Man Utd fans. That has to change.He has to give the ball to Dorgu in that area for the overlap, because that’s where you open up this space for the cross with the other players arriving.We saw United in previous games – like against Arsenal – when Garnacho was freed up on the right – and that was because he made a run and had a fullback, which was Noussair Mazraoui, running up the inside of him in that position.Whenever Garnacho doesn’t play, everyone’s saying Garnacho should play… and when Garnacho does play, he’s infuriating to watch, but he’s almost there. So he’s got to play.Should he be playing on the left? I’m not quite so sure. Without Amad Diallo, they need a ball runner who will take players on.This Amorim formation is all about players running at full-backs and at defenders to try and take them into the box. And Garnacho is the only real player in the United team who does that.I’d like to see Garnacho on the right in this game, because at the moment, the chemistry between him and Dorgu on the left is not quite there.But I’d like to see Garnacho still in the team… United are going to need an out-ball against Man City, and Garnacho will hopefully provide that.Can United beat City with less possession?Against Nottingham Forest in the week – a 1-0 defeat – Man Utd had nearly 70 per cent possession. Against Man City earlier in the season City had all the possession, and United were comfortable without the ball.United are doing very well at the back at the moment to get into a very good shape from where they can spring counterattacks.That’s a problem when they play against a team who drops right off like Nottingham Forest – but that won’t happen in this game, because City will dominate possession.City will get into a 2-3-5 or 3-2-5 shape in attack and United defenders are going to mark man-for-man.We’ll see wingers being marked by wing-backs, and central midfielders going man-for-man… so, it’s how they get the ball and spring the counter attack.They’ll be quite happy to soak up possession. We saw them do it first half against Arsenal, in a great performance against Liverpool, and then that great win against Manchester City.But… this time it’s at Old Trafford, so they’re going to get a bit of pressure from the crowd. It’s a derby, they want to see progressive football.For me, the transition of defence into attack is where they haven’t quite got it right.It comes in two triangles – one on the right flank and another on the left… if they get the ball in this area, can they play the ball into a player who’s being pressed to either play long or can they get it to a winger to get them into a dangerous 1v1 situation.That’ll be the plan. Whether they can carry that out or not is another matter.Is Marmoush better suited to playing United than Haaland?This is a very difficult question. What team would not have Erling Haaland in it?But, this does happen for Manchester City quite a lot… they get stuck around the edge of the box, and Haaland’s not moving… not doing anything.There’s two sides to that… on the one hand, he is occupying a defender and they want him in the box for the cross.But on the other hand, in the 2-0 win over Leicester midweek, you could see without Haaland that Omar Marmoush and then Doku one side and Savinho the other formed a very flat front three.When they played Newcastle earlier in the season, Marmoush scored a hat-trick as part of a front two with Haaland – but when they play United, that is not going to work, because of their back three.And so if Haaland played, you know United are going to sit deep… they’re immediately a back five, with the wing-backs.It would be a complete traffic jam with fans frustrated because they’re not breaking the lines, with the centre-backs getting loads of touches with passes played back to them.So against United, we’ll see a tight front three from City, with Foden, Marmoush and De Bruyne… they’ll use Savinho, Doku or Grealish to really hold the width on the other side.Because of this narrow front three, you end up with space around the edges of the box and, unlike Haaland, Marmoush won’t just park himself on the centre-back.We’ll see much more rotation of the front three with Marmoush in tandem with one of the other two and then we would have done with Haaland – who can be a bit of a passenger when the opposition parks the bus.Marmoush has had twice as many touches per game than Haaland so far this season, so from the point of view of a frustrated City fan, perhaps Marmoush is the one to unlock things.De Bruyne or Fernandes?Kevin De Bruyne and Bruno Fernandes. The two captains, the two talismans…It will be a really intriguing battle because if we end up with Garnacho on the right and Fernandes plays as one of the attacking midfielders, we could see De Bruyne in the inside right position, where he’s trying to put crosses into the box.It may well be Fernandes who’s tracking him back. And one thing you can guarantee is that De Bruyne will want Fernandes going that way.If Fernandes and De Bruyne are going that way, City are gonna have a lot of joy.But we know Fernandes’ work rate. We know that later in the games, he creates chances. We know that 60, 70, 80 minutes in, it’s Bruno who appears on the ball in an attacking area.Read More on The SunMaybe that’s where Pep will make the change later on. If City are winning the game, take De Bruyne off and get somebody else on Bruno.Put me on the spot, I’m going to back De Bruyne because I fancy hin to get in a position where he’s gonna whip it across the face and Marmoush is going to get on the score sheet.Bruno Fernandes and Kevin De Bruyne could be the key men in the massive derbyCredit: Reuters More

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      How Pep Guardiola came up with genius new role for Jack Grealish with Man City star told NOT to worry about the ball

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      JACK GREALISH was handed a key role in Manchester City’s win over Bournemouth – and it didn’t involve the ball. SunSport’s in-depth analysis of City’s 2-1 FA Cup win over the Cherries shows Pep Guardiola produced a “tactical masterclass”.Pep Guardiola’s instructions to Jack Grealish changed the game at BournemouthCredit: RexNico O’Reilly starred off the bench thanks to Pep’s genius tactical tweakCredit: PASub Nico O’Reilly bagged two assists as the game changed on the South Coast after the breakGrealish, 29, has endured a frustrating season at the Etihad.He has been used in a bit-part role by the Spaniard, resulting in most of his game-time off the bench. The 29-year-old was again among the substitutes as City headed to the South Coast on Sunday for a crucial FA Cup quarter-final. Despite not scoring or grabbing an assist, Grealish’s contribution to the comeback win was far more subtle – but also vital. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSunSport’s Kweku Afari and Dean Scoggins delved into the tactical battle during the newest edition of Tactics Exposed.And what Guardiola did at half-time – with his team trailing – changed the whole direction of the game. Scoggins explained: “Essentially, City created a diamond in midfield.”So that means Kovacic has dropped back between the centre-backs.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”You bring two midfielders then in really narrow, which combats Bournemouth because they press you in that area.”Kevin De Bruyne was initially playing in this role, with the narrow press creating a huge gap for half-time sub Nico O’Reilly.Inside Man City’s £300MILLION new stadium upgrade with futuristic Etihad project to rival AnfieldBut as the Belgian tired, Guardiola turned to Grealish off the bench. Pep told the England star to “not worry about the ball” as he prepared to enter the fray.And he instead ordered Grealish to focus on pulling Bournemouth’s midfield away to the flanks.Scoggins added: “He was saying ‘You make this run and you don’t worry about the ball.Grealish hugged the touchline, creating space in the middle of the parkThe England star was instructed not to worry about the ball”Now that seems weird, telling Jack Grealish not to worry about the ball.”But the key is, you take the player away [from the middle of the field] and we’ll get joy with Nico O’Reilly.”It was a tactical masterclass from Pep at halftime.”Nico O’Reilly was given the space to grab two assistsCity netted an equaliser minutes after the break through Erling Haaland, who later limped off injured. O’Reilly ran Bournemouth ragged throughout the second 45 minutes, first teeing up Haaland and then Omar Marmoush for the winner. Read More on The SunScoggins added: “I was surprised Marmoush didn’t start.”But talk about flick the switch. To change a tactical element like that – it was absolutely brilliant.” More

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      How Pep Guardiola used genius midfield diamond masterclass to break Bournemouth’s press and seal FA Cup semi-final spot

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      MANCHESTER CITY came from behind to beat Bournemouth 2-1 and seal an FA Cup semi-final spot.Goals from Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush sealed another appearance at Wembley for Pep Guardiola’s men.Pep Guardiola’s tactical masterclass helped Man City beat Bournemouth 2-1Credit: GettyCity are in another FA Cup semi-final thanks to their comeback winCredit: GettyThe Man City gaffer unleashed some amazing tactical decisions that brought the best out of several stars.In the latest episode of SunSport’s Tactics Exposed, our expert DEAN SCOGGINS explains what City did to make the final four once more…LIFE O’REILLYWe shouldn’t forget Nico O’Reilly is a Number 10. So to bring him on and play him at left-back was a bold thing from Pep – but it was for a variety of reasons.One was that Abdukodir Khusanov had been booked in the first half so he was the obvious one to take off.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe second is it put Ruben Dias on his natural right-hand side and meant Gvardiol came in as the left centre-back.It meant Nunes on the right and O’Reilly on the left like wing-backs, with Kovacic dropping in the gap.Nico O’Reilly had a game-changing performance from the benchThen ace had the run of the left flank thanks to his clever teammatesIt took away some of O’Reilly’s defensive responsibilities and became like a 3-4-2-1. It really confused Bournemouth. He’s got a great touch and went charging up the left, with most of those touches in the attacking half.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSThere’s an argument for him to play there in the league as Pep’s always used full-backs as a weapon.There’s no reason he can’t play there, he gave City more balance. He took the pressure off Nunes on the other side and they had an out-ball that went the other way.Pep Guardiola hails Man City’s ‘legendary’ players after comeback win at Bournemouth PRESSURE MAKES DIAMONDSCity created a diamond in midfield. Kovacic dropped back between the two centre-backs.You then bring two people in very narrow, which combats Bournemouth because they press you really narrow.What City did was get De Bruyne to go on Cook, who was the full-back, and bring him into the middle of the field.Gundogan does the same, bringing the midfield in, and that left O’Reilly with all that space up the left-hand side.Man City’s players formed a clever midfield diamondIt drew Bournemouth defenders into narrow positionsPep told Grealish to come inside and don’t worry about the ball, because City were getting so much joy with O’Reilly.It was a tactical masterclass from Pep at half-time. Absolutely brilliant. He got his experienced players to carry that out and free up the young kid down the left.Silva is a tactical genius. He’s the one who carries out these little things on the field that go unnoticed.OMAR GODWe don’t know how long Haaland will be out after he suffered an ankle injury but what a replacement to have.I want to focus on Marmoush’s run for his goal, it’s absolutely amazing. O’Reilly plays a high-quality pass.But Marmoush goes the opposite way to where you’d expect him to go.As a defender, they had no idea which one of the two was going to pick him up – and nobody did.Marmoush went backwards, which opened up this big space and nobody went with him. And the finish was good too.Those little darting runs he makes around the edge of the area, he’s so dangerous. Omar Marmoush made an amazing run for his strikeCity’s half-time tweak allowed Marmoush and others to get forward moreSo impressive. I love him as a player and can’t wait to see more of him.In a tactic where you’ve got Haaland and one or two others, it suits him down to the ground.Someone like Foden is in there working hard, it gives him more freedom to play closer to Haaland.But with the striker injured, Marmoush is also a ready-made replacement. I don’t care where he plays – as long as he’s on the pitch.He was outscoring Harry Kane in the first half of the Germany season, which is no mean feat.He’ll just get better, City get a lot of chances. They create a lot and he’s playing for Pep so the sky’s the limit.THE LONG HAALCity played it long, and it was slightly different to what I thought. It was Ederson into Haaland, but they did it cleverly because he should have had a first-half hat-trick.City went over Bournemouth’s midfield early on and it worked really well.They split the centre-backs on the edge of the box, Ederson gave it to one then received it and went long.So it wasn’t long straight away, it was like a one-two. Pep also told Haaland to not stay central and create an angle for Ederson.It also creates space for others joining in for the second ball. It was very direct and Haaland got a lot of joy.Ederson’s long passes worked a treat against Bournemouth’s pressHaaland looked to drift wide and take advantage of Bournemouth errorsHowever, he looks a little off at the moment, he normally puts chances away.More teams are direct now. Ederson is so good, he’s picking out a five-yard square he’s going to land the ball in.That’s where Haaland’s going to be and you can play off him there.The midfielders and attackers supporting the striker had to work their socks off. It wouldn’t have been unfair if City had been 3-1 up at half-time.NUNES GOT COOKEDHe was a real issue. He was hitting this blind ball into midfield.Lewis Cook was marking De Bruyne and bravely left him to move towards Nunes. Before he’s even completed his pass, Cook intercepts it for the Bournemouth goal.It was really poor from Nunes, but he also had the chance to make up for it afterwards by just doing a simple defender’s job.He takes a look over his shoulder, sees Kluivert and switches off.In that split second, Brooks plays the ball behind and Kluivert goes blindside of him.Matheus Nunes had a shocker as his lazy pass ended up in a Cherries goalThe midfielder, playing at right-back, couldn’t even do the defensive basicsIt’s not far, just get across and cover. It wasn’t even midfield defending, let alone proper defending. It was terrible stuff.Thankfully for Nunes, he’s got a genius manager. But I’m still not sure what he is.I don’t know if he’s a midfielder, a 10, a winger. He’s certainly not a full back. City have to address that.Tactically they’re all in the right position but it’s that instinct in those positions that’s not quite right.Gvardiol plays in a way that he can push into the number 10 position as an inverted full-back.Read More on The SunHe moved into a left centre-back position yesterday and did a brilliant job so he’s the utility defender.Go and get a right-back, Pep. I’d love to see this shape a bit more, maybe even against Man United next week. More