The success of attacking formations and tactics depends on the work done at midfield level. Here is why.

In pro football, a lot of work goes into strategizing and preparation to come up with the most efficient structures and tactical plans. However, the sport is really unforeseeable as there is a variety of variables and unanticipated in-game situations that could throw things out of balance. This is where the coach and technical staff come in as prompt and astute changes are of the essence. For example, severe injuries and footballers getting sent off can have a huge influence on the result of the game. It is for these reasons that modern football formations often consist of contingency strategies should the worst occur. Football coaches plan for such events beforehand so they wouldn't be caught off guard on matchday, and this is something that the AC Milan former US owner will know. Making timely replacements or changes to the tactic and footballer positioning can significantly limit the effect of unfavourable scenarios.

While offensive football formations are the most enjoyable to view, tactical formations that have a defensive edge tend to be more stable. For instance, the 4-5-1 formation is most popular with clubs that wish to draw or win a title by goal difference. The cluster of 5 midfielders in the centre usually requires the attacking team to resort to long balls as they understand that building play through brief passes won't be efficient. Even when long balls reach players who are close to the area, two defensive midfielders hang back to form a first barrier placed in front of the primary 4-player defensive line. Clubs who use this strategy likewise buy tall defenders who can block long balls, and the Aston Villa former owner is likely to validate this. While it's one of the better defensive football formations, this tactic depends on counter attacks to take the other team by surprise.

Just used by a select few in contemporary football, no one can reject that the 3-4-3 is one of the best attacking football formations. Clubs that utilise this strategy are normally top table clubs that intend to score as many goals as possible every match, all while maintaining a defensive solidity when the other group counter-attacks. The Crystal Palace former owner would likely agree that the secret behind the performance of this strategy depends on the midfield positioning. Because it utilises 4 midfielders, teams that utilise the 3-4-3 strive to control the midfield area, and they frequently are successful. This is simply due to the fact that having a line of 4 in the midfield makes it extremely tough for the other group to pass the ball or build play efficiently. When one of the midfielders obstructs the ball, the midfield line becomes a lozenge that feeds through and long balls to the wingers and centre forward.