At the beginning of the offensive transitions, just after getting the ball back, we should play quick and simple in order to bring the ball to the empty spaces. In this drill we will be faced to different situations similar to game situations.
Both the speed of play and the attraction of the rivals in order to free the farther players are important in order to attack. We will have to do shiftings so the rival has to change its position.
The inside-outside alternation in the game is key. With this tactical drill we will first play the ball inside by passing the ball into the middle to then pass the ball outside, attracting the defenders and switch the play finding the free space in the other side.
To know when is the right moment to play the ball into the middle is something key for our players. To make them understand it, we will practice the ball circulation, the game speed and the change of pace. We will practice also how to get back in shape when we defend and be wide when we attack. Those are two basic aspect of the offensive and defensive transitions.
A dynamic and safe way for attacking is either to find the third man or to be aware of where the defenders are (offensive vigilances). At the same time, you will have to find the appropriate distances so your team not always pass the ball to the closest players but also finds the mid-distance players, with the objective of braking the lines. In this drill, the defensive players practice the moment of activating the pressing in a coordinated way.
Ball retention, body orientation (One of Guardiola’s biggest obsession) to receive the ball from the exterior neutral player who has advantage through the guided discovery learning method. The defensive anticipations will make the attackers be on the right body shape to retain the ball and switch the play.
Offensive and defensive vigilances in a polarized drill (with orientation), in which we will be conditioning the game bearing in mind that we will then either lose the ball or win it back. With this, we will rise up the level of the offensive and defensive transition.
To do defensive vigilances, it is going to make your team achieve a higher level of tactical intelligence. In this drill we will work on the defensive and offensive vigilances, the defensive and offensive transition and the pressing after losing possession
A tactical rondo in which you are not only going to work on offensive aspects but also on coverages, closing passing lines, interior passing defense, defensive delay and the right choice of the moment for activating the pressing.
To achieve an appropriate players’ distribution in the free spaces, to switch the game successfully, to choose either checking to the ball or checking away… this drill will make you players think and take decisions.
