Platini Criticizes Modern Football, Guardiola’s Tactics
Former French international and three-time Ballon d’Or winner Michel Platini has expressed his disappointment with the evolution of modern football, specifically taking issue with the increasing emphasis on tactical systems over individual creativity. Platini stated that the current game doesn’t develop me dream.
Tactical Shift and Loss of the Number 10
Speaking recently, Platini highlighted a shift in control within the sport, suggesting that football today belongs more to the coaches
and that players have less freedom to play the football they would like to play.
He lamented the decline of the classic number 10 role, questioning the absence of players dedicated to orchestrating the attack.
I would not have liked to play in a team where there is no number 10,
Platini explained. Today, who organizes the game? The guys on the sides, most of the time. In the middle, there are no longer any players who enjoy the ball.
Criticism of Guardiola’s Possession-Based Style
Platini specifically criticized the possession-focused tactics favored by Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola. He described the style as a game with a lot of lateral passes, not a lot of deep passes.
He also noted a change in player roles, observing that When you see that the goalkeeper touches as many balls as a midfielder…
it represents a significant departure from traditional football.
He further characterized the style as stereotypical football
and reiterated his lack of enthusiasm, stating It’s a bit complicated for me. It doesn’t make me dream.
Disappointment in Current Players
Platini expressed his overall disappointment with the quality of contemporary footballers, stating he don’t find anyone exceptional.
He did acknowledge Lionel Messi as the last truly exceptional player, noting that The last one to have been was (Lionel) Messi.
He believes that the game has changed enormously.
FAQ
What did Platini say about Pep Guardiola’s tactics?
Platini criticized Guardiola’s possession-based style, describing it as having a lot of lateral passes, not a lot of deep passes
and stereotypical.
What did Platini say about the role of the number 10?
Platini stated he would not have liked to play in a team where there is no number 10
and questioned who organizes the game in modern teams.
Who does Platini consider the last truly exceptional player?
Platini identified Lionel Messi as the last exceptional player.
Platini’s comments offer a stark contrast to the modern game, highlighting a nostalgic view for a more creative and individually driven style of play.