Part 2: Leeds United Attacking

Part two on Leeds United focuses on their attacking qualities vs Manchester City.

What is evident is that Marcelo Bielsa is a coach who takes risks and is not afraid to go head to head with the opposition regardless of who they are. In this game Leeds United had many characteristics when in possession.

In build up they would like to play out and in order to create space the holding midfielder Phillips was key in creating room. Midfield rotations, runs off the ball would all be essential in opening up passing lanes for the Leeds back line. Full backs would drop deeper under high assist.

Key principles

• midfield rotation

• DM runs when CB in possession to open up passing lanes

• Able to go long into Bamford if required

• Lure opponent to one side and then switch ball to the other

In the oppositions half attacking wide play was a common feature

Key areas of attacking wide

• creating 1v1s

• switching play to exploit overloads

• overlaps and underlaps from full backs

• 3rd man runs

• crossing variations( always at least 3 attacking cross)

Bielsa has created an exciting team who carry out his game plan with great intensity and hunger.

Leeds United are certainly one to watch in the 2020/21 season.