Vitor Pereira, the innovative coach of Wolverhampton Wanderers, has embarked on a mission to transform his team into a tactical and artistic powerhouse. With the Wolves conceding 48 goals in 21 Premier League games, ranking fifth most in the league, Pereira is implementing a 'tactical GPS' to track performance and turn the team's fortunes around. His vision for football is not just about winning; it's about creating art on the field. Pereira's strategy includes a unique back three system designed to "cook" attacks, utilizing full-backs and centre-backs to generate scoring opportunities. This creative approach also involves using "triggers" to advance attacks and encouraging attacking players to support both offensively and defensively.
At the heart of Pereira's tactics is the concept of using the "box," a vital area in the middle half-space, to link defense to attack. He aims to maintain at least one full-back in his backline to provide width and support. Additionally, Wolves employ a "mid block" tactic, a hybrid of high press and low block, pressing opponents in short bursts while waiting patiently for pressing triggers. Despite the complexity of these strategies, Pereira emphasizes simplicity and effectiveness to guide the Wolves out of the relegation zone, confidently believing in his system's capabilities.
Pereira has introduced a non-traditional back three system, which diverges from the typical setup of three centre-backs. This arrangement is part of his plan to 'cook' attacks by having full-backs and centre-backs collaborate creatively. Pereira explains that this approach allows the team to control the ball and create chances while maintaining defensive solidity. By utilizing "triggers," such as a poor touch or a negative pass from the opponent, he aims to initiate quick and effective attacks.
"If I go to face Chelsea, I go with intention. If I go to face Newcastle, we go with our identity and we try to play our game." – Vitor Pereira
Pereira's vision extends beyond mere tactics; he seeks to instill an artistic flair in his team's play. He describes his approach as akin to painting, where each club and team can develop a unique style. This philosophy is reflected in his desire for Wolves to be protagonists on the field, emphasizing quality possession and creativity.
"And I express by creating a style to play. This is why I said that it's like a painting. Each club, each team, we can create a different style of play." – Vitor Pereira
The Wolves' attacking players are given the freedom to support offensive moves while also contributing defensively when necessary. Key players like Matheus Cunha are pivotal in this setup, as they possess the qualities needed to impact games decisively.
"He's fast with the ball. He's unpredictable with the ball. He can create something special. He can score goals. It means that he has everything that we want from a creative player in a creative game. But he must show his commitment." – Vitor Pereira
In Pereira's system, the "box" plays a crucial role as a strategic area where creative players can receive passes and craft scoring opportunities. This space acts as a bridge between defense and attack, enabling Wolves to maintain fluidity and unpredictability in their play.
"They have freedom to support the attack," – Vitor Pereira
To ensure that the best players are always around the ball, Pereira believes in positioning them strategically within the game framework.
"If I want to control the game and I want to create a chance to score, I need to put the best players around the ball. Every time around the ball." – Vitor Pereira
Wolves' defensive strategy involves calculated pressing rather than constant pressure. By understanding when to close down opponents as a unit, they aim for effective defensive organization without unnecessary exertion.
"To have a good defensive organisation, we don't need to press every time. But we must understand the moments to press together. We close the block, and we wait for the trigger." – Vitor Pereira
Pereira's commitment to simplicity is evident as he seeks to ensure that his tactical instructions are not overly complicated for his players. This focus on clarity is designed to maximize effectiveness on the field.
"This is one of the principles of my game," – Vitor Pereira
Pereira’s goal remains clear: to steer Wolves away from relegation danger using his innovative tactics and artistic vision for football.
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