The Rise Of The Inverted Full-Back: Explained - Tactical Theory

Today, we have a tactical theory piece on the rise of the inverted full-back and players like Myles Lewis-Skelly at Arsenal.

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Today’s TFA Posts ⚽

The evolution of inverted full-backs stands as one of the most significant tactical innovations of the past decade.

Born from the need to manipulate central spaces and enhance control during the possession phase, this role has transformed the approach to deep build-up play and the creation of numerical superiority in central areas.

While embryonic forms of the concept had already emerged in the past, such as certain adaptations seen in total football or Pep Guardiola’s early Barcelona, it is only in recent years that the role has acquired consistent codification within top-level tactical systems.

This tactical analysis and tactical theory piece outlines the development of this role and its primary purpose on the pitch.

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