AC Milan is set for a tactical revolution under new manager Ruben Amorim, who aims to transform the club's style of play and training methods. Amorim's vision is to create a dominant, attacking team that presses forward and regains possession quickly, a stark contrast to their recent defensive-minded approach.
This overhaul is not just about tactics but also a mindset shift. Amorim wants to instil a proactive, high-energy playing style that demands significant effort and coordination from his players. The key to this strategy is synchronized pressing, where the team works together to force the ball out of play and regain possession within seconds.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Amorim's approach is his focus on off-ball work. He believes that pre-season training should be ball-focused rather than interval training or long-distance runs. This high-intensity, ball-in-play approach aims to build physical stamina and quick decision-making skills, essential for his pressing strategy.
The training sessions are designed to be intense and fast-paced, with specific drills that divide the team into blocks and utilize smaller sections of the pitch. The goal is to teach players to read the right moment to push the defensive line higher and to force the opponent's ball circulation toward the sideline. This requires significant sprinting effort and close coordination between players.
Amorim's hands-on approach is evident in his training sessions. He personally applies pressure by halting the session whenever he spots a mistake, offering corrections, and repeating the drill until the team gets it right. This method ensures that the players understand the importance of every movement and the need for synchronization.
In terms of build-up play, Amorim emphasizes precise passing and rapid ball movement from the back, with the three defenders and two central midfielders working together to keep the ball in play. This approach aims to create a fluid, attacking style that keeps the opposition guessing.
Overall, Amorim's tactical overhaul at AC Milan is an ambitious project that requires a profound shift in the team's mindset and playing style. While it may take time to implement, the potential rewards are significant, and the club is certainly taking a bold step towards a more dynamic and exciting future.
