In the world of football, the position of the number 10 playmaker has long been a coveted and celebrated role, with legendary players such as Diego Maradona, Ronaldinho, Kaka, Ozil, Mata and Zinedine Zidane having once defined the position. However, in recent years, the role of the traditional number 10 has been in decline, with many top-level teams opting for more dynamic and versatile line-ups that no longer rely on a single player to control the team’s attacking play. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the evolution of the playmaker position in football and explore the factors that have led to the decline of the classic number 10
The Demise of Number 10: Exploring the Reasons Why the Iconic Position is Fading Away”
One of the key reasons behind the demise of Number 10 is the rise of the 4-3-3 formation. This formation prioritises a strong midfield, with three central midfielders working together to control the game. As a result, the role of the attacking midfielder has become less prominent, and many teams are now choosing to play without a traditional Number 10. Instead, the central midfielders are expected to contribute to both attack and defence, making it easier for teams to adapt to different opponents and situations.
Another reason for the decline of the traditional Number 10 is the emergence of the false nine position. This involves playing without a recognised striker, with a forward dropping deeper to create space and link up play. The false nine has become a popular tactic for teams looking to dominate possession and control the tempo of the game. However, this often means sacrificing the traditional Number 10, who may not have the defensive abilities or physicality required to play in a deeper role.
From single No10 to multiple Creativity
Gone are the days when a single No.10 was solely responsible for providing creativity in the team. In modern football, the focus has shifted towards spreading creativity across multiple players in midfield. With three players in midfield, teams can utilize the talents of players like Pirlo, Alonso, and Scholes to generate chances and unlock defences. These players not only have exceptional passing abilities but also possess the vision to make things happen.
Moreover, with multiple players creating chances, it becomes more difficult for the opposition to mark a single player out of the game. Unlike the old days, where the sole No.10 was the only creative outlet, now the team can depend on different players to step up and produce moments of magic. Players like Bruyne and Modric, who have more freedom to roam around the field, can take advantage of the space created by the other midfielders to create and score goals.
The use of inverted wingers is also an essential aspect of modern football. Players like Robben, Ribery, Salah, and Mane are excellent examples of how inverted wingers can make things happen in the attacking third. With their ability to cut inside and shoot, they add another dimension to the team’s attacking play. The evolution of modern football has shown that creativity is not limited to a single player, but it can be spread throughout the team, making it harder for the opposition to defend against.
In conclusion, football formations have evolved over the years, and with it, the role of the No.10 position has also changed. While it may currently be a dying breed, it is important to remember that football is always evolving, and the No.10 position may make a comeback in the future. However, the shift towards multiple creative players in midfield and inverted wingers has proven to be effective in modern football, making it harder for opponents to stop just one player. As the game continues to evolve, we can only wait and see what the future holds for the iconic No.10 position.
Catch you in the next one.