- May 5, 2005
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Interesting take from Maresca when asked about Ange essentially only playing one way…
"We usually change our structure or game plan depending on the opponent. The Brighton game, it was one way, and against Aston Villa, completely different. You cannot use the same plan for both games. Brighton were high-pressing and they leave a lot of space in behind. Villa, they were low block, just waiting, so if you do the same plan for both games, probably one of them is not the right one."
Saw an interesting article about Maresca the other day where it was pointed out that rather than try to impose his usual preferred systems on the Chelsea squad, he has instead worked out finding simple ways to set his teams up which suit his players and make the most of their talents without trying to tie them to strict tactical systems.
On the one hand it’s why they’ve conceded quite a few goals, as they’re defending “by the basics”, but it also shows that going forwards they’ve essentially unleashed their ridiculously talented squad to do what they do best.
Against different opponents he tweaks the starting 11 and the tactical set up but remains relatively simple.
Sounds like the Holy Grail of a manager.