The first trophy of the 2024-25 season, the UEFA Super Cup in Warsaw, echoed the nail-biting conclusion of last season’s European Championship held in Germany. In both matches, Spain triumphed over Italy, first with a score of 1-0 in the Euro final and then again with Real Madrid defeating Atalanta 2-0. However, the similarities end there; the performances were worlds apart. While Spain dominated Italy’s side completely, Italy’s team, managed by Spalletti, was able to survive mainly due to the brilliant efforts of goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Conversely, Atalanta showed immense pride and resilience, managing to hold their ground for a significant part of the match. They even came close to taking the lead, never giving in even when falling behind. The decisive moments of the match demonstrated a trend in modern football. Nico Williams, who caused problems for Di Lorenzo throughout the game, sprinted down the left flank and provided a low cross, which resulted in an unfortunate own goal by Calafiori. Vinicius, on the same left side, exploited Djimsiti’s position and set up Federico Valverde for the decisive touch at the far post. Both goals showcased strikingly similar plays that pinpoint a clear tactical approach.
The Euro 2024, celebrated players like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, proved instrumental for the Spanish team in their victory over England. The tournament highlighted the rising influence of attacking wingers, with other stars like Bukayo Saka (England), Arnaud Vargas (Switzerland), Jamal Musiala (Germany), and Cody Gakpo (Netherlands) making their mark. This trend seems less like a coincidence and more akin to a necessary evolution in football strategies.
Gone are the days dominated by rigid tactical ideologies focused on collective play. Coaches like Arrigo Sacchi and Pep Guardiola had paved the way for a game centered around pressing and synchronized movements, where even the false nine role aimed to create goal-scoring opportunities. However, the early signs of this new season suggest a delightful return to pure technical play, reminiscent of youthful, street-style football where dribbling skills and flair take precedence.
In this new era, players like Lookman have the opportunity to shine, although he faced tough challenges getting clear chances. In contrast, Vinicius and Jude Bellingham displayed skillful movements, leading to both goals for Real Madrid. The modern game increasingly relies on individual duels, which can turn a match on its head.
Carlo Ancelotti has transitioned from relying heavily on a powerful midfield of Luka Modric, Casemiro, and Toni Kroos to now utilizing a more attacking formation with Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni playing deeper, allowing for a stronger offensive presence through wingers and forwards like Rodrygo, Vinicius, Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappé.
As Serie A prepares to kick off, we anticipate that this evolution in playstyle will only continue to develop. The summer transfer market hints at this transformation, with teams like Juventus eyeing Nico Gonzalez, Roma pursuing Bogas alongside Soulé, Napoli chasing David Neres, and Milan aiming to bolster their wing play with the emergence of Chukwueze alongside Rafael Leao.
Every club is on the lookout for a game-changer, especially since appealing tactical setups can occasionally neutralize stronger opponents, as Atalanta showed in Warsaw’s first half. However, there always comes a moment when a player like Vinicius can challenge defenders, altering the course of the match.
In a footballing landscape now shaped by talents like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, this refreshing return to a more creative and technical style promises to elevate the sport, bringing exciting performances for fans around the world.