Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso has offered insight into his tactical philosophy, explaining why formations should not be used to define players’ roles on the pitch.
Alonso believes that a team’s formation only provides an initial picture of its approach, with the real tactical details becoming clearer when players move and respond to different situations during a match.
The Spaniard pointed out that Chelsea’s expected use of three centre-backs and two wing-backs could lead to people automatically labelling Pedro Neto as a wing-back, despite his preference for viewing the Portuguese international as a winger.
“The system is a picture, but teams change what they do with and without the ball,” Alonso explained, comparing formations to a photograph that cannot fully capture how a team functions in motion.
He stressed that understanding a side’s tactics requires looking beyond its starting shape and observing how players adapt throughout a game.
Alonso Explains Pedro Neto’s Defensive Responsibilities
Alonso also clarified that Neto’s attacking identity does not exempt him from defensive duties. Instead, the Chelsea manager wants the winger to adjust his positioning according to the opposition and the demands of each match.
“I see him as a winger, but a winger that needs to defend,” Alonso said.
He explained that Neto may be required to defend in different positions depending on the opponent, sometimes dropping into a specific area and at other times operating closer to the defensive line.
The comments highlight Alonso’s emphasis on tactical flexibility, with players expected to contribute in multiple phases rather than remain restricted to one position.
For Chelsea, this approach could allow Neto to retain his attacking qualities while helping the team maintain its defensive structure. It also reflects Alonso’s broader belief that formations are starting points, not rigid instructions that determine every player’s responsibilities.
As Chelsea continue to develop under their manager, the ability to adapt between attacking and defensive phases could prove crucial to the team’s tactical progress.