Formation Evaluation - Man City -Biggy

Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images Europe
Where to start with Manchester City? Honestly, I really don't know. Since Chamo decided on them the other day, I have tried to think of ways to optimize their formation to include the insane amount of talent they have. It's just not possible, it really isn't. It has gotten to the point where it is all I can think about. I have to preface this and say in consideration of real life, I'm going with the most dominant attacking team I can configure while still having a semi-competent defensive situation, that will leave a lot to be done by the back three. Certainly this lineup won't be named for its defensive prowess, but the offensive firepower can only leave your mouth agape. I actually have to space this one out so you can see this lineup in all of its majesty.
Santa Cruz Adebayor
Tevez
Robinho Ireland Wright-Phillips
Barry
Bridge Dunne Richards
Given
So this would be a 3-1-3-1-2 if you will, which I'm quite certain no one has ever played before and for good reason. It's borderline inconceivable, but the front seven are so dangerous I cannot see playing anything else. The more I look at this lineup the more I wish I could be part of the dream that managing this exact lineup would be, we would be the most swashbuckling, attacking side the EPL and the world has ever seen.
Strikers: Adebayor and Santa Cruz
Two of the league's most potent scorers last year, partnering these two gives the the attacking midfielders some exquisite targets to aim for, not to mention both are extremely gifted scorers on their own. Both can hold the ball well and use their bodies, and both have a great sense of positioning and allowing them to play together would only heighten this sense of acute awareness. Any ball into the box becomes a threat, and the opposing centerbacks would have to pay attention to each of them the entire game, rendering them unavailable to go forward. In this case, the best defense is a good offense, and Ade and Roque give you exactly that.
Striker in the hole: Tevez
The offensive bulldog, his work rate and incredible striking talent put him slightly behind the strikers to run off of them. He would score twenty goals in league just based on balls laid off to him, and would consistently wreak havoc with his runs forward. He has developed into a good passer at United, and his development with this lineup allows him to distribute the ball even more effectively, as his dishes to on running SWP and Robinho destroy defenses.
Midfielders: Robinho Ireland Wright-Phillips
Each would be given free reign to swap positions as need be, creating the most insane front six known to man. Each is known for his dynamic running, ball skills, and ball service abilities, and partnering the three of them, with minimal defensive responsibility creates a midfield that I am drooling about. Binho and SWP from the wings torch opposing fullbacks, and have the ability to give the strikers consistent great service, and also have the ability to cut in and run at centerbacks. Ireland is the central linchpin, in charge of creativity in the middle, but his ability to shoot from distance and distance makes him the most lethal man on the field.
Defensive midfielder: Barry
Truly just a moniker, defense as the "Defensive Midfielder" will part of Barry's responsibility, but also the engine of the attack with the freedom to go forward and rampage like he did at Villa. A brilliant passer, his ability to link the back with the mids will be critical, and his mettle in defense and composure will make him the captain of this squad.
Defenders: Bridge Dunne Richards
Certainly what would this lineup be without two attack minded fullbacks? Well, here they are, Bridge and Richards are both fearless going forward and add to the attack, however they won't actually need to get forward very often as they will primarily will be holding back unless the opportunity arises. Dunne has an incredible amount of responsibility as the lone center back, however he can fill the shoes as he is very talented.
Goalkeeper: Given
Given is an absolute stud, and easily the best choice as their number one. He will make spectacular saves often, because he has to. He certainly won't be bored.
Subs:
Taylor: Backup keeper. Not up to Given's high standard, but workable as a backup for sure.
Toure: A centerback who could play anywhere in this back line and possibly in Barry's spot if need be, Toure is a quiet star who works extremely hard and would be a good sub about sixty in.
Lescott: Just acquired from Everton, Lescott is a good defender with a head for goals. Needs a bit of time to adapt to this team before he starts regularly.
Onuoha: A youngster, certainly one of City's most talented young prospects at centerback.
Kompany: A versatile midfielder who is not afraid to get stuck in and do a little soul crushing. Could provide the defensive midfield bite if needed.
Petrov: A dangerous player who can play anywhere in the front seven, certainly the most adaptable offensive sub and as a result the one with the most value.
Bellamy: Sneaky fast, and a potent finisher, Bellamy is that incredibly dangerous late game sub that everyone wants on their side.
Manager: Mark Hughes
Good luck Mister Hughes, you have assembled a squad that is insanely talented. Time to loosen the reigns, let them play some offensive soccer, and pray that Given holds up in the back. This formation would give any manager a heart attack, but one who is managing at the Middle East(lands) would have a good reason to continuously hum Queen's “Under Pressure”
Click here for Chamo's analysis.
Think Biggy has it right? Let him know!
