Take a look at why a double pivot should be a priority in future transfer windows, outlining two key midfield configurations and how Szoboszlai and forward rotations could benefit structurally.
Now that the transfer window has officially closed, it is clear that the club has decided not to bring in a new midfielder this summer. However, looking ahead to the next window, solving the dual-pivot issue remains an absolute priority for us if we want to truly unlock Iraola’s system long-term.
We need to look at the tactical structure of this team. We have an elite, explosive forward line with Bakola on the left, Wirtz in the number 10, Isaac up front, and a strong focus on the right wing, whether that’s Victor Munoz, Gakpo, or tracking down key targets like Jancuba Minter from Bournemouth or Rayang, depending on how he performs this year. When your attack has that much gravity, it’s the midfielder’s job to play strictly behind the ball to prevent counterattacks and stay away from Wirtz.
Because our fullbacks are poor and prone to getting stuck, there are two very specific setups we need to focus on in the coming window:
Broad Shield (Target: Anton Stach / Morten Frendrup)
Physically strong man with elite mobility. When our full-backs are bypassed, they have the motivation to slide laterally into wide channels and act as a makeshift third centre-back, killing opponents at the source. Their vertical passing profile meant they were able to fire direct, overhead balls or high-speed diagonal passes into wide channels, allowing Barcola and Minteh/Rayan to move straight into isolated 1v1s once we won the transition ball.
The Breaker (Target: Angelo Stiller/Hugo Larsson)
An excellent, pressure-resistant deep playmaker. They dropped between our center backs in attack to completely relieve the passing load on our weak full backs. Their verticality focuses on clean maneuvering and tight angles under intense high pressure, which gives them the passing range to send ground-hugging vertical balls right through the opponent’s midfield line and into Wirtz’s pocket.
Szoboszlai solutions
Where does Szoboszlai fit into this? He is the perfect candidate to play in a hybrid reverse right-back role. After losing possession, his powerful engine ensures he can lock down the right flank defensively. With the ball in hand, he played alongside Stiller or Larsson inside, forming a deep playmaker partnership, while Stach or Frendrup stayed behind them to form the central defensive core. This allows us to weaponize Szoboszlai’s elite crossing ability from a deep, whipping angle, carving up teams from half-field like a deep QB, while keeping the sideline completely clear, allowing a winger like Minter or Ray Young to isolate defenders in a 1-on-1 situation.
Get the most out of Isak and Ekitike
The right structural framework will also have a direct impact on how we manage our forwards. Hugo Ekitic provides quality cover and competition for Isak, but both are forwards who like to drop deep or drift to create chaos rather than just stand in the box. When Isaac or Ekite pulls out of the middle to connect the play, Wirtz or one of our wingers immediately rushes into the vacated space. To make the most of these fluid movements, the midfield pivot behind them must remain completely disciplined and anchored. Having these targets deep in the defense ensures that the center of the pitch is locked down, giving our forwards complete freedom to rotate and destroy the backline without risking a defensive disaster.
Why goals like Kamara or Cone fall short
The constant fan chatter surrounding Lamine Kamara or Manu Cone misses the point. They are chasing midfielders who instinctively want to clear their own area. They lack the vertical passing volume to cut teams open against low defences, while in Europe their positional instability leaves our poor full-backs completely isolated.
If we want to give Wirtz, Barcola, Isak and Ekitike the ultimate platform to destroy teams, then we have to analyze players like this in the next window and take advantage of Szoboszlai’s hybrid flexibility.
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