Football Manager 2023 is the latest iteration of the hugely popular football management simulation game. The game has come a long way since its inception, offering a more immersive and challenging experience for fans of the sport.
Gegenpressing is a high-pressing tactical style that was first popularised by the legendary Jürgen Klopp. The tactic involves using a high-intensity press to win back the ball as quickly as possible after losing it. This can be a highly effective way of regaining control of a match and limiting the opposition's opportunities to score. However, it requires a great deal of focus, discipline and fitness from the players, making it one of the most difficult tactics to master in Football Manager 2023.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of gegenpressing in Football Manager 2023. We will cover everything from the basic principles of gegenpressing to the key players and formations that are best suited to the tactic. We will also provide you with some tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your gegenpressing strategy.
Understanding the Principles of Gegenpressing
Gegenpressing is all about taking control of the game through aggressive and intense pressing. The idea is to win back the ball as quickly as possible after losing it, putting pressure on the opposition and limiting their options. To do this effectively, your team needs to be well-disciplined and focused, and your players need to be highly fit.
There are several key principles to consider when implementing gegenpressing in Football Manager 2023. Firstly, it is important to understand that gegenpressing is a high-risk tactic. You will be committing a lot of players forward in an attempt to win back the ball, which can leave you vulnerable to counter-attacks. This means that you need to be sure that you have enough cover in defence to deal with any potential threats.
Another important principle is the need for high-quality players. Gegenpressing requires a lot of energy and intensity, so your players need to be in top physical condition. You will also need players who are comfortable in possession and able to play with pace and precision. In particular, you will need quick, agile and technically-gifted midfielders who can drive the play forward and win back the ball.
Choosing the Right Formation and Players
The formation you choose when playing gegenpressing in Football Manager 2023 is critical to its success. The ideal formation for gegenpressing is one that allows you to get as many players forward as possible, while also ensuring that you have enough cover in defence. A 4-3-3 formation is often seen as the best option for gegenpressing, as it gives you the ability to commit plenty of players forward while also providing a solid defensive structure.
When it comes to choosing your players, it is important to focus on those with the right attributes. Key attributes for players in a gegenpressing system include pace, acceleration, stamina, strength and aggression. You will also need players who are comfortable in possession and have good dribbling and passing skills. You can read more about the best player roles for gegenpressing tactics in another detailed guide we've written.
One player who embodies the spirit of gegenpressing is Tottenham Hotspur's Richarlison. The Brazilian attacker is a complete player, with excellent dribbling, passing and shooting skills. He is also quick, strong and aggressive, making him the perfect player to lead a gegenpressing system. Players like Richarlison are worth investing in as they will help to bring the best out of your team and make the most of the gegenpressing tactic.
Another player to consider is Bayern Munich's Sadio Mane. The Senegalese forward is quick, direct and full of energy, making him a perfect fit for gegenpressing. He has the ability to drive forward with the ball, causing panic in the opposition defence and creating chances for his teammates. His pace and movement make him a valuable asset in any gegenpressing system, as he can be used to stretch the opposition and create space for his teammates.
Implementing Gegenpressing in Football Manager 2023
Once you have chosen your formation and players, it is time to implement gegenpressing in Football Manager 2023. To get the best results from the tactic, it is important to be patient and to allow your team to adapt to the new system. The more you play with gegenpressing, the more effective it will become.
When starting out, it is best to use gegenpressing as a secondary tactic, alongside a more cautious and controlled approach. This will allow your team to get used to the demands of the system and to find their feet. As you become more comfortable with gegenpressing, you can start to use it more often and be more aggressive with your pressing.
To make the most of gegenpressing, it is also important to use it in combination with other tactics. For example, you can use gegenpressing to win back the ball and then switch to a more possession-based approach to keep control of the game. This can help you to maintain your intensity and focus, while also keeping the opposition guessing.
5 Tips for a Successful Gegenpressing Tactic in Football Manager
1. Build from the back
Your team should have a solid foundation in defence to start the pressing from the back. Aim for strong central defenders and a goalkeeper who is comfortable with the ball at their feet.
2. Mobile Midfielders
Your midfielders should be able to cover large areas of the pitch and contribute to both attack and defence. Consider midfielders who are energetic, aggressive and have high work rate attributes.
3. Wingers with Pace
Fast and direct wingers will help you to quickly transition from defence to attack. They should be able to stretch the opposition and provide width to your attack.
4. Clinical Finishers
With gegenpressing, you'll often create chances with quick counter-attacks. Make sure you have a striker who can finish these opportunities.
5. High Fitness Levels
Gegenpressing is a physically demanding tactic, so it is important that your players have high fitness levels. Consider implementing a strict fitness regime and rotating your squad to prevent player burnout.
Conclusion
Gegenpressing is a highly effective tactical style that can help you to take control of matches and limit the opposition's opportunities to score. However, it is also a demanding system that requires a great deal of focus, discipline and fitness from your players.
In this article, we have provided you with a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of gegenpressing in Football Manager 2023. We have covered everything from the basic principles of gegenpressing to the key players and formations that are best suited to the tactic. By following these tips and tricks, you will be well on your way to becoming a master of gegenpressing in Football Manager 2023.
