The formation operates with four lines. In defence, there is a back four consisting of two central defenders and two full-backs. Two deeper central midfielders operate ahead of the back line and are often referred to as a double pivot. Further forward, an attacking midfield three play behind a lone centre-forward. With many teams using a withdrawn centre-forward in a in the late s, the was eventually introduced in the s to prevent access into central spaces between the lines.
This formation became more popular as pressing became a bigger part of the modern game. The double pivot covers the space in front of the back four but also supports the press behind the centre-forward and attacking midfield three. Manchester City assistant manager Juanma Lillo is thought to have instigated the change from to in Spanish football, with the high press a significant contributing factor.
The nine and and 10 will also rotate and swap positions to drag defenders out of shape and create space in central areas for the wide players to run in behind. The two players in the double pivot support underneath the ball, and are free to drift wide to help the team switch play.
During transitions, one of the double pivot can push forward to provide extra threat on the counter-attack. For the most part, though, they remain central and connected to the centre-backs. These two players provide the link between the back four and the attacking unit of four. With many wide midfielders working infield, the full-backs can overlap to provide width in the attack above.
From here, they can deliver crosses and cut-backs from out wide, and provide an option for a switch of play. The double pivot gives security behind the ball, allowing both full-backs to push forward simultaneously. The centre-backs will bring the ball out of defence, passing into midfield or playing direct balls into the attackers.
