How “Bad” Players Succeed In Modern Football

How are these players reshaping the very definition of success in their positions?

Gabriel Jesus, despite his struggles with finishing, offers exceptional qualities in his overall gameplay. He excels in link-up play, showcasing a high volume of passes attempted, key passes, and shot-creating actions. His ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates is invaluable to his team’s attacking dynamics.

Edison’s proficiency extends beyond traditional goalkeeping duties. While he may not always make spectacular saves, his calmness under pressure and precise passing make him a key component in his team’s possession-based style of play. His willingness to scan the pitch for the best passing options, coupled with his accuracy in distribution, allows his team to maintain control and dictate the tempo of the game.

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s defensive shortcomings are often highlighted, yet his offensive contributions cannot be overlooked. His creativity and vision from wide positions, whether in traditional wing roles or cutting inside, rival those of the best playmakers in the Premier League. His impressive assist and expected assist numbers, along with his ability to deliver incisive passes into the box, make him a constant threat in the final third.

Despite their weaknesses, managers like Jurgen Klopp, Pep Guardiola, and Mikel Arteta continue to entrust these players with key roles within their teams. They recognize that the unique strengths these players bring to the table outweigh their deficiencies. Rather than focusing solely on what they lack, these managers build their tactical setups to leverage the strengths of Gabriel Jesus, Edison, and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Gabriel Jesus’s skill set is particularly suited to facilitating goal-scoring opportunities for his teammates. Managers design strategies that capitalize on his movement and link-up play, allowing him to act as a crucial conduit in the attacking buildup. His false nine abilities also make him an effective outlet option during periods of high pressure, ensuring that his team can maintain possession and relieve defensive burdens.

Edison’s role extends beyond shot-stopping, as he often serves as the starting point for his team’s possession-based approach. Managers trust his ability to distribute the ball accurately and make informed decisions under pressure. His preference for short, precise passes over long kicks aligns with his team’s emphasis on ball retention and controlled buildup play.

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s positional flexibility allows managers to deploy him in various roles to maximize his impact. While his defensive statistics may be concerning, his offensive contributions offer a different dimension to his team’s attacking play. Whether operating as a traditional full-back or drifting infield to exploit space, his ability to influence the game with his passing range and crossing ability remains a key asset.

Despite facing criticism and doubts, these players continue to thrive and remain integral parts of their respective teams. Their unique skill sets challenge conventional notions of player roles and demonstrate the evolving nature of modern football. As the game continues to evolve, players like Gabriel Jesus, Edison, and Trent Alexander-Arnold exemplify the adaptability and versatility required to succeed at the highest level.