History, evolution and scouting of the midfield

The midfield is one of the most important areas in soccer, as it is where much of the play originates and sets the pace of a match.

These players are responsible for connecting defense with attack, recovering the ball, and creating scoring opportunities for their team. It is essential for ball control and possession, as well as for the tactical balance of a team.

The evolution of midfield in soccer has included changes in tactical formations, player positions, and the roles they perform.

In the 1950s, the tactic of playing with only two midfielders was used.

In the 1970s, the 4-3-3 formation became popular, with two full-backs as defenders and the attacking midfielders as midfielders.

Since the 1990s, the 4-3-1-2 formation, which balances attacking and defensive play, has been frequently used.

Throughout history, great footballers have excelled in the midfield position, especially defensive midfielders such as Didi, Gerson, Neeskens, Rjäger, Redondo, Matthaus, Busquets, Pirlo, among others.

There are also the most renowned inside midfielders worldwide, such as Xavi, Iniesta, Modric, Kroos, Ballack, Beckham, Scholes, Lampard, Gerrard Seedorf, among others.

And finally, the creative midfielder, or the playmaker as they are known in South America, the unique footballer, one of those increasingly in danger of extinction.

We have as references: Valderrama, Riquelme, Bochini, Zidane, Platini, Zico, Rivelino, Ronaldinho, Kaká, Bergkamp, ​​Rivaldo, Gullit, and finally, the one considered the greatest footballer of all time, the great Diego Armando Maradona.

When scouting the midfield position, the following aspects should be taken into consideration, keeping in mind the search for players with holding and playmaking roles:

• Defensive guarding

• Interceptions

• Covering

• Supporting

• Organizing

• Short and long passing

• Game vision

• Driving

• Creativity

• Dribbling

• Directed control

• Medium and long-range finishing

It's one of the most crucial positions on the pitch. Even coaches often say that games are won in midfield, and it's not that far-fetched.

Gustavo Paredes