Marseille's Defensive Contribution: Cengiz Under's Impact on the Team
**Marseille's Defensive Contribution: Cengiz Under's Impact on the Team**
In the realm of football, defensive prowess is often overlooked in favor of attacking flair and individual brilliance. However, Marseille’s defense under manager Cengiz Under has emerged as one of their strongest assets, contributing significantly to their success on the pitch. This article delves into the impact of Under’s leadership on Marseille’s defensive strategy, highlighting how his tactical vision and coaching style have transformed the club’s defensive capabilities.
### **Cengiz Under’s Vision**
Cengiz Under took charge of Marseille in 2019 after replacing Didier Deschamps. His appointment marked a significant change in Marseille’s approach to defending. Under emphasized the importance of discipline, teamwork, and structured tactics. He aimed to create a cohesive unit that could defend against any attack with precision and resolve.
### **Defensive Philosophy**
Under’s philosophy revolves around creating a compact backline that can maintain possession while pressuring opposition players. The team’s midfielders play a crucial role in this formation, providing width and depth to the defense. Under’s system allows for quick transitions from defense to attack, which helps in maintaining pressure on opponents even when the ball is not in Marseille’s hands.
### **Impact on Defensive Efficiency**
One of the most notable aspects of Under’s defensive contribution is his emphasis on physicality and discipline. Marseille’s defenders under him have become more aggressive in marking and tackling. This has led to fewer mistakes and a higher level of confidence among them. Under also introduced a more disciplined pressing approach, where the entire defense works together to intercept passes and stop opposition attacks.
### **Key Players**
Several key players have stood out under Under’s leadership:
- **Jérémy Maréchal**: A versatile defender who has improved his defensive skills under Under. He now plays both inside and outside the box, making him a threat to opposition defenses.
- **Amiti N’Diaye**: A young but talented full-back who has shown immense potential under Under. His ability to cover space and provide support in transition has been particularly valuable.
- **Gonzalo Higuain**: While primarily known for his attacking prowess,Ligue 1 Express Higuain has also contributed significantly to Marseille’s defensive efforts. His presence in the middle of the field helps in organizing the defense and preventing counterattacks.
### **Challenges and Controversies**
Despite its successes, Marseille’s defensive strategy has faced some challenges and controversies. Some critics argue that the system may be too rigid and lacks flexibility, especially in high-pressure situations. Additionally, there have been concerns about the physical toll of Under’s demanding training regime on the players.
### **Conclusion**
In conclusion, Cengiz Under’s leadership has had a profound impact on Marseille’s defensive performance. By emphasizing discipline, structure, and physicality, Under has transformed Marseille’s defense into a formidable force. While there are still areas for improvement, the results speak for themselves. As Marseille continues to compete at the highest levels, Under’s defensive contributions will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of their success.
