In Football Manager 2023, pressing forwards are crucial in creating opportunities, winning the ball back and disrupting the opposition's play. Here are the top attributes to look for when selecting a pressing forward in the game:

1. Work rate: A player with high work rate is essential for pressing as they will chase down the ball and apply pressure on the opposition.
2. Acceleration: Speed is key in pressing and acceleration is a measure of how quickly a player can reach top speed.
3. Agility: A player with high agility will be able to change direction quickly and effectively, making them more effective at pressing.
4. Jumping reach: A player with a high jumping reach will be better equipped to win aerial duels and clear balls away from danger.
5. Strength: A player with high strength will be able to challenge opposition players more effectively, win more tackles and hold up play.
6. Decisions: A player with good decision-making will be able to assess when to press and when to drop back, helping to maintain the team's shape and balance.
7. Anticipation: A player with good anticipation will be able to predict where the ball will go, allowing them to position themselves effectively and win the ball back.
8. Teamwork: A player who is highly rated for teamwork will work well with their teammates, helping to coordinate pressing efforts and support each other when out of possession.

Tactical Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a Pressing Forward

The tactical advantages and disadvantages of using a pressing forward in football are factors that coaches and managers need to consider when creating their game plans. On the one hand, a pressing forward can put pressure on the opposition's defense and disrupt their play, often leading to regained possession and scoring opportunities. On the other hand, if the pressing forward is not supported adequately by the rest of the team, it can lead to gaps in defense and leave the team exposed to counter-attacks. A pressing forward must also have the right attributes, such as pace, power, and work rate, to be effective in this role. The tactical advantages and disadvantages of using a pressing forward are complex and must be carefully weighed to create a successful strategy that leverages its strengths and minimises its weaknesses.

Pros

1. Increased Pressure: A pressing forward will apply pressure on the opposition, making it more difficult for them to play out from the back or build up play in midfield.
2. Regain Possession: By applying pressure, a pressing forward can win the ball back and create opportunities for the team to counter-attack.
3. Disrupts Opposition's play: The constant pressure from a pressing forward can disrupt the opposition's rhythm and flow, making it harder for them to execute their game plan.
4. Creates Space: A pressing forward can open up space for their teammates by forcing the opposition to play the ball backwards or sideways.

Cons

1. Increased Physical Demand: Pressing requires a lot of running and effort, which can be physically demanding on the player.
2. Risk of conceding: If a pressing forward is beaten, they may leave a large gap behind them which the opposition can exploit.
3. Requires good coordination: A pressing forward needs to be well-coordinated with their teammates, otherwise the press can be easily bypassed by the opposition.
4. Can be fatiguing: The constant effort required to press can be fatiguing for the player, affecting their performance later in the game.

The use of a pressing forward can provide many tactical benefits, but it's important to weigh the pros and cons and consider the player's ability to execute the press effectively.

Formations Ideal for Implementing a Pressing Forward Strategy

Choosing the right formation can make a big impact on the effectiveness of your pressing forward strategy. Discover which formations, such as 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, 4-4-2, and more, work best for pressing forwards and help your team regain possession and disrupt the opposition's play.

1. 4-3-3: The 4-3-3 formation allows for a high press with two forwards supporting the central striker, creating a compact front three that can apply pressure across the pitch.
2. 4-2-3-1: In this formation, the central attacking midfielder can support the lone striker in pressing, while the two central midfielders can drop back to provide cover.
3. 4-4-2: This classic formation has two forwards who can press in unison, closing down the opposition and limiting their options.
4. 3-5-2: The 3-5-2 formation offers the option of having a front three that can press high up the pitch, with the wing-backs providing support and width.
5. 5-3-2: This formation has a front three that can press effectively, while the wing-backs provide added support and help to maintain balance.
6. 3-4-3: In this formation, the front three can press high up the pitch and force the opposition to play the ball wide, where the wing-backs can step up and apply pressure.

The formation used will depend on the team's overall tactical approach, but it's important to consider how the pressing forwards fit into the structure of the team and how they will be supported in the press.

Top Modern Players Who Excel as Pressing Forwards

Football Manager 2023 offers a variety of modern players who excel as pressing forwards. Discover why players like Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane, Erling Haaland, Sergio Agüero, and Robert Lewandowski stand out for their exceptional pressing abilities and how they can make/made a big impact for their teams.

Examples of Modern Players Who Excel as Pressing Forwards

1. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona): Lewandowski is known for his work rate and ability to press high up the pitch, forcing the opposition to play the ball long. He has excellent movement and finishing skills, making him a constant threat on the counter-attack.
2. Erling Haaland (Manchester City): Haaland is a powerful forward who excels in the press due to his pace, strength, and clinical finishing. He is able to hold up play and bring his teammates into the game, making him a valuable asset to any pressing strategy.
3. Sergio Agüero (Manchester City - Retired): Agüero's movement and positioning allow him to press effectively, often dragging defenders out of position and creating space for his teammates. He is also a clinical finisher, making him a threat when his team wins the ball back.
4. Sadio Mane (Bayern Munich): Mane is known for his relentless work rate and ability to press the opposition high up the pitch. He has excellent dribbling skills and the pace to get in behind, making him a valuable asset to any pressing strategy.
5. Roberto Firmino (Liverpool): Firmino's work rate and movement off the ball make him a nightmare for defenders to mark. His quick acceleration, combined with his ability to read the game, allows him to press and win the ball back effectively.

These players demonstrate that success as a pressing forward requires a combination of technical ability, physical attributes, and work rate. Their exceptional skills in these areas make them highly effective in disrupting the opposition's play and winning the ball back for their team.

Conclusion

The tactical advantages and disadvantages of using a pressing forward in football are factors that coaches and managers need to consider when creating their game plans. On the one hand, a pressing forward can put pressure on the opposition's defense and disrupt their play, often leading to regained possession and scoring opportunities. On the other hand, if the pressing forward is not supported adequately by the rest of the team, it can lead to gaps in defense and leave the team exposed to counter-attacks. A pressing forward must also have the right attributes, such as pace, power, and work rate, to be effective in this role. The tactical advantages and disadvantages of using a pressing forward are complex and must be carefully weighed to create a successful strategy that leverages its strengths and minimises its weaknesses.