# Shanghai Shenhua's Moreno: A Look into His Midfield Organization Strategy
In the heart of Chinese football, where the passion for soccer is as strong as the city itself, there lies a name that stands out in the midfield – Manuel Moreno. The former Real Madrid player and current Shanghai Shenhua coach has been instrumental in shaping his team’s tactical approach, particularly in the midfield. This article delves into Moreno’s midfield organization strategy, highlighting how it has helped the Shanghai Shenhua side achieve success on both domestic and international stages.
### Understanding Moreno’s Tactical Philosophy
Manuel Moreno’s philosophy in midfield revolves around creating a balanced and dynamic setup that can adapt to various situations. He believes in maintaining a compact midfield structure while also allowing space for players to express their individual talents. Moreno often employs a 4-2-3-1 formation, which allows him to field a deep defensive line while still having three central midfielders capable of providing support to the front line.
### Key Components of Moreno’s Strategy
1. **Compact Midfield**: Moreno emphasizes the importance of a compact midfield to maintain control over the pitch. This is achieved through disciplined pressing and a high line of defense. By keeping the opposition at bay, Moreno creates more space for his attacking players to exploit.
2. **Three Central Midfielders**: Moreno values the role of the central midfielders, who act as the glue between the defense and attack. They provide the foundation for possession play and are responsible for distributing the ball effectively within the midfield. Moreno often uses a combination of speed and technical ability from these midfielders to create openings for his strikers.
3. **Supporting Players**: In addition to the central midfielders, Moreno also prioritizes supporting players such as wingers and box-to-box midfielders. These players are tasked with moving forward to break up opposition attacks and assist in scoring opportunities. Moreno’s approach ensures that his team has depth in the midfield, allowing them to respond to any challenges that arise.
4. **Adaptability**: One of Moreno’s most notable strengths is his ability to adapt to different opponents and match situations. Whether facing a fast-paced attacking team or a defensive-minded one, Moreno’s midfield will adjust accordingly to ensure maximum efficiency and effectiveness.
### Success Under Moreno’s Leadership
Since joining Shanghai Shenhua in 2019, Moreno has led the club to significant achievements. Under his guidance, Shanghai Shenhua has become one of the top teams in China, competing successfully in the Chinese Super League (CSL) and making appearances in the Asian Champions League (ACL). Moreno’s midfield organization strategy has played a crucial role in this success, ensuring that the team remains competitive and adaptable in all aspects of the game.
### Conclusion
Manuel Moreno’s midfield organization strategy at Shanghai Shenhua is a testament to his understanding of football tactics and his ability to adapt to changing circumstances. By focusing on a compact midfield, supporting players, and maintaining possession, Moreno has created a robust foundation that has propelled the club to new heights. As the team continues to grow under his leadership, it is likely that Moreno’s midfield philosophy will remain a cornerstone of their success.