Are you curious about the crucial role of a “number 6” in football? This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know, from its historical origins to its modern-day responsibilities on the field. Learn how this position impacts both offensive and defensive strategies.
1. Defining the Number 6 in Football
The “number 6” in football refers to a defensive midfielder, also known as a deep-lying midfielder. This player is stationed at the base of the central midfield, acting as a shield for the defense and a key link between the backline and the more attacking midfielders. They are pivotal in both offensive and defensive transitions.
1.1. The Role of a Single Number 6
In formations like the 4-3-3, the number 6 typically supports two “number 8s” further up the field, creating a midfield triangle. This setup allows for a balance between defensive solidity and attacking prowess.
1.2. The Role of Two Number 6s
Alternatively, some teams employ two number 6s, playing them beneath a single “number 10.” This inverted triangle provides an even greater emphasis on defensive stability and control in the center of the pitch. Players like Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka exemplify this setup for Bayern Munich, with Jamal Musiala playing as the number 10.
1.3. Other Formations
The number 6 role is versatile and can be adapted to various formations, including the 4-4-2 diamond, 3-5-2, and 3-4-3 diamond. Double number sixes are also common in 3-4-3 and 4-2-2-2 formations.
2. The Historical Roots of the Number 6 Position
The term “number six” originates from the early days of numbered shirts in English football. On August 25, 1928, numbered shirts were trialed in two Football League games: Arsenal vs. Sheffield Wednesday and Chelsea vs. Swansea Town.
2.1. The 2-3-5 Formation
Back then, the 2-3-5 formation was prevalent. Players were numbered 1-11, from left to right, with the goalkeeper as number one. The defensive line consisted of numbers two and three, while the midfield line (right-half, center-half, and left-half) were numbers four, five, and six, respectively.
2.2. Evolution of the Number 6
As formations evolved to include a back four, the number six was often assigned to the deepest central midfielder. Even when worn by a center-back, the number six player had key roles in defending and passing from central areas. In some regions, the number four is used to denote the deepest central midfielder, with numbers five and six assigned to the two central defenders.
3. On-the-Ball Responsibilities of a Number 6
In possession, the number six is the crucial link between the defense and the midfield. They operate in the spaces ahead of the center-backs, offering short-passing options through smart movements.
3.1. Tactical Versatility
A number six may drop into the backline during build-up play, either splitting the center-backs or moving to one side. They must be tactically versatile, understanding teammates’ movements and rotations.
3.2. Scanning and Awareness
Scanning is critical for a number six. It enhances their awareness of space, teammates, and the opposition’s press. They need to receive and play forward, often receiving on the half-turn to break lines.
3.3. Passing Range and Tempo Control
The number six must accurately switch play, moving the ball away from pressure. Some can also dribble forward to advance the ball before passing to teammates. They must recognize when to adjust the tempo of an attack, manipulating defenses by speeding up or slowing down the play.
3.4. Connecting with the Front Line
A versatile number six can connect directly with the front line through longer passes over the opposing block, targeting spaces behind the defense. They can deliver diagonal balls to wingers or bend passes around the corner for a center-forward.
4. Off-the-Ball Responsibilities of a Number 6
Out of possession, the number six must stop, disrupt, or limit opposing counter-attacks. They often become the first line of defense during transitions.
4.1. First Line of Defense
A number six can halt counter-attacks by winning first and second balls, breaking up play, recovering loose balls, and dominating duels. This keeps the opposition in their own half, sustaining repeated attacks.
4.2. Supporting the Press
Without the ball, the number six supports a high press by covering access to the opposing central forward. They often screen passes and jump onto opposing central midfielders when teammates move forward.
4.3. Defensive Screening
In a more set block, the number six focuses on screening central passes, blocking the opponents’ access to Zone 14. They may also mark a direct opponent, such as the opposing number 10, especially in a low block.
4.4. Additional Defensive Cover
A number six can drop into the back line, acting as an extra defender. In a back three, they can cover central spaces if a center-back moves wide. In a back four, they can cover if the opposition pulls a defender out of position, or drop into a temporary back five to provide additional defense.
5. Examples of Prominent Number 6 Players
Many modern football players exemplify the qualities of a number 6:
- Sergio Busquets (Barcelona, Inter Miami, Spain)
- Jorginho (Napoli, Chelsea, Arsenal, Italy)
- Rodri (Atlético Madrid, Manchester City, Spain)
- Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich, Germany)
- Declan Rice (West Ham, Arsenal, England)
- Casemiro (Real Madrid, Manchester United, Brazil)
- Fabinho (Monaco, Liverpool, Brazil)
6. Advantages of Playing with a Number 6
The number six offers several advantages:
- Midfield Overload: When part of a three-player midfield, the number six can overload a two-player midfield, dominating possession and breaking the opponent’s press.
- Defensive Cover: They provide extra defensive cover, balance, screening, and protection ahead of the central defense, blocking access to the opposing central forward.
- Attacking Freedom: A single number six allows two number 8s to join the attack earlier, with the six covering and supporting from behind.
7. Disadvantages of Playing with a Single Number 6
However, there are potential drawbacks:
- Exposed Central Spaces: If the number six must cover wide areas, central spaces can become exposed.
- Overload by Multiple Number 10s: Opponents with multiple number 10s or players between the lines can overload a single number six, making it difficult to screen and protect key areas.
- Vulnerability to Two Forwards: A single number six may struggle to cover passing lines to two central forwards, straining the center-backs.
8. FAQ: Understanding the Number 6 Role
Here are some frequently asked questions about the number 6 in football:
8.1. What is the primary role of a number 6?
The primary role is to provide defensive cover, link the defense to the midfield, and control the tempo of the game.
8.2. How does a number 6 differ from a number 8?
A number 6 is more defensively oriented, while a number 8 has more attacking responsibilities and operates further up the field.
8.3. Can a center-back also play as a number 6?
Yes, some center-backs have the skills to play as a number 6, particularly if they are good passers and tactically aware.
8.4. What are the key attributes of a successful number 6?
Key attributes include tactical awareness, passing accuracy, defensive skills, and the ability to read the game.
8.5. Why is the number 6 position so important in modern football?
It provides balance to the team, protects the defense, and allows more attacking players to focus on scoring goals.
8.6. What formations best utilize a number 6?
Formations like 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, and 3-5-2 often utilize a number 6 to provide defensive stability and midfield control.
8.7. How does a number 6 contribute to the team’s attack?
They contribute by distributing the ball effectively, switching play, and sometimes making forward runs to support the attack.
8.8. What is Zone 14, and why is it important for a number 6 to control it?
Zone 14 is the central area just outside the penalty box, crucial for creating scoring opportunities. Controlling this zone helps prevent the opposition from launching attacks.
8.9. How do different coaches utilize the number 6 position differently?
Some coaches use the number 6 primarily for defensive duties, while others encourage them to participate more in the attack based on their tactical approach.
8.10. What are some common mistakes made by players playing as a number 6?
Common mistakes include poor positioning, inaccurate passing, and a lack of awareness of their surroundings.
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