Creating Space Through Movement
The false 9 role is dynamic and can be rotated among multiple players throughout the match. This fluidity can generate spaces in different areas of the pitch. For example, if an opposing team adopts a man-marking out-of-possession (OOP) strategy in midfield, and the No. 8 rotates with the false 9, the latter could find pockets of space in deeper areas. This would occur as the center-back may be reluctant to follow the false 9 too deep, allowing for progression through passes or dribbles.
For example, let's say that an opp. team employs a man-marking OOP system in midfield. In this case, if the No.8 alternates position with the false 9, the latter could find space in deeper positions (as the CB would be hesitant to track him so deep) to progress possession from… pic.twitter.com/C63mKapjMi
— Fahd (@fahdahmed987) August 22, 2024
Unlocking Nkunku's Potential
This system could be ideally suited for Christopher Nkunku, a player known for his excellent spatial awareness and intelligent movement. Whether positioned on the wings or, more ideally, as a No. 8, Nkunku could capitalize on deep runs while also being technically proficient enough to function as a false 9. Although this approach might place a goal-scoring burden on Chelsea’s midfielders, Nkunku could help shoulder some of this responsibility, as he demonstrated during his time at RB Leipzig.
Looking Back at 2021/22
— Fahd (@fahdahmed987) August 2, 2024
Nkunku's 2021/22 stats are nothing short of outstanding.
Let's just go through his output and compare it to players in the Big 5 Leagues:
➡️ 5th for G+A - 33 goal contributions
➡️ 13th for Goals - 20 goals
➡️ 17th for Expected Goals - 16.1 xG
➡️ 6th… pic.twitter.com/n9K8zajVnV
Compensating for Jackson's Finishing Challenges
Despite Nicolas Jackson's on-ball skills, his finishing has been a major shortcoming, which became particularly evident following Chelsea's defeat to Manchester City. If Jackson's poor finishing persists into the 2024/25 season, it could jeopardize Chelsea's hopes of finishing in the top four. However, it is worth noting that Jackson does manage to position himself well for scoring opportunities.
In this parameter, Jackson's -4.6 goals underperformance was the fourth lowest in the Premier League - a matter of unease for the club. pic.twitter.com/QcG0Dl8pqi
— Fahd (@fahdahmed987) August 4, 2024
The key question is: can Félix and Nkunku compensate for the 14 Premier League goals Jackson scored or potentially surpass that tally due to their arguably superior shooting techniques? If the Osimhen deal falls through, could this be the next best alternative? We believe it could be, but it would need to be tested in real-game scenarios a few times before making any definitive judgments.
Drawbacks of a False 9 System
Pushing Up the Opposition's Defensive Line
This tactical change can have both positive and negative effects. On the one hand, it could encourage more direct balls behind the opposition's defensive line, creating space to exploit. On the other hand, it could lead to a more congested midfield, resulting in a frantic game and potentially risky turnovers.