The beautiful game is constantly evolving, and one of the most prominent tactical shifts in recent years is the prevalence of teams playing out from the back. As we approach tournaments like Euro 2024, set to be extensively covered by BBC Sport, this strategy is under intense scrutiny. The intricate and synchronised nature of these plays is often lauded as “majestically planned,” with figures like Pep Guardiola rightly credited for popularising this approach. However, as a seasoned voice in football, speaking to BBC Sport, David Moyes offers a balanced perspective, reminding us that this tactic isn’t entirely new and perhaps is being pushed to its limits, especially when considering the high stakes of competitions like Euro 2024.
While the modern iteration of playing out from the back, championed by Guardiola and others, is often seen as revolutionary, Moyes points out a crucial historical context. “We have to be fair though, and remember that people like Alan Hansen and Mark Lawrenson were playing out from the back 40 years ago.” He reminds us that these were “two excellent footballers,” suggesting that the core concept has always been present in footballing thought. The current trend is more of a refined and systematised approach to a long-standing idea.
However, Moyes expresses concern that the pendulum might have swung too far, especially when evaluating tactics for crucial matches in Euro 2024. “I also think we are maybe seeing it being done to extremes, when sometimes it probably deserves more criticism.” His “manager’s head” highlights a critical issue: the cost of mistakes. “Again, with my manager’s head on, we are seeing too many goals scored from poor play or mistakes when teams bring the ball out from the back.” This vulnerability is particularly relevant in high-pressure environments like major international tournaments, where every error can be magnified.
There appears to be a philosophical divide among coaches regarding the risks associated with this tactic. Moyes describes a generational difference in approach: “There is a generation of coaches that says that is not correct, because we are not used to giving up easy goals… and there is a new generation coming through that is almost saying don’t worry about it, we will keep doing it.” This contrast highlights the ongoing debate within footballing circles about the acceptable level of risk in pursuit of a specific playing style.
For Moyes, the ultimate metric for any tactic, particularly in prestigious competitions like the European Championship, remains its impact on winning. “But when it comes to European tournaments, or the Premier League, those sort of decisions will cost you trophies and games and, as a manager they could ultimately cost you your job.” This pragmatic viewpoint underscores the high stakes involved at the elite level of football. He questions the unwavering commitment to playing out from the back, “That’s why I am not sure about people being so willing to let it keep happening even if it is going wrong.”
Ultimately, Moyes brings the discussion back to the fundamental objective of football. “There is a part of football, whatever else you say about it, where I think you want your club or team to win.” For him, and likely for the majority of fans tuning into BBC Sport’s Euro 2024 coverage, “winning was the be-all and end-all for most supporters at any club. For me, that is one thing that won’t ever change.” As teams gear up for Euro 2024, the balance between stylish, modern tactics like playing out from the back and the imperative to secure victories will be a crucial factor in determining success. The insights from experienced managers like David Moyes, shared through platforms like BBC Sport, offer valuable perspectives as we analyse the tactical battles to come in Euro 2024.
