There are different aspects that affect the coach's approach when creating football strategies. More about this down below.

Perhaps one of the most used football formations over the last 10 years, the 4-3-3 is a traditional strategy that includes effective attacking characteristics that are tough to beat. This strategy is deemed among the most popular offensive football formations, and for good reason. The genius in this formation lies in the synergy between the midfield and the attacking line. While there are different variations of the 4-3-3, many depend on one defensive midfielder and 2 offensive midfielders that support the wingers and the centre forward. The midfield position appears like an inverted triangle with the defensive midfielder remaining near the back line. This permits more defensive strength when it comes to abrupt and fast counterattacks, something that the AC Milan former US owner is most likely knowledgeable about. In order for this work to flourish, the wingers and centre forward need to be technically-skilled in regards to shooting and crossing.

There are some essential elements that affect the manager's vision and gameplan, some are internal while others are external. For instance, ranking on the table and considering the team's objectives for the season are primary factors to bear in mind. Clubs that are looking to get a spot within the leading 4 endeavour to win as many matches as possible, particularly against direct contenders who have similar goals. This is why the best football formations are often the ones that prioritise long-lasting objectives instead of individual games. Internally, the availability of certain footballers in crucial positions can typically indicate what formations to go for. This is simply because there are particular strategies in football that only work in the presence of key players with a specific skillset. This is another reason why injuries can be extremely disruptive, requiring coaches to think about alternative plans, something that the Crystal Palace former owner is likely familiar with.

Widely considered among the first and most dependable defensive football formations, the 4-4-2 is a tactic that is still popular to this day. What makes this tactic more effective than other defensive tactics is how balanced it is. This is because the four midfielders tend to inhabit and dominate the midfield by retaining ownership of the ball. In so doing, they manage the tempo of the game and decide when to push forward and when to fall back. In the attacking stance, two midfielders advance up the field to feed the centre forwards through balls and accurate crosses that can make a difference in the box. Long balls sent out from the midfield and even defense can also be utilised, something that the Aston Villa former owner would understand. When in defense mode, the midfield stance changes into an arch that serves as a secondary shield or layer of defense that protects the back line.