Shaded area: typical operating zone · Arrow: example movement
Indicative diagrams, not fixed positions or tracking data.
Role details & scouting notes
Understanding the role
Steps or carries into midfield once possession is secure, plays forward passes and helps direct attacks. Overlaps with the libero and modern centre-backs who step into midfield.
Player examples
Franz Beckenbauer
Player examples illustrate aspects of each role, not a fixed label for their entire career.
What to watch
Review the transition from carrying to passing, pressure around the ball and the protection left behind.