Jorge Sampaoli was appointed at Sevilla FC after Unai Emery’s move to PSG. The Argentine came in with a great reputation after guiding Chile to a Copa America title. Also known for his favored 3 man defense, the club seemed like a great place for him to break into the club-management scene.

Sampaoli made an immediate impact with a brilliant performance in the summer transfer window. A major overhaul with quality players like Luciano Vietto, Wissam Ben Yedder, Samir Nasri and Matias Kranevitter brought in reinforced the fact that Sampaoli would stick to the methods he was comfortable with and could enforce.

3-Man Defense

As expected, Sampaoli introduced a 3 man defense with the trio of Rami, Pareja and Mercado. The formations played by Sampaoli also vary from a 3-4-3, 3-4-1-2 and a 5-4-1 setup depending on how he wants Sevilla FC to play. Interestingly, the defense adapts to whether the club hold possession of the ball. In the case of possession, a center back moves in to become almost a sweeper. At the same time, when not in possession, the wingers become wing-backs and are required to defend. Most importantly, Sampaoli has, with his dynamism and character, made Sevilla FC stronger psychologically. A trait which they have lacked in recent years.

As seen above, the packed midfield dominate possession while a 3-man defense can sweep up when required. The presence of Steven N’Zonzi also allows attacking midfielders to take up more advanced positions. This has allowed the club to manage games effectively and create chances with ease.

Star Performers at Sevilla FC

Steven N’Zonzi

Not usually considered a star name, perhaps that’s the truth about the role of a destroyer in a team. N’Zonzi has been pivotal for Sevilla FC playing in front of the defense. The Frenchman shows aggression and intelligence while breaking up opposition attacks and also makes good runs into the box chipping in with a goal from time to time.

As seen by his stats, N’Zonzi is extremely important for starting Sevilla’s moves from deep.

Samir Nasri

Nasri moved to Sevilla FC on loan from Manchester City and is flourishing with the freedom and central role provided to him in Sampaoli’s system. His position varies from a No.10 role to more of a No.8 role. Hence providing an opportunity for him to make his runs and create chances centrally rather than a limited role on the wing.

Wissam Ben Yedder

Another piece of shrewd business was the signing of Wissam Ben Yedder from Toulouse for 9 million euros. The winger has been brilliant under Sampaoli and has taken to Spain like a fish to water.  His strengths particularly suit the La Liga as he is technically excellent and has showcased this at the club. He has 12 goals and 2 assists in 18 appearances and is showing his ability.

Sevilla FC have been under the spotlight. The new manager came in under great expectations and has not failed to live up to them. They have been wonderful under Sampaoli and sit in the top 4 of the La Liga and remain a team to watch in this campaign.

Picture Courtesy: 11tegen11, Fussball