Classic 4-4-2
The history of Swedish football still fondly remembers the days of Bob Houghton and Roy Hodgson. They introduced a well-disciplined and aggressive 4-4-2 system that became highly successful, but also a part of Swedish football culture. Janne Andersson is another coach who mainly deploys this formation. Aware of his side’s limitations, Andersson cannot rely too much on individuals, but the strength of teamwork and discipline.
Defensive organisation and shape are essential, with everyone having their bit of defensive responsibility, especially now that the back four is uncertain. The focus is on maintaining a compact shape at all times. When in possession, Sweden are very direct, with long and high balls being an important part of their attacking plan. Of course, there is more to it than that, with Albin Ekdal and Kristoffer Olsson also being able to create from the middle.
The addition of Ibrahimovic to a highly potent attack could be crucial. It will be interesting to see who Andersson prefers to pair with Zlatan – young gun striker Alexandar Isak, veteran forward Marcus Berg or Juventus’ Dejan Kulusevski, who usually lines up on the wing. It would not be a surprise to see him experimenting.