The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast

Has Salah actually declined?

Dec 11, 2025
This week, Michael Cox, a renowned football tactics writer, joins Mark Carey, a data journalist, and Liam Tharme, a tactics analyst, to delve into the dynamics of player power, focusing on Mohamed Salah. They discuss whether managers should adapt their strategies for star players and the importance of squad versatility. The panel examines Salah's role at Liverpool, analyzing tactical adaptations that protect him and the effects of opponents targeting his defensive efforts. They also debate if Salah's perceived decline is due to age or tactical shifts.
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INSIGHT

Tactical Plans Must Fit Stars

  • Managers should design tactics flexible enough for top players to fit without ditching team structure.
  • Michael Cox argues elite players often deserve allowances to maximise their strengths.
INSIGHT

Protect Stars Out Of Possession

  • Balance in-possession freedom with out-of-possession protection for star attackers.
  • Liam Tharme highlights giving midfield support so stars conserve energy for attacking moments.
INSIGHT

Collective Systems Trump Single-Star Reliance

  • Top clubs now favour collective systems over tailoring solely to one star player.
  • Liam says deep squads and versatile players reduce reliance on single-player styles.
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