HowTo: Play the #6 or #8 position

**Reposted from last season with updates**

Here is another "HowTo" and it's a big one. The #6 & #8 positions. The central midfielders that make the game tick.

Here are the responsibilities for a Sac United #6 & #8

Xavi in action for Barcelona

#6 & #8 When WE have the ball:

- be an outlet for winger and if necessary for the defenders
- is a supporting player for the strikers
- needs to have a feel for the position/open space, meaning:

• support
• score/ be in front of the goal
• choose the depth

- high processing speed
- capacity to cover great distances
- capacity to score
- guard the triangle, never be in one line


Be able to play in front of the defense, meaning:

- be able pick the ball up from the defenders
- be comfortable playing with her back to goal
- quick thinker
- superb close-control in the small place
- switching play at the right moment
- be available for receiving a pass
- cooperation with 6 OR 8


#6 & #8 When THEY have the ball:

- be able to defend zone and position
- be strong in 1v1 duel

• attack on the ball! intercept
• keep player in front
• come in front of the player to defend
• good defensive header
• backing, and pinch in

- be explosive/ fast
- help organize the teams defensive shape

Watch the following video to become a "student of the game". Below are highlights of every time he touched the ball against Arsenal in last years Champion League match.

"I pass and I move, I help you, I look for you, I stop, I raise my head, I look and above all, I open up the field." ~Xavi

Watch how he plays the #6 position.