Football is constantly evolving, shaped by new tactical innovations and shifts in playing philosophy. One of the most significant changes in the modern game is the continued refinement of positional play, which dictates how teams structure themselves in and out of possession. With teams constantly looking for an edge, the future of positional play will likely redefine key roles across the pitch. From the way goalkeepers contribute in build-up play to the decline of traditional wingers, here’s how we see positional play shaping the future of football.
Goalkeepers Playing Higher in Possession
The modern goalkeeper is already an essential part of the build-up phase, but as teams push for more control and numerical superiority in possession, we could see goalkeepers operating even higher up the pitch. This trend has already been evident with goalkeepers like Ederson and Manuel Neuer acting as auxiliary sweepers, but the next evolution may see them becoming even more active in overloads, effectively playing as an additional outfield player when their team has the ball.
In systems where positional play dictates precise spacing, goalkeepers could be positioned beyond the 18-yard box in sustained possession, acting as an emergency passing option to recycle play and control transitions. With pressing becoming more sophisticated, a high-positioned goalkeeper may also be vital in preventing turnovers and allowing for quicker ball circulation in deeper areas.
Are Tricky Wingers Becoming Obsolete?
For decades, football has been defined by dazzling wingers who hug the touchline, beat their marker, and deliver crosses into the box. However, with the evolution of positional play, traditional wide wingers are becoming less prominent in favour of attackers who operate in half-spaces.
Many elite teams now favour inside forwards or attacking midfielders who drift centrally, occupying pockets of space between full-backs and centre-backs. Players like Phil Foden, Jamal Musiala, and even Lionel Messi in his later years exemplify how modern attackers are prioritising positional intelligence over raw dribbling ability. With inverted full-backs providing width, teams may continue shifting towards goal-threat-focused attackers in the half-spaces rather than pure dribblers on the flanks.
Full-Backs and the Rise of the Hybrid Role
Full-backs have already seen a tactical revolution, but their role could continue evolving in surprising ways. Traditionally viewed as defensive players, modern full-backs are now expected to contribute in midfield and attack. Players like João Cancelo and Trent Alexander-Arnold have already demonstrated the effectiveness of an inverted full-back, moving centrally to control possession rather than staying wide to overlap.
As teams optimise their structure in possession, we may see full-backs become permanent midfielders when building up, further reducing the reliance on traditional central midfielders in deeper roles. This shift could lead to a greater emphasis on technical ability and press resistance in players who traditionally play as full-backs.
Strikers as Playmakers, Not Just Finishers
The days of the traditional number nine as a pure goal-scorer are fading, replaced by more complete forwards who contribute to build-up play. Players like Harry Kane and Karim Benzema have already shown how a striker can drop deep to create overloads, but this trend may continue with teams looking for even more fluid attacking structures.
In a positional play-dominated game, the striker of the future may resemble a false nine who interchanges seamlessly with attacking midfielders, drawing defenders out of position to open space for inside forwards making diagonal runs. This would allow for greater unpredictability in attack and force defensive lines into constant adjustments.
The Death of the Traditional Number 10?
With positional play demanding high levels of structure and spacing, the traditional free-roaming number 10 is becoming increasingly rare. Instead, creative midfielders are now expected to contribute defensively and fit within a coordinated pressing system rather than having a license to drift around the pitch.
Modern playmakers must now excel in both structured build-up and defensive transition, meaning the classic playmaker role could become even more dynamic. Instead of one central creative force, teams may rely on multiple players with playmaking ability spread across the pitch, ensuring that creativity is no longer restricted to one designated player.
The Future of Positional Play in Football
As the game continues to evolve, positional play will remain at the heart of tactical development. Teams will continue to find ways to control space more effectively, whether through goalkeepers acting as deep playmakers, wingers playing in half-spaces, full-backs operating as midfielders, or strikers becoming key playmakers.
While traditional roles won’t disappear entirely, the demands of modern football require adaptability. The future belongs to players and coaches who can seamlessly adjust their positioning, fluidly transition between roles, and maximise positional advantages within structured team play. One thing is certain—football will continue to evolve, and positional play will be at the forefront of its transformation.
