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“Start by dividing the field into three areas. Keep it simple in the first two by controlling the ball and making quick passes – then play with freedom in the final third. This is where you create chances and score goals.
If you think you’re going to lose possession, try and put yourself between the defender and the ball. You might force them into making a foul, buying your team some time.
If you’re struggling to get into the game, drop deeper to receive the ball off full-backs and centre-backs. There will be more room and less chance of you giving the ball away.
Most importantly, look for space between midfield and attack. You won’t be a top player if you can’t do this. At Barcelona, Lionel Messi and Neymar mostly use this space, but Andres Iniesta, Ivan Rakitic and myself always look for openings.
When the opposition man-mark you it can be more difficult to do this. In this situation I roam around the pitch to lose my marker. If he follows me, then the opposition’s defensive structure will be broken.”
