The latest installment of The Alternative Premier League Table provides an in-depth analysis of the pressing strategies employed by each of the 20 clubs in the league. As the Premier League increasingly embraces direct football, there are noticeable shifts in how teams operate out of possession. Current statistics reveal that clubs are averaging only 3.4 possessions won in the attacking third per 90 minutes, the lowest figure in the past eight seasons. Additionally, the average passes per defensive action (PPDA)—a gauge of defensive intensity—stands at 12.4, marking the second-lowest average in the same period.
A trend has emerged in which teams are adopting tactics that lure opponents into pressing before bypassing them with long balls. Despite this, several clubs have excelled at winning the ball high up the pitch, creating high-quality scoring opportunities. The current rankings are grounded in each team’s average PPDA and possessions won in the attacking third, showcasing how differing strategies have evolved.
Brighton & Hove Albion currently leads the way with an impressive 4.9 possessions won in the attacking third while boasting the second-best PPDA in the league. The club, under the guidance of Fabian Hurzeler, has maintained a high-intensity training regime that aligns closely with philosophies from his predecessor and fellow German, Jurgen Klopp. Key figures like Yasin Ayari and Georginio Rutter have emerged as instrumental in employing a relentless pressing style, with Rutter contributing significantly with 10 possessions won in the attacking third.
Conversely, Manchester City appears to have adopted a more conservative approach, significantly reducing their average of possessions won in the attacking third from 7.5 per 90 in the previous season to just 3.9 this time around. Pep Guardiola’s side has registered the highest PPDA at 14.5, reflecting a tactical pivot towards defensive stability rather than aggressive pressing.
Bournemouth has sustained its high-intensity pressing tactics, ranking second in the league for PPDA while seeing a dip in possessions won compared to last season. Antoine Semenyo has emerged as a pivotal player, leading the team with 10 possessions won in the attacking third.
Crystal Palace, on the other hand, opts for a more restrained pressing strategy, sitting second-bottom in PPDA. Their focus lies on controlling the central areas rather than applying high-pressure tactics. Manager Oliver Glasner’s system allows them to absorb pressure effectively while keeping dangerous opponents at bay.
Arsenal has transformed into one of Europe’s top defensive teams, showcasing remarkable intensity and anticipation in their pressing. Bukayo Saka has been a standout performer, contributing significantly with 11 possessions won in the attacking third.
Liverpool’s pressing numbers have seen a downward trend, with a rise in PPDA and a decline in high third possessions from 4.4 to 4. Despite these challenges, the team remains productive, leading in goals scored from regains in the final third.
Not to be overlooked, Aston Villa’s John McGinn is excelling personally, leading the league in possessions won in the attacking third. His proactive approach, particularly after ball loss, has been vital for Villa’s attacking sustainability.
Everton’s pressing intensities have improved, ranking sixth in possessions won following the contributions of players like Jack Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
In an interesting twist, Leeds United is enjoying a positive season by maintaining their possession statistics, highlighted by significant contributions from midfielders Ao Tanaka and Anton Stach during pressing phases.
Newcastle and Chelsea have both undergone tactical shifts. Newcastle’s pressing intensity has decreased, although they recorded an impressive performance during a recent draw against Tottenham. Chelsea exhibits a mixed bag; while their pressing efficiency has improved, their outings in the attacking third have diminished.
As for Tottenham, their pressing efforts have fluctuated, largely dictated by whether they find themselves leading or chasing a game.
Lastly, teams like Fulham, Brentford, and Burnley are grappling with challenges that arise from a lack of efficient pressing or possession wins, reflecting the various tactical benchmarks influencing this season’s performance.
The evolution of pressing tactics in the Premier League this season illustrates how teams are adapting to strategic demands, with some thriving while others continue to seek effective solutions in the ever-competitive landscape of English football.
