Football Theory & Coaching Verticality With Ilya Orlov
- Gary Curneen
- Aug 14
- 2 min read
We were recently joined on the MSC Podcast by Director of Football and Head Coach at Alliance United and University of Toronto, Ilya Orlov. In this interview, Ilya delves into the intricate background of his innovative football ideas, providing a comprehensive overview that is deeply rooted in the principles of the Football Theory approach. He articulates how this theoretical framework serves as a foundation for his understanding of the game, emphasizing its significance in shaping modern football strategies.
Ilya explains that the Football Theory approach is not merely an abstract concept; rather, it is a practical methodology that seeks to analyze the game through various lenses, including tactical formations, player movements, and game dynamics. He references key figures and seminal works in the field that have influenced his thinking, illustrating how these ideas have evolved over time and how they can be applied to contemporary football.
Furthermore, Ilya passionately argues for the efficacy of a direct playing style as opposed to the traditionally favored possession-based approach. He outlines the advantages of a direct style, highlighting its ability to create immediate scoring opportunities and its effectiveness in exploiting the opposition's defensive weaknesses. By focusing on quick transitions and vertical passing, teams can catch their opponents off guard, leading to more goal-scoring chances.
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You can watch the full interview below. Please 'like' and subscribe if you enjoy it.
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