“Vibes” has become a common phrase in football now. Whenever a manager looks like he’s tactically weak, a tag of being a “vibes” team is attributed to the team, meaning that the wins come by as a result of individual brilliance. The manager is just the cheerleader, his main job is to keep the players happy, not load them with instructions.
It is widely accepted that “System” triumphs over individuals. “Vibes” can win you game, but never tournaments.
This is why this year’s Champions League final is such a curious case study between two teams whose models couldn’t be more different from one another.
Liverpool built their success on clear tactical instructions from Klopp, playing in a systematic way, making the most out of each player. Players unlock another gear in their arsenal when playing for Jurgen Klopp.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, live for chaos. Carlo Ancelotti’s team have not been trailblazers in any tactical department. However, they are stretching the limits of what a flawed team can achieve. Benzema has spearheaded their season, which has already resulted in a La Liga title. In the UCL, barely believable comebacks have become the norm. Real Madrid get dominated, but they are never down for long.
Real Madrid’s success this season with minimal structure on the pitch has already challenged the “Vibes vs system” debate. The UEFA Champions League final might give a definitive answer.
Does the system make the players, or do the players make the system?