Over the past few weeks, Beşiktaş has started experimenting with a more compact defensive structure, frequently including young academy players in the starting XI. This change has reduced average position loss per game by 15% while disrupting opponent attacks earlier. The inverted full-backs and pressing from midfield have added balance to the team. However, the lack of experienced center-backs occasionally leaves gaps in the defensive line. Do you think entrusting young players with this responsibility is beneficial in the long run, or will their inexperience cause problems in critical moments?
Thoughts on Beşiktaş's defensive tactics and integration of young players this season
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In my experience, the key to young players taking on that role without experience being too much of a burden is to combine their energy with targeted leadership in the central zone. In the teams I’ve closely followed (including some U23 coaches), the quick fix is to assign a veteran stopper as a “line leader” to organize the position and communicate in real time; having that player on the field at least 60% of the time is enough to instill confidence in the full-backs and midfielders. Additionally, training in “transition situations” with high pressure and ball recovery helps young players internalize critical moments before the opponent’s attack.
Another practical measure is to bring in newly integrated players in the final minutes of more balanced matches, where the pressure is lower but they can still experience tactical demands. This gives them real game minutes without exposing them to high-risk scenarios, and the technical staff can assess their progress. With these small adjustments—a consistent guiding stopper and controlled minutes in favorable matches—the lack of experience is softened, and the young players’ potential is maximized in the long run.