Bayer Leverkusen’s rising star, Edmond Tapsoba, recently shared his thoughts on the similarities between current manager Erik ten Hag and former manager Xabi Alonso. The 22-year-old defender expressed his belief that ten Hag’s playing style aligns well with his own strengths on the pitch, drawing parallels to the tactics employed by the former Spanish international.
Tapsoba, who has been a standout performer for Leverkusen since joining the club in 2020, praised ten Hag for his tactical acumen and ability to get the best out of his players. The Burkina Faso international highlighted the similarities between ten Hag and Alonso in terms of their emphasis on possession-based football and intelligent positioning on the field.
“I see a lot of similarities between Erik ten Hag and Xabi Alonso in the way they approach the game,” Tapsoba said in a recent interview. “Both managers prioritize keeping possession of the ball and using it effectively to create scoring opportunities. As a defender, I appreciate the focus on positional play and building up from the back, which suits my style of play.”
With Leverkusen facing the challenge of rebuilding their defense following the departure of Jonathan Tah to Paris Saint-Germain, Tapsoba is expected to take on a more prominent leadership role in the backline. The 26-year-old center-back will be tasked with organizing the defense and marshaling the backline to ensure solidity and stability during matches.
Tapsoba’s partnership with fellow defender Sven Bender will be crucial for Leverkusen as they look to make a strong start to the new season and challenge for a top-four finish in the Bundesliga. The young defender’s ability to read the game, anticipate opposition movements, and make crucial interceptions will be essential in helping Leverkusen achieve their goals this season.
As Leverkusen gear up for their upcoming fixtures, Tapsoba’s understanding of ten Hag’s tactics and his familiarity with the playing style promoted by the Dutch manager will be key factors in the team’s success. The young defender’s development under the guidance of ten Hag has been evident in his performances on the pitch, as he continues to grow into a reliable and consistent presence in Leverkusen’s defense.
In conclusion, Edmond Tapsoba’s admiration for Erik ten Hag’s coaching style and his comparison to former manager Xabi Alonso highlight the impact that the Dutch manager has had on Leverkusen’s defensive setup. As Tapsoba looks to lead the backline in the absence of Tah, his partnership with Bender and his understanding of ten Hag’s tactics will be crucial for Leverkusen’s success in the upcoming season. With the young defender’s talent and potential, he is set to play a pivotal role in the team’s pursuit of their footballing goals.
Embracing Possession-Based Football
Edmond Tapsoba’s recognition of the similarities between Erik ten Hag and Xabi Alonso sheds light on the importance of possession-based football in modern tactics. Both managers prioritize ball retention and strategic positioning, emphasizing the value of controlling the game through intelligent play. Tapsoba’s appreciation for this style of football showcases his understanding of the nuances of the game and his adaptability to different managerial approaches.
Leadership Role in Leverkusen’s Defense
As Bayer Leverkusen looks to solidify their defense in the wake of Jonathan Tah’s departure, Edmond Tapsoba’s emergence as a key figure in the backline is crucial. His partnership with experienced defender Sven Bender will be instrumental in maintaining a cohesive defensive unit that can withstand the challenges posed by top Bundesliga teams. Tapsoba’s growth as a player and leader will be pivotal in guiding Leverkusen to success this season.
Strategic Thinking and Tactical Awareness
Edmond Tapsoba’s ability to read the game, anticipate opposition movements, and make decisive interceptions highlight his strategic thinking and tactical awareness on the pitch. His astute positional play and understanding of Erik ten Hag’s tactics demonstrate his footballing intelligence and adaptability. Leveraging these skills, Tapsoba is poised to become a linchpin in Leverkusen’s defense, contributing to the team’s overall success.
Fostering a Winning Mentality
With Leverkusen aiming to secure a top-four finish in the Bundesliga, Edmond Tapsoba’s mindset as a player and leader will be crucial in instilling a winning mentality within the team. His commitment to excellence, coupled with his admiration for ten Hag’s coaching philosophy, sets a positive example for his teammates and reinforces the team’s collective aspirations for success. Tapsoba’s drive and determination will be vital in motivating the squad to achieve their footballing goals.
Looking Ahead
As Bayer Leverkusen prepares for the challenges of the upcoming season, Edmond Tapsoba’s evolution as a player under Erik ten Hag’s guidance promises exciting prospects for the team’s defensive capabilities. His synergy with Bender, his tactical acumen, and his leadership qualities position him as a key asset in Leverkusen’s pursuit of excellence. With a clear focus on teamwork, strategic play, and a winning mentality, Tapsoba is poised to make a significant impact on the team’s performance and achievements in the Bundesliga.
By expanding on Edmond Tapsoba’s insights and contributions to Bayer Leverkusen’s defensive setup, this enhanced content provides a deeper understanding of the player’s role, the team’s aspirations, and the strategic elements at play in their pursuit of success.
