A favorite role among FM players is the Advanced Playmaker. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Advanced Playmaker role, the key attributes needed to excel in this role, and how they can be effectively utilized in the midfield.
What is an Advanced Playmaker in Football Manager?
An Advanced Playmaker, is an attacking midfielder who operates just behind the striker in the final third of the pitch. The primary responsibility of an Advanced Playmaker is to create scoring opportunities for their teammates by providing killer passes, dribbling past opponents, and taking shots at goal. They are the creative hub of the team, and their ability to unlock the opposition’s defense can be the difference between winning and losing a match.
Key Attributes for an Advanced Playmaker
To be successful in the Advanced Playmaker role, a player needs to have a set of specific attributes. Some of the key attributes for an Advanced Playmaker include:
Vision: The Advanced Playmaker needs to have a good sense of the game and be able to see opportunities that others cannot. They should be able to quickly analyze the game, pick out potential targets, and deliver accurate passes.
Passing: A key aspect of the Advanced Playmaker role is the ability to pass the ball. The player needs to have the technical ability to deliver accurate short and long passes, as well as the vision to pick out key passes.
Dribbling: The Advanced Playmaker should be able to take on opponents with the ball and create space for themselves and their teammates. Good dribbling skills are essential for this role.
Finishing: An Advanced Playmaker is not just a provider, but also a scorer of goals. They should have the ability to take shots at goal and finish when opportunities present themselves.
Flair: The Advanced Playmaker should have a creative spark and the ability to produce moments of magic. This can include taking on multiple opponents, scoring spectacular goals, or providing crucial assists.
Using the Advanced Playmaker Effectively in the Midfield
The Advanced Playmaker role is best utilized in the attacking midfield, just behind the striker. This allows the player to be involved in the final third of the pitch, where they can make the most impact. The Advanced Playmaker should be the creative hub of the team, and their ability to unlock the opposition’s defense can be the difference between winning and losing a match.
The Advanced Playmaker should be given the freedom to roam around the final third, making runs into the box, creating space for others, and taking shots at goal. They should also be encouraged to take risks, as their ability to make the unexpected happen can lead to match-winning moments.
When playing with an Advanced Playmaker, it’s essential to have supporting players who can take advantage of the opportunities created. This includes wingers who can make runs down the flanks and forwards who can finish the chances provided by the Advanced Playmaker.
The Advanced Playmaker role works well with several other player roles, including:
Deep-Lying Playmaker: A Deep-Lying Playmaker can provide a steady supply of passes to the Advanced Playmaker, allowing them to make the most of their creative abilities.
Wingers: Wingers can make runs down the flanks, creating space for the Advanced Playmaker to exploit. With their speed and dribbling ability, wingers can also provide a valuable outlet for the Advanced Playmaker when the opposition closes them down.
Target Man: A strong, physical target man can be a useful outlet for the Advanced Playmaker. With their ability to hold up play, a target man can bring the team up the pitch, allowing the Advanced Playmaker to operate in more advanced positions.
Box-to-Box Midfielder: A box-to-box midfielder can provide the support needed to allow the Advanced Playmaker to focus on their creative duties. With their energy and versatility, a box-to-box midfielder can help to maintain possession and press the opposition.
In Summary
The Advanced Playmaker is a fantastic catalyst role in Football Manager, providing the creativity and flair needed to unlock the opposition’s defense. With their passing, dribbling, and finishing ability, Advanced Playmakers can be the difference between winning and losing a match. To be effective, they need to be given the freedom to roam and be supported by players who can take advantage of their opportunities. When utilized correctly, the Advanced Playmaker can be a devastating weapon in the attacking midfield, providing the spark that ignites the team’s offense.
