In elite football, the difference between an average touch and a game-changing action often lies in what happensbefore the ball arrives.
Modern midfielders are not just distributors.
They are interpreters of time and space, constantly scanning their environment and adjusting their body shape to play at the highest possible tempo.
These micro-actions (scanning and body-oriented receiving) might seem subtle, but they underpin almost every successful intervention in the heart of the pitch.
This tactical theory piece explores how Alexis Mac Allister exemplifies these traits for Liverpool and Argentina.
Combining data, theoretical insights, and video examples, this player analysis highlights how his awareness and body mechanics elevate his ability to control rhythm, link lines, and influence the game on both sides of the ball.
The Tactical Value Of Scanning
Scanning in football refers to the active head movements a player performs to gather visual information before interacting with the ball.
While subtle, it is a cognitive action that has a proven impact on decision-making and execution.
Foden receives with an open body shape between the lines
Phil Foden receives with an open body shape between the lines.
Jordet et al. (2020) define scanning as “an active head movement where the player briefly directs their gaze away from the ball to collect information in preparation for future interaction.”
Their study, based on Premier League data, revealed that midfielders scanned most frequently and that increased scanning correlated with improved pass completion rates, particularly when playing longer or forward passes.
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