Naive defending is a type of defending where a team commits very basic mistakes, which are easily capitalized on by the other team. For example, if you leave your goal undefended in a match, that would be the clearest instance of naïve defending! Defending is the equivalent of not thinking. It is a reckless indifference that leads to ridiculous blunders such as failing to mark opposing players or to keep track of the ball’s location. Teams that use naïve defending make it shockingly simple for the other team to put the ball in the net.
🗣️ “If you want to put it that way, that’s fine. Excuses?”
Mikel Arteta’s response to being asked if there can be no excuses if Arsenal don’t win the league after gaining 50 points from their first 19 Premier League games this season. pic.twitter.com/ok3ZoZiOwW
— Football Daily (@footballdaily) February 3, 2023
What is Naive Defending
Arteta recognised that the defensive structure of the team is at times “naive” and that attributing it to the team’s skill in preventing a goal is insufficient. Arteta speaks about the ideal, in which the team is both physically and mentally demanding in solving problems to denying the opponent any uncomplicated opportunity.
Instances of Naive Defending
Think of the game of tag and the person who is “it.” Without paying any attention, the one who is “it” can tag you effortlessly. Tag is an analogous game that is quite easy to understand and provides insight as to how naive defending works. Explaining it in a bit more detail:
– A pass is attempted to two opponents with the hope to gently pass to either, and instead the ball is floored to the other team
– Speed in football is important. A slow defence guarantees a simple turn for the attacker.
Issues with Arsenal’s Defensive Play Under Arteta
Along with the other members of the squad, Arteta would like to fix the team’s defence collectively. Here’s how he could handle it:
– All players would have to improve at marking other players. This would need the correct passing, the right speed, and the right rhythm. Arteta and the players will take part in this.
Authors Opinion
Arteta will take some time with each player and speak to them with some constructive criticism about their performances. Arteta will offer support! The goalpost is to heighten the team’s defence.