Defenders are no longer judged only by their ability to win duels and circulate possession. Riccardo Calafiori offers the clearest example, with Arsenal using his runs into the penalty area to create an extra attacking player.
The wider passing trend is just as significant:
That shift reflects the pressure placed on midfielders and defenders alike. Centre-backs must now beat the first wave of pressure, step into midfield or attack the space created by marking rotations.
The transfer market has responded quickly. Six of the 10 costliest transfers of the summer involved central midfielders, underlining the premium placed on players who can tackle, carry and pass across larger spaces.
Forwards are being recruited for a different kind of versatility. They are generally taller, faster and more physical, with value attached to pressing, holding off defenders, attacking crosses and offering a direct outlet. The average forward in Europe’s major leagues completed 16% fewer passes last season than in 2018-19.
There are still exceptions. Harry Kane drops into midfield for Bayern Munich, while Ousmane Dembélé operated as a false nine during Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League triumph. Both show how moving away from a marker can open space for teammates.
Goalkeepers increasingly attract pressure rather than simply escape it. Opponents often leave them free, forcing a choice between short passes that draw markers forward and longer distribution into space.
Gianluigi Donnarumma ranking first in the Premier League for cross-claiming last season also highlights the defensive side of the role. Recruitment will increasingly focus on both distribution and command of the penalty area.
The next transfer window should reveal which clubs have fully embraced the shift: versatile midfielders, adventurous defenders, physical forwards and goalkeepers capable of turning pressure into territory.