How a Number 10 Can Impact the Game
A number 10 is one of the most influential and demanding positions on the pitch. It’s not enough to simply be involved in play—a great attacking midfielder must consistently create chances.
What Does It Mean to Impact the Game?
Some players run tirelessly for 90 minutes, seeing plenty of the ball, yet fail to change the outcome of a match. They work hard but leave no lasting mark. A number 10 cannot afford to be invisible. Their job is to create game-changing moments—whether that’s through a killer pass, a moment of skill, or a crucial goal.
Different Types of Playmakers
Football analysts often classify playmakers into three types:
Attacking Playmakers – Focused on advancing play and making direct goal contributions (e.g., Tammy Abraham in attacking phases).
Organising Playmakers – Midfielders who dictate tempo and control possession (e.g., Kevin De Bruyne).
Defensive Playmakers – Players who operate deeper but initiate attacks from their own half (e.g., Declan Rice).
Few players can excel in all three roles, but elite midfielders like Luka Modrić showcase how mastering multiple aspects of playmaking can elevate a player’s influence on a game.
Few players can excel in all three roles, but elite midfielders like Luka Modrić showcase how mastering multiple aspects of playmaking can elevate a player’s influence on a game.
The Art of Creating Chances
A great number 10 can impact the game and they must see and execute passes that others cannot. These passes might:
Break defensive lines to put a striker through on goal.
Find wingers in space, allowing them to deliver dangerous crosses.
Lift the ball over defenders for a teammate making a late run into the box.
Not every pass will result in a goal, but consistently trying to unlock defences is what separates an elite number 10 from an average midfielder. Without risk, there is no reward.
The Importance of Goalscoring
Although a number 10’s primary job is to create chances, scoring goals is an added quality that makes them even more valuable. Some of the best playmakers in football history, like Lionel Messi and Jude Bellingham, have combined creativity with a keen eye for goal.
Bellingham, for example, has been Real Madrid’s top scorer this season, proving that a number 10 who finds space, stays composed, and finishes well can be just as effective as a forward.
What It Takes to Be a Game-Changer
A number 10 must:
Read the game intelligently to exploit space.
Have the technical ability to execute difficult passes under pressure.
Stay composed in front of goal when given an opportunity.
Be fearless in taking risks, knowing that not every pass or shot will be successful.
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