4-5-1

4–5–1 is a conservative formation; however, if the two midfield wingers play a more attacking role, it can be likened to 4–3–3. The formation can be used to grind out 0–0 draws or preserve a lead, as the packing of the centre midfield makes it difficult for the opposition to build up play.[51] Because of the “closeness” of the midfield, the opposing team’s forwards will often be starved of possession. Due to the lone striker, however, the centre of the midfield does have the responsibility of pushing forward as well. The defensive midfielder will often control the pace of the game.

Mourinho is and always will be a manager who puts winning first. He doesn’t dabble with possession figures or fancy formations—Real Madrid’s typical dominance on the ball is a product of him assembling excellent players, not an emphasis on retention strategies. To win at Chelsea, the Portuguese tactician decided a solid outlook was best and kept it very, very tight. He used the famous Claude Makelele in his anchor midfield spot, and the Frenchman did a sublime job of harassing, tackling, man-marking and laying simple balls off to his teammates once possession was won. Full-backs Ashley Cole and Paulo Ferreira were rarely encouraged to venture forward to the same extent they do so now, while DidierDrogba was required to do a double shift up front on his own. With players slow to move forward and support, the onus was on the Ivorian to hold the ball up even longer than usual to move his team up the field. Mourinho crafted a system where he had at least four players defending no matter what the circumstances were and utilised Drogba’s ridiculous physical prowess to make up for a lack of numbers up top. It was safe, effective yet potent too. So many 1-0 wins, but who cares when you’re winning trophies?