Soccer has evolved over the years, introducing new roles and positions. Among these, the "Segundo Volante" stands out. Translating to "second steering wheel" in Spanish, this role is a fascinating mix of creativity, mobility, and defensive effort. The Segundo Volante is not just a midfielder. They are a dynamic presence capable of influencing all phases of the game.
This blog will unpack the role, its unique responsibilities, and its growing importance in modern soccer.
What Is a Segundo Volante?
The Segundo Volante is a central midfielder who operates in a box-to-box role. Positioned slightly deeper than an attacking midfielder but more advanced than a traditional defensive midfielder, they offer versatility. This player combines defensive grit with creative vision. Unlike a typical destroyer who focuses solely on breaking up attacks, the Segundo Volante transitions seamlessly from defense to offense. They tackle, intercept, and then drive forward to support attacks. They thrive on transitions, linking the backline with the forward line fluidly.The Regista in Soccer: the Midfield Maestro
Key Traits
To perform this demanding role, a Segundo Volante must excel in various aspects:1. High Stamina
This position demands relentless running. The Segundo Volante is always on the move, covering immense ground. They press opponents, drop deep to defend, and burst forward during attacks.2. Technical Skills
Passing, dribbling, and shooting are essential for a Segundo Volante. They often find themselves in tight spaces, requiring precision and creativity to progress the ball.3. Tactical Intelligence
Reading the game is crucial. A Segundo Volante must anticipate plays, intercept passes, and exploit spaces. They need to understand when to stay back and when to surge forward.4. Physicality
Though not as imposing as traditional defensive midfielders, Segundo Volantes must hold their ground. Winning duels and shielding the ball are vital parts of their game.5. Adaptability
This role demands flexibility. Segundo Volantes adapt to their team’s style, opponents’ tactics, and the game's flow.Responsibilities
The Segundo Volante’s tasks vary depending on the game situation. Let’s break it down into three phases:1. Defensive Duties
A Segundo Volante often starts deep in midfield. They support the primary defensive midfielder, closing down spaces and tracking runners. Their positioning helps cover gaps when fullbacks push forward. Pressing is another key responsibility. They assist in applying pressure higher up the pitch, forcing turnovers in dangerous areas. Their defensive contributions reduce the workload of the backline.2. Ball Progression
This is where the Segundo Volante shines. Once possession is regained, they look to transition quickly. With precise passing and forward runs, they connect defense to attack. They frequently play line-breaking passes, finding attackers in dangerous positions. Alternatively, they may carry the ball themselves, driving through midfield and creating opportunities.3. Offensive Support
The Segundo Volante is not just a playmaker. They also contribute to finishing moves. Arriving late in the box, they capitalize on loose balls or pull defenders out of position. Their long-range shooting is another weapon. Positioned outside the box during attacks, they unleash powerful shots or look for rebounds.Famous Segundo Volantes
Several players have redefined this role over the years. Here are some of the most iconic Segundo Volantes:1. Arturo Vidal
Known for his energy and versatility, Vidal embodies the Segundo Volante role. His defensive tenacity, combined with goal-scoring ability, made him vital for teams like Juventus and Bayern Munich.2. Paul Pogba
While Pogba is often categorized as an attacking midfielder, his box-to-box contributions align with the Segundo Volante role. His vision, passing, and ability to carry the ball exemplify the position.3. Yaya Touré
Touré’s performances at Manchester City showcased the perfect Segundo Volante. He could dominate defensively, drive forward powerfully, and score stunning goals.4. Steven Gerrard
A Liverpool legend, Gerrard was the ultimate midfield dynamo. His ability to defend, create, and score made him a natural fit for this role.Mastering Overlap vs. Underlap Tactics in Modern Soccer
The Segundo Volante in Modern Formations
Modern tactics often include a Segundo Volante in various formations. Let’s explore their role in some popular systems:1. 4-2-3-1
In this setup, the Segundo Volante operates alongside a more defensive partner. While the defensive midfielder shields the backline, the Segundo Volante pushes forward, providing creativity and energy.2. 4-3-3
As part of a midfield trio, the Segundo Volante combines defensive responsibilities with forward runs. They support both the holding midfielder and attacking midfielder, ensuring balance.3. 3-5-2
With three center-backs behind them, the Segundo Volante has more freedom to roam. They help control the midfield while making late attacking runs.Tactical Importance
The Segundo Volante is a coach’s dream. Their versatility allows for greater tactical flexibility. Teams can switch seamlessly between defensive and offensive phases, thanks to their transitions. Additionally, having a Segundo Volante provides an extra attacking option. Their late runs into the box often catch opponents off guard. Meanwhile, their defensive work rate ensures the team remains solid when transitioning to defense.Why the Role is Growing in Popularity
The rise of high-intensity soccer has elevated the importance of the Segundo Volante. Coaches now demand more from their midfielders. Sitting deep and defending isn’t enough. Modern soccer requires dynamic players who can influence every phase of the game. With the emphasis on pressing and quick transitions, Segundo Volantes thrive. They combine the defensive attributes of a traditional midfielder with the attacking qualities of a playmaker. This duality makes them indispensable.Challenges of Being a Segundo Volante
Despite its importance, the Segundo Volante role is challenging. Players must strike a balance between attacking and defending. Overcommitting in one phase can leave the team vulnerable. Moreover, the physical and mental demands are immense. Constant running, decision-making, and positional awareness require sharpness throughout the game. Another challenge is visibility. Segundo Volantes often don’t get the same recognition as attacking players. Their contributions, though vital, can go unnoticed.Conclusion
The Segundo Volante is a unique and crucial role in modern soccer. These players combine defensive toughness with attacking creativity, acting as the engine of their teams. From breaking up opposition attacks to launching forward runs, their influence is undeniable. As the game evolves, the importance of the Segundo Volante will only grow. Coaches will continue to rely on these dynamic players to balance their teams and dominate midfield battles. So, next time you watch a game, keep an eye on the Segundo Volante. Their contributions might just be the difference between winning and losing.Unfortunate Own Goals: Understanding Its Impact in Soccer
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