The full-back's decision: when to cover

Take the upcoming Serie A opener between Torino and AC Milan -5-8. The first ten minutes will tell us something about the home side's plan against Leao.

Watch the Torino right-back. If he stays deep and narrow, the space is on the outside. That invites Leao to go to the line. If he presses high, the space is behind. That invites the run in behind.

Leao reads that distance better than most. The full-back's starting position will decide which passing lane is open and which one is closed before the ball is even played.

A defender caught between the two gets beaten. The coaching decision is made in the shape, not the sprint.

Give the match ten minutes. Watch the full-back's first few defensive actions. The pattern is usually set by then.

Question: In the Torino-Milan match, where do you expect the right-back to position himself against Leao?