A Manager’s Tactical Breakdown
A Manager’s Take on the Premier League’s Best This Week
Right, let’s get down to business. As a manager, picking a Team of the Week isn’t just about highlighting individual brilliance; it’s about crafting a balanced, functional unit that could genuinely compete on the pitch. This isn’t a fantasy draft; it’s about recognizing players who excelled within their team’s system and contributed significantly to their side’s performance. So, without further ado, here’s my Premier League Team of the Week, 20th January 2026, with a breakdown of why each player makes the cut. I’m opting for a flexible 4-3-3 formation, allowing for both attacking flair and defensive solidity.
Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker (Liverpool)
While several goalkeepers had decent weeks, Alisson’s performance against Manchester United was simply outstanding. Liverpool needed him to be at his best, and he delivered with crucial saves at key moments, preserving a clean sheet and securing a vital three points. His commanding presence in the box and distribution were also top-notch. A goalkeeper is more than just a shot-stopper; they are the foundation of the defense, and Alisson embodies that perfectly.
Right-Back: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
Another Liverpool player, and deservedly so. Trent’s attacking output from right-back is phenomenal. His crosses were pinpoint, his passing range exceptional, and he even popped up with a goal-saving tackle. Alexander-Arnold is revolutionizing the full-back role, and his performance this week was a testament to his talent and dedication. He provides width, creativity, and a constant threat down the right flank.
Center-Back: William Saliba (Arsenal)
Saliba has been a rock at the back for Arsenal all season, and his performance this week was no different. He was dominant in the air, made crucial interceptions, and his composure on the ball allowed Arsenal to build from the back effectively. His partnership with Gabriel is one of the strongest in the league, and he’s quickly becoming one of the best center-backs in Europe. A young player with a maturity beyond his years.
Center-Back: Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
Alongside Saliba, I need a leader and organizer, and who better than Virgil van Dijk? His experience and reading of the game are invaluable. He marshaled the Liverpool defense superbly, snuffing out any danger and providing a calming presence at the back. His aerial ability is unmatched, and his distribution is excellent. Van Dijk is a true leader and a world-class defender.
Left-Back: Antonee Robinson (Fulham)
“Jedi” Robinson has been a consistent performer for Fulham, and his energy and commitment are infectious. He’s solid defensively, but also provides a threat going forward with his overlapping runs and crosses. His work rate is phenomenal, and he never stops running. He was particularly impressive this week, shutting down his opponent and contributing to Fulham’s attacking play.
Defensive Midfield: Rodri (Manchester City)
Rodri is the engine room of Manchester City, and his importance to the team cannot be overstated. He breaks up play, wins tackles, and dictates the tempo of the game. He’s also a threat from set-pieces and has a knack for scoring crucial goals. He provides the platform for City’s attacking players to flourish, and his positional awareness is second to none. A truly world-class defensive midfielder.
Central Midfield: Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)
What more can be said about Kevin De Bruyne? He’s a magician with the ball at his feet, capable of unlocking any defense with his vision, passing range, and shooting ability. He was instrumental in City’s victory this week, creating numerous chances and scoring a stunning goal. De Bruyne is a joy to watch and one of the best midfielders in the world. His ability to pick a pass is simply breathtaking.
Central Midfield: Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal)
Ødegaard is the creative hub of Arsenal, and his influence on the team is growing with each passing week. His vision, passing, and dribbling skills are exceptional, and he has a knack for scoring important goals. He’s a leader on the pitch and inspires his teammates with his work ethic and determination. Ødegaard is a special talent, and he’s only going to get better.
Right Wing: Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Salah continues to be a goal-scoring machine for Liverpool. His pace, trickery, and finishing ability make him a nightmare for defenders. He was on the scoresheet again this week, and his overall performance was outstanding. Salah is a constant threat, and he’s always looking to get in behind the defense. A world-class winger who consistently delivers.
Left Wing: Heung-Min Son (Tottenham Hotspur)
Son is a dynamic and exciting winger who can score goals and create chances. His pace, dribbling, and finishing ability make him a constant threat to opposing defenses. He was in fine form this week, scoring a brilliant goal and causing all sorts of problems for the opposition. Son is a vital player for Tottenham, and his performances are crucial to their success.
Striker: Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Haaland is a goal-scoring phenomenon. His strength, pace, and finishing ability are unmatched. He was on the scoresheet again this week, and his overall performance was dominant. Haaland is a force of nature, and he’s quickly becoming one of the best strikers in the world. He’s a constant threat in the box, and he’s always hungry for goals. He’s the kind of player who can win you games single-handedly.
Substitutes
* **Goalkeeper:** Nick Pope (Newcastle United) – A solid performance, deserving of recognition.
* **Defender:** Kieran Trippier (Newcastle United) – Consistent and reliable, both defensively and offensively.
* **Midfielder:** Bruno Guimaṛes (Newcastle United) РA midfield maestro, dictating play and winning tackles.
* **Forward:** Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa) – A clinical finisher, always a threat in the box.
* **Forward:** Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United) – Pace and trickery on the wing, causing problems for defenders.
Manager of the Week: Jurgen Klopp (Liverpool)
While individual performances are key, a manager’s influence is paramount. Jurgen Klopp’s tactical masterclass against Manchester United deserves recognition. His team was well-organized, disciplined, and played with a clear purpose. He motivated his players to perform at their best, and his substitutions were spot on. Klopp is a world-class manager, and his impact on Liverpool has been transformative. His ability to inspire and motivate his players is truly remarkable. He adjusted his tactics to exploit United’s weaknesses, and his team executed the game plan perfectly. That’s what makes a great manager.
Tactical Analysis
This team, in a 4-3-3 formation, offers a blend of attacking firepower and defensive stability. Alisson and the defensive line provide a solid foundation. The midfield trio of Rodri, De Bruyne, and Ødegaard offers a mix of defensive steel, creative flair, and goal-scoring ability. The front three of Salah, Son, and Haaland are a constant threat, capable of scoring goals from anywhere on the pitch.
Rodri’s role is crucial in protecting the defense and dictating the tempo. De Bruyne and Ødegaard provide the creative spark, unlocking defenses with their vision and passing range. Salah and Son offer pace and trickery on the wings, while Haaland provides the focal point in attack.
Defensively, the team is well-organized and disciplined. The full-backs provide width and support in attack, while also being solid defensively. The center-backs are dominant in the air and composed on the ball.
This team is capable of playing in a variety of styles, from possession-based football to counter-attacking football. It has the quality and depth to compete with any team in the Premier League.
The Importance of Team Balance
It’s tempting to simply pick the 11 best individual players each week, but that’s not how football works. A successful team needs balance, both in terms of playing styles and personalities. You need players who are willing to work hard for the team, even if it means sacrificing their own personal glory. You need leaders who can inspire and motivate their teammates. And you need a manager who can bring it all together and create a winning culture.
That’s what I’ve tried to do with this Team of the Week. It’s not just a collection of talented individuals; it’s a team that could genuinely compete on the pitch.
Looking Ahead
The Premier League is a relentless competition, and there’s no time to rest on your laurels. The challenge for these players is to maintain their high standards and continue to perform at their best. The season is far from over, and there are still plenty of twists and turns to come.
As a manager, I’m always looking for ways to improve my team and stay ahead of the competition. That means constantly analyzing performances, identifying weaknesses, and making adjustments to tactics and personnel. It’s a never-ending process, but it’s what makes football so exciting.
Player Spotlight: Martin Ødegaard
I want to give a special mention to Martin Ødegaard. He’s been a revelation for Arsenal this season, and his performances have been consistently outstanding. His vision, passing, and dribbling skills are exceptional, and he has a knack for scoring important goals. He’s also a leader on the pitch and inspires his teammates with his work ethic and determination.
What impresses me most about Ødegaard is his maturity and composure. He’s still a young player, but he plays with the intelligence and experience of someone much older. He’s a true professional and a role model for young players everywhere.
He’s a player who makes things happen, and he’s a joy to watch. He’s the kind of player who can lift a team and inspire them to achieve great things. I’m excited to see what he can achieve in the future.
Final Thoughts
Picking a Team of the Week is always a subjective exercise, and there will always be players who miss out who deserve recognition. But I’m confident that this team represents the best of the Premier League this week. It’s a team that’s built on talent, hard work, and a commitment to excellence. And it’s a team that I would be proud to manage.
FAQ Section
Why did you choose Alisson over other goalkeepers this week?
While several goalkeepers performed well, Alisson’s crucial saves against Manchester United, particularly during periods of intense pressure, were decisive in securing a clean sheet and a vital win for Liverpool. His commanding presence and distribution also set him apart.
What makes Rodri such an important player in your team?
Rodri provides the defensive shield and tactical intelligence that allows the more creative players to flourish. He breaks up opposition attacks, wins tackles, and dictates the tempo of the game. His positional awareness is exceptional, making him an indispensable asset.
Why did you select both Saliba and Van Dijk as your center-back pairing?
Saliba brings youthful exuberance, aerial dominance, and composure on the ball, while Van Dijk offers experience, leadership, and exceptional reading of the game. Their contrasting styles complement each other perfectly, creating a formidable and balanced partnership.
What are the key strengths of your chosen front three: Salah, Son, and Haaland?
Salah brings pace, trickery, and clinical finishing from the right wing; Son offers dynamic runs, goal-scoring ability, and creativity from the left; and Haaland provides a dominant presence in the box, unmatched strength, and a relentless hunger for goals. Together, they form a potent and versatile attacking force.
Why was Jurgen Klopp your Manager of the Week?
Klopp’s tactical masterclass against Manchester United was exceptional. He prepared his team meticulously, motivated them to perform at their peak, and made astute substitutions that influenced the game’s outcome. His ability to inspire and outmaneuver his opponent made him the clear choice.
Do you think this team could genuinely compete in the Premier League?
Absolutely. This team possesses a blend of defensive solidity, midfield creativity, and attacking firepower that would make them a formidable opponent for any team in the Premier League. The balance and tactical flexibility within the squad would allow them to adapt to different challenges and compete at the highest level.
What makes Ødegaard a standout player in your opinion?
Ødegaard’s vision, passing range, and dribbling skills are exceptional, but what truly sets him apart is his leadership qualities and maturity beyond his years. He inspires his teammates with his work ethic and consistently delivers impactful performances in crucial moments.
