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With this Out-of-Possession role the Holding Full-Back is asked to to hold a deeper position while his team is defending higher up the pitch, in order to provide additional protection against direct attacks. As the team are pressing the opposition during the early phases of their attack, he will look to remain in his position more, allowing his teammates to play more aggressively knowing there's protection behind them.
You'll notice the Holding Full-Back resembling a 3rd centre back when play is on the opposite flank, in setups combining a Holder and a Presser. When the ball moves to his side, he will only engage later in the phase, typically stepping out to block a cross or delay the attack.

- Holds position and stays narrow to support the centre-back.
- Engages late, usually to stop crosses or delay attacks.

- Acts almost like a third defender when play is on the opposite side.
Key Attributes
- Concentration
- Positioning
- Marking
Best Holding Full-Back
- César Azpilicueta
- Jurriën Timber
- David Alaba
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