AS FAR coach Pedro Gonçalves outlines attacking approach for new season

AS FAR coach Pedro Gonçalves says high pressing, numerical superiority and initiative will be central to his side’s playing style as the Moroccan club prepare for the new football season.

The Portuguese coach wants the Royal Army team to play on the front foot while maintaining control and tactical discipline, with the aim of imposing their rhythm rather than rushing their attacks.

In an interview with the Maghreb Arab Press Agency, Gonçalves said: “high pressure, numerical superiority, and initiative” must form the foundations of AS FAR’s approach.

Gonçalves targets proactive AS FAR

Gonçalves explained that AS FAR must combine intensity with tactical intelligence because every team in the professional league is capable of causing problems.

He said the objective is to build a proactive side that can operate in the opposition half, create more attacking opportunities and still maintain strong collective organisation.

The coach also wants to preserve the main features of the team’s existing style while adding new attacking dynamics.

His plans include giving AS FAR greater variety in possession and making better use of spaces created by opponents.

Continuity important to new coach

Gonçalves believes the retention of a large part of last season’s squad will help him implement his ideas.

He said this continuity “allows him to work with players who are already accustomed to the club’s demands.”

However, the coach acknowledged that new arrivals will need time to adapt to his methods and the demands of the club.

He said: “adaptation poses a particular challenge for new players who are required to discover a new style of play and new requirements.”

Squad rotation to play key role

Gonçalves also identified squad rotation as an important part of his plans for the season.

The Portuguese coach believes every member of the squad must remain ready to contribute whenever called upon.

He said “Every player must be fully prepared to defend the team’s colours whenever he is asked to do so.”

With an emphasis on pressing, attacking initiative and tactical organisation, Gonçalves is looking to develop an AS FAR side capable of controlling matches while posing a greater threat in the final third.