Athletic Club has had a start to the season filled with ups and downs, leading fans to question certain tactical aspects of the team. Despite having a talented squad, some strategic decisions on the pitch have hindered Los Leones' performance. In this analysis, we will explore recent trends in the team's play and suggest tweaks that could enhance their competitiveness in La Liga.

1. Strengthening the Midfield One of the most evident aspects in recent matches has been the lack of control in midfield. Although Oihan Sancet and Dani García have contributed in terms of creativity and recovery, they often find themselves overrun by the opposition's pressure. A possible solution could be to implement a double pivot, allowing García and Sancet to play closer together, facilitating ball circulation and mutual support. This setup could help neutralize opposing midfielders and give more freedom to wingers like Nico Williams to exploit space.

2. Increased Variety in Offensive Play In recent weeks, Athletic's offense has been marked by a notable predictability. The tendency to rely on wing play has allowed opposing defenders to anticipate and neutralize attacks. To break this monotony, it would be beneficial to incorporate more vertical movements and combinations in midfield. Additionally, including Iñaki Williams as a more mobile forward could open up more passing lanes and create opportunities in the final third. The connection between Williams and the wingers could be key to destabilizing opposing defenses.

3. Defensive Reinforcement in Transitions Defensively, Athletic has shown vulnerabilities in transition situations. Opponents have exploited the team's moments of regrouping with speed. To address this, it would be crucial for full-backs like Yuri Berchiche and Ander Capa to adopt a more cautious approach when attacking, ensuring they do not leave open spaces when retreating. Furthermore, a greater emphasis on defensive positioning could help prevent dangerous counterattacks.

4. Capitalizing on Set Pieces Lastly, Athletic has had a mediocre performance in set pieces, both defensively and offensively. With the height of players like Iñigo Martínez and Yeray Álvarez, they could maximize the potential of free kicks and corners. Implementing more complex movement patterns and rehearsing specific plays in training could be key to turning these situations into goal-scoring opportunities.

As Athletic Club seeks to solidify its position near the top of the table, implementing these tactical tweaks could prove crucial. With a renewed focus and a deeper understanding of their capabilities, Los Leones have the potential to compete at the highest level in La Liga.