Thesis: Key desirable is their off the ball movement, use of it is a different matter. Max has no understanding of any of that, if he did then his players would run more.
Explanation: Everybody relocates into empty spaces before the initial pass receiver even controls the ball, giving him multiple opportunities. Them deciding to do the Spanish thingy is just one outcome. Might as well played it vertical. Important thing is that they created openings for quick passing.
Max has no understanding because he inherited a well-oiled MVPP midfield, and Tevez+Licht running on Conte grinta.
Evidence: Low number of scoring opportunities created by JJ through open play and comparatively very few shots on target. Defensively
@Rockets gif serves as evidence of siestaball passivity.
https://www.juventuz.com/threads/massimiliano-allegri.40977/page-3365#post-6576269
Example: Kostic (relating to
@Rockets gif) has covered
10.67km on avg last season. Three months later, under Max' instructions he is at
8.526km. Him and Cuadrado were instructed to hold their positions instead of running towards the player in need.
Conclusion: A couch is needed who understands the basics of football
Sources:
https://www.legaseriea.it/en/serie-a/statistics/MediaKm
https://www.kicker.de/bundesliga/eintracht-frankfurt/laufleistung/2021-22/34
https://www.juventuz.com/threads/massimiliano-allegri.40977/page-3365#post-6576269