Jorge Sampaoli: An Unconventional Coaching Maestro

Career Overview

Jorge Sampaoli’s coaching career has been marked by success and innovation. He has led several clubs to major titles, including the Copa América with Chile in 2015 and the UEFA Europa League with Sevilla in 2016.

Sampaoli is known for his attacking style of play, which often involves high pressing and quick passing. He is also known for his ability to get the best out of his players, even those who are not considered to be stars.

Tactical Approach

Sampaoli’s tactical approach is based on a high-pressing, possession-based style of play. His teams typically play with a 4-2-3-1 formation, with the full-backs pushing high up the pitch to provide width and the central midfielders controlling the tempo of the game.

Sampaoli’s teams are known for their quick passing and movement, and they often create chances through quick combinations and overlapping runs.

Player Management

Sampaoli is known for his close relationships with his players. He is often seen talking to his players on the training ground and in the dressing room, and he is always willing to listen to their feedback.

Sampaoli’s man-management skills have helped him to get the best out of some of the world’s best players, including Alexis Sánchez, Arturo Vidal, and Ever Banega.

Major Accomplishments: Jorge Sampaoli

Jorge Sampaoli’s coaching career has been marked by a string of impressive accomplishments, both at club and international level. His most notable achievements include winning the Copa América with Chile in 2015, leading Sevilla to the UEFA Europa League title in 2016, and guiding Marseille to the Ligue 1 runners-up spot in 2020.

Sampaoli’s success as a coach can be attributed to his unique tactical approach, which combines high-pressing, attacking football with a strong emphasis on individual player development. He has a knack for getting the best out of his players, and his teams are known for their energy, passion, and attacking flair.

Copa América 2015

Sampaoli’s greatest triumph came in 2015 when he led Chile to their first ever Copa América title. Chile entered the tournament as underdogs, but Sampaoli’s team played with incredible heart and determination, overcoming Argentina in the final on penalties.

Sampaoli’s Chile team was built around a core of talented players, including Alexis Sánchez, Arturo Vidal, and Claudio Bravo. Sampaoli’s tactical approach allowed these players to express themselves freely, and they played with a verve and enthusiasm that was infectious.

UEFA Europa League 2016

After his success with Chile, Sampaoli moved to Europe to take charge of Sevilla. In his first season in charge, he led the Spanish club to victory in the UEFA Europa League, defeating Liverpool in the final.

Sampaoli’s Sevilla team was known for their attacking style of play. They played with a high press and created numerous chances, relying on the goalscoring prowess of Wissam Ben Yedder and Kevin Gameiro.

Ligue 1 2020, Jorge sampaoli

Sampaoli’s most recent major accomplishment came in 2020 when he led Marseille to a second-place finish in Ligue 1. Marseille had not finished in the top two since 2013, but Sampaoli’s team played with a verve and enthusiasm that belied their underdog status.

Sampaoli’s Marseille team was built around a young and talented squad, including Dimitri Payet, Florian Thauvin, and Boubacar Kamara. Sampaoli’s tactical approach allowed these players to flourish, and they played with a freedom and flair that was reminiscent of his Chile team.

Coaching Philosophy and Influences

Jorge Sampaoli’s coaching philosophy is centered around an attacking style of play, characterized by high-pressing and relentless player movement. This philosophy has evolved over time, influenced by various coaches and mentors throughout his career.

Influences from Previous Coaches and Mentors

Sampaoli’s early coaching influences include Juan Manuel Lillo, who emphasized possession-based play, and Marcelo Bielsa, known for his high-intensity, attacking style. Sampaoli has also cited Johan Cruyff and Pep Guardiola as inspirations, admiring their commitment to attacking football.

Comparison to Other Notable Coaches

Sampaoli’s approach shares similarities with other attacking-minded coaches such as Jurgen Klopp and Maurizio Sarri. However, his emphasis on high-pressing and player movement distinguishes his philosophy from others. Unlike Klopp’s focus on counter-pressing, Sampaoli’s teams press aggressively from the front, aiming to regain possession high up the pitch.