HANSI FLICK, THIRD MAN

🧠 1. Exercise description

Technical-tactical exercise based on the concept of the third man, oriented to automate the passing in support and breaking, and to improve the coordination of offensive movements. Horizontal and vertical passing patterns are worked, where the most distant player (third man) facilitates the progression through returns to the player who arrives with vision of the game.

🧩 2. Organization and development

• Two main rows (supporting players) are organized in intermediate areas of the field.

• Two advanced players (distant receivers) are placed inside or outside, depending on the pattern to be worked on.

• Base sequence:

  1. The first player (initiator) plays the third man (farthest player).

  2. The "second man", who has made a support move from the opposite row, is left facing or returns with first intention to the "second man" who has made a support move from the opposite row.

  3. The play progresses from that return, either to finish with a pass to goal, drive or turnover.

• Vertical sequences (forward) and horizontal sequences (between side or inside lanes) alternate.

🎯 4. Tips or main aspects

• 👟 Accuracy in passing and timing of unmarked passes: key to synchronizing movements.

• 🧠 Reading of the play by the player arriving face-up to decide whether to progress, turn or change orientation.

• 🧭 Work on proper body profiles: the third man must be well oriented to receive and return with an advantage.

• 🔁 Repetition with progressive rhythm, seeking fluidity in the combinations.

🔄 3. Variants

• 🔁 Add passive or active opposition on pass or return.

• 🔄 Rotate players into starter, third man and finisher roles after each sequence.

• 🧱 Limit third man touches to emphasize speed in execution.

• ⚙️ Include a second, later combination to simulate longer progressions.