A grassroots football coaching publication

9v9 · Issue 02 · Chapter 3 · Position four of six

Central midfielder

Connect both ends

8 · Central midfielder9v9 · 3-3-2
Starting positions for central midfielder in a 3-3-2. Positions are a starting point, not fixed instructions.Nine-player 3-3-2 starting shape, highlighting 8 as central midfielder; the team attacks upwards.GK3521187910ROLE 8

Starting positions for central midfielder in a 3-3-2. Positions are a starting point, not fixed instructions.

How We Play illustration based on reviewed guidance. Starting positions are not fixed.
Key
  • Us
  • Key space

Ask yourself

Can they play through us if I move?
✓ Coaching reviewed · 20 October 2026

Written by Niall Walsh, grassroots football coach and founder of How We Play. Coaching reviewed by David Wilson on 20 October 2026.

Your jobs

  1. Give teammates a useful central passing option when we have the ball.
  2. Notice when moving towards the ball would leave an open route through midfield.
  3. Keep connected to both the back three and two forwards.

Principles this position uses

  1. Principle 1Middle firstPress or cover?
  2. Principle 2Ball side wide, far side inStay wide or tuck in?
  3. Principle 4Go together, recover togetherAre teammates close enough to help?