Martinez: Ancelotti wants direct football

Posted Thursday, July 28, 2016 by Foxsports.com

Martinez: Ancelotti wants direct football
FC Bayern München utility man Javi Martinez says new coach Carlo Ancelotti has urged the side to play a more direct brand of football.

Ancelotti's predecessor, Pep Guardiola, is known for his fluid style of football, whereby his teams play under the philosophy of trying to break down their opponents with movement and keeping possession of the ball.

However, Martinez revealed that the former Real Madrid and AC Milan boss wants to change the way they approach the game ahead of the new season, while also highlighting his potential new role under the Italian.

"We want to play more vertically, more direct. That's what Carlo has told us," the Spain international told Goal. "Carlo asked me what I think about my role [in the team].

"I said, 'I only want to play and help the team'. To be honest I don't care where I play.

"I feel very comfortable in both positions [central defence and midfield] so I'll play wherever Carlo wants me to play. The coach decides."

Martinez joined Bayern for €40 million from Athletic Bilbao in the summer of 2012.