Explore the tactical trends defining Dutch football in 2025. From high pressing to fluid formations, see how Eredivisie clubs are evolving the game.

Analyzing the Tactical Trends in Dutch Football This Season

Dutch football has always held a special place in the sport’s tactical evolution. From the revolutionary “Total Football” of the 1970s to the pressing-focused modern systems of Ajax and PSV, the Eredivisie continues to serve as a tactical laboratory for global football. The 2024–25 season has been no different. With young managers and innovative playing styles emerging, Dutch clubs are once again shaping the way the game is played—both domestically and abroad.

In this article, we dive deep into the tactical trends that have defined the current Eredivisie season. Whether it’s the resurgence of positional play, the increasing use of back-three systems, or the blending of pressing and possession philosophies, Dutch football in 2025 is a rich field of innovation. Let’s break down what makes this season particularly fascinating for tactics lovers and Dis88 fans alike.

The Historical Context: Dutch Football and Tactical Innovation

Before examining today’s trends, it’s important to appreciate the historical roots of Dutch football tactics. The Netherlands’ contribution to tactical thinking began with Rinus Michels and Johan Cruyff, who championed «Total Football.» This philosophy emphasized positional interchange, fluidity, and an understanding of space—concepts that still define Dutch football today.

Clubs like Ajax, PSV Eindhoven, and Feyenoord have continued this legacy, developing not only elite players but also modern thinkers who understand the game deeply. The Dutch school of thought remains grounded in technique, intelligence, and adaptability—qualities that have again come to the forefront this season.

1. High Pressing and Verticality

One of the most dominant tactical themes this season has been the aggressive use of high pressing. Managers across the Eredivisie, especially at clubs like AZ Alkmaar, Feyenoord, and Ajax, have implemented systems that aim to win the ball high up the pitch.

Why It Matters:

Forces turnovers in dangerous areas
Keeps opponents on the back foot
Encourages quick transitions and goal-scoring opportunities

Feyenoord, under manager Arne Slot, have perfected a hybrid pressing system that shifts between a 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3 depending on the opponent’s build-up shape. This approach has kept them competitive even against technically superior teams in European competitions.

2. Back Three Formations and Wingback Play

Another growing trend in Dutch football this season is the tactical flexibility seen in the use of back three systems. Coaches have increasingly shifted away from the traditional 4-3-3, opting for formations like 3-4-3 or 3-5-2 to create numerical superiority in build-up phases and more width in attack.

Benefits:

Solid defensive structure
Wingbacks provide vertical width
Enables ball-playing center-backs to dictate tempo

PSV Eindhoven has used this setup effectively, with wingbacks like Jordan Teze and Patrick van Aanholt providing both attacking support and defensive coverage. It has allowed PSV to dominate possession while maintaining defensive solidity.

3. Double Pivot Midfields

While traditional Dutch systems relied heavily on a single deep-lying playmaker (like a regista), many Eredivisie teams in 2025 are utilizing double pivot midfield pairings to stabilize the center and distribute play more effectively.

Tactical Advantages:

Better balance between defense and attack
Easier coverage of the midfield width
Allows one midfielder to push forward while the other stays back

Clubs like AZ and FC Twente have implemented this structure to great effect, combining physicality and passing range in their midfield duos.

4. Hybrid Wingers and Inside Forwards

Modern Dutch football has seen a tactical evolution of wingers. Gone are the days of traditional wide men who simply hug the touchline. In 2025, Eredivisie teams are deploying hybrid wingers and inside forwards who cut inside, act as secondary strikers, or even function as midfield playmakers.

Key Characteristics:

Inverted roles depending on footedness
Interchangeable positioning
Goal contributions as primary metrics

Players like Mika Godts (Ajax) and Ruben van Bommel (AZ Alkmaar) exemplify this trend. Their ability to create and score goals has added another layer of unpredictability to Dutch attacking football.

5. Goalkeeper Involvement in Build-Up

Another clear development this season is the increasing importance of the goalkeeper in initiating build-up play. Dutch clubs are investing in technically proficient goalkeepers who act as auxiliary center-backs when in possession.

Tactical Implications:

Enables smoother transitions from defense to midfield
Allows the backline to spread wider
Adds an extra man in the build-up phase

Ajax and Feyenoord have led the charge in this trend, using keepers who are comfortable under pressure and can distribute long or short with accuracy.

6. Youth Integration with Tactical Responsibility

Dutch clubs have always championed youth development, but what’s notable this season is how tactically mature these young players have become. Clubs are trusting teenagers and early 20-somethings with significant roles, not just as athletes but as thinkers on the pitch.

Examples:

Jorrel Hato (Ajax) — Defensive leadership at just 18
Isaac Babadi (PSV) — Central creative role despite limited experience
Fedde de Jong (AZ) — Commanding midfield presence with tactical intelligence

This trust in youth reflects the Eredivisie’s belief in teaching the game from the grassroots level—not just skills, but systems and strategies too.

7. Set-Piece Innovation and Data Analytics

Modern football increasingly relies on marginal gains, and set-piece routines in Dutch football have become noticeably more structured and analytics-driven. Clubs are using software and video analysis to design routines that maximize scoring opportunities.

Developments:

Crowded near-post corners
Decoy runners and rehearsed blocks
Emphasis on second balls

Feyenoord and FC Utrecht have scored several crucial goals this season through well-executed set-piece strategies—proving that Dutch clubs are evolving off the ball as well.

8. Adoption of Zone-Oriented Defending

Zone-oriented defending is gaining traction, replacing outdated man-marking systems. Eredivisie teams now focus on controlling space rather than following opponents across the pitch.

Benefits:

Improved defensive cohesion
Less vulnerability to switches of play
Greater positional awareness

Teams like Heerenveen and NEC Nijmegen have shown surprising resilience this season, largely due to disciplined zone-defending tactics.

Conclusion: Dutch Football Tactics Enter a New Era

The 2024–25 Eredivisie season has proven that Dutch football remains at the cutting edge of tactical innovation. Clubs are blending traditional philosophies with modern analytics, youth integration, and strategic flexibility. Whether it’s pressing systems, fluid formations, or advanced goalkeeping roles, Dutch football is once again setting an example for others to follow.

This constant evolution keeps the Eredivisie one of the most entertaining leagues in Europe. And as these tactical ideas spread beyond Dutch borders, we are reminded of the country’s immense influence on global football thinking.

Call to Action:

Are you passionate about tactics, innovation, and the future of the game? Keep supporting Eredivisie and Dutch clubs as they continue to shape the landscape of modern football. From the pitch to the strategy board, your enthusiasm fuels the tactical evolution. Stay tuned, stay informed, and never stop celebrating the beauty of football.