# Lyon's Tactical Switch to 4-4-2 After Lacazette Returns to Boost Forward Play
In recent weeks, Lyon have made a significant tactical shift in their approach to the game after bringing back striker Kylian Mbappé from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The move has been widely reported as part of the club's strategy to rejuvenate their attacking prowess and improve their overall performance.
### The Context: Kylian Mbappé’s Return
Kylian Mbappé, who joined PSG in 2018 for £222 million, is one of the most celebrated players in world football. His return to Lyon represents a major coup for the French club, offering them a potent threat up front and potentially boosting their chances of success in La Liga.
### The Tactical Shift
Under manager Olivier Giroud, Lyon have adopted a new formation that emphasizes a 4-4-2 system. This change involves several key adjustments:
1. **Midfield Balance**: The midfield will be more balanced with two central midfielders, creating a deeper structure.
2. **Increased Support**: The presence of two wingers will provide additional support for the attack, allowing Mbappé to roam freely and exploit gaps in the defense.
3. **Improved Passing**: With a more compact midfield, Lyon will focus on precise passing and quick transitions, which are essential for maintaining possession and exploiting opportunities.
### Benefits of the New Formation
The switch to a 4-4-2 system offers several advantages for Lyon:
- **Enhanced Possession Control**: The increased number of midfielders allows Lyon to maintain possession better, leading to more controlled games and fewer long ball exchanges.
- **Improved Scoring Opportunities**: With more forward movement and support, Lyon can create more scoring chances, especially when Mbappé is involved.
- **Flexibility**: The flexibility of the 4-4-2 formation allows the team to adapt to different situations on the pitch, whether it's pressing high or defending deep.
### Challenges Ahead
While the tactical shift looks promising, there are some challenges that Lyon must overcome:
- **Player Integration**: Integrating Mbappé into the new system will take time, and he may need some time to adjust to the new roles and responsibilities.
- **Defensive Depth**: Maintaining defensive depth while playing a 4-4-2 system can be challenging, as it requires more disciplined play and attention to detail.
- **Competition**: The new formation could face competition from other teams looking to adapt to this style of play, particularly those with strong midfields.
### Conclusion
Overall, Lyon's tactical switch to a 4-4-2 formation represents a bold move aimed at improving their attacking capabilities and potentially elevating their overall performance in La Liga. While there are challenges ahead, the benefits of having Mbappé back on the field and playing a more dynamic role cannot be overstated. As the season progresses, Lyon will continue to refine their tactics and see how they perform under this new system.