Goalkeeper Distribution Trends and Build-Up Play
The role of the goalkeeper is evolving each season. Compared to the pre-2000s, they are now considered part of the attack, the starting point. They are now required to be comfortable on the ball, with vision and quick thinking to start attacks, coupled with the usual skills goalkeepers have always needed. If we analyse distribution metrics like progressive passes or long-pass accuracy, we can get a better idea of the influence goalkeepers wield over the modern-day game.
Goalkeepers building from the back
Looking at stats from last season in the Premier League, we can see that even among goalkeepers in the top flight there is a difference among passing profiles. Vicario of Tottenham led the division with 88% passing accuracy, ahead of Man City's Ederson. However, Everton stopper Jordan Pickford attempted the most long passes, at 776, moving the ball quickly to their bigger strikers.
This shapes the narrative around a game and the potential outcome. For example, Everton vs Arsenal odds will reflect this aspect of Everton's game as well as Arsenal's ability to deal with longer balls. Fans who like to place a Premier League online bet have the chance to study additional stats regarding the two teams too, such as passing, possession, and xG metrics. As this data is studied, it affects the odds for each team. Arsenal likes to press high, but with Pickford in goal and Everton's style of play, the team will be likely to bypass the high press and start attacks higher up the pitch.
The short game
In the past few years, we have seen that goalkeepers are expected to play risk-controlled short passes. It's a trend that has been seen across the top leagues in the past 15 years. For example, in Serie A, goalkeeper pass completion has gone from 50% in the late 2000s to almost 70%. Shorter passes in the defensive third have become common too, reflecting a general change of play. Fewer chances are being created from longer passing, with the Premier League showing that goalkeepers are involved in long passing sequences in the modern game, with these sequences leading to attempts on goal and more success.
Is there still room for long passes?
The short answer is yes. Teams like Everton play to their strengths with a team that is tough in defence and attacking players who are skillful, strong, and quick. The strategic value of going long cannot be undervalued in comparison to short passes. They can unsettle even the best defence in the league, with Liverpool a notable example of a team that has struggled with long balls. Across over 36 leagues, data revealed that long passes still represent around 50% of a goalkeeper's action. It's something especially prevalent in UK leagues and seen as a vital part of the game, regardless of the level.
The shift in the goalkeeper's role means that in the past 20 years, pass completion in defensive areas has risen by nearly 80%. Key to this is the role of the goalkeeper; comfortable with their feet and their hands, they have changed the game for many clubs and continue to act as the first attacker for teams.
