The Central Defensive Midfielder, otherwise known modernly as the ‘CDM’ or ‘The Pivot’ has a vast number of responsibilities both in and out of possession.
Although the position is titled ‘Central Defensive Midfielder,’ your role as a player within the team depends on:
- The formation and style of play your team plays
- The direct responsibilities your coach gives you
- Your strengths and weaknesses as a player
Sergio Busquets will play CDM much differently with Barcelona in Spain than N’golo Kante will when playing with Chelsea in England.
We’ll first mention the general responsibilities of the central defensive midfielder when your team is in possession, followed by the general roles when your team is defending. We’ll assess based on the formation listed below (4-3-3/4-1-4-1).
In Possession: The Pivot
1) Keep possession through forward, sideways, and backwards passes (Always look forward first!)
2) Linking the ball from the defensive third to the attacking third
3) Forward penetrating passes that ‘break lines’ (Indicated when you pass through a defensive line - defensive lines are indicated by the dotted arrows in the photo below)
4) Effective forward dribbling (This engages the opposition defenders, which allows you to create space to pass – be sure to pass the ball at the correct time)
When building out of the back, you must offer adequate angles for your defenders when they have the ball, so you can pass through pressure with the intention of progressing the ball forward.
Finally, when the ball is in the final third, you must offer an outlet to receive the ball to play forward penetrating passes or switch the point of attack where space has been created.
Out Of Possession: Break Up Play
Out of possession as a central defensive midfielder, you offer protection for your defensive backline, especially within the width of the penalty box as seen below. The red box is typically the area you should look to cover, with the intention of intercepting passes, making tackles, and blocking passing lanes for the opposition.
1) Anticipating and intercepting forward passes
2) Tracking back to challenge and tackle opposition players in possession of the ball
3) Providing defensive support for your teammates
4) Winning aerial battles, headers and second balls
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Other Qualites of the CDM
- Great aerobic and anaerobic fitness
- Fast agility/change of direction, as well as efficient lateral acceleration
- Communication, leadership, and aggressiveness
- Composure and calmness when on the ball
- Scanning the field (both in and out of possession)
Your roles and responsibilities will be dictated by your team’s formation, style of play, and your coach’s direction, but these are the general responsibilities required to be a successful and effective centre defensive midfielder.
Let us know in the comments below if you can think of any responsibilities for CDMs!