Discover How Set-Pieces Give FC Midtjylland an Advantage Against Nottingham Forest in the Europa League
Midtjylland: Pioneers in Innovative Football Strategies in Denmark
Midtjylland’s Rise Through Innovative Training in West Denmark
Located in Herning, a city in West Denmark with a population of 55,000, Midtjylland has emerged as a powerhouse in Danish football. The team trains in the nearby town of Ikast, home to about 20,000 residents. Despite being far from the hustle and bustle of major cities, Midtjylland has carved a niche for itself by being innovative, according to club official Larsen. “It started with talent development,” Larsen told Emegypt, emphasizing the club’s ambition to become Danish champions every year.
Mastering the Art of Set-Pieces
Set-pieces have become a signature aspect of Midtjylland’s gameplay. Larsen recalls how, in the past, set-pieces were a mere afterthought in training sessions. Now, the club integrates them into every practice, striving to make them as enjoyable as any other part of the game. However, contrary to popular belief, these routines are not about creating overly complicated schemes for each opponent. According to expert Aragona, “Routines can win you games, but consistency is key. It has to be something you can replicate over years.” This philosophy underscores Midtjylland’s approach to training and player development.
Club-Wide Commitment to Development
Midtjylland’s dedication to set-piece mastery extends to every level of the club. Rune During oversees their implementation at the youth level, with each age group having a coach focused on set-pieces. Larsen explained, “At the academy level, we evaluate each player to see if we can give them special advantages in set-pieces. While there are specific scenarios, we prioritize developing players’ talents, allowing them to think independently and devise their own on-field solutions.”
Focus on Offensive Strategies
Midtjylland’s strategy leans heavily towards offense, dedicating roughly 90% of their focus to attacking and just 10% to defense. Aragona explained, “Last season, we almost never conceded chances, so we questioned the need to emphasize defense when it was already strong.” This approach paid off as they narrowly missed the 2024-25 title by just one point to FC Copenhagen. Set-pieces play a significant role even in recruitment, where factors like heading ability, long throws, and free-kick prowess are considered alongside height and other attributes.
Investment in Talent and Future Prospects
Maintaining their status as heavy spenders in Danish football, Midtjylland invested a national record of 36.6 million euros in player acquisitions during the 2023-24 season. Larsen admits that while there is no minimum height requirement, attributes related to set-pieces heavily influence recruitment decisions. This strategy reflects Midtjylland’s commitment to building a formidable and consistent team capable of sustaining success for years.
