Covers defensively and initiates play with freedom.
Positioning & movement
Shaded area: typical operating zone · Arrow: example movement
Indicative diagrams, not fixed positions or tracking data.
Role details & scouting notes
Understanding the role
Combines a covering role with stepping into midfield, carrying and distributing. Sweeper and libero terminology often overlaps; the emphasis here is the freedom to contribute in possession.
Player examples
Franco Baresi
Player examples illustrate aspects of each role, not a fixed label for their entire career.
What to watch
Assess when the player leaves the line and how teammates restore defensive balance.