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When an attacker comes back toward their own goal to receive the ball. Strikers who drop deep pull defenders out of position and create space for runners. It also helps the team build play by adding an extra body in midfield. Not every striker can do it - you need good link-up play and the intelligence to know when to drop and when to stay high. Firmino and Benzema are masters at it.
Benzema's dropping deep was crucial to Real Madrid's play. He'd come into midfield, link play, and drag a centre-back with him, opening the channel for Vinícius Jr. to run into.
Robbie
Jan 22, 2026
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