Rydström rules out tactical revolution at Hammarby: 'Just tweaking what exists'
New Hammarby coach Henrik Rydström says he won't make major changes, focusing instead on defensive improvements and raising daily standards at the club.
SFN Editor ·
Henrik Rydström has dismissed expectations of a tactical revolution at Hammarby, insisting his approach will focus on fine-tuning rather than wholesale changes.
The new coach believes Hammarby already possess many of the fundamental principles he wants to implement. "You want to have the ball, dominate and press high. That makes for a shorter starting stretch," Rydström said, speaking to Expressen.
Rather than dramatic tactical shifts, Rydström sees his role as making subtle adjustments. "I would rather say it's small nuances, that you tweak a little on what exists," he explained.
The most significant changes are expected in Hammarby's defensive structure. Rydström noted that under previous coach Kalle Karlsson, the team played with a more pronounced man-to-man marking system. He wants the defensive setup to create better attacking opportunities for the team's most talented offensive players.
Rydström also defended his preference for controlled possession play, which has sometimes drawn criticism during his previous coaching roles. He emphasized that deliberate slow play serves a tactical purpose, helping teams maintain better positioning to win back possession.
Perhaps most importantly, Rydström is demanding higher standards in daily training. "I think the most important thing is to make the players aware of their own responsibility," he stated, warning that potential means nothing without consistent excellence in everyday work.