re: Staying ahead of the curve on tactics

IMO most transformational and radical tactical innovations have less to do with formations and more to do with high-pressing and quick-strike attacks, as analytics show that most goals come from shorter, quicker attacks and fewer come from long possessions and slow build ups.

Formations are really about opening passing lanes, maintaining defensive shape, and getting your best players on the field. Whatever formation optimizes those three things is the best one for your team, IMO.