# How to Classify Running Capacity among Elite Players *And why those who can run and carry aggression into subsequent duels are in high-demand.* > For the full version with images, embedded tweets, and visual breakdowns, [visit BallerzBantz](https://www.ballerzbantz.com/p/running-capacity). A decade ago, football teams could manage with midfielders who couldn't consistently sprint quarter to half-pitch lengths every other possession. The game has changed, and pressing schemes used by elite clubs have raised the running demands of players. Liverpool coach Arne Slot after his side's 3-0 victory over Manchester United: > 'You need midfielders that can run. We had three of them that kept on running and, if they arrived in a duel, they were aggressive enough to win it.' ## But, every professional footballer runs? True. But ***can*** every professional footballer execute 20 do-or-die sprints across 90 minutes to prevent counter-attacks after a broken high-press? No. **Can [in this framework]:** Indicating something that is typically the case. Not an absolute ability, but a consistent capability. ## A Running Capacity Framework 1. **Players who can't run**: unable to consistently perform high-intensity sprints throughout a match. 2. **Players who can run**: able to execute multiple high-intensity sprints during a game. 3. **Players who can run and cover**: capable of running and effectively covering significant portions of the pitch. 4. **Players who can run and maintain aggression**: can sprint repeatedly and still maintain aggression in subsequent duels or actions. This final tier is what separates the elite modern midfielders — players who blitz quarter-to-half pitch sprints AND maintain aggression in the subsequent duel, where most would tire. --- ## Related - [[Stiff Arm]] - [[Aerials]] - [[Why Mechanics Matter]] - [[BB-wiki-1/Sports/Analysis/McTominay]]