As a stats analyst from Chicago, I’ve broken down why wing-backs in a 3-4-3 system aren’t just defenders—they’re the backbone of transitional dominance. From Manchester United’s struggles with position-specific fit to the rise of players like Mazraoui and the raw potential of youth like Hjelde, this is where modern football gets its edge. If you’re analyzing defense, stop skipping over wing-backs—this role demands elite versatility and split-second decision-making.