Tactically, Roberto Carlos started out playing football in Brazil as a forward – usually as a centre-forward or outside forward –, but spent most of his career as defender, usually as a left–sided full-back or wing-back. In 2006, he was described as the "most offensive-minded left-back in the history of the game," by John Carlin of The New York Times; indeed, he was known for his forward surging runs throughout his career. Carlos is also widely considered by several pundits as one of the best left backs in the history of the sport. During his time at Inter, he was also used out of position as a winger in a 4–4–2 formation on occasion by manager Roy Hodgson, which had a negative impact on his performances, and often saw him caught out defensively; in his later career with Anzhi Makhachkala, he was instead deployed as a defensive midfielder in a three–man midfield, in order to compensate for his loss of pace and physical decline due to his advancing age. Carlos was nicknamed El Hombre Bala ("The Bullet Man") throughout his career, due to his powerful bending shots and free kicks, which have been measured at over 105 miles per hour (169 km/h), and for which he became renowned. A set–piece specialist, he is regarded as one of the foremost free kick takers of his generation, and was known for being capable of striking the ball powerfully – in particular from long range – and of producing curling shots with the outside of his left boot in dead ball situations. A talented and consistent player, with good dribbling skills at speed, as well as precise passing and crossing ability, he also possessed significant strength and excellent physical qualities, which along with his pace, work-rate, and energy, allowed him to cover the left flank effectively and assist at both ends of the pitch. While he earned a reputation as a hard-tackler, he was also known for being a correct player throughout his career. In addition to his stamina, running speed, technical skills, and crossing ability, he was also known for his long throw ins, as well as his strong 24-inch (61 cm) thighs, despite his small stature, which allowed him to accelerate quickly and strike the ball powerfully.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7pLHLnpmsmZeaxKq3yGeaqKVfp7yjsdGtpmabkae5sL8%3D