With Zlatan, I think three in the back made sense. Against Villa, Id rather have a second deep lying CM that can keep up with his pace. We dont need the physicality/height of a CB in this game.
Yeah, doesn't have to be Collin there. Could easily be Murillo or Escobar. Just like the shape of the team better in the 3-3-3-1 better. Think the balance is great where the 4-2-3-1 not as good. Also think it just suits our personel better. Royer is better in it. It moves Taxi and Murillo farther up the field in general and both of those guys are good offensive players for their position.
THe only reason it didn't work as well last season is we didn't have the horses at CB. Now we do.