The backswing and downswing are two forces moving in different directions. One is backwards that becomes forwards. The other is away that becomes downwards and then ends up forwards. Make sense? Probably not...but watch this video & also understand the role of each in great ball striking.
Does the club have to face directly towards the target at the end of the backswing? No, it doesn't. There are many options that can work.
This student is a very good striker of the ball, but her hip action caused some inconsistency from time to time with start line and shaping.
Lag- Loading- Angles.....Creating the loading of the shaft is crucial to keep the lag angle well into the downswing. Lag is your friend- IF you know how to do it correctly.
Using the legs correctly in the downswing is a sure-fire way to help improve to a better swing path and overall better balance throughout the swing. This video combines many ideas previously shown about the legwork on the backswing and a drill to help make it all happen.
While there are many ways to get the clubhead away from the ball on the backswing- sometimes a golfer needs a checkpoint to help them get things started correctly.