Monza Football Formation

Starting Lineup

1- A. Gragno
4- A. Izzo
22- Pablo Marí
5- M. Bakker*
19- S. Birindelli
21- V. Carboni
32- M. Pessina
11- Jota Silva*
10- G. Caprari
6- Gagliardini
8- Locatelli*

Monza relies on a high press and rapid transitions within a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup seeks to win the ball high up the pitch and strike quickly before the opposition can get organized. The goal is to use verticality to stretch the pitch and create chances through direct play and aggressive movement in the final third.

A. Gragno starts in goal to oversee the defensive unit. The back line functions as a back three with Pablo Marí acting as the central defender to organize the line. He is supported by A. Izzo on the right and M. Bakker on the left. Both Izzo and Bakker act as wide centre-backs who must cover the space when the wingers push high. This group works to defend zonally and ensure they stay compact to prevent runners from slipping through the middle.

The midfield operates with a central pairing that connects the defense to the attack. Locatelli and Gagliardini form the core, with Locatelli acting as the deep lying playmaker to control the tempo and recycle possession. Gagliardini works alongside him to drive forward and win the second ball. On the flanks, S. Birindelli and Jota Silva play as wide midfielders who provide the width. These players must track back to help the defenders and ensure they do not get outnumbered in transition.

In the attacking phase, Monza uses three forwards to pin the opposition back line. G. Caprari acts as the lone striker to hold up the ball and wait for support. M. Pessina and V. Carboni play as wide attackers, with Carboni looking to cut inside to create numbers in the middle. These forwards press from the front to force a long ball from the defenders. They work to create runs in behind and look for cutbacks from the byline to find the center.

This formation offers significant tactical advantages through its ability to press in coordinated waves. By having Locatelli and Gagliardini central, Monza can win the ball high up the pitch. The wide players, Birindelli and Jota Silva, create wide overloads when they push up, making it difficult for opponents to defend the flanks. This setup also allows for quick speed of transition when the ball is won in the middle third.

Monza uses this 3-4-3 to dominate games where they can squeeze the space and force mistakes. It is a lineup best suited for facing teams that play with a high line and leave space behind their defenders.