Empoli Football Formation

Starting Lineup

S. Perisan (1) · A. Ismajli (34) · S. Walukiewicz (4) · M. Viti (21) · T. Ebuehi (24) · G. Pezzella (3) · A. Grassi (5) · J. Fazzini (10) · Y. Maleh · S. Esposito (99) · L. Colombo (29)

Empoli focus on a direct and high pressing style of play using a 3-5-2 formation. This lineup aims to win the ball back quickly and use verticality to hurt the opposition. The goal is to control the middle of the pitch while staying compact to prevent counter attacks.

S. Perisan acts as the last line of defense in goal. The defensive unit works as a back three, with M. Viti playing as the left centre back and A. Ismajli acting as the right centre back. S. Walukiewicz sits in the middle of this line to sweep behind his teammates and organize the movement of the unit. These defenders look to win the second ball and keep a high line to squeeze the space.

The midfield relies on a three man midfield with a carrier and creative components to link the lines. A. Grassi sits deeper to shield the defence and provide stability. T. Ebuehi and G. Pezzella occupy the central spaces, with T. Ebuehi looking to carry the ball forward and G. Pezzella helping to recycle possession. On the flanks, J. Fazzini and Y. Maleh operate in the half spaces to provide width and support the central players. This group works to press in a mid block and win it back high up the pitch.

Empoli uses two forwards in a partnership to lead the attack. S. Esposito and L. Colombo work together to pin the last defender and create chaos in the box. They often play on the shoulder of the last defender to make runs in behind. When the team builds in possession, J. Fazzini and Y. Maleh push higher to support the strikers, creating combinations in tight spaces. This front line is designed to attack the space between the opposition centre backs and exploit gaps during transitions.

This formation offers significant tactical advantages through numerical superiority in midfield. By crowding the center, Empoli can dominate the ball and force the opposition into long balls. The presence of three central defenders also allows the wide midfielders to push higher, creating wide overloads that stretch the defence. This setup makes the team very difficult to break down when they sit deep and defend zonally.

The 3-5-2 formation gives Empoli a strong central presence and the ability to press aggressively. It is a lineup best suited for matches against teams that rely on possession, allowing them to win the ball and break quickly.