Atalanta Football Formation

Starting Lineup

M. Carnesecchi (29) · I. Hien (4) · G. Scalvini (42) · S. Kolasinac (23) · WESLEY · Ederson (13) · L. SAMARDZIC · M. Ruggeri (22) · N. ZANIOLO (21) · M. RETEGUI (32) · C. De Ketelaere (17)

Atalanta relies on a heavy high press and intense verticality, operating from a 3-5-2 formation. This lineup is built to suffocate opponents in their own half and win the ball back quickly to launch direct attacks. The intent is to dominate the pitch through physical presence and constant movement, making every part of the field a danger zone for the opposition.

M. Carnesecchi guards the goal, providing a reliable base for the back line. The defense functions as a back three where I. Hien acts as the right centre-back, using his strength to mark attackers. S. Kolasinac occupies the left centre-back role, while G. Scalvini operates as the middle defender, capable of stepping into midfield to help with build up play. The unit works together to squeeze the space, often maintaining a high line to keep the team compact.

The midfield is a crowded engine room designed to control the center of the pitch. Ederson operates in the central area, using his driving runs and work rate to win the second ball and progress the play. L. Samardzic links the defensive and attacking lines, using his passing range to find teammates in advanced positions. N. Zaniolo plays as an attacking ten behind the strikers, roaming in the half-spaces to create chaos. On the flanks, WESLEY and M. Ruggeri act as wing backs, providing width and tracking back to cover the wide areas when the team loses possession.

The attack utilizes two forwards to stretch the opposition. M. Retegui acts as a pressing centre-forward, leading the hunt for the ball and looking to find the feet of his strike partner. C. De Ketelaere operates as a second striker in the hole, dropping deep to link play before making runs into the box. This partnership relies on quick combinations and runs in behind to exploit the space left by high defensive lines. The wing backs, WESLEY and M. Ruggeri, provide much needed width by pushing high to overlap the wide players.

Atalanta holds several tactical advantages with this setup. The team creates wide overloads through the movement of the wing backs and wide midfielders. They also possess the ability to press high in coordinated waves, which forces many opponents into mistakes. This creates a constant threat during transitions, as the midfielders and forwards can quickly switch play or drive forward to catch the defense off balance.

This 3-5-2 formation defines a team that thrives on aggression and physical dominance. It is best suited for games against teams that try to play out from the back, allowing the high press to win the ball in dangerous areas.