Udinese Football Formation
Starting Lineup
OKOYE (Padelli / Sava) · GIANNETTI (Ebosse / Kabasele) · BIJOL (Giannetti) · KRISTENSEN (Kabasele / Toure) · KAMARA (Zemura) · PAYERO (Ekkelenkamp) · KARLSTROM (Lovric / Atta) · EHIZIBUE (Modesto) · THAUVIN (Brenner) · SANCHEZ (Brenner / Ekkelenkamp) · LUCCA (Davis / Bravo)Udinese relies on a high press and verticality through a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup seeks to win the ball high up the pitch and move quickly toward the opposition goal. The team uses this setup to stretch the defense and create chances through direct play.
OKOYE stays between the posts to organize the back line. The defensive unit works as a back three with BIJOL acting as the central figure to win the header and clear the lines. KRISTENSEN plays as the right center back while GIANNETTI sits on the left to provide cover. These three defenders defend zonally and look to step up to squeeze the space when the team presses.
The midfield functions as a four man unit that connects the defense to the attack. EHIZIBUE operates on the right side while KAMARA works on the left to provide width. In the center, PAYERO and KARLSTROM operate as a double pivot to control the middle of the pitch. PAYERO works to shield the defense while KARLSTROM looks to carry the ball forward and progress through the thirds. This unit aims to win the second ball and recycle possession to keep the pressure on.
Up front, Udinese uses three attackers to pin the last defender. LUCCA plays as a lone striker to hold up the ball and find the feet of the striker. THAUVIN operates as a left winger and cuts inside to find space in the half spaces. SANCHEZ plays on the right and looks to isolate a one on one wide. These three forwards press from the front to force a long ball and create turnovers in dangerous areas.
One major advantage for Udinese is the ability to press high in coordinated waves. By using three forwards and two wide midfielders, the team can crowd the opposition and win it back high up the pitch. Another strength is the wide overloads created when the midfielders and wingers combine to pull the defense apart.
This 3-4-3 formation creates a team that is difficult to play through due to its aggressive pressing. It is best suited for matches against teams that struggle to play out from the back under pressure.