Bologna Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Skorupski (G 4.5) · Posch (D 5.5) · Beukema (G 5.0) · Erlic / Lucumi (D 4.0 / D 4.5) · Miranda (D 4.5) · Moro (M 4.5) · Freuler (M 5.5) · Aebischer / Fabbian (M 5.5 / M 5.0) · Ndoye (F 6.0) · Castro / Dallinga (F 5.0 / F 5.5) · Orsolini (M 5.5)

Bologna relies on a high press and vertical style of play using a 4-3-3 formation. This lineup is built to win the ball high up the pitch and move quickly through the thirds to catch the opposition out of position. The goal is to maintain intensity and drive the team forward with direct movements.

Skorupski operates in goal to organize the defensive unit. The back line functions as a flat back four where Posch plays as a right back capable of pushing forward to support the attack. Beukema acts as the right centre back to provide stability while Erlic or Lucumi covers the left side of the central defense. Miranda stays at left back to provide width. This defensive unit works to hold a high line to squeeze the space and keep the lines compact.

In the middle, the team employs a three-man midfield to control the tempo. Moro acts as the single pivot to shield the defense and recycle possession. Freuler plays in the center to connect the defensive and attacking lines using his passing range. Aebischer or Fabbian operates on the right side of the midfield to drive forward with the ball and arrive late into the box. This group works to win the second ball and press in a mid-block if the high press is broken.

The attacking unit features a lone striker in Castro or Dallinga to lead the front line. Ndoye plays on the left as an inverted winger who looks to cut inside and create space. Orsolini stays on the right to act as a winger who can get to the byline and whip it in. The forwards press from the front to force a long ball and win it back high up the pitch. They often look to play through the lines to find the feet of the striker during transitions.

A primary advantage for Bologna is the ability to press high in coordinated waves to win the ball back quickly. The team also benefits from the speed of transition once the ball is recovered in the middle third. Furthermore, the wingers can isolate defenders in one on one situations to break the line and create goal scoring opportunities.

This 4-3-3 formation provides a high level of intensity through its aggressive pressing. It is a lineup best suited for matches where the team wants to squeeze the opponent into their own half and dominate the game.