Atalanta Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Carnesecchi (G 4.5) · Kolasinac (D 4.5) · Hien (D 4.5) · de Roon (M 5.5) · Ruggeri (M 5.5) · Bellanova (D 4.0) · Ederson (M 5.5) · Pasalic (M 6.0) · De Ketelaere (F 5.5) · Lookman (M 6.5) · Retegui (F 5.5)

Atalanta focuses on high intensity and aggressive pressing in a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup is built to win the ball high up the pitch and play with extreme verticality. The team looks to squeeze the space in the opponent's half, using their energy to force turnovers and strike quickly.

Carnesecchi plays behind a back three to provide a foundation for the defensive unit. Hien and Kolasinac act as the central defenders, with Hien using his aerial strength to defend set pieces and aerial duels. de Roon operates as the right centre back, often acting as a covering defender to sweep behind the line. The defensive unit functions by staying compact, with the wide defenders ready to step up when the team triggers a press.

The midfield operates with a central pairing of Ederson and Pasalic to control the middle of the pitch. Ederson acts as a carrier who can drive forward with the ball, while Pasalic works to connect the defensive and attacking lines. They are supported by wing backs Bellanova and Ruggeri, who provide the width. Bellanova pushes high to overlap the winger, while Ruggeri works to stretch the defence from the left side. This midfield block is designed to win the second ball and immediately look to break the lines.

At the front, Atalanta uses three attackers to pin the opposition back line. Retegui acts as the central striker, looking to find the feet of the striker or make runs in behind. Lookman operates as an inverted winger on the right, often cutting inside to create chances. De Ketelaere plays on the left, looking to combine in tight spaces or arrive late into the box. The attackers press from the front in pairs to deny the turn of the opponent's defenders.

This formation offers significant tactical advantages through wide overloads. Bellanova and Ruggeri create constant pressure on the flanks, often leaving the opposition wide players in one on one situations. The team also benefits from the ability to press high in coordinated waves, which can overwhelm opponents who try to play out from the back.

Atalanta uses this aggressive lineup to dominate games through sheer physical intensity and rapid transitions. This formation is best suited for facing teams that struggle to play under pressure or those that sit deep in a low block.