Arsenal Football Formation

Starting Lineup

David Raya 22 · Gabriel (6) · Saliba (2) · Kiwior (15) · White (4) · Rice (41) · Jorginho (20) · Ødegaard (8) · Saka (7) · Havertz (29) · Martinelli (11)

Arsenal look to control games through high pressing and heavy possession in a 4-3-3 formation. This lineup is built to pin opponents back and maintain control in the middle third of the pitch. The Gunners use this system to squeeze the space and win the ball back high up the pitch to start attacks quickly.

David Raya plays from the back to start build up play. The defensive unit operates as a flat back four that can step up to set the offside trap. Saliba acts as a ball playing defender with great recovery speed to cover space behind the line, while Gabriel uses his aerial strength to win the header in defensive situations. Kiwior provides stability on the left, while White works as an attacking full back to provide width.

The midfield functions with a three man midfield with a carrier. Jorginho sits deep to recycle possession and control the tempo with his passing range. Rice works as the engine to press aggressively and win the second ball, often driving forward with the ball to connect the lines. Ødegaard plays as an attacking ten behind the striker, looking to find the feet of the striker or play through the lines to create chances.

Arsenal use three attackers across the front to stretch the defence. Saka operates as an inverted winger who cuts inside to attack the near post, while Martinelli stays wide to pull defenders away. Havertz acts as a pressing centre forward who can also drop into the hole to link up play between the lines. The front three work in combinations to create runs in behind or deliver early crosses into the box.

One major advantage for Arsenal is the ability to press high in coordinated waves to force a long ball from the opponent. The formation also provides wide overloads when White and Saka combine to stretch the play. This creates space in the half spaces for Ødegaard to exploit.

This 4-3-3 formation creates a relentless pressure that dominates the ball. It is best suited for games against teams that prefer to play out from the back against a high press.