Shakhtar Football Formation

Starting Lineup

29 Carnesecchi (28 Rui Patricio)
23 Mancini (C) (4 Izzo)
14 Tomori (3 P. Marì)
5 Pongracic (27 Vojvoda)
18 Barella (6 Gilmour)
8 Pasalic (80 Musah)
2 Dumfries (*Vojvoda)
22 Ruggeri (33 Miranda)
98 Dennis Man (19 Gyasi)
11 Lookman (35 Baldanzi)
9 Thuram (18 Castro)

Shakhtar look to control games through a high press and rapid transitions using a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup is built to press high up the pitch and stretch the opposition with aggressive width. The team wants to win the ball back high up the pitch to catch opponents before they can organize.

Carnesecchi acts as the last line of defense in goal. The defensive unit operates with a back three that stays compact. Tomori sits in the center as a dominant presence in the air and a ball playing defender. To his left, Pongracic provides cover, while Mancini, the captain, plays as the right center back to manage the line. This back three must hold a high line to squeeze the space and stay connected with the midfield.

The midfield utilizes a central pairing of Pasalic and Barella to control the center of the pitch. Barella is known for his pressing intensity and ability to carry the ball forward into attacking zones. Pasalic helps to protect the defense and connects the back line to the front three. On the flanks, Dumfries and Ruggeri operate as attacking wing backs. Dumfries uses his physical strength to push high and provide width, while Ruggeri tracks back to ensure the team remains solid when defending.

Shakhtar attack with three players across the front line to pin the opposition back. Thuram acts as the lone striker and works to hold up the ball and find the feet of his teammates. Lookman and Dennis Man operate as wide attackers who cut inside to create goalscoring chances. Lookman uses his pace to run in behind the defense, while Dennis Man seeks to isolate defenders one on one. This attacking group is designed to create quick combinations in the final third.

This formation offers several tactical advantages for Shakhtar. The presence of Barella and Pasalic allows for numerical superiority in the middle when they squeeze the play. The attacking wing backs, Dumfries and Ruggeri, create wide overloads that force the opposition to pull defenders out of position. Additionally, the team can transition quickly from a mid-block to a high press to win the ball in dangerous areas.

The 3-4-3 formation provides a balance between defensive compactness and attacking width. It is best suited for facing teams that play with a high defensive line or struggle to deal with intense pressure in the wide areas.