Torino Football Formation

Starting Lineup

21 Hart (1 Oblak)
2 Zouma (25 Vrsaljko)
3 Kaya (19 Maksimovic)
33 Nkoulou (5 Raimondi)
16 Vinicius (36 Darmian)
28 Fernando (8 Baselli (vc))
15 Benassi (C) (6 Acquah)
20 Sissoko (22 Obi)
17 Montero (10 Payet)
9 Belotti (91 Zapata)
18 Iturbe (14 Iago Falqué)

Torino focuses on a heavy defensive block and quick transitions through a 5-2-3. This formation is built to sit deep and absorb pressure before hitting teams on the break. The lineup relies on a compact unit that makes it difficult for opponents to play through the middle.

Tim Hart stands between the posts to command the area. In front of him, the back five forms a narrow defensive block. Fernando acts as the central figure, while Nkoulou and Kaya operate as the wide centre-backs to cover the spaces behind the wing backs. Zouma and Vinicius act as attacking wing backs, pushing high to provide width when the team has the ball. This defensive unit works to stay close together to deny space for through balls.

The midfield operates as a double pivot to protect the back line. Captain Benassi and Sissoko occupy the central spaces to shield the defenders and win the second ball. Benassi uses his engine to cover ground and connect the defense to the attack, while Sissoko works to intercept passes and stop the opposition from progressing through the thirds. They stay central to ensure the team remains compact when the opponent has possession.

Up front, the team uses three attackers to stretch the opposition. Belotti plays as a pressing centre-forward, using his strength to hold up the ball and fight for aerial duels. On the flanks, Iturbe and Montero act as wide wingers to provide outlets. Iturbe can cut inside to create chances, while Montero looks to get to the byline and deliver crosses. The movement is designed to create runs in behind and exploit the space left by an advancing opponent.

A key advantage for Torino is the compactness when defending, which forces the opposition to play wide and commit many players forward. This creates a platform for speed of transition, as the wing backs can quickly join the attack to create wide overloads. The presence of Belotti also allows the team to play more direct when they need to bypass the midfield.

This formation is a resilient defensive system that excels at absorbing pressure. It is best suited for games against possession heavy sides that leave space behind their high line.