Alavés Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Sivera · N. Tenaglia · A. Abqar · Pica · Manu Sánchez · Blanco · Protesoni · Carlos V. · Guridi · A. Rebbach · Kike García

Alavés plays with a clear focus on defensive solidity and quick transitions, utilizing a 4-5-1 formation. This lineup is built to sit deep and absorb pressure before looking to hit teams on the break. The primary aim is to maintain a compact formation that is hard to break through, forcing opponents into low percentage areas.

Sivera acts as the last line of defense in goal. The back four works as a zonal line to protect the central areas. Pica and A. Abqar occupy the central defender spots, where they need to win the header and clear the lines when under pressure. N. Tenaglia stays at right back to provide cover, while Manu Sánchez plays at left back. This defensive unit focuses on holding the line and making sure they do not get caught too far up the pitch.

The midfield is a dense block designed to squeeze the space in the center of the pitch. Blanco and Protesoni function as a double pivot to shield the defense and deny the opposition pivot. Guridi and Carlos V. occupy the central spaces to help recycle possession and win the second ball. A. Rebbach works on the right side of the midfield five to help spread the play. This group works to compress the midfield and ensure they can move from a mid block to a press if the ball enters their zone.

Kike García leads the line as a lone striker. His main role is to hold up the ball to allow the midfield to move forward. He uses his strength to win the header and compete against central defenders. When Alavés wins the ball, the plan is to hit in behind on the transition or play direct to find the feet of the striker. The midfielders look to make runs into the box or deliver early crosses to help the attack.

This formation offers significant advantages through its compactness when defending. By having five players in the midfield line, Alavés can easily double up on wide players or cover the passing lanes through the middle. The ability to counter at pace once the ball is won allows them to exploit gaps left by attacking teams. This formation makes it very difficult for opponents to play through the lines.

The 4-5-1 lineup is a resilient system designed for teams that want to control the center of the pitch through numbers. It is best suited for matches against possession heavy teams where Alavés can sit deep and wait for the right moment to strike.