Udinese Football Formation

Starting Lineup

M. Okoye · C. Kabasele (L. Giannetti) · J. Bijol · I. Touré (L. Giannetti) · K. Ehizibue · Sandi Lovrić (Oier Zarraga) · J. Karlström · M. Payero (J. Ekkelenkamp) · H. Kamara (J. Zemura) · F. Thauvin (K. Davis) · L. Lucca (Brenner / Bravo)

Udinese focuses on a direct and vertical style of play using a 3-5-2 formation. This lineup aims to control the middle of the pitch and use rapid transitions to catch opponents out of position. The team relies on high energy to win the ball back and quickly push into the final third.

M. Okoye stands between the posts to manage the defensive line. The back three consists of C. Kabasele, J. Bijol, and I. Touré. J. Bijol acts as the central anchor, using his aerial strength to defend set pieces and win headers. C. Kabasele operates as the right centre-back to cover the space behind the wing-back, while I. Touré provides cover on the left. This unit typically stays compact to defend zonally and limit space between the lines.

The midfield utilizes a three-man midfield with a carrier to link the play. Sandi Lovrić and J. Karlström operate in the central areas to win the second ball and protect the back three. M. Payero works alongside them to help progress through the thirds and move the ball from deep. On the flanks, H. Kamara and K. Ehizibue act as wing-backs to provide width. H. Kamara pushes high to support the attack while K. Ehizibue uses his pace to overlap and deliver crosses.

In the attacking third, Udinese employs two forwards in a partnership. L. Lucca acts as a physical presence to hold up the ball and pin the last defender, allowing F. Thauvin to operate in the spaces around him. F. Thauvin looks to cut inside and create chances through quick combinations. The duo works to press the opposition back line to force a long ball. This front two relies on the service from the wide players to create runs in behind the defense.

One major advantage for Udinese is the ability to create wide overloads through the movement of H. Kamara and K. Ehizibue. The midfield trio of Sandi Lovrić, J. Karlström, and M. Payero allows for numerical superiority in the center of the pitch. This helps the team control the tempo and recycle possession effectively. The compact nature of the 3-5-2 also makes it difficult for opponents to find gaps in the middle.

This formation provides a solid platform for counter attacking and wide play. It is best suited for games against teams that play with a narrow midfield where the wing-backs can exploit the flanks.