Sampdoria Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Sampdoria looks to control the game through a central core using a 3-5-2 formation. This lineup is built to dominate the middle of the pitch and use a high press to win the ball back quickly. The goal is to use a compact block to squeeze the space and then transition fast once the ball is won.

Ghidotti acts as the last line of defense in goal. The back three consists of Riccio, Meulensteen, and Veroli. Riccio plays as the right centre-back, while Veroli occupies the left side, leaving Meulensteen to hold the middle. This unit functions as a zonal line where the centre-backs stay tight to deny space between them. They must be ready to step up to catch opponents offside or drop back to cover runs in behind.

The midfield contains a single pivot with Yepes sitting deep to shield the defence. Ahead of him, Bellemo and Akinsanmiro work as the central engines to win the second ball and connect the lines. To add more width and attacking threat, Venuti and Ioannou operate in the half-spaces as attacking midfielders. This setup allows the team to press in a mid-block and move the ball through the thirds effectively.

In the final third, Sampdoria uses two forwards in a partnership. Coda acts as the target man to hold up the ball, while Tutino plays as the second striker to look for runs in behind. The attack is built by using the wide midfielders to stretch the defence and then delivering crosses or through balls. When out of possession, the front two press from the front to force a long ball from the opposition.

One major advantage for Sampdoria is the numerical superiority in midfield which allows them to control the tempo. The formation also offers the ability to press high in coordinated waves with the five midfielders and two forwards. This makes it difficult for opponents to build play from the back without facing immediate pressure.

This 3-5-2 formation relies on a strong central presence to control matches. It is best suited for games against teams that play with a narrow midfield where the wingers can exploit the space.