Empoli Football Formation

Starting Lineup

1.DIMARTINO (DX 185)
2.GULLI (DX 183 05)
4.TOSTO (DX 183)
5.GAMBINO/MAGRI (DX 183/ SX 185)
3.CALTABIANO (DX 180)
6.CHIARA (DX 185 07)
8.LE MURA (DX 175)
10.CANELON/LICCIARDELLO (DX 178/ DX 177)
7.FICHERA (DX 177)
9.BANDUNDI/DE MUTIIS (DX 185/ DX 183)
11.F. CATANIA (DX 177)

Empoli aims to play a direct style of football based on a high press and quick transitions using a 5-2-3 formation. This lineup focuses on winning the ball back high up the pitch and using the width of the wings to stretch the opponent. The team looks to move the ball forward rapidly once possession is regained, looking to catch the opposition before they can set their defensive lines.

DIMARTINO guards the goal as the defensive unit operates from a back five. CHIARA sits in the middle of the defensive line to provide cover and command the area, while TOSTO acts as a right centre-back to win headers and intercept passes. GAMBINO or MAGRI occupies the left centre-back role to maintain the width of the back three. The wing backs, CALTABIANO on the left and GULLI on the right, are tasked with providing width and tracking back to defend against wide runners. This system allows the central defenders to hold a compact block when the team sits deep.

The midfield consists of a two man unit with LE MURA and CANELON or LICCIARDELLO occupying the central spaces. These players must work hard to press in a mid-block and win the second ball to keep the pressure on. One midfielder often stays deeper to shield the defence, while the other looks to carry the ball forward to connect the defensive line to the front three. Their main job is to win possession and immediately find the wide players or the striker to initiate an attack.

In the attacking phase, Empoli utilizes three attackers to pin the opposition back. FICHERA plays on the left wing and F. CATANIA operates on the right, both looking to cut inside or deliver crosses into the box. BANDUNDI or DE MUTIIS acts as the lone striker to lead the line and hold up the ball for the advancing midfielders. The wingers press the opposition full backs heavily to force turnovers, while the striker works to pin the last defender and create space for the runners from deep.

This formation offers significant advantages in terms of defensive solidity and the ability to create wide overloads. By having five defenders, the team is difficult to break down centrally, and the wing backs can push up to support the attackers. Empoli can also use the speed of transition to catch teams out of position, moving from a defensive block to an attacking wave in seconds.

The 5-2-3 formation provides Empoli with a resilient defensive base and effective counter attacking outlets. It is best suited for games against ball playing teams where winning the ball high can lead to immediate scoring chances.