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Besiktas Football Formation

Creation DateFebruary 8, 2025

Starting Lineup

Mert Günok · Samet Akaydin · Emirhan Topcu · Jonas Svensson · Ridvan Yilmaz · Florian Neuhaus · Gedson Fernandes · Rafael Silva · Kenny Arroyo · Veljko B. · Paul Onuachu

Besiktas play with a clear intent to win the ball back high up the pitch using a 4-5-1 formation. This lineup is built to press hard in the middle third and use a strong central presence to control the tempo. The team relies on a compact unit that can switch from a high press to a mid-block to deny space to the opposition.

Mert Günok plays between the posts as the last line of defense. The defensive unit works as a flat back four with Jonas Svensson and Ridvan Yilmaz occupying the wide positions. Jonas Svensson acts as an attacking full back to provide width while Ridvan Yilmaz stays back to cover the flank. In the center, Samet Akaydin and Emirhan Topcu form the partnership. Samet Akaydin is dominant in the air, while Emirhan Topcu is a ball playing defender who can play out from the back.

The midfield functions as a five man unit to squeeze the space in the center. Gedson Fernandes and Florian Neuhaus operate as a double pivot to shield the defense. Gedson Fernandes is known for his high pressing intensity and ability to drive forward with the ball. Rafael Silva plays in the half spaces to connect the defensive and attacking lines. Kenny Arroyo and Veljko B. operate as two central midfielders who look to arrive late into the box and win the second ball. This group works to recycle possession and ensure the team stays compact.

Besiktas utilizes a lone striker in Paul Onuachu to lead the line. Paul Onuachu acts as a target man, using his aerial strength to hold up the ball and win headers. The four midfielders behind him provide support through runs in behind and by pulling wide to stretch the defense. The attack is built through combinations in tight spaces or by playing direct to the striker. When the team wins the ball, they look to hit in behind on the transition to isolate attackers against the opposition back line.

This formation offers significant tactical advantages through its ability to press in coordinated waves. The double pivot of Gedson Fernandes and Florian Neuhaus provides stability to prevent counter attacks. By using a five man midfield, Besiktas creates numerical superiority in the center of the pitch. This makes it difficult for opponents to play through the lines.

Besiktas uses this 4-5-1 formation to dominate the central areas and strike through a powerful target man. It is best suited for games against teams that try to play through a crowded midfield.