Bologna Football Formation

Starting Lineup

37 A. Fernandez (1 Mika)
2 Bartra (24 Amadou)
5 De Vrij (C) (3 Milosevic)
13 Peluso (vc) (15 Mbaye)
34 Marrone (20 Bryzgalov)
17 Medel (vc) (21 Soriano)
7 Templeton (27 Juanfran)
16 Aránguiz (11 Jesé)
8 Mahlangu (23 N. Welbeck)
10 Gameiro (77 Pasquato)
29 Dost (9 Bancé)

Bologna looks to control the game through a central heavy 3-5-2 formation. This lineup aims to dominate the middle of the pitch and use a high press to win the ball back quickly. The team relies on a compact setup that can transition from a solid block into a direct attacking force.

A. Fernandez sits between the posts to organize the defensive line. The back three features De Vrij as the captain, who acts as a ball playing defender to start attacks. Beside him, Peluso and Bartra provide cover, with Peluso often stepping up to intercept passes while Bartra covers the space behind. This unit works together to hold a high line and squeeze the space for the opposition.

The midfield is built around a double pivot to protect the back line. Medel and Marrone act as the shield, with Medel working to deny the turn of any incoming attackers. In front of them, Aránguiz and Templeton occupy the half spaces to connect the play. Mahlangu operates as a carrier to drive the ball forward from deep, helping the team move through the thirds. This group works to win the second ball and recycle possession to maintain control.

Bologna uses two forwards in a partnership to stretch the defence. Dost leads the line as a pressing centre-forward, while Gameiro plays as a second striker to find pockets of space between the lines. They look to play one-two combinations to break the line of the opposition defenders. The midfielders aim to deliver early crosses or through balls to find the feet of the striker in dangerous areas.

One major advantage for Bologna is the numerical superiority in midfield, which allows them to dominate the center of the pitch. The wide players and central midfielders can also create wide overloads to pull defenders out of position. This formation also allows for great compactness when defending, making it hard for opponents to find passing lanes.

This 3-5-2 formation is designed to control the rhythm of the match through central dominance. It is best suited for games where the team needs to squeeze the opposition in a mid-block and strike quickly on the transition.