Alavés Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Alavés looks to win the ball high and strike quickly using a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup is built to play a direct style of football that relies on quick transitions to catch the opposition out of position. The goal is to use the width of the pitch to stretch the defensive lines before driving into the central areas to create scoring chances.

Herrera stands between the posts to organize the defensive unit. The back line consists of a back three where Téllez acts as the left centre-back, Eggen plays as the right centre-back, and Karmona sits in the middle. Téllez and Eggen provide cover while Karmona remains central to win the second ball and anchor the defense. This defensive unit works to hold a compact shape and prevent runners from finding space between the lines.

The midfield functions as a four man block that connects the defense to the attack. Tomic sits deeper to shield the defense and help recycle possession. Geli and Contra act as the central runners who drive forward with the ball to bridge the gap between the lines. Jordi Cruyff operates as an attacking ten behind the striker, looking to find pockets of space and play through the lines to trigger attacking movements.

Alavés utilizes three attackers across the front to pin the last defender. Moreno acts as the lone striker to hold up the ball and lead the press from the front. Astudillo and Desio play as wide wingers who stretch the defense by staying wide to create space for the central players. This front line works to press the opposition back line and looks to exploit space for runs in behind or to receive cutbacks from the byline.

This formation offers significant tactical advantages through its ability to press in coordinated waves. By using Jordi Cruyff in the hole, Alavés can create numerical superiority in the final third. The wide positioning of Astudillo and Desio allows the team to create wide overloads when the midfielders push up, making it difficult for opponents to defend the flanks.

The 3-4-3 formation provides Alavés with a high level of verticality and attacking pressure. It is a lineup best suited for games against teams that play a high line and leave space behind their defenders.