Arsenal Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Raya (Kepa) · Saliba (Mosquera) · Gabriel (Kiwior) · J. Timber (White) · Lewis-Skelly (Calafiori) · Zubimendi (Nørgaard) · Ødegaard (Nwaneri) · Rice (Merino) · Gyökeres (Havertz/Jesus) · Xavi (Martinelli) · Saka (Madueke)

Arsenal aims to control the game through a high press and ball retention. This Arsenal 4-3-3 formation is designed to win it back high up the pitch and dominate territory. The team focuses on playing short from the back to progress through the thirds.

Raya starts the build up from the goalkeeper position. The defensive unit works with a high line featuring J. Timber at right back and Lewis-Skelly at left back. Saliba and Gabriel act as the two central defenders. Saliba uses his recovery pace and aerial strength to cover the space behind the line. Gabriel provides aggression to win the ball and win the header in defensive duels. The wide defenders push up to provide width and support the midfield.

Zubimendi acts as the single pivot in a three-man midfield unit. He sits in front of the defense to shield the line and recycle possession. Rice operates as a carrier who can drive forward and press aggressively to win it back high up the pitch. Ødegaard plays in the half-space with his vision and passing range to break the line. This group works to compress the midfield and win the second ball.

Gyökeres acts as the lone striker. He serves as a target man to hold up the ball and pin the last defender. Saka plays on the right as an inverted winger who will cut inside to create. Xavi stays wide on the left to stretch the defence. Forwards press from the front to force a long ball from the opposition. Such movements allow the team to attack in combinations and look for runs in behind.

One major strength is the ability to press high in coordinated waves to win the ball back quickly. Wide overloads are often created when J. Timber overlaps the winger. Another advantage is the control offered by the midfield trio which allows the team to squeeze the space in the center.

This 4-3-3 formation is built for high pressing and ball retention. It is best suited for matches against opponents who play a high line and leave space behind their defenders.