Milan Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Maignan (Terracciano) · Gabbia (De Winter) · Pavlovic (Tomori) · Jimenez (Athekame) · Estupinan (Bartesaghi) · Ricci (Fofana) · Loftus Cheek (Modric) · Jashari · Leao · Gimenez · Pulisic

Milan focuses on defensive solidity and rapid vertical play. The team utilizes a 5-3-2 formation to absorb pressure before striking quickly. This lineup is built to play a reactive style of football that relies on winning the ball in deep areas and breaking quickly against an advanced opponent.

Maignan stands between the posts to command the area. The defensive unit operates in a back five that can shift into a compact low block. Ricci plays as the central defender to sweep behind the line and cover space. Pavlovic and Gabbia act as the wider centre backs to defend the zone and win the header. Estupinan and Jimenez operate as wing backs on either side to provide width and track back when the ball is lost. This back five makes it difficult for the opposition to find gaps between the players.

The midfield consists of a three man unit that links the defense to the attack. Jashari plays as the left central midfielder to shield the defense and win the second ball. Loftus Cheek works as the right central midfielder, where he can carry the ball forward to progress the play. Pulisic sits in the hole as an attacking ten to connect the lines. Pulisic looks to receive on the half turn and play through the lines to find the forwards.

The attacking unit features two forwards working in close proximity. Leao acts as the left striker, using his pace and dribbling to isolate defenders in one on one situations. Gimenez plays as the right striker to hold up the ball and link play. The two forwards press the opposition back line to force a long ball. When Milan win the ball, they look to hit in behind on the transition. Estupinan and Jimenez provide width by pushing high to overlap the attackers and deliver crosses into the box.

This formation provides great compactness when defending in a mid block or low block. The presence of five defenders allows the team to double up on wide players and deny the turn. The speed of transition is a major advantage when Leao and Gimenez run into space. By packing the center, Milan makes it hard for opponents to play through the lines.

This 5-3-2 lineup is designed for teams that want to stay hard to beat and strike on the break. It is best suited for matches against heavy possession sides that leave space behind their midfield.