Milan Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Maignan 87 (Torriani 61) · Scalvini 77 (Bartesaghi 62) · Wesley 77 (Jiménez 71) · Kean 83 (Giménez 79) · Tomori 81 (Pavlović 76) · Leão 84 (Liberali 65) · Pulisic 84 (Chukwueze 80) · Gabbia 78 (Thiaw 78) · Estupiñán 79 (Terracciano 71) · Fofana 81 (Bennacer 80) · Ricci 78 (Adli 78)

Milan focus on quick transitions and high pressing within a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup seeks to win the ball in high areas to catch opponents out of position. The team uses wide players to stretch the pitch while maintaining a compact middle to prevent central breakthroughs.

Mike Maignan acts as the foundation in goal, using his shot stopping and distribution to start attacks. The back three consists of Scalvini, Tomori, and Gabbia. Tomori operates as the central defender to lead the line, while Scalvini and Gabbia cover the left and right sides of the central trio. These defenders often step up to intercept passes and squeeze the play. The unit works to stay close together, making it hard for opponents to find space between the lines.

In the middle of the pitch, Fofana and Ricci form a double pivot to control the center. Fofana works to shield the defense and break up play, while Ricci helps to drive the ball forward and connect with the attackers. Estupiñán plays in a wider midfield role on the left, pushing up to provide width and crossing opportunities. On the opposite side, Wesley occupies the right midfield position to push the play forward and support the wingers.

The attack relies on three players to pin the opposition back. Leão plays on the left wing, using his dribbling and speed to cut inside and beat markers. Pulisic operates on the right wing, looking to move into central areas to create chances or shoot. Kean leads the line as the lone striker, tasked to hold up the ball and make runs into the channels. This front three works together to press the opposing defenders immediately upon losing possession.

One main strength for Milan is the ability to create wide overloads when Estupiñán and Wesley push high. This forces the opposition to pull defenders out of position, leaving gaps for the wingers to exploit. Another advantage is the speed of transition, as the midfield pivot of Fofana and Ricci can quickly switch play to the wide runners. This allows the team to move from a defensive block to an attacking wave in seconds.

This formation provides Milan with a vertical identity that thrives on attacking transitions. It is a system best suited for facing teams that play a high line or leave space behind their midfield.