Roma Football Formation

Starting Lineup

A focus on defensive solidity and rapid verticality defines how Roma play in this 5-2-3. This formation aims to absorb pressure before using quick transitions to catch opponents out of position. By sitting in a compact block, the team creates a difficult barrier to break down while staying ready to spring forward with the ball.

Svilar guards the goal, acting as the last line of defense. In front of him, the back five functions as a cohesive unit. Mancini leads the central defense, providing aerial strength and physical presence to win headers. Hermoso sits to his left to cover space and play passes out from the back, while Celik holds the right side of the central trio. To provide width and extra cover, Wesley pushes up as a left wing back and Rensch operates as the right wing back. These wide players must track back to help the defense and step up to support the midfield when possession is regained.

The midfield works as a double pivot to control the center of the pitch. Konè operates in the left central midfield role, using his energy to press opponents and drive the ball forward. Cristante plays in the right central midfield position, where he works to shield the defense and break lines with his passing. This duo acts as the engine, connecting the deep defensive line to the attacking players ahead of them.

The attacking front line utilizes three players to stretch the opposition. Ferguson operates as a lone striker, tasked to hold up the ball and bring others into play. On the flanks, Soulè plays as a right winger, looking to cut inside and create goal scoring chances. Pellegrini operates on the left wing, using his movement to find space between the lines. These three forwards are the first line of the press, forcing errors in the opponent's buildup.

Roma gains significant advantages through this specific lineup. The presence of three central defenders allows the team to maintain compactness when defending in a low block. Wide overloads are a key threat as Wesley and Rensch overlap to provide crosses into the box. Additionally, the team can use the speed of transition to isolate Soulè and Pellegrini in one on one situations against retreating defenders.

This 5-2-3 formation provides a sturdy defensive foundation while allowing for quick counter attacks. It is most effective against teams that commit many players forward and leave space behind their defensive line.