Alavés Football Formation
Starting Lineup
ANTONIO (SIVERA) · NAHUEL (TENAGLIA) · JON (PACHECO) · FACUNDO (GARCÉS) · YOUSSEF (ENRÍQUEZ) · ANTONIO (BLANCO) · PABLO (IBÁÑEZ) · DENIS (SUÁREZ) · CARLOS (VICENTE) · CARLES (ALEÑÀ) · LUCAS (BOYÉ)A heavy emphasis on verticality and directness defines the Alavés 4-3-3 lineup. This formation is built to transition rapidly from a mid block to a high press, catching opponents before they can settle. By prioritizing quick breaks, the team seeks to exploit the space left behind retreating defensive lines.
Protecting the goal, ANTONIO acts as the last line of defense. The back four operates as a cohesive unit, with YOUSSEF and NAHUEL providing width while maintaining discipline in their zones. FACUNDO and JON occupy the central defensive roles, where they must hold their position to prevent through balls and use their strength to win aerial duels. The defensive unit works to stay compact, dropping deep when under pressure to minimize gaps between the lines.
The midfield functions through a combination of a central trio and an attacking presence. ANTONIO and PABLO operate in the middle of the pitch to shield the back four and control the tempo of the game. They look to intercept passes and immediately find DENIS, who pushes higher to connect the midfield to the attack. This link allows the team to move the ball forward quickly through the central channel.
Directness characterizes the attacking front line. LUCAS leads the charge as the lone striker, tasked to hold up the ball and bring others into play. On the flanks, CARLES and CARLOS operate as wide wingers, ready to cut inside or drive toward the touchline to deliver crosses. These three forwards press high when the ball is lost, forcing errors from the opposing defenders.
Several tactical advantages emerge from this Alavés formation. The team can create wide overloads when YOUSSEF and NAHUEL push forward to support the wingers. Furthermore, the ability to press high in coordinated waves makes it difficult for opponents to build from the back. The presence of DENIS in the pockets between the lines also creates chaos for opposing holding players.
This 4-3-3 lineup thrives on speed of transition and aggressive pressing. It is a formation best suited for facing teams that play a high line and struggle to defend deep spaces.