Roma Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Svilar (?) · Mancini · Ndicka (Ziolkowski) · Hermoso (Ghilardi) · Konè (Pisilli) · El Aynaoui (Cristante) · ? (Zaragoza) · Soulè (?/Venturino) · ? (Angelinho) · Wesley (?/Rensch) · Malen (?/Vaz)

A heavy emphasis on defensive stability and quick transitions defines Roma and their 5-2-3 formation. This lineup works to sit deep and absorb pressure before launching rapid attacks through wide areas. The system relies on a compact unit that can quickly shift from a low block to a vertical attacking style.

Svilar stands between the posts to organize the back line and sweep up long balls. A back three provides the core of the defense with Mancini acting as the central anchor, while Hermoso covers the right side and Ndicka holds the left. Wesley pushes high as a right wing back to provide width, while the left wing back must track back constantly to complete the defensive unit. These defenders must remain compact to prevent opponents from playing through the middle.

The midfield works as a double pivot to control the center of the pitch. El Aynaoui and Konè occupy the central spaces to shield the defense and break up opposition play. Konè uses his physical presence to win duels and intercept passes, while El Aynaoui helps connect the defense to the attackers. This duo must press effectively to stop the opponent from turning and playing forward, ensuring the lines between the midfield and the back three stay tight.

Attacking movements come from three players positioned high up the pitch. Malen leads the line as a lone striker, looking to hold up the ball and run into space. Soulè operates on the right wing to cut inside and create chances, while the left winger provides width or acts as an inverted threat. The forwards must press high when the ball is lost to prevent the opposition from building out easily from the back.

One major strength of this Roma lineup is the ability to create wide overloads when Wesley and Soulè push forward together. The formation also provides great compactness when defending, making it difficult for opponents to find gaps between the lines. This setup allows the team to transition with great speed, moving the ball quickly from the central defenders to the attackers.

This 5-2-3 formation is built to frustrate dominant teams by denying them space in central areas. It is best suited for matches against high possession sides where Roma can exploit the space left behind the opposition defense.